Minister of Education Chester Gillan announced today that the Department of Education is looking for public input on proposed new high school programs. Minister Gillan made the announcement today at the PEI Teachers' Federation annual convention.
The new High School Transitions proposal will change the thrust of the non-university preparatory program, to make it more meaningful and appropriate to the needs of Island high school students who choose to follow this course of studies. The proposed new Grade 10 to 12 programs promote student access, by providing the necessary preparation for and linkages to further education, the world of work and responsible citizenship. The programs, as outlined in the proposal, are relevant, innovative and flexible, in meeting the diverse learning needs of students.
"The High School Transitions proposal recognizes and builds on the many positive things currently in place in our high schools, by adding new concepts and supports that will enable our schools to better prepare our students for life in the 21st century," said Minister Gillan.
Recently, high school students from general, practical and those with lower grades in the academic stream, have found it increasingly difficult to gain acceptance to post-secondary colleges. In addition, the dropout rate for these students remains much higher than for those students planning to attend university.
The revised program will help students develop knowledge, skills and attitudes which will allow Island high school graduates to be more successful in either gaining admission to post-secondary institutions or entering directly into the workforce. The High School Transitions proposal emphasizes academic, life, work and technology skills consistent with the Department's Philosophy of Education, the Essential Graduation Learnings, as well as labor force and societal demands.
"The proposed High School Transitions program is a framework for positive change in Island high schools," said Minister Gillan.
Earlier this week, Department of Education staff met with school board representatives and high school principals to discuss the proposal. The proposal has also been sent to various education partners in the community for their input. Public information sessions will be held in all high schools across the province within the next few weeks, to allow Islanders to discuss the proposal. A schedule with dates and locations for the public information sessions will be distributed in the near future. After those sessions, the Department of Education will accept written comments or recommendations on the High School Transitions proposal.
Copies of the High School Transitions proposal are available by calling the Department of Education at 368-4600.