Academic Transitions

Elementary to High-School (Cycle I)

The transition from elementary to high school is supported through various efforts at each Lester B. Pearson high school. For example, each school hosts an annual "Open House" to allow students to learn more about programs and activities. Furthermore, each school hosts an annual "Mini-Day" which allows for prospective grade 6 students to spend half a day at a high school to experience a "day in the life" of a high school student.

Another transition strategy employed by Lester B. Pearson high schools is for grade 7 students to start alone on the first day of school to help ease the transition. On the first day of school, students meet their teachers, receive their lockers, and practice following their class schedule. The goal of the day is to familiarize the student with the demands of high school.

Transition from Cycle I to Cycle II

The transition from Cycle I to Cycle II is fraught with different challenges, expectations, and goals for students. Once students enter grade 9, they become part of Cycle II. Cycle II students are given increased freedom, responsibility, and are actively encouraged to self-advocate.

In terms of responsibility, teachers expect more of students and the workload increases. At their age, Cycle II students are capable of planning ahead more effectively, therefore long term projects and assessments that cover concepts over longer periods of time are to be expected. Furthermore, it is imperative that Cycle II students learn to self-advocate and approach their teachers with questions, attend office hours, and tutorials.

Cycle II students are given more choice regarding their course options which helps to initiate the career exploration process. In grade 10 and 11, students begin earning credits to graduate, meaning that Cycle II is a critical period for academic success. High School Academic and Guidance Professionals work especially with Cycle II students concerning the course selection process. They help facilitate the course selection process by analyzing the students’ academic abilities, interests, and career aspirations.

Another facet of self-advocacy of Cycle II students concerns their ability to freely request access to the student services available within their school. Cycle II students that are 14 years of age and up are able to consent to counselling and other services without their parents’ permission. Overall, Cycle II demands for increased academic and personal responsibility of each student.

Transition from High School to Vocational Education or Adult Education

Students who pursue Vocational Programs or attend an Adult Education Centre also have access to student services. Lester B. Pearson Vocational Centres and Adult Education Centres employ Academic and Guidance Professionals who offer personal and career counselling to students. Vocational and Adult Education Centres host open houses twice a year, and organize visits to prospective students on a regular basis.

For more info please see the VOCATIONAL EDUCATION section of our website, or consult www.lbpce.ca