NEW GRAD REQUIREMENTS

shelly · 04-24-2003

April 23, 2003

VICTORIA – B.C.’s new graduation requirements will improve student achievement and better prepare students for the future, Education Minister Christy Clark said today.

A 2001 survey found only half of high-school graduates believed B.C.’s education system had prepared them for life after Grade 12, while only 38 per cent were satisfied with how school prepared them for work.

“The new graduation requirements will make education relevant for more students, which will help increase student achievement,” said Clark. “The graduation program will also provide a quality education for all students, whether they are entering the workforce, trades training or university.”

The revised graduation program includes:

· Adding Grade 10 to the graduation program, which currently includes grades 11 and 12, and introducing a Planning 10 course to teach employment skills, financial management and good health.

· Introducing graduation portfolios that will set standards in key areas not measured by exams, including community involvement and fitness.

Allowing school districts to offer more innovative, locally developed courses to count towards graduation, while ensuring the courses meet provincial standards.
Establishing five new graduation program exams that will ensure students graduate with a firm understanding of language arts, math, science and social studies.

“The new graduation requirements will help ensure students leave high school with a well-rounded education,” said Clark. “They will have a firm grasp of the academic fundamentals, as well as skills needed to succeed in the real world.”

The new graduation program will be phased in over three years, beginning with Grade 10 students in September 2004. Students now in grades 9 to 12 will not be affected by the changes.

“Government is living up to its New Era commitment to set educational standards for students while increasing choice and flexibility,” said Clark. “This new graduation program will ensure today’s students are prepared for tomorrow’s opportunities.”