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Secondary Learning Model 2021-22

May 11, 2021

Dear Families of Secondary and Grade 8 Students,

As we continue to plan for the upcoming school year, we wanted to share information with families about the Ministry of Education’s expectation related to the secondary learning model for 2021-22.

All school boards across Ontario have been directed by the Ministry of Education to deliver secondary programming in the Quadmester learning model for at least the first semester.

The Quadmester is a change from the Rotational Model currently offered at HWDSB. It divides the school year into four quarters or sections, with each quarter or section offering two face-to-face classes. This allows for more in-person learning with two classes at 150 minutes of instructional time for a total of 300 minutes of in-person learning every day.  This means students will take 2 courses at a time, rather than 4 courses.

A team at the secondary level are meeting to support this new learning model starting in September. Details are limited at this time, but students can expect the following:

• Timetabling methods will support cohorts if needed and to limit students contacts
• School bell times and transportation services will remain the same
• There will be a lunch break in between the two periods
• Remote learning will continue to be offered through eLearning courses

The Ministry of Education will be informing all school boards in the summer about the public health safety measures (i.e. masking requirements, physical distancing, hand hygiene, etc.) and which school boards will be required to start their secondary schools in an adaptive model (students attending full day, every other day in cohort A and B).

Staff are very encouraged to learn that vaccinations will soon be available for youth aged 12 and 17.  Vaccines for secondary students is another enhanced public health measure to combat the spread of COVID-19 in our schools.

We know this change in learning model is an adjustment for our staff and students. We will share more information with families as we learn more and once plans are finalized.

Thank you,

Manny Figueiredo

Director of Education