High School
(secondary- grades 9-12)
What School will I Attend?
The Limestone District School Board has 12 high schools. However, only 2 schools – Bayridge Secondary and Loyalist Collegiate – have ESL programs. If a student requires ESL, they need to attend one of these high schools. If their English is sufficient, they can attend any of our other schools. For more information about each school please visit the Board’s website – www.limestone.on.ca and click on secondary schools.
Students who attend a school usually live within the attendance area for that school.
In What Grade will I be Placed?
Students will be placed in a grade and courses depending on their age, their previous academic experience, and their level of English ability. In many cases, students will be taking courses in different grades. i.e. if there English is not at grade level, they may take an ESL course, a computer course, a music course and a drama course in their first semester so they can improve their English skills. As their language skills improve, they would take courses in English such as science, math, history, et cet. at higher grade levels.
How long will I take to Finish High School?
This depends on what grade level you enter and how fast you move through our system. Please note that often students start below the grade level they have finished in their native country as their English skills do not allow them to do courses in English at their normal grade level.
Students do require 30 courses minimum to graduate with 16 of these courses being mandatory. Many students however take as many as 36 courses.
Please also note that depending on which program a student applies to at university or college, that university or college may also have specific requirements in addition to the 30 credits. i..e. engineering programs require several grade 12 math courses.
What is the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test?
The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test is a mandatory requirement that tests the students’ competency in reading, writing, and comprehension skills. It is usually written once each year in the spring. It is in addition to the minimum 30 credits necessary for a high school diploma.
What are Community Hours?
Community hours is where a student volunteers their time to help those less fortunate. The guidance department can help students find such service opportunities in places like old age homes, hospitals, recreation clubs and sport organizations. Students may also complete this requirement of 44 hours in their home country.
Where do International Students go after Graduation?
Most of our graduating students attend university or college Many choose to attend such universities as Queen’s University (in Kingston), University of Toronto, Western, or McGill. Some will also go to American Universities while others will attend Community Colleges such as St. Lawrence College in Kingston. Others return to their homeland to attend post secondary institutions there.
What if I need Help with English?
ESL classes are offered at the two high schools noted above. Students can do both ESL and regular high school courses at the same time.
Bayridge and Loyalist high schools also offer additional free help twice a week for students whose English is weak.
Do I need to do a Toefl Test?
Most universities require students to have a Toefl test unless they spend at least 3 years in an English high school. We offer students the opportunity to take this test in Kingston at Loyalist which has a certified Toefl testing lab. This is open to all students regardless of which school they attend.
What about the School Day and Semesters?
The first period starts at 8:20 a.m. and ends at 2:40 p.m. There is an hour for lunch. Students usually take 4 courses per day per semester – a total of 8 courses in a year. Each period of study is 76 minutes long. The first semester goes from September to the end of January and the second semester starts in February through to the end of June. Students may start school at either September or February.
What about Sports/Clubs?
All International students can try out for school sport teams or join in one of the numerous clubs. We recommend that students participate in as many activities as possible as it provides another opportunity to meet Canadian students and learn English. All schools also offer numerous recreation activities and intramural sports.
What happens if I Miss School?
Missing school days is not accepted unless there are special reasons. If you are sick, please let the school know so they can inform the teachers. If however, you skip class or are continuously late, this will affect your marks. You may even be asked to leave as continuing absences demonstrate a lack of desire.
Is it okay to Speak my Language?
Students are encouraged to speak English at all times not only in the classroom but at home and in the halls. Sometimes however, you may want to chat with your friends outside of school in your native language. But remember, the more your speak English, the faster you will learn the language.