Frequently-Asked Questions
about Grade 9
Why is it so important to be enrolled in the correct program in grade 9?
Do all the courses a student takes have to be the same level?
What supplies do students need for their classes?
In the event of absence or bus changes, how do I notify the school?
What if I want to attend OSDSS but it is not my home school (out of geographical catchment area)?
How do I contact my child's teacher?
What if I have more questions?
- Studies indicate that students who fail a credit in grade 9 are at a higher risk of dropping out of high school. This risk increases with the number of grade 9 courses failed.
- Grade 8 classroom and learning resource teachers as well as the Guidance Department at OSDSS are able to work with you to choose the best courses to bring about your success.
Do all the courses a student takes have to be the same level?
- No. For each subject consider your strengths and skills based on your abilities in each subject.
What supplies do students need for their classes?
- Suggested items are: a binder for each class and a pencil case with standard school items (i.e. pencils, pens, highlighter, eraser, calculator, etc.). Other supplies that are specific to certain classes (i.e. gym clothes, coloured pencils) may also be needed and classroom teachers will communicate this with their students. If a student requires support in acquiring supplies, please contact Guidance or our Student Success department.
In the event of absence or bus changes, how do I notify the school?
- To report your child's absence or late to school, please contact ext. 521.
- If an extended absence (i.e. a vacation or surgery), please contact ext 521. As well, it is strongly recommended that your child notify their classroom teachers well in advance and request work for the duration of their absence.
- While classroom teachers will support their students, it is the student's responsibility to make up for work missed as a result of absences. This includes tests and quizzes.
- Students do not need to notify the school if they are not taking the bus after school. Buses will leave if a student is late to catch it.
What if I want to attend OSDSS but it is not my home school (out of geographical catchment area)?
- Please contact your current school's office or OSD's Guidance office to clarify. If you are out of bounds, please complete the Out of Boundary form found in our Course Selection tab and submit it with your course selection sheet.
How do I contact my child's teacher?
- Teachers can be contacted by email or by phone. Please refer to our Staff Directory tab below.
What if I have more questions?
- Please contact the OSDSS Guidance Department at (519) 376-6050 ext. 235. We are happy to help!
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