From Grade 8 to Grade 9: Secondary school info nights continue

Grade 8 students and their parents/guardians are invited to Information Nights at Rainbow secondary schools in Sudbury, Espanola and Manitoulin.  All students are welcome to participate, regardless of which elementary school students currently attend.

“Making the transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9 is a big step in a young person’s life,” said Rainbow District School Board Chair Doreen Dewar. “We encourage students and parents/guardians to take advantage of upcoming Information Nights to find out more about the programs offered in Rainbow secondary schools. We are here to help students make informed decisions about their future.”

To help in the process, Rainbow District School Board has produced a Guide for Students and Parents called “Making the Transition – Finding your way from Grade 8 to Grade 9.” The guide contains information about course codes, levels of study, timetables and tips. The guide can be accessed online at rainbowschools.ca. Copies are also available by emailing [ mailto:[email protected] ][email protected] or visiting area Rainbow secondary schools.

Pathways for exceptional students

Each secondary school Information Night will highlight pathways for exceptional students.  Grade 6, 7 and 8 students with special needs and their parents/guardians are invited to learn more about programs, course offerings and assistance. Administration, Special Education and Student Services staff will be available to answer questions. Special Education personnel in elementary schools may also attend the sessions in their respective areas to assist students and their parents/guardians.

Course levels offered in secondary schools will be highlighted at each Information Night. “We will assist students and their parents/guardians to determine the most appropriate course level for various learning styles and abilities,” said Margaret Stringer, Principal of Special Education Programs and Services.  “Rainbow secondary schools offer resource support, accommodations and courses such as the  ‘Learning Strategies’ course that may be of interest to students with special needs.”

The various pathways available to students will be explored, with a focus on compulsory courses and optional courses. Participants will receive detailed information about the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma, a Certificate of Achievement, or a Certificate of Accomplishment.

Opportunities in arts, athletics and academics

Rainbow District School Board’s secondary schools offer exceptional opportunities in arts, athletics and academics, in English and French Immersion, in all program pathways – independent living, work, apprenticeship, college and university.

The Board also has four specialized programs – the Arts Education Program, the Science Technology Education Program, the School of Integrated Technology and the International Baccalaureate Program. Busing to these programs is offered to students within Greater Sudbury.

“It’s important that students take the time to explore all of their options,” said Rainbow District School Board Director of Education, Norm Blaseg. “Tour our schools, meet the Principal, talk to teachers, see the facilities, and learn more about the dynamic programs that are offered in our secondary schools. The Guide for Students and Parents is also an excellent source of information.”

Schedule of Information Nights

Lockerby Composite School


Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at 7 pm

Principal: Heather Gaffney

1391 Ramsey View, Sudbury

Phone: 705-522-1750

Lasalle Secondary School


Wednesday, February 15, 2012

6 pm – Pasta Dinner

7 pm – Presentation

7:30 pm – Tour of School

Principal: Jeff McKibbon

1545 Kennedy Street, Sudbury

Phone: 705-566-2280

Lively District Secondary School


Wednesday, February 15, 2012 at 6:30 pm

Principal: Leslie Mantle

265 Fifth Avenue, Lively

Phone: 705-692-3671

Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School


Thursday, February 16, 2012 at 7 pm

Principal: Craig Runciman

275 Loach’s Road, Sudbury

Phone: 705-522-2320

Sudbury Secondary School


Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 6:30 pm

Principal: Paul Camillo

154 College Street, Sudbury

Phone: 705-674-7551

Manitoulin Secondary School

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 at 6:30 pm

Principal: Laurie Zahnow

107 Bay Street, M’Chigeeng

Phone: 705-368-7000

Espanola High School


Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at 7 pm

Principal: Martin Punkari

147 Spruce Street, Espanola

Phone: 705-869-1590

For more information about program pathways and Open Houses in Rainbow Secondary Schools, visit rainbowschools.ca.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,

Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning,

Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171, ext. 7217.