As we begin the 2026–27 school year, we would like to highlight several important changes introduced by the Ontario Ministry of Education that affect how secondary students’ final course grades are determined.

Beginning this school year, Ontario has introduced new, province-wide requirements for assessment and evaluation in Grades 9–12. These changes are designed to promote greater consistency in assessment practices, strengthen student engagement and attendance, and better prepare students for the expectations they will encounter in post-secondary education.

Attendance and Participation as Part of the Final Grade

One of the most significant changes is that attendance and participation will now form part of a student’s final course grade.

For students in Grades 9 and 10, attendance and participation will account for 15% of the final course grade, while for students in Grades 11 and 12, they will account for 10%.

This recognizes an important principle: learning is not simply about completing assignments or demonstrating knowledge on tests. Regular attendance, active participation in class discussions and activities, asking questions, contributing ideas, collaborating with others and helping to create a positive learning environment are all important components of a successful educational experience. We are stressing to our students to be actively engaged in their learning when in classes. Behaviour that does not display engagement when in class would include; sleeping, using their laptop for social media, games or movies.

The Ministry has also made clear that excused absences will not negatively affect a student’s mark. Bronte College will continue to work with students and families when circumstances arise that require an absence from school.

We encourage parents to reinforce the importance of regular attendance and punctuality. Being present and engaged each day provides students with opportunities to learn, ask questions, collaborate with their peers and receive timely feedback from their teachers.

New Examination Requirements

There are also significant changes to final evaluations. Beginning in 2026–27, most secondary courses will include a mandatory written examination or other required final evaluation, and written examinations for Grades 9–12 will take place during the designated examination period.

For Grades 9 and 10, the final course grade will generally consist of:

· 65% – classroom work completed throughout the course

· 20% – mandatory final evaluation(s), including written examinations and/or culminating tasks, depending on the subject

· 15% – attendance and participation

For Grades 11 and 12, the final course grade will generally consist of:

· 65% – classroom work completed throughout the course

· 25% – mandatory final evaluation(s)

· 10% – attendance and participation

The exact structure of the final evaluation varies by subject. For example, some courses will have a 20% written examination, while others may combine a written examination with a culminating task. The Grade 9 EQAO Mathematics assessment will also serve as the written examination component for the MTH1W course.

What This Means for Bronte College Students

These changes reinforce the importance of consistent effort throughout the entire school year. Students should approach every class, assignment, assessment, discussion and examination as an important part of their learning journey.

At Bronte College, our goal is not simply to help students achieve a strong final grade. We want students to develop the habits, knowledge, skills, independence and confidence necessary to succeed in university, college and other post-secondary pathways.

Our teachers and school leaders will work closely with students and families throughout the year to ensure that everyone understands these requirements and has the support necessary to be successful.

We encourage parents to speak with their children about the importance of regular attendance, active participation, consistent academic effort and preparation for final evaluations. Together, we can help our students make the most of every opportunity to learn and prepare for their future.

For more information about Ontario’s updated assessment and evaluation requirements, parents may consult the Ministry of Education’s guidance on assessment, evaluation and reporting.