News Release Archive
EDUCATION/CULTURE--HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS REVISED ----------------------------------------------------------------- New high school graduation requirements will better prepare students for the workforce, post-secondary studies and the future. Education and Culture Minister Robbie Harrison announced today that new requirements in core areas like mathematics, science and technology will be balanced with other essentials like language arts, fine arts and social studies. More program choices through cooperative education, local programs and independent studies will support all students in reaching their full potential. "Students need a solid grounding in mathematics, science and technology, not only to help them find jobs, but to be successful in their personal and community lives," said Mr. Harrison. "However, every student has individual needs, interests and abilities. We are challenging students to be the very best they can be, while providing more choices and more support to help all students succeed." These changes, based on consultation last winter, will be phased in so students and schools have time to plan. "We want to involve our partners in education every step of the way," said Mr. Harrison. "Again, our goal is to help all students be successful in school and after graduation. This can only be accomplished through proper planning in cooperation with classroom teachers and other partners." The following credits will be required for students beginning Grade 10 in September 1997: two mathematics, compared to one now; two science, compared to one now; and two others from technology, math or science, which is a new requirement. A full fine arts credit will also be required for graduation for the first time in Nova Scotia. Current compulsory requirements will continue, three language arts, one global studies, one social studies, one-half credit in physically active lifestyles and one-half credit in career and life management. The department supports opportunities for students to learn a second language. Beginning next September, English or French as a second language will be required at junior high. Where available, Gaelic or Mi'kmaq can also fulfill the second language requirement. At the high school level, all students will be encouraged to continue studying a second language. Doors are opening between the classroom and workplace. For example, cooperative education and local programs tailored to meet the individual interests and abilities of students are available in some schools, but not equitably across the province. By March 1997, recommendations will be prepared on how to deliver enhanced cooperative and other course options as part of the high school program across the province. Students with particular interests and abilities will have the option of using two independent study credits, instead of one currently, toward their high school certificate. "We want students to have more choices, based on their interests and abilities, and to learn how to learn, using the wealth of information now at their fingertips," said Mr. Harrison. Some students have had opportunity to develop skills or gain knowledge in fine arts, physical education, mathematics or other programs outside the classroom. Challenge for credit will become an option for these students to recognize, and not repeat, these prior skills and knowledge. A challenge for credit policy will be developed in consultation with teachers, school boards and other education partners. Challenge for credit for music, art and drama will be piloted in schools in January 1997, and for additional courses beginning September 1997. Last winter, a discussion paper on graduation requirements was distributed to approximately 2,000 groups and individuals, including all high schools, the Nova Scotia School Boards Association, the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, home and school associations, post-secondary institutions and employers. Education partners will continue to be consulted on policy issues related to the revised graduation requirements. -30- Contact: Donna MacDonald 902-424-2615 EDITORS NOTE: A backgrounder and the names of people outside the department familiar with this topic are available to provide comment to media by calling Donna MacDonald 902-424-2615. Copies of the backgrounder are also available by calling Communications N.S. at 902-424-4492 or 1-800-670-4357. trp Sept. 19, 1996 - 10:30 a.m.