April 29th, 2025
All Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) Grade 8 students will be invited to complete the voluntary Future Grade 9 Survey May 12-16, 2025, to help us learn more about supporting a successful transition from elementary to secondary school.
We understand that transitions present opportunities to grow and flourish, but also can be a time of uncertainty or vulnerability for some students. WRDSB wants to make sure that all students have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to be successful in this next step of their learning.
About the Future Grade 9 Survey
The Future Grade 9 Survey is voluntary and anonymous. The survey includes questions about students’ experiences to get ready for secondary school, such as:
- Grade 8 information nights
- Understanding secondary school diploma requirements
- Postsecondary pathways
- Perceptions of preparedness for secondary school
The survey is not intended to be used to compare individual students, schools or classrooms. The overall aim is to:
- Better understand student needs
- Help with transition planning and preparedness
- Provide students with the foundation to achieve their secondary and postsecondary goals
Read a letter to Grade 8 families and caregivers explaining the survey and questions.
Promoting Positive Student Transitions
The Ministry of Education requires all school boards in Ontario to provide an opportunity for students to complete a transition survey at the end of Grade 8 on an annual basis. The WRDSB has developed the Future Grade 9 Survey to help us learn more about supporting a successful transition from elementary to secondary school.
The WRDSB continues to use data-informed decision making to promote positive transitions and better support student achievement and well-being.
A summary of the survey results will be shared with schools, WRDSB staff, Trustees and the Ministry of Education. Only aggregate data is published in order to protect the confidentiality and privacy of students.