Certificate Requirements Policy

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Introduction

In alignment with the Ontario Ministry of Education’s guidelines, Liberty High School’s Diploma and Certificate Requirements Policy outlines the requirements students must meet to graduate. This policy details the academic criteria, community involvement, and other necessary qualifications for obtaining a diploma or certificate from Liberty High School.

II. Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) Requirements

Credit Accumulation: Students must earn a minimum of 30 credits to qualify for the OSSD, including 18 compulsory credits and 12 optional credits.

Compulsory Credits: These include four credits in English (one per grade), three credits in mathematics (at least one in Grade 11 or 12), two credits in science, one credit in Canadian history, one credit in Canadian geography, one credit in the arts, one credit in health and physical education, one credit in French as a second language, one credit in Native studies, classical or international languages, or social sciences and humanities, and one credit in career studies and civics (half a credit each).

Literacy Requirement: Students must pass the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) or successfully complete the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC).

Community Involvement: Students are required to complete 40 hours of community involvement activities during their high school years. These activities must be approved by the school and can include volunteering at local community organizations, participating in environmental clean-up projects, assisting in senior homes, and more.

III. Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC) Requirements

Credit Accumulation: To obtain the OSSC, students must earn a minimum of 14 credits, including 7 compulsory credits (2 credits in English, 1 credit in Canadian geography or history, 1 credit in mathematics, 1 credit in science, 1 credit in health and physical education, and 1 credit in the arts, computer studies, or technological education).

IV. Certificate of Accomplishment

The Certificate of Accomplishment is available to students who leave school before fulfilling the OSSD requirements. This certificate may be a more suitable option for some students with special education needs and recognizes their achievements during their time in high school.

V. Community Involvement Activities

Approval and Documentation: All community involvement activities must be approved by the school. Students are responsible for maintaining a record of their activities, which must be verified by the organization or person supervising the volunteer activity.

Guidance and Support: The school provides guidance to students in selecting appropriate community involvement activities and ensures that students understand the types of activities that are eligible.

VI. Policy Review and Updates

Compliance with Provincial Changes: The policy is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure compliance with any changes in the Ontario Ministry of Education’s requirements for diplomas and certificates.

VII. Roles and Responsibilities

School Administration: Responsible for providing information to students and parents about diploma and certificate requirements, approving community involvement activities, and ensuring that students are on track to meet graduation requirements.

Teachers and Guidance Counselors: Assist students in understanding diploma requirements and selecting appropriate courses and community involvement activities.

Students and Parents: Understand and adhere to the requirements for graduation and actively participate in the planning of the student’s educational pathway.

Liberty High School’s Diploma and Certificate Requirements Policy is designed to ensure that all students are aware of and understand what is needed to successfully complete their secondary education. By setting clear expectations and providing the necessary support, we strive to guide our students towards fulfilling their graduation goals.