Middle Years Options Programming Review

The Brandon School Division recently undertook a review of the Middle Years Options Programming available to our students in Grades 7 and 8.

During the 2012-2013 and 2016-2017 school years, a consultant was hired to review our current Middle Years Options Programming and provided a report to Senior Administration for review. Recommendations from this report were then used during a consultation process during the 2017-2018 school year, with our stakeholders to determine the direction we want for our Middle Years Options Programming.

The results of the consultation outlined the desire to:

• Align Grade 7 and 8 timetables to meet the recommended subject time allocations for compulsory and
• optional programs;
• Maintain access to French programming for all students;
• Maintain the mandatory status of Industrial Arts/Home economics;
• Maintain access to Band programming for all students;
• Provide choice for students in the areas of options and arts programming.

The Division was able to meet almost all of the goals identified in the Middle Years Options Consultation. The only goal that was not achieved was the mandatory status of Industrial Arts/Home Economics. As a result, students will have the opportunity to request French, Home Economics/Industrial Arts, or school based topics (Technology, Critical Thinking, Leadership, Indigenous studies). Students will also have the opportunity to request Band, Drama, Dance, or Visual Arts.

A new registration guide is being sent home outlining the Middle Years Options/Arts Registration Process. Please contact your child’s teacher or school counselor if you have any questions regarding the course selection process.