Ontario government announces changes to secondary school diploma requirements

For the first time in 25 years, the Ontario government is modernizing the Ontario Secondary School Diploma requirements.

Education Minister Stephen Lecce made the announcement Thursday, saying a lot has changed over the course of two and a half decades.

Audio Player

One of the key changes is a a new financial literacy graduation requirement – a course that must be taken in Grade 10.

Audio Player

There will also be consultation being done looking at changes to the home economics program.

Audio Player

Below is a list of changes being planned by the province.

A new financial literacy graduation requirement to ensure students exit Ontario’s school system with both literacy and practical financial literacy skills. Starting in 2025, students will be required to score 70 per cent or higher to meet the financial literacy graduation requirement in their Grade 10 math course. Furthermore, the province will standardize making EQAO Grade 9 Math scores 10 per cent or more of a student’s final mark, a practice already used by the majority of teachers.

Consulting on important life skills and the return of home economics education.

Ensuring new teachers hold basic competency in math. Teacher applicants to the Ontario College of Teachers must pass the Math Proficiency Test beginning in February 2025.

For the first time in 13 years, a wholesale revitalization of guidance and career education to support students’ understanding of local labour market needs and pathways to good careers.

Up to $14 million in 2024-25 to launch career coaching for Grade 9 and 10 students and to explore new opportunities into STEM and skilled trades.

Return of the student exit survey to benchmark success and garner feedback on the impact of reforms with an emphasis on guidance.

(Written by: Matt LeBlanc)