The Provincial Government is seeking feedback on proposed changes to the program of studies for students in grades 7 to 9. The program of studies determines what subjects are mandatory and optional for students, and how much time is spent learning those subjects.
The changes aim to increase student engagement, address attendance concerns, improve educational outcomes, and make school more meaningful. The current program of studies for grades 7-9 students was introduced in 1981.
The proposed changes include:
- Combining certain subjects.
- Offering some subjects through a modular delivery format.
- Adjusting the amount of time devoted to some subjects.
- Making some subjects fully or partially optional.
Further details on the proposed changes are available on the K-12 Professional Learning website.
School communities, including parents/guardians, teachers, and students, are encouraged to share feedback using the online platform. Feedback will be accepted until February 28, 2025.
In addition to the feedback provided through the online platform, 14 schools in the province have been selected to implement the proposed changes for the 2025-26 school year. Feedback and information from teachers and students implementing the changes next year will inform the final changes to the intermediate program, which will be implemented in all intermediate grades for September 2026.
The Provincial Government is committed to transforming the education system and has introduced a variety of measures to support a modern teaching and learning environment for students and educators.
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“Student voice and student choice are an important part of promoting student engagement. Just as senior high students have input on the courses they take, we are now seeking to give similar choice to intermediate students. I encourage all students, parents and educators to review the proposed changes and share their feedback to help inform the future of education in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Education
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Learn more
Proposed Changes to Grades 7-9 Program of Studies
Provide Feedback on Proposed Changes to Grades 7-9 Program of Studies
Provincial Government Continues Work on Curriculum Renewal for K-12 Public Education System
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