New Secondary Assessment and Attendance Requirements for 2026–2027

This communication outlines the following Ministry-required updates for families: 

• How final Secondary grades will be calculated 

• New attendance and participation requirements, including guidance for families on the role of caregivers in reporting absences 

• Course outline details 

New Secondary Assessment and Attendance Requirements for 2026-2027 

As we begin the new school year, we look forward to continuing our partnership with families to support every student’s success and well-being. 

At HWDSB, our mission is to ensure every student experiences a sense of belonging and engages in dynamic learning to reach their potential and build their own future. 

Beginning in the 2026–2027 school year, the Ontario Ministry of Education is introducing new assessment and evaluation requirements for secondary students in Grades 9 to 12. These requirements are intended to support student achievement, well-being, and preparation for future pathways while creating greater consistency across Ontario schools. [ontario.ca] 

How Final Grades Will Be Calculated 

Grades 9 and 10 

• 65% Classroom Work 

• 20% Final Evaluation 

• 15% Attendance and Participation 

Grades 11 and 12 

• 65% Classroom Work 

• 25% Final Evaluation 

• 10% Attendance and Participation 

These requirements apply beginning in the 2026–2027 school year. [ontario.ca] 

Attendance and Participation 

The Ministry of Education has introduced an attendance and participation component as part of the final course grade. This recognizes the important role that regular attendance and active engagement play in student learning, achievement, and well-being. [ontario.ca] 

Attendance and participation may include: 

• Regular attendance in class 

• Participation in learning activities 

• Contributions to class discussions and learning experiences 

• Respectful collaboration with others 

• Positive contributions to the classroom learning environment 

Teachers will communicate course-specific attendance and participation expectations with students at the beginning of each course. [ontario.ca] 

Excused Absences 

The Ministry of Education has confirmed that excused absences do not negatively affect a student's mark. Excused absences are absences that are permitted under legislation or school policy and may include illness, unavoidable circumstances, cultural observances, holy days, and other approved absences. [ontario.ca] 

It is important that families continue to report student absences through existing school attendance procedures and communicate with the school when a student will be absent. If families receive an absence notice or phone call indicating that their student is absent, they must follow up with the school and provide the reason for the absence so it can be reviewed and, where appropriate, recorded as excused. 

Course Outlines 

Updated course outlines will be shared with students and families at the beginning of each course. Course outlines will include: 

• Grade breakdowns 

• Final evaluation requirements 

• Attendance and participation expectations 

• Additional course-specific information and expectations 

We look forward to working together to support student success, well-being, and engagement throughout the school year.