Elementary to Secondary Transitions

Welcome to the Elementary to Secondary Transitions page for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Students.  The information provided here will help you to understand some of the strategies that work for this particular transition.

A video resource is also provided below!

The following are Best Practices for Elementary Secondary Transitions selected from the ONECA document, “Walk in Our Moccasins: A Comprehensive Study of Aboriginal Education Counsellors in Ontario (2010)”.

  • Visits to the high school and secondary school tours
  • Meet the teachers and staff BBQ
  • Visit and Meet with the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Education Counsellor, unit and First Nations, Métis and Inuit services/programs
  • Mentorship and buddy programs that come to the elementary school to discuss secondary courses, challenges and options
  • Parental and community involvement with events that celebrate transitions (Grade 8 graduation)
  • Orientation to high school extra-curricular activities (social, physical, academic, trips)
  • Help families with financial resources for school materials and extra-curricular activities
  • Organize shared events between elementary and secondary levels
  • Workshops and tips on academic success
  • Access to role models and  career events
  • Career guidance plans at the elementary level that drive secondary course selection
  • Taking students to high school in August to locate classes before the academic year begins
  • Consistent home routines (sleep, meals, homework and play)
  • Connect parents/guardians with support networks and programs (parent groups, libraries, recreation)
  • Attend cultural events and connections with Elders that affirm FNMI identity

For a specific perspective on this particular transition, go back to the HOMEPAGE and select one of the following: Education Counsellors, Students, Parents/Guardians, Other Professionals or Communities.   There you will also find a list of web resources specifically tailored for that group.