October 26, 2017

Dear Parents/Guardians of Langley Schools:

Re: Changes to the Grades 10-12 Curriculum Implementation Schedule

I am writing to inform you that the schedule for the implementation of the new provincial curriculum for Grades 10 to 12 and the associated changes to the 2018 Graduation Program has changed.

The draft curriculum for Grades 10 to 12 has been available to teachers for use and feedback since July 2016 with the original aim of implementation being July 2018. While many teachers have begun implementing and exploring the new curriculum, the Ministry of Education has heard from many educators and partner groups that more time is required to ensure that teachers, administrators, post-secondary institutions and, most importantly students, are fully prepared.

From the office of Deputy Minister of Education, D. Scott MacDonald:

a)    Grade 10: As scheduled, full implementation of the new curriculum for all subject areas in Grade 10 will be effective July 2018. The Grade 10 curriculum documents will be finalized and available for use by April 2018.

b)    Grades 11 and 12: Grade 11 and 12 courses will receive one additional year of transition support prior to full implementation in July 2019. The Grade 11 and 12 curriculum will also be finalized and available online June 30, 2018.

c)     Numeracy Assessment: The provincial graduation numeracy assessment will be implemented for the first time in January 2018, with subsequent sessions in June and August 2018.

d)    Literacy Assessment: The provincial graduation literacy assessment will align with the implementation of the Grade 11 and 12 curriculum, and the first administration will now be scheduled for January 2020.

During the extended implementation period, the Ministry will be working with school districts and our education partners to update our curriculum implementation support strategy to help ensure readiness across the education system.

The new curriculum for Grades 10 to 12 contains fully updated course content for every single subject area with a focus on big ideas and core competencies and also includes Aborginal content and, in some areas, completely new course structures. Changes to the 2018 Graduation Program are closely associated with the new curriculum and includes two new provincial graduation assessments and a renewed focus on career education.

If you have any questions or concerns about the curriculum implementation schedule, please contact your school principal.

Sincerely,

Gord Stewart, Superintendent of Schools