Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

 Should you have additional questions, please contact our Durham Continuing Education at 905.436.3211 or 800.408.9619, or email DCEInfo@ddsb.ca.

Absences
Can my child still register even though they will miss a day of the Getting Ready for High School program?

Yes, however due to the short duration of the program, it is not recommended that students miss any days.

How many days can I be absent from my elementary summer school non-credit course(s)?
Regular attendance & punctuality are recommended for students to benefit from the program; however, some absences can be accommodated i.e., summer camp, family vacation etc.  Please contact the teacher and/or site principal to discuss options once the program commences.
How many days can I be absent from my secondary summer school credit course(s)?

Students’ attendance at summer school must be regular and punctual.  The hours for credit recovery and full credit courses follow Ministry of Education guidelines. The summer school principal will rule on all unsatisfactory attendance or other serious infractions of school rules. Due to the concentrated time and workload of summer school, any serious infraction of the attendance rules, including the following, may result in immediate dismissal: 

  • ½ day if CHV2O1 or GLC2O1 course
  • 1 day if a credit recovery course
  • 2 days if a full credit course excluding cooperative education
  • late arrival and sign-outs are ½ day absences
  • skipping 

Regular attendance & punctuality are essential. A note signed by a parent/guardian must explain all absences for student under the age of 18 years. Questions or concerns should be directed to the summer school principal.

I have a trip planned in the middle of the eLearning course and will not have access to the internet during that time – is that okay?
NO – students are expected to participate Monday – Friday an average of 6 hours per day for the duration of the program. The program cannot accommodate extended absences. Failure to communicate with the teacher three days in a row may result in removal from the course.
I know I will be missing the first day of summer school credit course – can I still register?
Yes, as long as it is understood that the absence will be charged against you and must fall within the attendance policy set out for credit recovery and full credit courses (see below, Who should I call?)
Is it okay to miss the first and or last day of the eLearning course?
eLearning is structured in that you determine your learning plan; however, it is suggested that you log in each day Monday to Friday. Make sure that you find time on the first day to check the announcements and connect with your teacher/class. The final summative day(s) is/are MANDATORY and cannot be altered.  If you cannot be available on the final day(s) at the time defined by your teacher, unfortunately, you will not be able to participate in eLearning this summer.  Teachers reserve the right to alter the schedule for the final summative – this information will be made available on the first day of program.
Who should I call to report an absence (on or after start of summer school)? 

If reporting an absence on or after Tuesday July 2nd, 2024, please have the student/parent/guardian call the summer school site during summer school hours and leave a detailed message for the summer school administration. eLearning absences should be discussed with your teacher. Co-op absences – please notify your teacher and employer (if a placement day).

Who should I call to report an absence (prior to start of summer school)?

If you know that you will be absent on the first day, please email DCEInfo@ddsb.ca or call (905) 436-3211 and leave your name (student’s name), summer school site, course, date of absence, reason, and a contact number. Your communication will be forwarded to the appropriate site Principal.

Building and Locations
Is parking available at the summer school site and is there a charge?
Yes, parking is available and there is no charge for parking but limited spaces are available.
Is there lunch service available at the summer school sites?

Unfortunately, we do not have cafeteria service, however, some sites may have pizza or other food sales supported by school groups or teams.  Students should bring water and a lunch or snacks to get them through the day.  Refrigeration and microwave access is NOT available.

What schools are hosting summer school?

Sinclair Secondary School - Map

Course Information
Are these courses the same as high school credit courses?

Yes.  All credit courses adhere to the Ontario Ministry of Education curriculum expectations and are delivered by certified teachers registered with the Ontario College of Teachers.  Summer school courses are viewed the same as those delivered during the school year.

Can I take more than 1 course (eg. 1 eLearning and 1 accelerated course)?
Students can only take one course at a time during each semester. Students cannot combine eLearning/Full Credit courses or Credit Recovery with other modes of delivery such as Learn@Home or Co-op in the same semester. 
I am looking for transfer courses?

We do not offer transfer courses in summer school.  Transfer courses are no longer required due to curriculum changes and de-streaming.

I have found a Co-op placement but it is outside of Durham Region – is that okay?

No, all placements MUST be within Durham Region.  The limited time frame prohibits our teachers from excessive travel for placement visits.

I have found a Co-op placement, but the hours they want me to work are evenings and/or on weekends.  Can I use this placement?

Unfortunately, no.  The placement hours must fall between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. Slightly earlier starts or finishes may be able to be accommodated.  Check with your teacher on July 2nd, 2024. 

I see Youth in Policing listed in your brochure – my child wants to register for that program – how do I do that?

Participants for this program are invited by the Durham Regional Police.  We do not choose the students who participate in this program.  For further information about Youth in Policing visit their website at https://www.drps.ca/join-drps/youth-in-policing-initiative/hiring-information/ 

I want to take Co-op this summer – who will find me a placement?

It is up to the student to find their own summer co-op placement within Durham Region.  They may wish to contact their home school Guidance Counsellor or Co-Op Teacher for ideas of where to source placements – however, it is NOT the responsibility of the home school to find students summer placements.  Durham Continuing Education does not have a bank of placements for adolescents. Adult students who are employed may wish to explore our Co-op Works program.

The course I want is not offered – where can I get it?

You may be able to obtain it through our Learn@Home department.  Visit www.dce.ca under Learn@Home or call (905) 440-4500 for more information.  Please note, students under 21 years of age who are not graduates, are only eligible for Learn@Home if the required course is NOT available in summer school.  

The potential employer has questions – who can I contact to answer them?

Please refer to the document “Information Sheet to take to Potential Employers” found on the summer school co-op page.  Most questions are answered within that document.  Should that not be sufficient, please email your question to DCEInfo@ddsb.ca or call (905) 436-3211.

The potential employer will be shutting down for two weeks in July – how will this affect my co-op?

Unfortunately, you will need to find another placement.  The program cannot accommodate employer shut-downs.

What is a Full Credit course? 

Courses in this program are recommended for secondary students who wish to gain up to one credit in a subject they have not previously studied or, wish to upgrade a mark in a course that they have successfully completed but feel they need to revisit the entire course curriculum to strengthen their knowledge and understanding (Note: repeated courses in which a student has been successful will not result in an additional credit being granted. Both attempts will show on the student transcript for repeated grade 11 or 12 courses).  It is the responsibility of students and their Guidance Counsellors to ensure that all prerequisites have been met before registering for an accelerated course.  
What is a credit recovery course?
Courses in this program are designed for students with home school approval who, during the preceding two school years, have been unsuccessful in one or two subjects.  Students must retake the same course – grade and level as previously taken. For students in grades 9 or 10, only the higher mark will show on the student transcript. For students in grades 11 or 12, all attempts will show on the student transcript.
Who should I fax/email my cooperative forms to?

Co-op placement information MUST be submitted via our online form. Any other paperwork may be emailed to DCEInfo@ddsb.ca .  Alternately, forms may be dropped off at our Oshawa location – 120 Centre St. S, Oshawa, ON.  Often schools can scan and email forms for summer school students. 

Deadlines

What is the cooperative education placement deadline?
Due to the nature of the program the placement must be secured, and forms completed by noon (11:59 am EST) June 19, 2024.  No additional students will be accepted after that date.
What is the last day I can register for Full Credit courses?

The deadline to register for full credit courses is noon (11:59 am EST) June 19, 2024, for course decisions.   Registration will resume after notification of cancelled classes has been sent and the information has been updated on our website.  At that time, students may still register where space is available, however choices may be limited. 

The last day to register for full credit courses is Thursday July 4, 2024, 8:30 am (EST).  Students registering after the start of the program are responsible for catching up on any class assignments or evaluations. 

What is the last day I can register for eLearning courses?

The deadline to register for July eLearning courses is noon (11:59 am EST) June 19, 2024.  Registration will close and no additional students can be added.

The deadline to register for August eLearning courses is noon (11:59 am EST) July 22, 2024.  Registration will close and no additional students can be added.

The deadline to register for Extended eLearning courses is noon (11;59 am EST) June 19, 2024.  Registration will close and no additional students can be added. 

What is the last day I can register for Credit Recovery courses?

The deadline to register is noon (11:59 am EST)  Thursday June 27, 2024, for Semester 1 credit recovery course decisions and Monday July 8, 2024, for Semester 2 credit recovery course decisions.  Registration will resume after notification of cancelled classes has been sent and the information has been updated on our website.  At that time, students may still register where space is available, however choices may be limited. 

The last day to register for Semester 1 credit recovery courses is July 3, 2024, 8:30 am (EST) and July 16, 2024, 8:30 am (EST) for Semester 2 credit recovery courses.  Students registering after the start of the program, are responsible for catching up any class assignments or evaluations.

Eligibility to Register
Can a homeschooled grade 8 student register for Getting Ready for High School? 

Yes, but must register in person and bring required proof of citizenship

Can an out-of-board or homeschooled student register? 

Yes, but must register in person and bring required proof of citizenship.

Can an out-of-board student register for Getting Ready for High School? 

Yes, but must register in person and bring required proof of citizenship.  Please note; each program is designed to welcome incoming students and is specific to the secondary school in which it is being held.

I am on a student visa which allows me to study in Canada during the regular school year.  Am I eligible for summer school?  What are the fees?

In most cases, the visa will allow you to attend summer school but you will need to register in person and bring your visa documents.  Depending on status, it is likely that you will need to pay the non-resident fees per course (see the registration instructions for more details).

I live and go to school in Toronto.  Can I still register?

No, our programming is not available for Non-DDSB students.  

Is there an age limit for students attending summer school? 

There is no age limit – all ages welcome.  However, most students attending summer school fall within the adolescent age group. 

Who can register for the Getting Ready for High School program?

The program is open to all students who have completed grade 8 and are entering grade 9 in the next academic year. However, the program is designed to familiarize students with the school that they will be attending in the fall.

Employment and Volunteer Opportunities
How can I volunteer at summer school?
Please email DCEInfo@ddsb.ca and provide your name, contact number and area of interest (i.e., site, subject).  Your name and information will be forwarded to the appropriate site Principal, and they will contact you if there is a need for a volunteer at the site.  All volunteers must provide a current Criminal Background Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening prior to helping in any facility or position. 
Where and when can I apply for summer school positions?

All positions are posted on the “Apply to Education” website beginning as early as Jan each year.  Please check the site often for job postings.  You must apply to an open posting to be considered.  Note: Many of our teaching positions are open to internal candidates only and will be accessible internally only.  General Timelines for Postings.

Teaching Staff - Mid March, Mid April, June

Clerical - Mid April/May

Security - Mid April/May

Tutors - Late April/Early May

Exams 
Are there exams in the Getting Ready for High School program?
No.  This is a non-credit program.  Evaluations are only to assist the student in mastery of skills.
Can I write the exam on another day?
Unfortunately, due to the shortened timeframe for summer school, we cannot alter the schedule.  All students must write a final examination or complete a culminating activity held on the last two days of the course.  Exam dates are non-negotiable; please consider these dates when registering. 
Do I have to write an exam in the credit recovery or accelerated summer school program? 

Summatives/exams/culminating activities are required in all programs.  Students must complete a culminating activity held on the last two days of the course.  Students MUST attend both days.  The teacher will provide details at the beginning of the course.

Fees
I am sponsored by OW/ODSP and I need a funding letter – Where can I get that?
There are no fees for summer school. If you need verification of registration – please contact our guidance office at (905) 440-4539. 
Is there a fee? 

Most programs are free for Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and approved refugees.   

ADDITIONAL Student Fees for Non-Residents – for students who reside out of the country and Visa students:

New Credit/eLearning Course: $2087.00 (non-refundable) per credit ($1044.00 for CHV2O1 and GLC2O1), payable in full at time of registration.  

Credit Recovery Course: $1044.00 (non-refundable) per course ($522.00 for CHV2O1 and GLC2O1), payable in full at time of registration.  

SMILE Program:  $2087.00 (non-refundable) course fee, payable in full at time of registration.

First Day of Class
Getting Ready for High School - What should a student bring on the first day of class?
  • Chromebook (students new to the board should connect with their future secondary school to arrange Chromebook use)
  • Paper or notebook, pencil, eraser, and pen
  • Clothing and shoes suitable for outdoor activities (as well as indoor activities)
  • Snacks and beverages 

Is there any administration staff on site?
Each site has an administrative team that includes a Principal and/or one or two Vice-Principals and clerical support that are responsible for the elementary and secondary summer school programs run at their location.  Larger sites will also have a security guard to assist in safety and security of students while at summer school. 

Secondary - What room do I go to on the first day of class?

Lists will be posted near the front of the school.  Students should look for their name on the list – this will direct them to the proper classroom.  Staff will be available to assist students.  It is recommended that students bring a copy of their receipt with them the first day.
What room should my child go to when they arrive?

Students are to report to the main lobby of the summer school site where teachers will meet them and take them to the assigned classroom.

Guidance
Do I have to do the prerequisite course or can I jump right into the grade 12 college/university credit that I need for college/university entrance?
School-age, non-graduate students MUST have prerequisite courses to be eligible for grade 12 programs.  Adult students and graduates are strongly recommended to have the prerequisite, but it is not mandatory.
How can I get extra help while at Summer School?
Teachers are available 15 minutes before and after class.  In addition, each site may have several tutors available to help students during the day.  Online tutor will also be available for eLearning students (details will be provided by your teachers).  The tutors are university students interested in teaching as a career and are available to help at no charge to all registered students. 
I no longer attend secondary school and I would like help choosing courses for summer school –who can help me? 

You may obtain help here at DCE.  A counsellor will be available Monday to Friday between 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.  Please note – if you come during the day, counsellors will fit you in between their regularly scheduled appointments – so you may need to wait to speak with someone.  We are offering virtual appointments as well during office hours. Please call (905) 440-4539 to make an appointment for virtual counselling.

Inclusive Education
My child has an IEP – are there supports in summer school?

Please email michele.reid@ddsb.ca or call 905.436.3211 to discuss options. 

Mark Reporting and Withdrawals 
How can I get the mark for my child when they finish this course?
Students attending an In-Person class can leave a self-addressed stamped envelope with their teacher prior to the end of their class. The teacher will send out an un-official report in this envelope as soon as they finalize the course.  Students in eLearning classes can obtain un-official reports on the last day within the course delivery system. Report cards will follow in late August (for July courses) or mid-September (for August courses) to the home school for DDSB/DCDSB/KPRDSB/PVNCCDSB students, or to the address provided for all others.  Marks cannot be obtained through Durham Continuing Education office in August.
How do I get the course on my transcript when I am finished? 

For students who are currently attending a Durham District School Board school, the course will automatically be added to your transcript.  For students with the DCDSB, marks will be electronically transferred to the DCDSB for upload to student transcripts. For students who attend schools in the KPRDSB or PVNCDSB, reports will be emailed to your home school in August/early September and the school should add your course to your transcript (check with your school in Sept).  Recent DDSB students will also have the course added to their transcript automatically.

 

For all other students, report cards will be mailed to the address on file at the end of August.  It is suggested that you take a copy to your last secondary school and have it added to your transcript and Ontario Student Record.  In the event the school cannot add the course to your Ontario Student Transcript, you will always be able to access a transcript for this course from Durham Continuing Education.

 

For students participating in eLearning course through the Ontario eLearning Consortium, reports will be emailed to your home school and mailed to the address on file in PRISM at the end of August/early September.  Please make sure you take the report card to your school to ensure they have a copy on file.

How do I withdraw from this program?

If you wish to withdraw prior to the start of summer school, visit www.dce.ca and complete a Withdraw Request (Link found on the home page).  

I will need my marks sent to a College or University when I finish the course.  How can I do this?
Please check with the summer school office at your site or your eLearning teacher. Letters can be requested via the Proof of Mark Request Form. 
What is full-disclosure? 
Any student who remains in a grade 11/12 course after the full-disclosure date, will have the course recorded in their Ontario Student Transcript, even if they do not complete the course or are unsuccessful.
Will my elementary child be given a progress report/report card from summer school?

Yes, on the final day of the program.

Medical Needs
My child has a medical condition that the site needs to be aware of – how can I contact the site? 
Please email michele.reid@ddsb.ca or call 905.436.3211.  We will facilitate getting the information to the correct administrator or have the administration connect with you to coordinate a safe environment for your child’s condition.
Registration
I have a summer job and can’t attend summer school but really need to take a course – is there other ways to take courses in the summer? 
You may be able to obtain it through our Learn@Home department.  Visit www.dce.ca under Learn@Home or call (905) 440-4500 for more information.  Please note, students under 21 years of age who are not graduates, are only eligible for Learn@Home if the required course is NOT available in summer school. 
I need a confirmation of registration for university/college or sponsorship agency?

Students who are currently in a Durham District School Board School and who have applied through their school on a 101 form, your course enrolment will be transmitted in the early July electronic transfer.

All other students who require a letter as proof of registration (prior to the start of summer school), may request a this through the Proof of Mark request form. 

I want to cancel or withdraw from my course before the start of the program – how do I do that? 
We are sorry that you cannot attend summer school. Please complete the Withdraw Request form. A link can also be found on our home page at www.dce.ca .   
My child is home schooled, am I required to produce proof of Canadian Citizenship, photo ID and letter of permission? 
Proof of citizenship/residency is required for all registrants if they are not attending a school that is part of the DDSB.  If the student is home schooled, a letter of permission is not required.  A note should accompany the registration to identify the student as home schooled.
When does registration open?
Feb 13, 2024, at 10:00am (EST)
Why do you wait so long to cancel courses?

We try very hard not to cancel courses and therefore leave courses open for registration as long as possible.  However, in some cases, we do not have sufficient enrolment to run the program and must cancel.  Unfortunately, this may result in very few alternate choices when cancellations are done. 

If your course has been cancelled, make sure you check with us to see if there are alternate methods to obtain your desired course.

Why would you cancel a course?
Durham Continuing Education reserves the right to cancel a course if there are insufficient registrations, as well as the right to determine the number of courses to be offered, where they are offered, how they are delivered and the number of sections in each course.
Will I be informed if DCE cancels my course?
Yes, students will be notified of course cancellations by recorded telephone message and/or by email (using the contact information as it appears on the registration account).  Course cancellations will also appear on the DCE website after the course deadlines and course decisions have been made. 
Transportation
Are the bus pick-up and drop-off times “set in stone”?
Times may change if stops are added or deleted, however, the first day or two times will stay the same as advertised. Note: bussing is only provided for Getting Ready for High School at Brock HS, Port Perry HS, and Uxbridge SS.
Are there any special rules for student’s riding the bus?
Parents/guardians are responsible for their child’s behaviour at the bus stop.  Students are to obey all of the driver’s instructions and abide by all bus rules.
Is there a transportation policy?
Yes, summer school transportation follows the DDSB transportation policy, visit http://ddsb.durham.edu.on.ca/DDSBmain.htm 
When should my child be at their designated bus stop?
Students should arrive 10 minutes prior to the scheduled pick-up time on the first day and 5 minutes for the remainder of the program.
Why is there no bussing in the south of Durham?
Durham Region Transit has a very well-developed system in the Oshawa/Whitby/Ajax area.  We have notified them of the Summer School locations and they will adjust their routes accordingly.
Who should I contact regarding transportation issues?

Durham Continuing Education 905.436.3211