Most Grade 7 students transition to secondary school based on their current home address. There are some exceptions for students attending secondary choice programs and mini school programs. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your child's current school administrator.

• Information for cross-boundary applications 
• Information for mini school programs 
• Information for secondary programs 

If your child has a diverse learning designation by the Ministry of Education or requires additional support: 

Connect with your child’s Grade 7 teacher, case manager or principal for questions and concerns. During the Grade 7 to 8 articulation process, the elementary school will coordinate with the secondary school to ensure a smooth transition for your child.

Tip for families with students about to enter secondary school

Being prepared and having the right information can help alleviate stress during this transition period. Here are some resources to help: 

• Government of B.C. - Back to school tips 
• HealthLink BC – Tips for parents of teens 
• VSB After the Bell podcast 
• Equity and Anti-Oppression (EAO) 
• How to Solve a Concern at School 
• Resources for Newcomers 
• MyEd BC Student Family Portal 
• More Parent and Student Resources 

Family involvement at secondary schools

The parent advisory committee (PAC) includes all parent(s) and guardians as members of their school community. PAC is a great way to stay involved and volunteer in the school community. Each PAC is led by elected volunteers who coordinate meetings. Guest speakers may be invited to speak about topics relevant to families and their children within the school community. Participation in meetings, on the executive or sub-committees, offers a more in-depth experience for families. Visit the Family section of your school’s website to learn more about volunteer opportunities or getting involved with the PAC.

Other Resources:

• K-12 Registration 
• School Directory and Map 
• School Year Calendar 
• Parent and Student Resources 
• Learning Support Programs and Services 
• VSB News

For Students

Beginning Grade 8

Congratulations on starting secondary school! Moving to Grade 8 in Vancouver is a very exciting time. It can also be stressful. 

Secondary schools are larger and have more students. This means there are more opportunities to make new friends, try new activities or sports, discover different interests and find a new sense of community. Moving to Grade 8 also means some changes, like to your commute, new routines and schedules, new teachers and being part of a new school – maybe with fewer of your elementary school friends.     

Here are some helpful tips to getting the school year off to a good start. 

Tips for Starting Secondary School

Finding your way around – If you are lost, ask any member of school staff to help you find your way. Your teachers will understand if you are late because you got lost.

Course schedules – You will receive your course schedule during homeroom on the first day of school. The schedule will also be in MyEd before classes begin. Grade 8 course schedules are set and usually don’t change. If you need help understanding your schedule or have a question about it, speak to your homeroom teacher.

Lockers – Typically, lockers will be assigned and locks provided during the first week of school. Remember to always keep your locker clean and your content secured. If you need help with your locker, speak to your homeroom teacher.

Stress/Anxiety – School counsellors are happy to support you and will suggest strategies and resources to help you manage challenges.

Making friends – You will have an opportunity to meet students in class, the hallway and social functions. Joining a club or sports team is a good way to meet people and make friends. You can also chat with your counsellor and they will help you make connections.

Your learning needs – Speak to your teacher privately about any learning challenges. Emails are okay if you are not comfortable speaking in person. If you have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and have questions about classroom supports or learning strategies, your resource teacher, your counsellor or your classroom teacher are there to help.

Understanding or keeping up with coursework – Your classroom teacher is there to help you. Flexible Instruction Time (FIT) is also a way to get extra help. You can also make appointment with your teacher. Creating a study group with your classmates is a great way to learn material and expand your understanding and study skills.

Conduct and conflict –Everyone in schools is responsible to ensure they are safe and healthy environments for all students. Racism, discrimination, bullying or harassment is not tolerated and should be reported to counsellors and/or administration immediately.

Concerns about safety  – If you are concerned for your safety, speak to an administrator, a counsellor, a teacher or any other school staff member. If you are concerned for the safety of a friend or a fellow student, speak to a staff member immediately. Do not be a bystander - you will not regret speaking up for fellow students.

Getting Involved in Extracurriculars

Each school has a variety of different clubs, services and athletics tailored to the interests of the student body. Although all students are encouraged to participate, these are considered extra-curricular activities. Students must first be accountable for their attendance, behaviour and effort in class before committing to extracurriculars. 

Athletics – practice schedules for teams and athletics vary. Some teams may hold try outs and select team members if there are lots of interested students. Once a team is selected, all athletes are responsible to attend all practices, meetings and games. 

Clubs – Clubs typically meet weekly at lunch time or after school. Information about current clubs at your school will be available by late September. 

Student council – Meetings are held at least once a week. Elected members of council are dedicated to building school spirit and creating a positive school environment. Regular council meetings are open to all students. 

• Interested in serving on student council as a grade representative? Consider nominating yourself in the Grade 8 election. Visit the extracurricular tab on your school’s website to learn more about the clubs and athletics at your school.

Student Responsibilities

The District Code of Conduct outlines the expectation of all students. At each school in VSB, students are expected to: 

• Attend classes and be on time 
• Bring the materials needed for class 
• Make a good effort in studies  
• Conduct themselves in a safe and courteous manner  
• Treat everyone with respect and dignity  

Students are expected to understand and act in accordance with the full student Code of Conduct. 

Bell Schedule 

School will begin at 8:40 a.m. and finish between 2:55 – 3:10 p.m. Check your school’s website for more information about the bell schedule.

Who Do I Contact?

Contact information for staff will vary by each school. Check your school’s website or school office to find the staff member’s email for your school. 

First Week of Grade 8 - Common Questions 

What do I need to do before the first day of school? 
Relax and enjoy your summer break. Make sure you and your parent(s)/guardian(s) check your email between late August and the start of the school year to read the back-to-school newsletter. 

What do I need to bring to school on the first day? 
On your first day, you will attend an orientation and homeroom session. You will receive some materials to bring home. You do not need to bring a notebook, although a pen will be useful.

What is homeroom? 
A homeroom is not a subject class. It is an assigned classroom for staff to pass on important information. You will attend a homeroom during the first day of school. After that you will only attend your homeroom when information needs to be distributed. 

Are there any school and course fees? 
Yes. Learn all about school fees on our website. 

What if I can’t log into MyEd (MyEducationBC), VSB webmail or SpacesEDU?
Contact your school’s office to get login details. 

What if I miss the first day (or two)?
Make sure your parent(s)/guardian(s) contact the school’s office to report your absence. Then, contact your classroom teachers for any missed coursework.