June 11th, 2026

The transition from Grade 8 to 9 is an exciting time. To support students as they move into secondary school, the Waterloo Region District School Board would like to share the resources and supports available.

Resources for Future Grade 9 Students

Information for Future Grade Nines

Every year, thousands of students across the WRDSB level up their learning as they move from Grade 8 to Grade 9. Our Future Grade Nines page is your starting point to learn everything you need to know for the next school year. You’ll find information about: 

• Our 16 secondary schools
• Evaluation days
• Magnet programs
• Registration for students not currently enrolled

Learn more: Future Grade Nines

Transition to Secondary School Guide

Check out this comprehensive guide to help you create your plan to transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9 in the WRDSB. You’ll find detailed information about: 

• Decoding course codes
• Subject-specific information
• Your road map to secondary school
• Supports and resources available
• Indigenous Education
• Equity, belonging and inclusion
• Pathways to post-secondary
• And more! 

View the Transition to Secondary School Guide

Graduation Requirements

Graduation is based on an accumulation of credits. Many courses offered in secondary education are credit courses. Visit the WRDSB website to learn more about the graduation requirements for:

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
• Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC) 
• Certificate of Accomplishment

Learn more: Graduation Requirements.

De-Streaming

De-streaming expands opportunities by providing students with broader options as they prepare for success after graduation.

As students transition into secondary school, they are at an early stage in exploring their interests, strengths, and future pathways. By removing academic streaming in the earliest years, we create a learning environment where students can explore potential career paths without being limited by course choices, particularly in science, technology, engineering and math-related fields.

Learn more: De-streaming for Secondary Students in the WRDSB.