News Release

Province Celebrates Impressive Number Of Students Graduating From High School

Graduation Rate Increases to 75 per cent

February 28, 2008

QUEEN'S PARK — Seventy-five per cent of students in Ontario graduated with a high school diploma in 2006-07 – a two percentage point increase over 2005-06 and a seven percentage point increase over 2003-04. This represents 10,500 more students graduating each year.

"This news is really something to celebrate. More students now have a brighter future, and their success will mean more success for Ontario," said Education Minister Kathleen Wynne.

A total of 22,500 additional students have achieved their high school diploma in Ontario since 2003-04. In 2003-04, the graduation rate was 68 per cent. The government's target for Ontario's graduation rate is 85 per cent by 2010-11.

Today's students can better match their high school experience with their individual strengths, interests and career goals.

"The staff in my high school's learning support centre made all the difference. They allowed me to do my work on my own but were not condescending when I asked for help. They were there for me. They helped me graduate," said recent high school graduate Andrea Hayes, 19, Fort Frances.

Changes to Ontario's high schools mean more innovative programs that take learning beyond the traditional classroom. These programs are part of Ontario's $1.5 billion Student Success Strategy, which tailors a student's education to his or her individual strengths, goals and interests.

"We are well on our way to meeting our ambitious target of having 85 per cent of students graduating, but recognize that there is still more to be done," said Wynne. "We will continue investing to support students, teachers, educators, and parents - to ensure students continue to get what they need to be successful in school and in life."

Some quick facts about secondary school education in Ontario include:

• There are approximately 707,000 secondary school students in Ontario.
• There are approximately 880 secondary schools in Ontario.

To learn more about secondary school education in Ontario:

• Find out what programs are available in your local high school
• Learn the graduation requirements in Ontario
• Read the government's vision for education.

See also:

• Backgrounder: Innovative High School Programs Help More Students Graduate