The Toronto District School Board says it has voted to change its acceptance process for students applying for specialty programs and schools to an “interest-based” application instead of a skills-based application.
In a vote of 17 to 3, the board voted to change the admission process to programs tailored to the arts, athletics, science, math, and specialized trades.
Earlier, a TDSB report suggested that admissions should move away from demonstrated strength and / or ability and prioritize student interest in a particular program or school in order to remove systematic barriers such as geography, socioeconomic background, and career.
“It is our responsibility to take steps to improve access for all students where we identify systemic barriers,” said TDSB President Alexandra Brown. “This new policy will ensure that more students have access to these high-quality programs and schools while reducing the barriers that have long prevented many students from even applying.” .
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Read more: TDSB will change the admission process to specialized programs, schools based on “interest”
Typically, students who want to attend a specialized school or participate in a specialized program must audition, submit certain materials for a folder, take entrance exams, or have certain notes on the ballot.
Instead, the report indicates a change of approach such as statements or expressions of interest, as well as reflections or demonstrations of creativity. For sports programs, they suggest practice schedules and coaching letters.
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The TDSB also said it would use a random selection process, or a “lottery,” if interest exceeds available space.
It will also create a “unified and coherent” application to streamline the process and promote equity, the TDSB said.
“Every student with an interest, passion and motivation should have the opportunity to reach their full potential in local and central TDSB student interest programs. Our focus is on maintaining excellence and equity.” , said Colleen Russell-Rawlins, director of education. “There is immense talent and brilliance among the students who will benefit from these programs.”
Russell-Rawlins said comments on making this new change came over two years from 7,800 people along with an equity working group.
The implementation of the new policy is scheduled for the September 2023 school year, affecting applicants this coming autumn.
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To prepare for implementation, the TDSB established new policies and procedures. For example, enrollment limits for centralized programs / schools must be set by October 2022.
In addition, applications would require “standard interest-based admission criteria and a centralized online application” by November or December 2022.
We received feedback from 7,800 people over two years, in addition to initial comments from the Enhancing Equity Working Group, which originally raised the issue of access. It was an open and transparent process that adhered to the usual TDSB policy development process.
– Colleen Russell-Rawlins (@TDSBDirector) May 26, 2022
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