Ontario’s High School Graduation Reach Historic Levels

Ontario’s unprecedented investments in education have pushed the high school graduation rate to a historic new high, as more students than ever before are obtaining a high school diploma and gaining the skills and experience required for the jobs of tomorrow.

In 2016, the five-year graduation rate increased to 86.5%.  This has increased by more than 18% since 2004. The number of students graduating in four years continues to grow and is now 79.6%,  an increase of more than 23 percentage points since 2004.  “Ontario’s graduation rate keeps rising, highlighting the strength of our education system and the hard work of students and those who encourage them,” Education Minister Mitzie Hunter said.

A number of innovative programs introduced as part of the Student Success Strategy have helped improve the graduation rate. These include Specialist High Skills Majors, dual credits and expanded cooperative education. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, students can customize their high school experience to match their strengths, interests and career goals, creating a more engaging learning environment, and better preparing them to pursue future opportunities. The new Career Kick-Start Strategy will also help more students gain work-related experience during their studies, build their resumes and develop job relevant skills.

The 2017 Budget includes an additional investment of $6.4 billion over three years in Ontario’s education system, which reflects the government’s commitment to help learners reach their full potential by supporting them from full-day kindergarten to postsecondary education and beyond.