Students are required to complete 40 hours of community involvement activities in order to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Students working towards their OSSD should make sure they meet these graduation requirements in time for their graduating year.
Students can start accumulating their community involvement hours in the summer before entering Grade 9.
Students who are looking for community involvement opportunities should:
- check their school board’s website for a list of eligible and ineligible activities, as well as, resources to help them record hours and find volunteer activities
- ask their principal or guidance counsellor for more information
Students under 18 years old should consult with their parents to plan and select their community involvement activities, according to ministry guidelines. Students should also speak to their guidance counsellor about other ways their school could allow them to earn community involvement hours this year.
The community involvement requirement is designed to provide students with the opportunity to develop awareness and understanding about civic responsibility. Students can actively participate in supporting and strengthening their communities. It also provides the opportunity for students to learn more about themselves and possible career opportunities.
From https://www.ontario.ca/page/high-school-graduation-requirements (August 28, 2023)
Please submit volunteer hours (recorded on this FORM) to the main office or to [email protected] (via email).