Wallaceburg District Secondary School (WDSS) will be transitioning to a single bell time for Grades 7-12 students for the 2019-2020 school year. Effective September 3, 2019, WDSS Grades 7-12 students will start school at 8 a.m. and dismissal will be at 2:10 p.m.
This decision is based on feedback from students, parents, guardians, staff and community members. On May 13, WDSS hosted an information night for parents/guardians and interested community members regarding potential changes to the Grade 7/8 bell times. Based on the feedback from the discussion, as well as input from students, staff and Lambton Kent District School Board's Senior Administration, the school will be transitioning to a consistent bell time for Grades 7-12.
In an effort to involve student voice in the decision-making process, school administration surveyed WDSS students regarding the proposed bell time amendments. The majority of students surveyed noted the consistent bell times would allow all students to have increased program opportunities and access to a variety of school activities and events; support transitions from elementary to secondary school; and further integrate Grade 7/8 students within the overall school identity.
CLASS Transportation has also confirmed the change in bell time for Grades 7/8 students can be accommodated without any significant changes to transportation services.
Any parents/guardians with further questions are encouraged to contact the school for further information.
Read a copy of the Principal's letter to parents/guardians here: June_Letter_to_Parents_Guardians.pdf