Guidance & Student Services | Acton District School

Our Guidance Counsellors Are here to help

You can reach out by phone or email any time between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Whether through one-on-one meetings, group sessions, classroom visits or presentations, our team works with you to support your goals - from course selection to planning for life beyond high school.

We’re also here to ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students. If you have any questions—about registration, courses or programs - connect with us.

Marsha Schnekenburger - Student Services Program Lead - Guidance Counsellor
Shawn Brown - Guidance Counsellor, Agricultural SHSM Lead, Department Head - Canada & World Studies / Social Sciences / Arts
Lisa O'Halloran - School Social Worker

Ready to Choose Your Courses?

Plan Your Path Today

Whether you know exactly what you want or need a little help figuring it out, we’ve got you covered.
Explore course descriptions, download your grade’s selection sheet, and check out our presentations for tips and timelines. When you’re ready, log in to myBlueprint to make your selections — and don’t hesitate to connect with your Guidance Counsellor if you have questions.

Course Selection Information

Forms

The Student Declaration for External Course Registration form must be completed by HDSB students registering for a course through an external provider. It ensures the credit is eligible for inclusion on their Ontario Student Transcript and outlines important responsibilities and deadlines for students, families, and schools.
The eLearning opt out form form allows parents/guardians or eligible students to formally opt out of the Ontario eLearning graduation requirement, which mandates two online course credits as part of the OSSD.

HDSB Students Completing External Credits Information for Students and Families HDSB eLearning Graduation Requirement Opt Out Form

Diploma Requirements

New

Students earning credits through institutions outside the Halton District School Board must complete the External Credit Declaration Form and submit it to their school’s Guidance Office when registering with the external provider.

For Students Entering Grade 9 in September 2023 or Earlier

To earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), students must complete:

18 compulsory credits
12 optional credits
40 hours of community involvement
The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) in Grade 10 or the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course
2 eLearning credits (opt-out form available)

This program is designed to be completed in four years following Grade 8.

For Students Entering Grade 9 in September 2024 or Later

To earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), students must complete:

17 compulsory credits
13 optional credits
40 hours of community involvement
The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) in Grade 10 or the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course
2 eLearning credits (opt-out form available)

This program is also designed to be completed in four years following Grade 8.

Community Involvement Hours

To record volunteer hours, students should request a letter from the organization confirming:

Type of volunteer work
Total hours completed
Contact name