Why Choose HDSB?
Serving communities across Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills, the Halton District School Board (HDSB) consistently performs as one of the top school boards in Ontario. As one of the largest English-language public school boards in the province, we offer high-quality education for elementary and secondary students, as well as adult and continuing education programs to support lifelong learning and newcomer success.
The HDSB Student Experience
Each student’s path to success looks different and at the HDSB we are committed to laying the foundation for students to pursue and be supported in their passions. We recognize that critical learning skills happen outside the classroom, which is why at the HDSB we strive to provide our students with a fulsome educational experience. The four elements of a HDSB student experience are: Academics, Co-curriculars, Programs & Pathways and Community & Support.
Academics
Every HDSB student experience begins with a strong academic base. Our classrooms are safe spaces where all students are encouraged to learn, ask questions and grow their knowledge. The dedication and excellence of our educators is evident as HDSB consistently performs above the provincial average in EQAO assessments, including Grade 3 & 6 Reading, Writing and Math, Grade 9 Math and the Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).
As students enter our secondary schools, their academic needs evolve, which is why we offer specialized academic programming in schools across the region to support unique learning styles. Our International Baccalaureate (IB) Program, Advanced Placement (AP) Program, I-STEM Program and more are offered to our students at select schools to expand their opportunities to find the right fit for their learning needs.
Co-curriculars
At HDSB, we are proud to offer a large suite of athletic, club and team options for students to get involved in areas that are of personal interest to them. These opportunities allow them to stay active, build meaningful relationships with students with similar interests and explore new hobbies and activities they may have never considered. For many students, participating in co-curriculars is a guiding force in planning for post-secondary life.
Our schools offer students the opportunity to participate in competitive sports at a secondary level, with schools in all four of our regions achieving championship status in football, rugby, soccer, volleyball and more.
Programs & Pathways
No two paths to success look the same; our Programs and Pathways are designed to meet the needs of each individual student in their unique educational experience. Pathways help develop learning opportunities and programs in such a way to value all learners, all choices and all destinations.
The goal of Pathways K-12 is to provide learners with a variety of engaging learning opportunities. From experiential learning opportunities to co-operative education placements, we offer a wide range of programs tailored to the diverse needs, interests and goals of our learners, including:
Community & Support
The HDSB believes that healthy children and youth are more engaged learners.
To support this, we strive to create school environments that promote both physical and mental well-being. Healthy schools foster a culture where students are encouraged and supported to make positive lifestyle choices. We work in partnership with Halton Region Public Health to identify, communicate and address health concerns that may impact our schools and broader community.
Backed by a dedicated team of nearly 11,000 staff, including educators, support staff, administrators and senior leaders, HDSB is committed to helping every student learn, grow and thrive. Ongoing professional development ensures our staff are equipped to engage learners in meaningful, inclusive and innovative ways. Our students have the support of their guidance counselors, teachers and principals who actively play a role in helping them achieve success on their own unique paths.
Whether your child is just beginning their school journey or preparing for graduation, the Halton District School Board is here to support their growth, well-being and success every step of the way.
Discover the HDSB Difference — Register Your Child Now
HDSB by the numbers
Staff (As of September 1, 2025)
-
Elementary Teachers - 2876
-
Secondary Teachers - 1364
Schools (As of September 1, 2025)
-
Elementary schools: 91
-
Secondary schools: 18
(including Gary Allan High School and Syl Apps School)
Students (As of September 1, 2025)
-
Elementary students: 45,220
-
Secondary students: 20,535
