Learn how education funding works, and the roles and responsibilities of the many players within the system.
How the education system works in Ontario
Publicly funded education is divided into three stages: early childhood education, for children from birth to age 6; elementary school, for students from kindergarten to grade 8; and secondary school, for students from grade 9 to 12.
There are four types of school boards in Ontario. Under section 93 of the Constitution, Roman Catholics have the right to a publicly funded separate denominational school system, and French-speaking families have the right to attend French-language schools. Depending on their language, religious background or choice, students can attend English Public, English Catholic, French Public, or French Catholic schools.
Ā鶹AV funding
Funding for education in Ontario is set through a provincial funding formula. Much of the funding is tied to enrolment, and is intended to provide equal educational opportunities for all students.
Early childhood education
Early childhood education refers to programs for children from birth to age 6. The Ministry of Ā鶹AV is responsible for early childhood education and child care.
Elementary school
There are approximately 3900 elementary schools in Ontario. Elementary education includes grades from Kindergarten through Grade 8.
Secondary school
There are approximately 920 secondary schools (high schools) in Ontario. Secondary education includes grades 9 to 12.
French-language education
French-language education serves students whose parents are āFrench-language rights-holders", according to the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, or who qualify under school boardsā admission guidelines.
Tip sheets for parents
Our tip sheets help parents understand Ontario's education system and their role in it. Topics include: EQAO testing, Health and Physical Ā鶹AV, high school courses, homework, parent involvement, parent-teacher interviews, Safe Schools Act, sex education, solving problems at school, special education, and who does what in education.
Many of the tip sheets are available in multiple languages.
Topics
Click on a topic below to find research, news articles, and other information about that topic.