The province is looking at some possible program changes for students in junior high, including making some subjects partially or fully optional.

The proposed changes are aimed at increasing student engagement, addressing poor attendance and improving educational outcomes.

According to data released by the provincial government, one in five students is frequently absent without an excuse.

The proposed changes include the combination of some subjects, offering some courses through a modular delivery format, adjusting the amount of time devoted to certain subjects and making some subjects partially, or fully optional.

English, Math, Science and Technology, Phys Ed and Health will remain mandatory.

Parents and members of the school community are being asked to provide online feedback on the changes, while fourteen schools have been chosen to implement the proposed changes in the next school year.

The deadline for online feedback is February 28th.