This document was last revised in 2000 and, while may still be useful in a general sense, should not be depended on for the most up-to-date information concerning ministry policy.

---

Introduction

Originally released in 1994, the Kindergarten to Grade 12 Education Plan described a number of significant program and policy changes intended to improve the quality of the B.C. education system. This revision reflects the major education program and policy changes that have been subsequently introduced. These include: changes in reporting student progress; the introduction of provincial performance standards to assist teachers in evaluating students' classroom learning; greater recognition of learning outside the classroom through the external credit program; introduction of a common credential (between K-12 and post-secondary systems) for adult learners; improvements to the monitoring and reporting of student performance through the Foundation Skills Assessment program; and changes to improve the academic success of Aboriginal students.

Our society, which depends on the individual contributions of its citizens, requires co-operative, principled individuals whose work and achievements benefit both their families and their communities. This Plan responds to the needs and expectations of society to ensure that schools prepare young people to live productive, satisfying lives, and sets out British Columbia's public education program policy for schooling from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Schools have always been highly effective in preparing young people who have academic interests. They have been less successful, however, in providing a high-quality education for those who enter the workplace or vocational or technical institutions directly from school. In today's competitive world, no society can afford the high social and economic costs of an unprepared or undereducated population.

Economic restructuring and technical innovation have put a new emphasis on skills needed to succeed in a workplace where information and knowledge are critical resources. Secondary school completion is now the minimum standard for entry in almost all areas of employment. Employers expect graduates to be good learners, to think critically and solve problems, to communicate clearly, to be self-directed, and to work well with others. The new workplace also requires people to be knowledgeable about technology and able to search out and apply information from many sources.

The commitment to providing a high-quality education system in British Columbia applies to all students, regardless of their abilities, goals, or career aspirations. High standards for student achievement, a balanced and relevant curriculum, recognition of learning acquired outside the classroom, appropriate support for teachers and students, and cooperative relationships among schools, parents, and the wider community are emphasized in this education plan.

Other important features of the plan include clear, comprehensive communication with parents about student progress, and public reporting of the school system's progress toward meeting educational goals.