The new pathways he’s referencing are currently being rolled out to engage students who are passionate about math and science and looking for an extra challenge. “Each path reflects our commitment to rigorous academics while keeping student wellbeing and long-term success at the forefront,” he says.
The STEM Acceleration Pathway provides students with an early entry into advanced coursework. Students don’t just race ahead; instead, they go deeper, building a true understanding that helps ease the transition to university. The Math Acceleration program begins in Grade 10. Candidates are selected based on a combination of strong academic performance (typically 98% or higher in Grade 10 math), teacher recommendations, and an interview process. Students in the program can take two Grade 12 math courses while they are still in Grade 11, and in their final year, they’re eligible to take a dedicated AP® preparation course to reinforce university-level concepts, DeFina explains.
“We formally launched the program this year, and it’s already showing strong results. Our students are doing exceptionally well. They’ve jumped ahead a grade, and they’re not only keeping up—they’re thriving,” says DeFina.
Acceleration in science begins in Grade 11, when the broad foundations laid in earlier grades branch into more specialized subjects like Chemistry, Biology, and Physics. This timing ensures students are ready for the depth of the material, aligning with diploma requirements and preparing them for success.
Hudson’s Advanced Placement® program will offer rigorous, university-level coursework in subjects like Calculus, Biology, and Chemistry. Students in the program will take dedicated AP® courses in Grade 12 and complete AP® exams in May.
It’s worth noting that while some universities may grant first-year course exemptions for high AP® scores, most Hudson students will take this path for preparation and enrichment rather than for credits. “This program is really about giving students a head start—getting comfortable with the material, the pace, and the expectations of university-level learning.”
The reason Hudson has decided to offer AP® courses stems from the challenge some students are seeking. “The Ontario curriculum is already excellent when it comes to these subjects, but we know some of our high-performing students are looking for more,” says DeFina. “For us, it’s not about chasing prestige; it’s about building confidence. When students encounter university coursework for the first time, having already been exposed to similar materials in high school will ultimately give them a leg up. And we know that early success in first-year university courses can make a big difference for students, both academically and emotionally.”
Transitions, either those from Grade 10 to 11 or those from high school to university, can be challenging. That’s why Hudson College focuses on preparation. “We want students not only to be academically ready, but also mentally prepared for the challenges they’ll face,” says DeFina. “It’s not uncommon to see marks dip slightly when students move into more advanced levels. But we talk about that. We prepare them for it. And what matters most is how they respond and how ready they feel to keep moving forward.”
He continues: “Our students graduate with more than just a diploma. They leave with confidence, resilience, and a genuine readiness for the future—wherever it may take them.”
