Author Description

In November 1991 a survey was conducted of all students in Toronto (Ontario, Canada) secondary schools. The initial report gave demographic information about the student population. This report includes subgroup profiles, such as the characteristics of female versus male students, the similarities and differences among racial and ethnic groups, and the attributes of students from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Male students outnumber females in the Toronto schools. Most white students are Canadian born, but most Asian and black students are foreign born. The most recent immigrants are Tamils from Sri Lanka and Black students from Africa. Single-parent families are most common among Black and Aboriginal families. Students from high socioeconomic status (SES) families are most likely to be white, Canadian-born speakers of English as the mother tongue, and living with two parents. Details on time spent after school, program level and postsecondary education plans, and school climate are provided. Eleven tables and 37 figures present student data. Two appendixes contain the survey and cover letter. (SLD).