Paul Calandra, Minister of Education, issued the following statement in response to the latest results from the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO):
"Today's (September 25) EQAO results show that Ontario students are making progress in math, with improvements in Grades 3, 6 and 9. Literacy results also remain strong, with nearly nine in 10 students meeting the provincial standard in reading and writing by Grade 6.
These results are encouraging, but they also make clear that there is more work to do. Too many students continue to struggle, achievement gaps persist and results remain uneven across the province.
The results give us valuable information about where progress is being made and where added action is needed. Our responsibility is to use that information to make sure students get the support they need to succeed. That responsibility is shared across our education system. The Ministry of Education and school boards must work together to identify what is working, address areas where students are falling behind and ensure that resources and supports are reaching the students who need them most.
That is why, earlier this year, I appointed an independent advisory body on student achievement and assessment. Its work will help identify successful approaches and provide recommendations on what more we can do to improve student achievement across every school board in Ontario.
But we are not waiting for that work to be completed. I have directed the Ministry of Education to work directly with every school board to review its Student Achievement Plan, monitor progress and report back to me regularly. These plans are an important tool for boards to use local assessment results to identify where students are falling behind and set out concrete actions to improve student outcomes. We know that strong foundational skills in reading, writing and math are essential to a student's success throughout their education. The earlier we identify a student who needs additional support, the sooner we can take action.
The EQAO results have also raised concerns about the significant increase in the number of students exempted from assessments in some school boards. Exemptions are intended for students who are unable to complete an assessment, even with permitted accommodations. This increase requires a closer look. I have therefore directed EQAO leadership to investigate the reasons for this increase and report back on what is driving the changes and whether any further action is needed.
Our focus is clear: put student achievement first, use evidence to identify where improvements are needed and take action to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. We will continue working with school boards, educators and education partners to strengthen foundational skills, address achievement gaps and give teachers the tools and resources they need in the classroom.
Every student deserves the opportunity to leave school with the strong reading, writing and math skills they need to pursue further education, enter the skilled trades, find rewarding careers and build a successful future."
