Ontario EQAO Test Results Show Positive Trends, Yet Gaps Remain

The latest test results from the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) indicate some promising developments for Ontario students in mathematics and literacy for the 2024-25 academic year. More students met the provincial standards, but the Ontario Ministry of Education has expressed concerns that the pace of improvement in reading, writing, and math remains insufficient.

According to the provincial report released on December 3, 2024, only half of Grade 6 students and 42 percent of Grade 9 students achieved the provincial standard in math. Certain student groups and school boards continue to experience significant disparities in academic performance. The EQAO, a board-governed agency focused on enhancing Ontario’s public education system, conducts standardized assessments in reading, writing, and mathematics for students in Grades 3 and 6, as well as mathematics assessments for Grade 9.

The recently published results show a slight improvement in math performance among Grade 9 students. Of the 133,542 students who participated in the Grade 9 math assessment, 58 percent met the provincial standard, increasing from 54 percent in the previous academic year. Furthermore, the report highlights that 16 percent of students were close to meeting the standard. Among the 23,333 students with special needs who took the assessment, 32 percent met the provincial standard, up from 29 percent in 2023-24.

Progress in Literacy and Math Assessments

The results also show progress in literacy for Grade 6 students. A notable 86 percent of students met the reading component, up from 82 percent the previous year. For the writing assessment, 85 percent met the provincial standard. However, math remains a challenge for Grade 6 students, with only 51 percent meeting the standard, a slight increase from the previous year’s 50 percent.

In the Grade 3 assessments, 64 percent of students achieved the provincial standard in math, compared to 61 percent in 2023-24 and 60 percent in 2022-23. Reading results also improved, with 74 percent meeting the standard, an increase from 71 percent in the previous year. Writing scores showed a modest increase as well, with 65 percent of Grade 3 students meeting the standard.

In response to the results, the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO), the province’s largest teachers’ union, has called for an end to standardized testing. The union argues that resources should be redirected to support classrooms rather than focusing on EQAO results. ETFO President David Mastin stated that the current emphasis on standardized tests detracts from essential support for educators and students. The union advocates for assessments led by educators that can provide a more meaningful understanding of student progress.

Government Response and Future Actions

In light of the EQAO results, Paul Calandra, Ontario’s Minister of Education, announced the appointment of an advisory board to review the province’s approach to student assessment. In a statement, Calandra emphasized the need for more substantial action to support student success. He pointed out that dysfunction among trustees has distracted boards from their core responsibilities regarding student performance.

The advisory board will evaluate why student outcomes are not improving at a desired rate and will assess the clarity and consistency of the curriculum and learning resources. Additionally, the board aims to examine the preparedness and support available for teachers, as well as the tools students require for success. The alignment of EQAO tests with current teaching practices will also be scrutinized, with an emphasis on utilizing data to enhance teaching, policy-making, and funding decisions.

A final report with findings and recommendations from the advisory board will be presented to the Minister of Education and made publicly accessible. The latest EQAO results underline the ongoing challenges and the need for concerted efforts to ensure that all students in Ontario can achieve their full potential in literacy and mathematics.