Ontario Review Launched After Math Scores Reveal Student Struggles

Nearly half of Ontario’s Grade 6 students did not meet provincial math standards in the 2024-25 school year, prompting a comprehensive review of the province’s educational curriculum and resources. According to data released by the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO), only 51 percent of Grade 6 students achieved the required benchmarks in math, a slight improvement from the previous year. In Grade 9, the figure stood at 58 percent.

Education Minister Paul Calandra authorized the release of the EQAO testing data following a delay that was intended to allow for a thorough examination of the results. Speaking at Queen’s Park, Calandra expressed disappointment at the findings, emphasizing that the current performance levels are insufficient. “When I got results, it frustrated me and made me quite upset,” he stated. “If we were doing it right, then we wouldn’t have 50 percent of our students not meeting provincial benchmarks.”

New Advisory Panel to Address Education Challenges

To tackle these troubling scores, the Ford government has appointed a two-member advisory panel tasked with investigating the province’s low standardized math scores. Calandra indicated that the panel’s mandate would include a thorough review of the curriculum and testing methods. “I want them to look at every part of it, a deep dive on the curriculum. I want them to speak to teachers, speak to our partners … is what we’re doing working?” he said.

While specific details about the panel’s membership remain undisclosed, Calandra mentioned that the members will receive compensation of $1,500 per day for their work. An announcement regarding the panel’s composition is expected in 2026. The overarching aim is to ensure that all students can achieve better results in future assessments. “My goal is 100 percent of the kids who are taking these tests are able to meet provincial standards,” he declared.

The review will also evaluate whether EQAO tests effectively align with the educational content provided to students. Additionally, it will consider how data derived from these tests could inform policy and funding decisions. Calandra emphasized the importance of identifying support mechanisms for students in preparation for provincial assessments.

Accountability for Educational Outcomes

Calandra acknowledged the accountability of his government in light of the test scores. He stated that if scores continue to stagnate or decline, he expects parents to hold him responsible. “I fully expect that parents will hold me accountable for a system if it gets better or worse,” he remarked, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving educational outcomes in Ontario.

Through this system-wide review, the Ford government aims not only to address immediate concerns regarding student performance but also to lay the groundwork for long-term improvements in the education system. As the examination progresses, stakeholders will be closely watching the outcomes and any subsequent changes to curriculum and testing practices.