Each year, the Education, Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) conducts an assessment for Grades 3 and 6 students in reading, writing and math, while Grade 9 students demonstrate their understanding of math. The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) for Grade 10 students is a literacy assessment and a requirement for graduation.  

DSBN is pleased with the assessment results provided by EQAO. We know that the success of our students affirms the positive impact of instruction and support that has been provided since the pandemic.

OVERVIEW OF DSBN STUDENTS’ RESULTS

Grade 3 students topped the provincial averages by as much as 13%, with reading at 12%, writing at 13%, and math at 13%.

Grade 9 Math & Grade 10 Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)

Grade 9 students - 2022/23 was the first year that we had full participation in the EQAO Grade 9 Math assessment with the new de-streamed math curriculum. Last year, our participation was limited to the second semester. While our results have decreased from 2021/2022, we have observed gains in many secondary schools throughout the year when we review data by semester. We recognize that we have further work to do and we will continue to support all learners.  

For students in Grade 10, the OSSLT measures whether students are meeting the minimum standard for literacy across all subjects up to the end of Grade 9. Completing the OSSLT successfully is also one of students’ requirements to graduate from secondary school. DSBN Grade 10 students had a 1.2% increase over the provincial standard and 2.4% increase from last year. With the implementation of the new Grade 9 English curriculum, we expect to see even more gains next year. 

QUOTES

Sue Barnett, Chair of the Board of Trustees

“As a Board of Trustees, we always make our decisions based on what’s best for students and this practice has paid off. While educators understand that students are unique and that they learn and grow at their own pace, the DSBN has consistently maintained strong results over time. This shines a spotlight on the hard work and commitment exuded by students and staff. Congratulations - your efforts are recognized and much appreciated,” said Sue Barnett, Chair of the Board of Trustees. 

Warren Hoshizaki, Director of Education

“We are very proud of our students’ results. Elementary results are not only above last year’s, but also above provincial averages by as much as 13%. The data we receive from EQAO and OSSLT also provide additional insight into what students need, in both language and mathematics. Our staff always support each student and we now know that these strategies paid off last year and will continue to deliver results that have become part of the DSBN’s well-earned reputation,” said Warren Hoshizaki, Director of Education. 

Marian Reimer Friesen, Superintendent of Curriculum and Student Achievement (K-8)

“The success this year is a great testimony to the tremendous efforts of our staff and students who have worked hard to show what they know. It’s been a pleasure to support professional learning for educators and respond to the requests we receive for new resources and strategies to meet student needs. Students have directly benefited from the efforts of their dedicated staff; and although EQAO is only one small piece of the assessment picture, our continued improvement across reading, writing and math highlight this well,” said Marian Reimer Friesen, Superintendent of Student Achievement and Curriculum (K-8). 

Leanne Smith, Superintendent of Curriculum and Student Achievement (9-12)

“We are pleased with the progress our secondary students are making in literacy and math. The continued trend of being above provincial averages in literacy is a positive indicator that students will be successful in pursuing their goals in high school and beyond. It is also a testament to the hard work and dedication shown by our teachers. We look forward to continuing efforts to support students in their math learning,” said Leanne Smith, Superintendent of Curriculum and Student Achievement (9-12).