The Upper Grand District School Board has released the results of the 2023-24 standardized tests, which show achievement gains in math and literacy, while continuing to outperform the provincial average.
According to the board, the results show a marked improvement in student achievement as measured by the Education Quality and Accountability Office.
In primary assessments, Grade 3 Reading showed a three percentage point improvement, with 73 per cent of students meeting the standard, up from 70 per cent last year. The provincial average was 71 per cent. Grade 3 writing saw a modest one percentage point increase, rising from 63 per cent to 64 per cent. The provincial result is Grade 3 writing is 64 per cent. Math results showed a seven percentage point increase, with 64 per cent of students meeting or exceeding the provincial standard compared to 61 per cent provincially.
The data for Grade 6 students shows stability in reading and writing performance, with 86 per cent of students meeting or exceeding the provincial standard in reading and 85 per cent in writing, consistent with the previous year’s results, compared to a provincial average of of 82 per cent and 80 per cent, respectively. Mathematics shows a three percentage point improvement, with 56 per cent of students achieving the standard this year, compared to 50 per cent provincially.
Meantime, 58 per cent of the board's Grade 9 students met or exceeded the provincial standard in math tests, up six percentage points from last year. The provincial result is 54 per cent.
The data for Grade 10 Literacy Test showed a student success rate of 87 per cent, which is on par with the previous year’s results. In contrast, previously eligible students saw a decrease in comparison to the previous year, with 53 per cent of students being successful. Both first-time eligible and previously eligible UGDSB outcomes were above the provincial results of 85 per cent and 52 per cent.
According to a media release, The UGDSB Vision 2026+ is focused on driving student success through a targeted and measurable action plan that establishes ambitious goals for student performance and includes regular monitoring of progress and impact. The board credits that focus for the gains made in the 2023-24 assessment year, thanks to strategic resource allocations, including Early Reading Teachers, intensive staff training, Math Support Teachers, and Learning Support Teachers.
“These latest student achievement results are a testament to the dedication and focus of our incredible staff, who have worked tirelessly to ensure every student succeeds. Their caring efforts have made a real difference in the lives of our students,” said UGDSB Director of Education Peter Sovran. “I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our school board trustees for their unwavering trust in our team and for their strategic investments, which have directly contributed to these improved outcomes. Together, we are making great strides in empowering our students to find their path.”
"The investments approved by the Board of Trustees reflect our strong commitment to enhancing the academic growth and well-being of every student. By aligning with the Ministry of Education’s priorities and supporting innovative initiatives, we are ensuring that UGDSB students receive the foundation they need to thrive both academically and personally,” said UGDSB Chair of the Board, Ralf Mesenbrink.
The Upper Grand District School Board serves more than 35,000 students through 65 elementary schools and eleven secondary schools in the City of Guelph, County of Wellington, and County of Dufferin.