By: Fernando Arce, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
With students performing at or above the provincial average across all indicators over a three-year trend, the Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) has shown significant progress in the 2023-24 Ontario Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) assessments.
The EQAO assessments, conducted throughout the 2023-24 school year, tested students in Primary (Grade 3), Junior (Grade 6), Grade 9 Mathematics, and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). The results highlight student performance and progress within the LKDSB.
A standout achievement for the LKDSB was a 10% improvement in Grade 9 Mathematics from the previous year (2022-23), marking the highest rate of improvement among medium and large school boards across Ontario. This increase reflects the board’s commitment to enhancing math skills at the high school level.
“A 10% increase is incredible to see,” said LKDSB Superintendent Ben Hazzard. “But what that really means, at the heart, is that 150 more LKDSB students were able to achieve at this higher level. It means that more LKDSB students changed how they see themselves as learners, and more LKDSB students can take that with them as they move through their learning career.”
The three-year trend shows positive growth in areas beyond Grade 9 Mathematics. The OSSLT saw a 4% increase, Grade 6 Mathematics improved by 9%, Grade 3 Reading increased by 3%, and Grade 3 Mathematics enhanced by 3%. These results reflect the board’s focus on strengthening foundational skills from primary through secondary education.
“The results from this year’s EQAO assessments reflect the hard work, intentional focus, and dedication of our students, teachers, and staff,” said Hazzard. “We remain committed to providing the support and resources necessary to help all of our students achieve their full potential.”
EQAO assessments evaluate student achievement in key subjects and provide data to inform educational strategies. The improvement across the LKDSB is a positive sign of the board’s unwavering commitment to raising academic standards and providing high-quality education to all students. This dedication should instill confidence in the community about the future of education in the district.
As the LKDSB continues its work, the board is hopeful and committed to sustaining this trend of improvement in the coming years. It aims to further close the gap between local and provincial performance levels and is optimistic about the future of education in the district.
