UCDSB sees rising EQAO scores across all grades for second year running

The Upper Canada District School Board says it has posted a second straight year of rising EQAO scores in reading, writing and math across all grades. It is the only school district in Ontario to improve in all eight EQAO categories two years in a row, a media release from the board shares.

Board officials say teachers have been working to link EQAO expectations more closely to the curriculum and to weave EQAO-style practice into daily classroom work.

The 2024–25 results show the strongest gains in Grade 3 math and Grade 6 writing, with a notable increase in Grade 9 math as well.

“Our school board has been focusing on the fundamentals and working hard to get students reading, writing and doing math at grade level. This back-to-basics approach that our educators have been implementing in the classroom has elevated our students and their learning,” said Director of Education Ron Ferguson. “Over the last three years, we’ve seen vast improvements in our EQAO scores, but we recognise that we’re not where we want to be yet. We are going to continue to be laser-focused on student achievement.”

The board credits a mix of classroom resources, system-wide support for teachers and a focus on best practices in reading, writing and math for helping to close learning gaps.

“I want to recognize the time and dedication to academics put forth by our students and their families,” said Board Chair Jamie Schoular. “As a parent myself, I know how challenging it can be to get our children to practice and review at home what they’re learning at school. There are so many competing priorities. However, that connection and support at home, helps students thrive. So, thank you to our families for making reading, writing and math a priority.”