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Ontario’s Math Struggles Spark Provincial Review of Student Testing

Ontario’s latest standardized test results reveal that math achievement remains a serious concern across the province , with many students failing to meet expected benchmarks. The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) released its 2024–2025 assessment data this week, showing that only 51% of Grade 6 students and 58% of Grade 9 students met the provincial math standard , while Grade 3 students fared slightly better at 64%. Despite modest improvements compared to previous years, the results underscore a persistent gap in student performance. Education Minister Paul Calandra acknowledged that progress has been too slow, announcing the creation of a two-member advisory body to review Ontario’s approach to standardized testing and curriculum delivery . The review will examine whether current teaching strategies, resources, and assessment methods are effectively supporting student learning. The EQAO results also highlighted disparities among student groups and school boards ,...
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Why Food Prices at Grocery Stores in Canada are Rising in February

 

As Canadians head to their local grocery stores, they may notice a pinch in their wallets. Food prices have been on the rise, and there are several reasons behind this trend.

1. Supply Chain Disruptions

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chains have faced disruptions worldwide. From transportation delays to labor shortages, these challenges have impacted the availability and cost of food products. When supply chains falter, prices tend to climb.

2. Labor Shortages and Higher Wages

Labor shortages have affected various industries, including agriculture and food processing. As businesses struggle to find workers, wages have increased. These higher labor costs are eventually passed on to consumers through higher food prices.

3. Tariffs and Trade Policies

Trade tensions and tariffs between countries can impact the cost of imported goods. Canada’s trade relationships and agreements play a role in determining the prices of items on our grocery shelves. Changes in trade policies can lead to fluctuations in prices.

4. Weather-Related Challenges

Poor weather conditions in growing regions can affect crop yields. Droughts, floods, or extreme temperatures can damage crops, reducing supply and driving up prices. Canadian farmers and importers face these weather-related challenges, impacting the affordability of food.

5. Anticompetitive Practices

Metro’s CEO recently mentioned that the company expected to pass on higher costs from suppliers as an industry-wide blackout period for price hikes came to an end. While some price adjustments are necessary, anticompetitive practices can exacerbate the situation.

In summary, a combination of supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, trade policies, weather-related issues, and anticompetitive practices has contributed to the rising food prices in Canada. As consumers, it’s essential to stay informed and make informed choices while navigating the grocery aisles.

Remember, the next time you reach for that loaf of bread or a bunch of bananas, you’re not just buying food—you’re also paying for a complex web of global factors that influence the cost of your groceries. 

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