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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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Jury Selection in Trump’s Hush Money Trial: A Pivotal Stretch

 

The first criminal trial of a former U.S. president has entered a critical phase as jury selection continues in the case against Donald Trump. The trial centers around allegations that Trump falsified business records to conceal a hush money payment to adult film star Stormy Daniels, who could have impacted his 2016 presidential campaign.

Key Points:

  1. Jury Selection Process: The trial, taking place in a Manhattan courtroom, aims to select 12 jurors and several alternates from a pool of 96 prospective jurors. The process could last up to two weeks. Seven jurors have already been chosen, including an oncology nurse, a software engineer, an information technology professional, a sales professional, an English teacher, and two lawyers.

  2. Charges Against Trump: Trump faces 34 felony counts related to falsifying business records. The payments to Michael Cohen, his former lawyer, were falsely labeled as legal services rather than hush money. Prosecutors allege that this was done to conceal violations of federal campaign finance laws and to hide a plan to break New York tax and election laws.

  3. Trump’s Defense: The former president has pleaded not guilty. His legal team is actively participating in the proceedings, engaging in motions and discussions with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

  4. Implications: Once the jury is finalized, opening statements will begin. The trial is expected to last between six and eight weeks. If convicted, Trump could face serious consequences.

As the trial unfolds, all eyes are on the courtroom, where history is being made. The outcome will shape the legacy of a former president and set a precedent for future cases involving high-profile figures.


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