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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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Thailand’s Senate Passes Landmark Bill to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage

 

Thailand has taken a significant step towards marriage equality by passing a groundbreaking bill in the Senate. The legislation, which recognizes same-sex marriage, makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to do so. Here are the key points:

  1. Approval in the Senate:

    • The upper house approved the measure with 130 votes in favor out of 152 members present, with only four against and 18 abstentions.
    • This final reading paves the way for Thailand to officially recognize same-sex marriages.
  2. Next Steps:

    • The bill now awaits the pro forma endorsement of King Maha Vajiralongkorn, which is widely expected.
    • Once published in the royal gazette, the law will take effect within 120 days.
  3. Implications:

    • Thailand will become the third Asian jurisdiction, after Nepal and Taiwan, to legalize gay marriage.
    • The legislation replaces gender-specific terms like “men,” “women,” “husbands,” and “wives” with gender-neutral language.
    • LGBTQ couples will gain inheritance and adoption rights equal to those of heterosexual marriages.
  4. Celebration and Progress:

    • Politicians and activists celebrated in the National Assembly, waving rainbow flags and expressing solidarity with the LGBTQ community.
    • Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, will host celebrations at his official residence.
  5. Historic Moment:

    • Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, a member of the parliamentary committee on same-sex marriage, called it a historic day: “Today, love triumphed over prejudice.”
    • Despite Thailand’s vibrant LGBTQ culture, activists have long fought against conservative attitudes.

In summary, Thailand’s Senate has taken a monumental step forward, recognizing love and equality for all. Soon, same-sex couples in Thailand will have the legal recognition they deserve. 

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