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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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Wall Street Celebrates Record Highs for Stocks as Two of the Three Major Indexes Hit New Peaks


Wall Street Celebrates Record Highs for Stocks as Two of the Three Major Indexes Hit New Peaks

Wall Street is celebrating as two of the three major indexes hit new peaks. The S&P 500 climbed 1.2% to a record high of 4,839, eclipsing its previous peak of 4,796, set more than two years ago on January 3, 2022. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.1% to end the week at 37,863. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite had to settle for a 1.9% jump to a two-year high of 15,310.

The stock market has returned to form in recent weeks, capping multiple record highs. With inflation cooling, investors are anticipating the Federal Reserve will be able to end its interest rate hiking campaign sooner rather than later, creating a more friendly environment for corporations. Rob Swanke, senior equity strategist for Commonwealth Financial Network, explained that stock market valuations have been rising in recent months as investors factor in the prospect of lower borrowing costs and improved earnings expectations. He also argued that “there’s still room to move higher,” given that valuations are below their 2022 levels.


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