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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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Ontario Refers Skills Fund Audit to Police Amid Irregularities

David Piccini, Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development speaks as Ontario Premier Doug Ford listens during a funding announcement in Hamilton, Ont., Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025.


The Ontario government has asked the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to investigate a company that received millions from the province’s Skills Development Fund after a forensic audit uncovered financial irregularities.

A routine audit in 2023 flagged concerns with the company, prompting a deeper forensic review. The audit findings have now been forwarded to police for investigation. The company at the center of the probe, Keel Digital Solutions (also known as Keel Mind), had received more than $37 million in provincial funding to develop mental health support platforms, including initiatives aimed at assisting police services.

The Skills Development Fund, overseen by Labour Minister David Piccini, is a $2.5 billion program designed to support training and workforce development projects across Ontario. However, the fund has faced growing controversy in recent weeks over transparency and accountability in how grants are awarded.

Keel Digital Solutions has defended its record, stating that no “red flags” were raised during earlier reviews. Still, the government’s decision to involve the OPP underscores the seriousness of the concerns raised by auditors.

This development adds to mounting scrutiny of the Ford government’s handling of the Skills Development Fund, with critics demanding clearer oversight of taxpayer dollars. The OPP investigation will determine whether any criminal wrongdoing occurred in the administration or use of the funds.


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