Case Studies: Schools on the Journey of Learning

Observations from the Field

Assessment of Reading, Writing and Mathematics, Primary Division (Grades 1–3) and Junior Division (Grades 4–6), 2011–2012

Over the past few months, EQAO has visited a number of elementary schools throughout Ontario to learn about their successful practices, so they can be shared with other schools across the province. Engaging with the education community in this manner has allowed EQAO to learn about strategies being used to support student achievement.

In celebration of this spirit of achievement, EQAO has profiled 10 publicly funded Ontario schools. Each school has been identified in collaboration with its board of education because of the notable improvement in its EQAO results over time, its location in the province and any challenging circumstances it may have been facing. Each school team has shared what EQAO and other data have taught it about its students and the innovative approaches it is using to address areas for improvement. These schools are recognized for their success in improving the literacy and numeracy skills of their students.

Several common themes emerged from these visits, including the following:

• Principals and teachers have become more adept at using results from EQAO assessments and other data as a reference point to identify the educational needs of all students and to guide their interventions for those struggling. Throughout the province, there has been a strong emphasis on the early identification and support of at-risk students.
• Elementary teachers are committed to the creation of a positive school climate with high expectations for all students. They work in collaborative teams to improve overall achievement.
• Initiatives by schools to engage parents have resulted in an increase in parental involvement, which has had a positive impact on student success.
• The use of technology to support the delivery of curriculum has contributed to improved student engagement. The school profiles on the following pages are just a few of the many remarkable and inspiring stories across Ontario’s publicly funded school system. EQAO is pleased to highlight the accomplishments of these school teams and celebrate their exemplary work.

The school profiles on the following pages are just a few of the many remarkable and inspiring stories across Ontario’s publicly funded school system. EQAO is pleased to highlight the accomplishments of these school teams and celebrate their exemplary work.