New Ontario provincial assessment results have just been released, and the message is clear: students across Canada are struggling more than ever with core skills, such as math and reading.
The most recent data shows that:
- Only 51% of Grade 6 students met the provincial math standard
- Just 58% of Grade 9 students reached the expected level in math
These numbers represent a slight improvement over last year; the province has acknowledged that student progress remains “not enough.” In fact, the low results have triggered a system-wide review of Ontario’s curriculum, provincial tests, and classroom resources—a process expected to continue into 2026. Although this data originates from the province of Ontario, these numbers are observed across Canada.
Why This Matters for Families
Large-scale assessments like these don’t just reflect scores; they reflect skills, and those skills directly impact classroom performance, confidence, and long-term academic success.
The concern is simple:
If half of the students are not meeting grade-level expectations in math, many will begin the new year at a disadvantage. As teachers catch up on curriculum demands and class sizes remain high, students with learning gaps risk falling even further behind.
What’s Behind the Results for Math and Reading?
While there could be various reasons for these results, some contributing factors highlighted by educators and policymakers include:
- Curriculum gaps and possible misalignment between what’s taught and what is tested
- Underfunded classroom supports leading to less individualized attention
- Larger class sizes make it harder for teachers to identify and address each student’s needs
- Persistent post-pandemic learning gaps that continue to affect foundational skills
Regardless of the cause, the takeaway is the same: students need stronger, more targeted support, particularly in math and reading.
Why January Is a Critical Turning Point
The post-holiday period is when many students experience a “learning slide.” Returning to school after a long break can reveal academic gaps that were previously overlooked.
Combine this with the assessment results, and January becomes a make-or-break moment:
- Gaps widen quickly
- Report cards are around the corner
- Skills and confidence often dip after the break
- Students may begin to feel discouraged or overwhelmed
Early intervention now in math and reading can prevent a year of catch-up later.
How Extra Support Helps Math and Reading
Targeted academic support does what large classrooms often can’t:
- Builds strong foundational skills
- Addresses specific gaps, one-on-one
- Helps students gain confidence and momentum
- Reinforces curriculum expectations
- Prepares students for the next round of assessments
- Reduces school-related stress for families
Students who receive consistent support in January often show measurable improvement by spring, especially in math and reading, where skill-building is cumulative.
What Families Can Do Next
While school boards and governments work to review curriculum, standards, and testing, students still need help right now. Parents don’t have to wait for system-wide change to give their child a strong academic start to 2026.
Whether your child is:
- Below grade level
- Struggling with confidence
- Doing “okay” but capable of more
- Frustrated by homework and tests
Early, personalized support can change the trajectory of their school year.
Oxford Learning Can Help with Math and Reading
At Oxford Learning, we specialize in building stronger thinkers, not just better test-takers.
Our programs help students develop:
- Solid math and reading foundations
- Critical thinking and learning skills
- Confidence and motivation
- Lasting academic independence
With customized programs for every grade and skill level, we help students close gaps, gain momentum, and feel ready for the challenges of the new year.
If your child is feeling the impact of this year’s results, now is the time to act.
Book a free consultation and start the year with confidence.
