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Please see news below from our school and across the Limestone District School Board:

Volunteer Hours - Certificates of Recognition

Dear Students and Families,The Ministry of Education has introduced a new initiative to recognize the contributions of students to their communities through volunteer service. Beginning with students graduating in the 2025–2026 school year, students who achieve 50 or more community involvement hours will be eligible to receive a Minister’s Certificate of Recognition for Community Involvement.Overview of the Recognition Tiers<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Bronze Certificate: 50 to 99 community involvement hours</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Silver Certificate: 100 to 199 community involvement hours</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Gold Certificate: 200 or more community involvement hours</li></ul>Please note that the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) requirement remains at 40 hours of community involvement. The new certificates serve as an enhancement and formal acknowledgment of students who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service.For additional information on Community Service Hours and the Student Tracking form, please see our <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/volunteer__community_service__hours" class="editor-link">Volunteer (Community Service) Hours webpage</a>.Sincerely,Talya McKenna Associate Superintendent K-12 Curriculum & Program ServicesLimestone District School Board

2026-01-20 20:45:40.434 +0000 UTC

Mid Semester Update January 2026

Dear NAEC Families,As we reach the halfway point of the school year, we would like to wish our secondary students all the best as they head into their final exams this week. Our secondary students will begin exams on Thursday, Jan. 22nd marking the end of the 1st Semester .  The transition into Semester 2 will begin on Monday February 2nd. This is an exciting time filled with new opportunities for learning and growth. Despite the challenges posed by numerous snow days, our dedicated staff continue to make the most of every moment with students, ensuring that learning remains a priority.  As winter weather continues, please stay informed about transportation updates. For the latest information on cancellations, always check the Triboard website before heading out. We are excited to head into the second half of the school year with many engaging activities and events planned. Please continue to visit our school website regularly for the most up-to-date information and announcements. Your involvement and support make these experiences meaningful for our students, and we look forward to sharing these moments with you.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Upcoming Dates:</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 28 – Grade 9 for a Day</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 3 – Jr. & Sr. Girls Volleyball</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 4 – Sr. Floor Hockey Tournament</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 5 – Jr. Floor Hockey Tournament & Immunizations</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 6 – Ski Trip</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 11 – Jr. & Sr. Volleyball</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 12 – Elementary Basketball</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 13 – Report Cards Go Home (Elementary)</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 16 - Family Day </li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 17 - Nurse Practitioner</li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 19 – Grade 8 Night</li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 20 – Ski Trip </li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem">Feb 24 - Grad Photos 12 & 8</li></ul>Thank you for your ongoing partnership and commitment to student success. Let’s make the second half of the year just as rewarding as the first!NAEC Administration Team <img src="/images/223b1cf0-9e53-413e-9d05-3b309712e713?fingerprint=ppb20260120185148" alt="2026vaccines" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/d780dfc7-ec8e-4634-98f5-5bfbc0e99997?fingerprint=ppb20260120185156" alt="2026vaccineclinic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/3d9c5507-f53c-46ab-adfc-09e9e4255cc3?fingerprint=ppb20260120184819" alt="2026 01 19 Snow Over It Secondary Newsletter Insert" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/954a205e-aec1-4cdb-8b57-747c0cd66817?fingerprint=ppb20260120184810" alt="2026 01 19 Snow Over It Elementary Newsletter Insert" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/be49cf12-4148-4773-8b9c-e4de33730b21?fingerprint=ppb20260120184755" alt="2026 01 19 Winter Walk Day Newsletter Insert" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-01-20 19:00:46.098 +0000 UTC

LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/474fd7ad-a699-440c-b07c-6f721154865c?fingerprint=ppb20260120155614" alt="LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony Poster" width="637" height="796" style="width:637px;height:796px;display:inline-block"> You're Invited: LDSB Black History Month Opening Ceremony</h2>When: Wednesday, February 4, 2026, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Where: LCVI, 153 Van Order Drive, KingstonAll students, staff, families, and community members are invited to join us for an evening of community, connection, and celebration with food, music, and dancing! Featuring: Kids Zone with "Ruthy's Reading Room," and a performance by Cassel Miles as Josiah Henson.This event is presented by the LDSB and the LCVI BIPOC affinity group. We hope to see you there!

2026-01-20 15:59:57.563 +0000 UTC

Kindergarten Student Registration Website Image

Kindergarten Registration is Now Open

Welcome to <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/kindergarten-early-learning" class="editor-link">Kindergarten in Limestone</a>. If your student was born in 2022, now is the time to <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/registration" class="editor-link">register your new student</a> to start school this September.Kindergarten is a wonderful new world of learning and growing and a very exciting time for both you and your student. We learn how to read, how to write and we make so many new friends. Our educator teams of a teacher and early childhood educator, help us along the way. You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments. <iframe data-lexical-video-id="1e0spaIrnis" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1e0spaIrnis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> Limestone has an open boundary administrative procedure, [<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/policies-procedures" class="editor-link">Section 300 – Students AP305 Student Transfers</a>], for student registrations. Limestone welcomes all students, promoting and encouraging families to attend their area school, but we understand that it is best interest of some students to attend an out-of-boundary school and that selecting the right educational setting for your new student is a significant decision.Selecting an out-of-boundary school for your new student is a decision influenced by many factors. The school may be closer to a workplace or near a childcare provider that might be more convenient for drop-off and pick-up routines. In accordance with board policy, by default, students will be enrolled in the school designated within their boundary area, based on their home address.We aim to accommodate family preferences, but please note that out-of-boundary placements are not guaranteed, and families will be responsible for organizing transportation to and from out-of-boundary schools.Students may be permitted to attend any school within the board when there is available student space, upon submission and approval of the proper application. The board will not be held responsible for the provision of any transportation for students outside of their regular school boundary area. This applies to both students within Limestone’s geographic boundaries (out-of-boundary), and students who live outside of those boundaries (out-of-district).   We are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you throughout this process. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the school.Let us embark on this exciting educational journey together! <a href="https://limestone.cmdesign.imagineeverything.com/discover_kindergarten" class="editor-link">Discover Kindergarten in Limestone</a> and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your new student prepare for school.  <img src="/images/f05f0e70-9777-4085-8ef0-aac5affa75ab?fingerprint=ppb20260115184001" alt="LDSB Kindergarten Student Registration Website Graphic" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-01-15 16:49:15.209 +0000 UTC

January 2026 Exams and Procedures

STUDENT EXAM PROCEDURESJANUARY 2026  Check carefully the date and time of your final examinations.  All exams will be written in your regular classroom.   Grades 9 and 10 will have 2-hour exams and Grades 11 and 12 will have 3-hour exams.  Exams begin at 9:00 am.  Exams begin on January 22 and end on January 28, 2026.   Students must be ready outside the door of the classroom 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the exam with all necessary materials needed for exam completion (ex. calculator, ruler, pen, pencil).   Students must remain in the exam room for at least one (1) hour.  At that time, students who have completed their exam will be dismissed by their teacher.  Students will not be allowed to leave the exam room in the last 15 minutes of the exam time.  Students must wait in the exam room until they are dismissed by their teacher.   If you are absent from an exam, you must notify the school immediately and have a doctor’s note or another official document explaining your absence.   Buses will run on their normal schedule.  Note that there will not be an early bus this year.  Once you have finished your exam, you may be picked up.  Students who are not being picked up must remain in the lower library for the rest of the day.    If buses are cancelled due to inclement weather, exams scheduled on that day will be rescheduled to the next exam day.  Subsequent exams in the exam schedule will also be rescheduled to the next exam day. For example, if buses are cancelled on Friday, January 23rd, Friday’s exams will be held on Monday, January 26th.  Monday’s exams would be held on Tuesday, January 27th, Tuesday’s exams would be held on Wednesday, January 28th, and Wednesday’s exams would be held on Thursday, January 29th.   Schools will communicate with families through email if the exam schedule needs to be adjusted due to inclement weather and bus cancellations.  It will be important for families to watch for communication in the event of inclement weather.  Students are expected to be present and available to write exams during the entire exam period, from January 22nd through January 29th.   Students cannot come to the school to write exams if the buses are cancelled.    Exam week is an important week for all students.  While exams are being written, the Resource Centre (lower library) is available for quiet study, and the cafeteria is available for work with small groups when not used by elementary students.  All other areas of the school are being used for exams and are unavailable for student use.  Students who are working directly with a teacher may be in alternate locations.  All other areas of the school are off-limits to students. We wish all students the best of luck in their studies andencourage all of you to seek extra help where needed before your final assessments.If you have any questions or concerns about exam time,please see your classroom teacher or Ms. Yanch in Student Services. <img src="/images/00e46fad-e39a-474a-a5a0-9138c8aa3639?fingerprint=ppb20260113172534" alt="Exam schedule" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-01-13 17:25:54.049 +0000 UTC

Your child requires vaccinations to attend school

Your child requires certain vaccines to attend school.Check your child's immunization records.Ensure your child receives any missing vaccines.Report any vaccines your child receives to Southeast Public Health.Dont rely on your health-care provider to report. kflaph.ca/ImmunizationReporting <img src="/images/b31b8789-18af-41d9-9bde-c8db7bcaaf3e?fingerprint=ppb20260106180751" alt="Immunization 2026 Update" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">|Southeast()PublicHealth

2026-01-06 18:12:04.649 +0000 UTC

Welcome Back - January 2026 Newsletter

<img src="/images/62b40233-710c-48a9-ae14-b6ff0c3c7f71?fingerprint=ppb20260105154538" alt="happy new year" width="280" height="188" style="width:280px;height:188px;display:inline-block"> <hr>Welcome Back & Happy New Year, NAEC Families!We hope you had a wonderful holiday season filled with rest, joy, and time with loved ones. As we step into 2026, we’re excited to welcome our students and families back to NAEC for more growth and learning together.Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to making NAEC a place where everyone feels valued and inspired.Here's to a healthy and happy 2026!NAEC Admin TeamUpcoming Dates<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 7 – Sr & Junior Volleyball AWAY</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 7 – Jr. Boys Basketball Tournament @ NDSS</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 8 – Sr & Junior Volleyball HOME</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 9 – Ski Trip (Grades 6–12)</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 13 – Sr & Junior Volleyball HOME</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 14 – Nurse Practitioner Maggie</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 15–16 – EQAO Grade 9 Math</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 22–27 – Exams</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 28 – SAC Meeting</li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 28 – Bus Presentation</li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem">Jan. 30 – PD Day</li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 2 – Start of Semester 2 (Secondary Students)</li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 3 – Sr & Junior Volleyball AWAY</li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 5 – Immunization Clinic</li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 6 – Ski Trip (Grades 6–12)</li><li value="16" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 13 - Elementary Report Cards go home</li><li value="17" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 16 -Family Day (No School)</li><li value="18" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 19 – Grade 8 Night (5:30–6:30 PM)</li><li value="19" class="editor-listitem">Feb. 25 – Grad Photos (PhotoVisions)</li></ul><img src="/images/29f0bd73-ff21-4af7-a2b8-dffbbebbb315?fingerprint=ppb20260105154547" alt="LDSB Language" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/e63eb35b-7d4e-4a39-86de-f701fd518a03?fingerprint=ppb20260105154555" alt="Anxious child" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-01-05 15:47:40.497 +0000 UTC

Message from the Director - December 17, 2025

Dear Families,I hope this message finds you well as we approach the end of the last school week of 2025 and the upcoming holiday season.  I wanted to share a few updates with you before we head into the Winter Break:EQAO ResultsThe Ministry of Education recently released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results, and we are proud to share that Limestone achieved its strongest performance in four years, with gains across every testing category.Limestone’s results align with provincial outcomes in many areas and show notable improvements in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone’s performance is at or above the provincial average in nearly all measures.These accomplishments reflect the collective efforts of Limestone’s educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—along with the commitment and support of students and families across the district. I am deeply proud of the dedication shown by Limestone staff, students, and families in achieving these results.More information on EQAO results is <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/limestone-s-eqao-results-improve-across-all-categories-20251205185556" class="editor-link">available on Limestone’s website</a>, including a <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/2a916cd2-b224-4a93-a4b3-b0a57ae98e62/Letter-to-Parents-EQAO-Dec-3-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" class="editor-link">letter to families from Minister of Education, Paul Calandra</a>.Grade 8 Information NightsThe Limestone District School Board is hosting Grade 8 Parent Information Nights at secondary schools across the region for families and students. These events include a special presentation about the school, its programs, and the registration process.Information nights are also a great opportunity to learn about the wide variety of programs available for secondary students in Limestone—including expanded opportunities, French immersion, the International Baccalaureate program, and more. We are very proud of the range and choice of different secondary programs we provide to the communities we serve.Upcoming <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/grade-8-information-nights-20251208194333" class="editor-link">information night dates can be found on Limestone’s website</a>.Inclement Weather Reminder/Tri-Board Transportation ReminderWe are now well into the inclement weather season and have already experienced some transportation cancellation days. Our transportation partner, Tri-Board Student Transportation Services (Tri-Board), works closely with school bus companies to determine whether it is safe to operate on days with adverse weather.School buses function differently than family vehicles, and sometimes, even when roads seem safe for cars, conditions are not suitable for buses. Given the geographic size of our district, weather can vary significantly from one region to another. As a result, cancellations may affect only certain areas while others remain unaffected.We understand that transportation cancellations can be disruptive for families, but safety is always Tri-Board’s top priority for the 30,000-plus students who ride the bus each day. <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/prepare-for-winter-related-bus-delays-and-cancellations--20251020203640" class="editor-link">Learn more about how to prepare for winter weather and manage bus cancellation days on our website.</a>Ministry and Board Resources for Math and LiteracyThere are many resources available designed to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that can make learning fun and effective for students and families. <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link">Visit Limestone’s Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</a> to learn more. Director’s Annual Report 2024-2025The Director’s Annual Report offers a concise overview of the teaching and learning that occurred across the Limestone District School Board during the 2024-2025 school year. It highlights ongoing progress toward the Board’s strategic priorities, shares student achievement data, and showcases key initiatives and accomplishments from across the district and is <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/director-s-annual-report-2024-2025-" class="editor-link">available on Limestone’s website</a>.We hope all Limestone families enjoy a restful winter break filled with time with those who matter most in your lives. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back to school on Monday, January 5, 2026, ready for an exciting new year of learning.Krishna BurraDirector of Education

2025-12-17 21:30:52.297 +0000 UTC

Become a Student Trustee and Make a Difference in LDSB

Student trustees play a crucial role in giving students a voice in the decisions that shape the Limestone District School Board. As a student trustee, you will have the opportunity to represent the student body and advocate for your peers. You’ll attend board meetings, provide input on important issues, and ensure the student perspective is heard.This role offers incredible benefits:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Gain leadership skills that will serve you for life.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Amplify student voice and impact across the district.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Build connections with students, staff, and leaders.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Be an advocate for student voice and change in education.</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Attend conferences in Toronto, connecting with student leaders from across Ontario.</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Bursary at the end of the school year</li></ul>If you are going to be a senior student in the 2026-2027 passionate about student government and want to make a difference, this position may be for you! The application process is straightforward, and your school’s Student Council, staff advisors, and current student trustees are here to help you along the way.Applications are open December 1, 2025, and close January 29, 2026. To learn more and submit your application, visit the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_trustees" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Student Trustee webpage</a>.Don’t miss your chance to be a voice for students across the Limestone District School Board!

2025-12-08 20:36:52.854 +0000 UTC

Grade 8 Information Nights

The Limestone District School Board is hosting Grade 8 Parent Information Nights at our secondary schools across the region for families and students to attend. Parent information nights include a special presentation about the secondary school, its programs, and the registration process. It is a great opportunity to learn about the wide variety of programs available for secondary students in Limestone—including expanded opportunities, French immersion, the International Baccalaureate program, and more.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Open house dates:</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Bayridge Secondary School - January 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Ernestown Secondary School – February 5, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Frontenac Secondary School – January 28, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Granite Ridge Education Centre – February 25, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Kingston Secondary School – December 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">La Salle Secondary School – February 11, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">LCVI – January 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">Napanee District Secondary School – February 18, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem">North Addington Education Centre – February 19, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.</li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem">Sydenham High School – January 14, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Locating your student’s home secondary school</h2>Families can locate their student’s home secondary school by using <a href="https://triboard.mybusplanner.ca/Eligibility" class="editor-link">Tri-Board Transportation’s Bus Planner “Which School Do I Attend?” tool online</a>.  <img src="/images/0e06f234-e10b-4281-8bcb-a26cf890f858?fingerprint=ppb20260115153526" alt="Grade 8 Information Nights 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2025-12-08 19:47:05.015 +0000 UTC

Limestone’s EQAO Results Improve Across All Categories

The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) has achieved its strongest Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) performance in four years, with gains in every testing category for the 2024-2025 school year. LDSB’s EQAO results align with provincial outcomes in many areas, while showing notable improvements in others and among specific student groups. Limestone’s 2024-2025 results are at, or above, the provincial average in almost all measures. Results show an upward trend and momentum across all eight areas of assessment for students in Grades 3, 6, 9, and 10, including those with special education needs, underscoring the Board’s intention of making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school.    "These results reflect the daily dedication of Limestone educators, educational assistants, program teams, and school leaders,” says Krishna Burra, LDSB Director of Education. “I want to acknowledge the efforts of those who have focused on implementing evidence-informed practices, providing targeted supports, and collaborating across schools to ensure student achievement and success.” The elementary school report provides assessments of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics written by students in Grades 3 and 6. The secondary school report provides similar information relating to the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Results at a Glance </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Grade 3 Improvements: LDSB students showed a 5% to 8% increase in Reading, Writing, and Math, with 75% meeting the provincial standard in Reading, 65% in Writing, and 65% in Math, outperforming provincial averages. Students with special education needs improved by 8% to 9% in these subjects.  </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Grade 6 Gains: Achievement rose in all areas, with 88% meeting Reading standards, 87% in Writing, and 51% in Math, matching or exceeding provincial rates. Students with special education needs made significant advances, especially in Writing with a 22% increase.  </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">Grades 9 and 10 Results: LDSB’s Grade 9 Math scores were slightly below provincial levels but increased by 5% from the previous year, with students with special education needs performing better than students with similar needs in other jurisdictions. The Grade 10 OSSLT saw 95% participation and 84% success, a 3% rise, with continued improvement among students with special education needs.   </li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grade 3 EQAO Results </h2>Grade 3 student achievement saw a 5% to 8% increase in all subject areas in Limestone, compared to the 2023/24 assessment results, with 75% meeting the provincial standard in Reading, 65% in Writing, and 65% in Math.  Results for the province showed a slight increase from the previous year for all Grade 3 subjects and were slightly lower than Limestone across Grade 3 assessment subjects.  This new data shows improvement in all subjects, with Math achievement showing the most significant difference for students in Grade 3.  Of significant note are the gains in achievement in Grade 3 Reading, Writing, and Mathematics made by Limestone students with special education needs – up 9%, 8%, and 9% respectively, compared to the 2023/24 assessment results.  <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grade 6 EQAO Results </h2>Grade 6 student achievement in Limestone also continues to build momentum with improvements in all subject areas.  In Reading, 88% of students met provincial standard in 2024/25 – an increase of 9% from the 2023/24 assessment and a higher rate than the province for 2024/25.  Results in Writing showed an increase of 14% over the previous assessment year, with 87% of students meeting provincial standard, at a higher rate than the province.  In Math, results were equal to the province, with 51% of students meeting the provincial standard, an increase of 11% for Limestone compared to the previous assessment year.  Like the Grade 3 assessment results, achievement in all subject areas for students in Grade 6 with special education needs in Limestone has increased, with significant gains in Reading and Writing by 12% and 22%, respectively, since the 2023/24 assessment. This increase in achievement for students in Grade 6 with special education needs is higher than the province by 3% to 10% across all subject areas.  “Limestone students and staff have worked hard to achieve these gains across Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, including the strong improvements for students with special education needs,” says Burra. “The momentum we are seeing is the result of consistent, evidence‑informed practice—targeted instruction, early interventions, collaborative professional learning, and a sharp focus on what happens in classrooms every day. “We are proud of this progress, and we are committed to sustaining it by continuing the practices that work and adjusting where they do not,” he adds. “Our goal remains steady improvement over time, not one‑year spikes, for every student, in every classroom, in every school.” <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Primary Assessment (administered in Grade 3): </h3><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 60.1124%;"><col style="width: 18.7266%;"><col style="width: 21.161%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Area of Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Reading </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">75% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">74% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Writing </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">65% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">65% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Mathematics </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">65% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">64% </td></tr></tbody></table><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Junior Assessment (administered in Grade 6): </h3><table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 60.1124%;"><col style="width: 18.7266%;"><col style="width: 21.161%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Area of Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Reading </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">88% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">86% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Writing </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">87% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">85% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Mathematics </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">51% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">51% </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grades 9 and 10 EQAO Results </h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment: </h3>Results for Grade 9 Math in Limestone are slightly lower compared to the provincial results. For all participating students in the Grade 9 Math assessment, 55% achieved the provincial standard in Limestone, and 58% achieved the provincial standard provincially.  Limestone’s Grade 9 Math results increased by 5% as compared to last year. Results for students with special education needs achieving the provincial standard are higher than the province at 34% for Limestone, compared to 32% for the province. <table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 60.1124%;"><col style="width: 18.7266%;"><col style="width: 21.161%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Grade 9 Math </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">55% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">58% </td></tr></tbody></table>“Grade 9 Mathematics continues to be a priority area,” says Steve Hedderson, LDSB Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and Curriculum and Program Services: Math and FSL. “Limestone’s five‑point improvement year‑over‑year shows the work is taking hold. We are deepening supports in Grade 9 Math—explicit instruction, daily practice, and timely interventions—and aligning professional learning so teachers have the tools they need. We are focused on building Math confidence and competency for every student.” <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test - Administered in Grade 10: </h3>This year, 95% of first-time eligible students wrote the test in Limestone, compared to 94% of students in the province. With this high participation rate, 84% of all students in Limestone were successful, an increase of 3% compared to the 2023/24 school year.  OSSLT results for students with special education needs continue to show an improvement for the 2024/25 year, with 65% of Limestone students being successful on the assessment. <table class="editor-table" style="width: 100%; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col style="width: 56.513%;"><col style="width: 20.0401%;"><col style="width: 23.4469%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Grade 10 OSSLT </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">LDSB  </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Province </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Participation Rate </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">95% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">94% </td></tr><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">Success Rate </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">84% </td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top; text-align: start;">85% </td></tr></tbody></table>“Strong Grade 10 Literacy outcomes begin with strong participation,” says Stephanie Sartor, LDSB Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Program Services: Literacy Focus. “With 95% writing and 84% successful, up three points from last year, we are encouraged by the trajectory, including the continued improvement for students with special education needs. Literacy is a shared responsibility across subjects, and we will keep pairing explicit instruction with targeted supports so every learner can demonstrate success.” Students in all publicly funded schools in Ontario are required to write provincial assessments, administered by EQAO, a provincial body that tests students’ skills in Literacy in Grades 3, 6, and 10 and Math skills in Grades 3, 6, and 9 in relation to Ontario curriculum expectations. Successful completion of the Literacy requirement is one of the requirements to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The EQAO assessments have undergone significant updates, with the newer digital assessments offered entirely online through a digital platform for students over the past four years.   “The dedication of Limestone educators, educational assistants, program team members, and school leaders will remain foundational to continued efforts moving forward,” says Burra.

2025-12-05 19:00:45.215 +0000 UTC

Education Minister Calandra's Letter to Parents - EQAO and Student Achievement Advisory Body

The following message by the Honourable Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Education, is for parents and guardians regarding EQAO results and the appointment of a Student Achievement Advisory Body.Please select the following link to read (PDF): <a href="/documents/2a916cd2-b224-4a93-a4b3-b0a57ae98e62/Letter-to-Parents-EQAO-Dec-3-2025.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Letter to Parents and Guardians</a>

2025-12-03 16:57:22.383 +0000 UTC