The Government of Saskatchewan has announced the development of a new provincial student assessment program to track and improve student performance in key subject areas. The initiative, guided by the Provincial Education Plan (PEP), seeks to measure foundational skills and support teaching strategies in classrooms across the province."We want our students to receive the foundational skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a growing province," Education Minister Everett Hindley stated. "A provincial assessment program will help us identify how kids are doing in the classroom so we can provide teachers and students with the building blocks needed to have the best learning experience. We look forward to working with the education sector to get back to basics with a renewed focus on K-3 reading.".Saskatchewan Throne Speech announces major spending plan for education.The assessment program is designed to provide a fair and objective snapshot of student performance, guiding classroom instruction while assisting schools, divisions, and the government in boosting student achievement. Central to the plan is a renewed focus on early reading skills, reflecting a broader commitment to foundational literacy in the early years of education.In collaboration with partners involved in the PEP—including Indigenous organizations, post-secondary institutions, and School Community Councils—development will focus on creating a standardized assessment approach, starting with English language arts and mathematics..Moe concerned over Trump’s proposed 25% tariff, calls for border security collaboration.The implementation will be phased in, beginning in the 2025-26 school year. Grade 5 and 9 students will take part in annual mathematics assessments, while Grades 4, 7, and 10 will undergo English language arts evaluations. These assessments align Saskatchewan with other provinces, all of which have similar programs tailored to their respective curricula..Saskatchewan Throne Speech details new healthcare spending.Learning and assessment are among the four key priorities under the PEP, alongside Indigenous education, mental health and well-being, and student transitions. Minister Hindley emphasized the collaborative nature of the PEP, which was developed with input from educators, parents, and Indigenous organizations.By establishing a province-wide assessment program, Saskatchewan aims to address gaps in student achievement and provide educators with actionable data to enhance learning outcomes. This will prepare students for long-term success in an evolving educational landscape.
