Math achievement on the rise in Red Deer Public Schools

Red Deer Public Schools is celebrating significant improvements in math achievement across the Division. Since January 2023, the Division has seen steady growth in diploma achievement test results, exceeding provincial averages in several areas.

Highlights include:

• A 6% increase in Math 30-1 diploma results last June, with Red Deer Public students achieving an average that is 4% higher than the provincial average.
• A 3% increase in Math 30-2 diploma results last June, with the Division’s diploma average being 1.6% higher than the provincial average.
• In Math 9, the percentage of students achieving the acceptable standard on the Provincial Achievement Test (PAT) has grown by 12.8% over the past two years. Red Deer Public’s most recent results were 5.7% higher than the provincial average.

These results are the culmination of Division-wide efforts to support student learning and enhance math instruction and dedication from all teachers from elementary to high school and beyond, ensuring students are set up for success after graduation.

“These achievements reflect the dedication and collaboration of our teachers and staff from Kindergarten to Grade 12,” said Shari Jensen, Learning Services Coordinator with Red Deer Public Schools. “We’ve worked tirelessly to implement best practices in math education to create a strong framework that supports both teaching and learning. The gains we’re seeing are a direct result of those efforts and we are extremely proud of our staff and students.”

Since the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Red Deer Public has renewed its focus on math education. Our high schools in the Division have a designated math lead who ensures high-quality instruction and supports student learning. This approach aligns with the Division’s commitment to evidence-based practices and continuous improvement.

“Our mathematical framework is designed to provide a cohesive approach to teaching math across all grades,” said Shari. “It ensures that students are not only mastering the curriculum, but also developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom, setting them up for future success.”

Over the last number of years, Red Deer Public has implemented the new Alberta curriculum in Kindergarten to Grade 6 Math, English Language Arts & Literature, French Immersion Language Arts & Literature, Science, and Physical Education & Wellness. This implementation has been an opportunity to build on the Division’s successes and continue supporting our students in reaching their full potential.

“The new curriculum implementation has been a great opportunity for teachers to refine their practices, and our students are seeing the benefits of this,” said Shari. “This foundation not only enhances their learning today, but also sets them up for success in their future.”