Update on the OSSLT

This message is to provide you with an update on the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) for students in Grades 10 and 11. You may be aware that EQAO is piloting a new OSSLT this year and school boards have the option of choosing to participate.

After considering a variety of scenarios, the Durham District School Board has made the decision not to participate this year due to the challenges brought upon by the pandemic and the requirements to administer the test.

As a District, we made the decision in September that we would prioritize student well-being throughout the year. For that reason, we eliminated final summative assessment tasks (exams) to focus on instructional time. Our goal is to ensure that as much time as possible is focused on classroom instruction and learning.

Furthermore, the organization of the OSSLT has often required the use of occasional teachers to support the administration of the test. Currently there is a teacher shortage in Ontario and we require all occasional teachers to assist in ensuring regular classes are staffed. With the new health protocols introduced two weeks ago, we are finding that more teachers are being required to self-isolate and our focus as a District is on providing the stability of classroom learning to the greatest extent possible. As a result, it is not in the best interest of students to take on new and voluntary initiatives such as piloting a new test at this time.

It is for these reasons that we will not be participating in the voluntary opportunity to pilot the new OSSLT assessment. Critical literacy instruction remains a focus of instruction in our schools and every secondary school has a literacy plan in place that they are working on.

On behalf of our school teams, DDSB would like to thank you for your continued support during this time. Students across the District have had to cope with so much this year, and we are grateful to them and the staff who serve them as we work together to prioritize the health, safety and well-being of all members of our school communities.