St. Benedict Catholic Secondary School has received the 2018 Dr. Bette M. Stephenson Recognition of Achievement Award from the Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO).
Each year, EQAO, which presents standardized tests in Ontario, recognizes schools that support student achievement in Ontario and use EQAO data to develop action plans to increase student achievement over time.
For the 2018 year, EQAO celebrated schools that supported student success in mathematics.
As a recipient of this award, St. Benedict has fostered positive attitudes toward math over the last three school years, said a press release from the school board.
By creating a culture of inquiry and collaboration, St. Benedict built a positive attitude toward mathematics, working with staff and students to expand math vocabulary, understand concepts from various points of view and evaluate student work in a team setting.
All of these strategies have paved the way for growth for both staff and students.
“I am extremely proud of the hard work and efforts of our staff and students,” said Laura Kuzenko, St. Benedict principal.
“We embarked on a math focus seven years ago specifically with grades 7-9 on closing gaps. Through targeted teaching strategies and a belief that all students can learn, we are able to take student learning from where they are to where they need to be.”
“The Grade 7 and 8 math model has allowed me to see students flourish in math. I have seen students enter my classroom filled with anxiety and apprehension around math,” said Grade 8 teacher Sarah Belle.
“These same students are thrilled with how they were able to complete the Grade 9 EQAO test with confidence.”
“We are so proud of St. Benedict and this accomplishment,” said Joanne Bénard, director of education at the Sudbury Catholic District School Board.
“Staff and students have committed to improving both their academic successes and the culture of mathematics at their school. We are pleased that EQAO is choosing to recognize their ongoing work.
“We extend our appreciation to our dedicated staff for their support, effective instruction and passion for teaching.”
