Local students ranked among the best in the world

MPP Pat Hoy says local and Ontario students are ranked among the best in the world, have higher test scores and more than ever are graduating and going on to college, university or an apprenticeship.“That is just some of the good news found in Ontario’s 2011 Progress Report. The annual Progress Report shows the results Ontarians are achieving together,” said Hoy.

“Full-day kindergarten, more spaces for college and university students, and an increase in apprentices are some of Ontario’s education achievements.”
Other achievements include:

• A high school graduation rate of 81 per cent in 2009–10, up from 68 per cent in 2003–04
• Over 44,000 laid-off workers have enrolled in training funded through Second Career
• Since 2003, we have invested in programs and services across Ontario to help over 41,000 newcomers get language training, and become job-ready or licensed in their field with more than 220 bridge training programs.

Hoy observed that the economic success of Chatham-Kent and Leamington depends on a strong, publicly funded education system. That means investing in skills and education and helping students of all ages reach their full potential. “We believe that education is the most important investment we can make, on behalf of the people of Ontario and for our future. Ontario’s education system is one of the best in the world, and we must keep building on what we’ve achieved. That’s why we’re committed to investing in our strongest resource — our people,” said Education Minister Leona Dombrowsky.

“Companies invest in Ontario for all kinds of reasons, including our highly-skilled workforce. We need to keep investing in education for both new and experienced workers and do what we can to keep Ontario competitive in our global economy,” said Training Minister John Milloy.
The government plans to put full-day kindergarten in all Ontario schools by 2014.

• In Ontario, 64 per cent of adults have completed postsecondary education. The new target is 70 per cent.
• Based on international test scores and evaluation, Ontario has one of the top 10 education systems in the world.
• Get a complete review of Ontario’s education system today in the government’s 2011 Progress Report. (www.ontario.ca/progress).