Students in Golden Hills School Division are performing well and continue to improve year over year according to the most recent results on the 2012-2013 Provincial Achievement Tests and Diploma Examinations. 
“We value the support of our parents and appreciate the excellent work of our teachers and administrators in the continued success of our students,” said Bevan Daverne, Superintendent of Schools. “With the support of our parents and communities, our staff is focusing on continuous improvement with a strong emphasis on providing the highest quality of teaching in our classrooms and on educational partnerships that support student growth”.
In Golden Hills School Division, the percentage of students achieving the Acceptable Standard improved over the previous year in four of ten Achievement Tests from grades 3, 6 and 9. Additionally, the percentage of students achieving the Standard of Excellence improved over the previous year in seven of ten Achievement Tests. Grades 3 and 6 Language Arts and Math were both above the provincial average for the number of students achieving Acceptable Standard. The number of students participating in the provincial achievement tests exceeded the provincial average in eight of ten subject areas.
There were also increases in the number of students achieving Acceptable Standard over the previous year in four of nine diploma courses (English 30-2, Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Physics 30). Golden Hills’ students met or exceeded the provincial Standard of Excellence benchmark of 15% in four of nine diploma courses (Math 30-1, Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Physics 30). There were also notable increases over the previous year in the number of students achieving a Standard of Excellence in six of nine diploma courses (English 30-1, English 30-2, Social 30-1, Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Physics 30).
“We continue to focus on providing high quality, 21st Century, student-centered instruction so as to promote engaged, ethical and entrepreneurial students. It is important that our students not only do well on the Provincial tests, but develop the skills and abilities to be successful in the 21st Century,” said Daverne.
The Provincial Achievement and Diploma Examination results are measures included in the Provincial Accountability Pillar. Other indicators include dropout rates, high school completion, post secondary transition rates and a variety of stakeholder satisfaction measures.
Principals will communicate their school’s results, along with important contextual information, to parents at School Council meetings and through their Annual Education Plan and Year-End Reports which will be posted on their school’s website by November 30.
The Board of Trustees reviewed the division and school results in accordance with provincially developed protocols. “The Board has reviewed the 2012/2013 provincial testing results for the diploma exams and provincial achievement tests as presented by administration in a monitoring report,” said Dave Price, Chair. “Graphs of the system results from the multi-year reports were presented, trends were discussed, and a plan was presented for teacher development with an emphasis on continuing the strong trends we have observed. The Board appreciates the direction administration is taking and is appreciative of the efforts of administration and school staff to provide optimal learning opportunities for all students. I strongly encourage parents to attend the meetings where Principals review results and discuss the school’s plan for powerful learning.”
