Premier Mike Harris made a commitment that all existing pre-school early learning programs would be combined and expanded under one umbrella with increased funding. Early development in the areas of language and math literacy are key to successful child-development programs. Early child-development and parenting programs provide positive learning experiences through use of songs, games and rhymes, providing young children with positive learning experiences through play. A pilot assessment in the five Early Years Demonstration Project communities of children's social, emotional, physical and mental development upon entering school. Public education and awareness activities on the importance of children's early years.
Literacy is critical to a student's future success.
Ontario's more rigorous new curriculum focuses on literacy and numeracy skills from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12. With the new curriculum, elementary students are learning to read, write and spell at an earlier age, while the new high school program puts an increased emphasis on language along with math and science. For the first time, there will be a graduated grammar program from Grade 1 through to Grade 12. The acquisition of more highly developed grammar and communication skills will help to increase the level of literacy of high school graduates. The first annual Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics will be held this school year to test students' knowledge and skills in the area of mathematics.