The Provincial Government is introducing universal screening for the 2026-27 school year to help identify and assist students who may require additional learning support.

Universal screening refers to evidence-based assessments used to identify students who require additional support. The screening process will be introduced for kindergarten and Grade 1 students using Acadience Reading and Acadience Reading Français screeners. These assessments are designed to measure early literacy skills and include six measures that assess the foundational skills students need to become better readers.

The screening will provide educators with additional information to better understand learning needs earlier in the learning process.

Universal mathematics screening tools will also be introduced for Grade 1 and Grade 2 students in both French and English. These assessments are designed to help educators better understand students’ foundational mathematics skills and identify early indicators of learning challenges.

The changes reflect the department’s commitment to strengthening student learning and providing educators with the tools needed to support diverse student learning needs. These changes were developed with a focus on improving outcomes for students across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Quotes
“Every student deserves the opportunity and appropriate support to succeed. Identifying learning needs early is an important part of providing effective support. Universal screening will help educators better understand student needs and provide support throughout their learning journey.”
Honourable Paul Dinn
Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development

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