Canadian teens score well on OECD tests, but reading and math declines raise concern

Canadian 15yearolds continue to perform above the OECD average in science, reading and math, but new PISA results show that scores have fallen over time, especially in reading and math. The findings are prompting concern among educators and researchers about longerterm learning trends. The OECD’s 2025 assessment tested students in about 90 countries and economies. In Canada, about 24,600 students took part, though the territories were not included. Canadian students scored 510 in science, 490 in reading and 485 in math, but the article notes that reading and math have dropped sharply since 2006, with recent declines since 2018 especially significant. Education experts cited in the story point to possible factors including digital distractions, greater use of artificial intelligence and teacher shortages. They say the results should push policymakers to look more closely at classroom practices, student support and broader learning conditions, rather than focusing only on test scores.