Peace River School Division (photo from the Town of Peace River)

By Liam Verster

Provincial Assessments

PATs for Grades Six and Nine cancelled in Peace River School Division

Nov 4, 2020 | 10:06 AM

Due to disruptions in classes caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Peace River School Division has decided to to opt-out of administering the Grade 6 and Grade 9 Provincial Achievement Tests (PATs) for the 2020-21 school year.

“As a result of the disruptions caused by COVID-19 in the spring when in-school classes were cancelled and the current state of reality with COVID-19 related absences, it would not be supportive to expect students in Grades 6 and 9 to write exams in subjects they may or may not have had the opportunity to cover thoroughly” says Paul Bennett, Superintendent of Schools in a release.

“In addition, without the pressure and distraction of preparing students to write PATs, Grades 6 and 9 teachers can more adequately ensure students are well prepared to master the essential outcomes in all their courses.”

The Alberta Government had given school divisions the option to administer the tests or not, and PRSD, along with several other school divisions in the province, have decided to opt-out this year.

The school division says in the release that they hope that by not administering the PATs, it will relieve some of the pressure and anxiety students and staff have been experiencing.

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