Province introduces universal screening for early learning support

The Provincial Government is introducing universal screening for kindergarten through Grade 2 students during the 2026-27 school year to help identify students who may require additional learning support.

The screening process for kindergarten and Grade 1 students will use Acadience Reading and Acadience Reading Français assessments to measure foundational early literacy skills.

The assessments include six measures designed to help educators identify students who may need additional support with early reading skills.

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

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

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Paul Dinn says early identification can help ensure students receive appropriate support.

“Every student deserves the opportunity and appropriate support to succeed. Identifying learning needs early is an important part of providing effective support,” Dinn says.

“Universal screening will help educators better understand student needs and provide support throughout their learning journey.”