JK-12 education system performance report highlights strong participation in early learning programs, notes challenges remain

News Releases

Yellowknife — July 27, 2026

The 2024-25 Junior Kindergarten - Grade 12 Education System Performance Measures Technical Report is now available. This report, released annually, provides an overview of how the Northwest Territories' education system is supporting student learning, well-being, and success.

The report highlights several positive findings, such as stronger participation in early learning programs: approximately 85% of NWT four- and five-year-olds were enrolled in Junior Kindergarten or Kindergarten during the 2024-25 school year.

At the same time, the report also reinforces that significant challenges remain. Student attendance and graduation outcomes continue to require attention, and improving these results remains a priority for the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and the education system.

The GNWT continues to work with education bodies and partners to improve student engagement and attendance through initiatives that support belonging, meaningful learning experiences, and student well-being. The renewed NWT JK-12 curriculum supports these efforts by emphasizing hands-on, competency-based learning that connects to students' cultures and goals.

The performance measures report is one of several tools used by the GNWT to monitor progress and support continuous improvement across the education system. The full report is available online at:  https://www.ece.gov.nt.ca/sites/ece/files/resources/jk-12_annual_pm_report_2024-25_final.pdf.

Quote:

"Performance reporting helps us understand where our education system is succeeding and where more work is needed. While we are encouraged by continued strengths in early learning participation, this year’s report also reinforces that challenges remain. We know that educational achievement requires collaboration among schools, families, communities, education bodies, Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations and the GNWT. A good education is the foundation for success in life, which is why we will continue to prioritize improving student outcomes.”

   - Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment


Quick Facts

  • The report measures progress across key areas including student development, learning, well-being, attendance, graduation, and transitions to post-secondary education.
  • Approximately 85% of NWT four and five year olds were enrolled in Junior Kindergarten or Kindergarten in 2024-25.
  • 70% of Grade 4 students and 53% of Grade 7 students reported high-quality relationships with adults at school.
  • The overall student attendance rate was 73.1% in 2024-25.
  • There were 1,364 educators working in NWT schools in 2024-25.
  • 62% of 2021-22 graduates pursued post-secondary education within three years of graduation.

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For media requests, please contact:

Agata Gutkowska
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications 
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories 
Agata_Gutkowska@gov.nt.ca