EMSB Continues to Lead Quebec’s English Public School Boards in Graduation Success

The English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is once again demonstrating its strength in student achievement, posting a 92.1 percent graduation and qualification rate for the 2024–2025 academic year—the highest rate among Quebec’s English public school boards.

The latest figures released by the Ministère de l’Éducation du Québec (MEQ) show that EMSB students continue to significantly outperform the provincial public-school average. Only the Centre de services scolaire du Littoral recorded a higher overall rate. However, the Littoral is a special-status service centre serving a very small student population of approximately 500 students along the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

EMSB Chair Joe Ortona emphasizes that this 92.1 percent rate is particularly noteworthy given the extraordinary circumstances experienced by this cohort. “Many of these students spent some of their most formative years navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, including school closures, remote learning and major disruptions to both their academic and social development,” he stated.

Despite these unprecedented challenges, they have demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination,”  Mr. Ortona continued. “The fact that their achievement levels have remained so strong speaks volumes about their perseverance and the unwavering support provided by our teachers, support staff, professionals and administrators.”

While the majority of EMSB students in this cohort graduated within five years, the Ministry allows students an additional two years to complete their requirements and obtain a diploma or initial qualification—providing further opportunities for students to reach this important milestone.

By comparison, the overall graduation and qualification rate across Quebec, including both public and private schools, was 82.7 percent. The rate was 80 percent in the public system and 93 percent in private schools.

Mr. Ortona also pointed to the return of uniform provincial examinations in June 2022 and the continued stability of student achievement in courses required for graduation.

“While the province reinstated uniform examinations in June 2022, student achievement in courses required for graduation has remained stable, reinforcing our confidence in the strength of our educational programs,” he said.

EMSB Director General Nick Katalifos said the results reflect the collective commitment of the entire school community. “We can take great pride in the fact that we continue to outperform the provincial average and remain among the highest-performing education networks in Quebec,” he said. “The pandemic presented challenges unlike anything our education system had experienced before. Students, families, educators and support staff all rose to the occasion. These results are a testament to that collective effort and to the dedication of everyone who worked tirelessly to ensure students continued to learn, grow and succeed.”

EMSB Director of Educational Services Anna Sanalitro emphasized the extraordinary efforts made by schools to support students during and beyond the pandemic years.

“This cohort’s journey through the education system was unlike any other,” she said. “Many students spent formative years navigating interrupted learning, changing learning environments and significant uncertainty. Their success demonstrates not only their resilience, but also the commitment of our educators to maintaining high expectations while providing the necessary supports for students to thrive. These results remind us that even in the face of unprecedented challenges, our focus on student achievement, well-being and community remains steadfast.”

The latest figures underscore the EMSB’s continued commitment to academic excellence, student well-being and ensuring that every student has the support and opportunity needed to graduate and succeed.

7-Year Cohort Success Rates for English School Boards

About the English Montreal School Board

With a youth and adult sector population of more than 33,000 students, the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is the largest English public school board in Quebec. Established on July 1, 1998, when the province created new boards along linguistic lines, the EMSB network consists of 73 schools and centres. For more details, visit the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca.