During a recent government meeting, educational performance and curriculum development were at the forefront of discussions, highlighting both achievements and areas for improvement within the school district.

Superintendent Mike Wright reported that all schools in the district received commendable ratings this year, a notable improvement from the previous year when one school was targeted for underperformance. The district continues to outperform state averages in various assessments, including science and AR assessments. However, concerns were raised regarding SAT scores, with the district planning to analyze the impact of new state assessments on future comparisons.

Wright emphasized the importance of the MAP assessments, which serve as baseline data for student learning. Teachers and interventionists are utilizing this data to identify students needing additional support. The district is currently undergoing a comprehensive curriculum revision in English Language Arts (ELA) and math, with a pilot program for the new math curriculum expected to conclude by March or April. This revision aims to ensure consistency in teaching standards across all grade levels.

Board members expressed concerns about the district's performance in the Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR) compared to state averages, prompting discussions about the curriculum review process. Wright assured that the district is focused on aligning teaching methods and assessments, with plans to adopt new resources to support these efforts.

Another significant topic was student absenteeism, which has increased post-COVID. Wright explained that the district is taking an individualized approach to address chronic absenteeism, focusing on the specific needs of each student rather than setting a universal target.

The meeting also touched on the integration of data into school improvement plans, with a focus on using MAP data to inform instructional strategies. Board members highlighted the importance of tracking student growth and achievement, particularly in middle school, and discussed the potential for setting specific growth targets for students.

In closing, the meeting acknowledged National Board Member Appreciation Day, with the superintendent expressing gratitude for the board members' dedication and impact on student success. The discussions underscored the district's commitment to continuous improvement in educational outcomes and the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing challenges.