In a recent meeting, the Phoenix Union School District's leadership outlined ambitious goals aimed at increasing student enrollment, enhancing college readiness, and reducing chronic absenteeism. Superintendent Andrade emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting that over 630 respondents participated in a survey designed to gather feedback on the district's priorities.

The district's executive team has been actively reaching out to various community groups, including parents and educational leaders, to ensure that their voices are heard in shaping the district's future. Andrade expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts, highlighting the significance of listening to community feedback as a foundational step in the decision-making process.

Chief Tayas presented a detailed analysis of the district's academic performance, focusing on the ACT scores and college and career readiness indicators (CCRI). The data revealed trends in student achievement and highlighted the need for targeted support for students who may require additional assistance to meet academic goals. Tayas noted that while the district aims to improve college enrollment rates, it is equally important to recognize that not all students will pursue higher education immediately after graduation.

The proposed goals include a 2% increase in total enrollment and a commitment to improving communication between teachers and families. Additionally, the district aims to enhance student engagement and motivation through innovative learning strategies. The board discussed the importance of setting clear benchmarks for these goals, with suggestions for more specific targets and deadlines to ensure accountability.

President Napa acknowledged the extensive outreach efforts and the high level of community participation, particularly at a recent listening session that drew over 100 attendees. However, he expressed concerns about moving forward with the proposed goals without the full board present, emphasizing the need for collective agreement before finalizing any actions.

As the district prepares to adopt these revised goals, the focus will remain on fostering an inclusive environment that supports all students, particularly those from historically marginalized groups. The leadership team is committed to ongoing dialogue with the community and continuous monitoring of progress toward these objectives.