School District Report Shows Increased Student Growth and Engagement Strategies

During the recent Board Meeting of the Lawndale Elementary School District, held on February 7, 2025, key discussions centered around student performance, equity in education, and engagement strategies aimed at improving attendance and support for diverse learners.

The meeting highlighted the positive outcomes from the iReady diagnostic assessments, which indicated significant growth in both math and reading among students. The data presented showed a clear upward trend, with green bars representing increases in performance from fall to winter assessments. This growth is attributed to enhanced tier 1 instruction by teachers and ongoing professional development focused on mathematics and data-driven instruction. The district is also implementing targeted strategies for transitional kindergarten (TK) students, emphasizing purposeful play and behavioral training to support younger learners.

Equity in education was another focal point, with the district committing to ensuring that all student subgroups, particularly English learners (ELs), are making progress. The presentation included subgroup data to demonstrate this commitment, showcasing specific supports for newcomer students and long-term English learners. The district is piloting new curriculum tailored to better serve middle school students, aiming to provide more appropriate instruction.

Attendance rates were also a significant topic, with the district reporting an average daily attendance of nearly 97%. This marks an improvement in attendance initiatives, which have successfully reduced chronic absenteeism from 20% to 16%. The district is actively targeting students at risk of chronic absenteeism through home visits and focused attendance team meetings.

The meeting also touched on social-emotional and behavioral supports, with plans for a more detailed presentation in the future. The district is working to enhance school climate through various programs, including positive behavioral interventions and restorative practices.

Lastly, the board discussed the Trek program, which integrates technology, robotics, engineering, and coding into the curriculum. This initiative aims to prepare students for future academic and career opportunities, ensuring that learning is standards-based and cumulative across grade levels.

In conclusion, the Lawndale Elementary School District is making strides in improving student outcomes, promoting equity, and enhancing engagement. The board's commitment to these goals reflects a proactive approach to addressing the diverse needs of its student population, with ongoing efforts to monitor and support their progress.