School Board approves junior graduation and confirms academic calendar changes

The Southeast Polk Community School District Board Meeting on April 11, 2025, focused on key decisions impacting students and staff, with a particular emphasis on the school calendar and graduation rates.

One of the most significant outcomes was the board's approval of changes to the school calendar, which will not affect the last days for students and staff. Students will finish their school year on May 28, while staff will conclude their contracts on May 30. This decision was met with relief, as many community members had been eagerly awaiting clarity on the school schedule.

In addition to calendar discussions, the board addressed the upcoming junior graduation, noting an increase in the number of graduates this year. With 15 juniors set to graduate, this figure is higher than in previous years, reflecting the inclusion of students from alternative programs. This change marks a positive shift in the district's approach to graduation, ensuring that more students are recognized for their achievements.

Superintendent Boris highlighted several recent successes within the district, including a well-attended career fair for seventh graders featuring over 25 local businesses, and a successful sixth-grade build day that taught students valuable skills in teamwork and project management. The district also celebrated a significant achievement in its graduation and dropout rates, with a graduation rate of 94%, well above the state average of 88%, and a dropout rate reduced to 0.8%.

The meeting concluded with plans for effective communication to the community regarding the recent decisions, ensuring that families can prepare for the upcoming changes. As the district continues to make strides in educational opportunities and student support, these discussions reflect a commitment to prioritizing student success and community engagement.