Marion County Schools approve naming of Ross Prairie and Winding Oaks Elementary Schools

The Marion County School Board convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss several key initiatives aimed at enhancing educational support and community engagement within the district. Among the most significant topics was the partnership with Hanover Research, which has been in place since 2022. This collaboration provides the district with access to a vast educational research library, custom research projects, and advisory services. The board highlighted the importance of this partnership in improving operational efficiency and student performance through data-driven insights.

The district has utilized Hanover's expertise to conduct various studies, including analyses of student performance, bus routing efficiency, and discipline trends. Additionally, Hanover has assisted in developing surveys to assess transportation needs and teacher engagement, which are crucial for understanding and addressing the challenges faced by students and staff.

Another major focus of the meeting was the approval of a $437,819 investment in an attendance intervention suite. This program aims to combat chronic absenteeism, which has been a growing concern in Florida, with the state reporting an average absenteeism rate of 34%. The new system will enhance communication with parents, allowing for notifications and messaging in their native languages, thereby fostering greater family engagement. The board expressed optimism that these tools would help identify and address the root causes of absenteeism, particularly among vulnerable populations such as students with disabilities and English language learners.

In addition to these initiatives, the board approved the naming of two new elementary schools. School W will be named Ross Prairie Elementary, reflecting its proximity to the Ross Prairie State Forest, while School X will be named Winding Oaks Elementary, honoring the land's rich equine history. Both schools have also secured business partners to support their operations, further strengthening community ties.

The meeting concluded with unanimous votes on all discussed items, underscoring the board's commitment to improving educational outcomes and fostering community involvement in Marion County schools. As these initiatives move forward, they are expected to play a vital role in enhancing the educational landscape for students and families in the district.