Crosby High School showcases significant improvements and early college partnership

The Waterbury Board of Education convened on May 1, 2025, at Crosby High School to discuss significant improvements and ongoing initiatives within the school. The meeting highlighted the school's progress in various areas, including safety, academics, and student behavior, as well as the introduction of new programs aimed at enhancing student experiences.

Crosby High School, which serves as Waterbury's largest public school with an enrollment of 1,428 students, showcased its recent advancements. Principal Saxon Thoms emphasized the school's commitment to fostering a positive environment and improving academic outcomes. Notably, the school has seen a rise in post-secondary enrollment rates, increasing from 47% to 54% over the past year. Additionally, graduation rates and performance on standardized tests, such as the SAT, have shown promising improvements, particularly in math and reading proficiency.

A key focus of the meeting was the implementation of a revised technology policy aimed at enhancing student safety and accountability. The school has adopted measures to ensure that students remain focused on learning rather than distractions from technology. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a safe and conducive learning environment.

The principal also reported a 10% decrease in suspension rates, attributing this success to a shift in approach towards student behavior. Instead of relying solely on punitive measures, the school has implemented a "Shaping Students Behaviors" team that provides support and intervention for at-risk students. This proactive strategy has fostered stronger relationships between students and staff, contributing to a more positive school culture.

In addition to academic and behavioral improvements, Crosby High School has invested in infrastructure enhancements, including a new fitness center and renovated auditorium. The school is also set to open a restaurant, the Bulldog Bistro, in the fall of 2025, further enriching the student experience.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among staff, students, and community partners to sustain and build upon these achievements. The administration expressed optimism about future developments, particularly the potential acceptance into the Connecticut State Department of Education's Commissioners Network, which could provide additional resources for further improvements.

Overall, the workshop underscored Crosby High School's dedication to fostering a supportive and effective educational environment, with a clear focus on continuous growth and community engagement.