Haycock Elementary reports significant math progress for students across all grades

The Hueneme Elementary School District (HESD) Governing Board convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in student learning and instructional strategies across various grade levels. The meeting highlighted the progress made in mathematics education, showcasing data that reflects substantial growth among students from kindergarten through fifth grade.

The session began with a presentation on student performance metrics, illustrating a clear upward trend in math proficiency. Notably, kindergarten students demonstrated remarkable improvement, with the percentage of those identified as high risk dropping from nearly 75% in the fall to just 41% by spring. This shift indicates that 59% of kindergartners are now thriving in the low-risk category. Similar positive trends were observed in first and second grades, where targeted support and instructional strategies led to significant gains in student performance.

The board also reviewed the impact of professional development initiatives, particularly the collaboration with the UCLA Mathematics Project. This partnership has provided educators with valuable training focused on equity-centered math learning, enhancing their instructional practices. Teachers engaged in hands-on activities, such as counting collections, which fostered collaborative learning and allowed students to express their mathematical thinking.

As the meeting progressed, the board acknowledged the steady growth in math proficiency among third, fourth, and fifth graders. For instance, third graders saw their low-risk category nearly double, while fifth graders experienced a significant increase in students moving from high risk to low risk. The data presented underscored the effectiveness of the district's instructional focus and the resilience of students in overcoming challenges.

The meeting concluded with a celebration of the school community's achievements, including a video presentation that highlighted the year's successes and honored the district's indigenous student population. The principal expressed pride in the progress made during her first year, emphasizing the importance of community and cultural heritage in the educational experience.

Overall, the HESD Governing Board meeting showcased a commitment to continuous improvement in student learning and the effectiveness of collaborative professional development in enhancing educational outcomes. The board plans to continue these efforts, ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically.