Churchill County School District outlines performance plan with focus on math and ELA

During the recent Zoom meeting of the Churchill County School District Board, held on May 29, 2025, key discussions centered around the district's performance plan and its alignment with educational goals. The meeting highlighted the importance of reflecting on past achievements and setting future objectives, particularly in the areas of academic performance and community engagement.

Superintendent Parsons presented a comprehensive overview of the district's performance plan, emphasizing its role as a "living document" that can be updated as new data becomes available. This plan is due for submission to the State Department of Education and includes three primary goals: enhancing work-based learning, improving career pathways, and increasing proficiency in mathematics and English Language Arts (ELA). These goals were carried over from the previous year, reflecting the board's consensus that more progress is needed before introducing new objectives.

Trustee McFadden raised a critical question regarding the measurability and time frames of these goals, pointing out that the SMART criteria—specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound—were not clearly defined. The Superintendent clarified that while the goals are broad, they are designed to allow for flexibility in measuring growth over a longer period, particularly in light of the complexities involved in improving student proficiency.

Another significant topic discussed was the need to build "informational capacity" within the community, particularly for English learners. Assistant Superintendent Stacy Cooper explained that this involves increasing parental and community engagement through various initiatives, such as literacy nights and open houses. These efforts aim to foster a stronger connection between families and the school, ultimately supporting student learning and success.

The meeting underscored the district's commitment to its educational vision and the ongoing challenges it faces in achieving its goals. As the board prepares to submit the performance plan, the discussions highlighted the importance of community involvement and the need for clear metrics to track progress. The board's next steps will involve continued evaluation of these goals and strategies to ensure they effectively meet the needs of students and the community.