Decatur School Board celebrates graduating class of 2025 and assesses academic performance

The Decatur Board of Education celebrated significant milestones during its June 10, 2025, meeting, highlighting student achievements and academic progress across the district. The meeting commenced with a reflection on the successful conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year, marked by the graduation of 457 seniors from Decatur High School. Notably, over 80% of these graduates are heading to college, with many receiving honors for their academic excellence.

In addition to celebrating student accomplishments, the board acknowledged June as a month of cultural recognition, honoring Caribbean American heritage and LGBTQ+ contributions. This commitment to inclusivity is part of the district's broader goal to create an environment where every student feels valued.

Deputy Superintendent Karen Newton Scott provided an update on the Spring STAR assessment results, which evaluate student performance in literacy and math. The data revealed that 62% of K-3 students met or exceeded expected growth in early literacy, while 73.2% of students in grades 1-5 demonstrated typical or high growth. However, the overall proficiency rates showed a slight decline, prompting discussions on the need for enhanced instructional strategies, particularly in early literacy.

The board also discussed the importance of targeted professional development for teachers, emphasizing the adoption of a new reading curriculum aimed at improving student outcomes. Plans are in place to ensure that all educators receive training to effectively implement these strategies in the classroom.

Looking ahead, the board is focused on addressing the diverse needs of students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The implementation of a new data system, EduCLIMBER, is expected to provide deeper insights into student performance and help tailor support for various subgroups.

As summer school commenced on May 29, the district is committed to ensuring that all students are prepared for the upcoming academic year, reinforcing the message that "all must truly mean all." The board's proactive approach aims to foster an educational environment where every student can thrive.