School Board highlights student achievements and progress in district performance

Perseverance and progress took center stage at the Levy County School Board meeting on July 8, 2025, as board members reflected on the district's journey through challenges and celebrated recent achievements.

Board member Whitehurst emphasized the importance of resilience, noting that despite setbacks, the district has made significant strides in improving student performance. "Sometimes you learn more from losses than wins," he stated, highlighting the ongoing efforts to foster growth within the schools. He expressed pride in the hard work of educators and staff, acknowledging that while grades may not always reflect the effort put in, progress is being made.

The meeting also spotlighted the success of students, particularly Carson Meeks from Bronson Middle High School, who placed fifth nationally in the Future Business Leaders of America impromptu speech contest. Whitehurst humorously noted that Meeks was outperformed by competitors from the North, attributing it to regional differences in accent.

In addition to academic achievements, the board discussed the importance of summer programs, with Whitehurst praising the engagement of students at Wilson Elementary School. He remarked on the value of structured learning during the summer months, which helps prevent the "summer slide" in education.

The discussions underscored a commitment to both fiscal responsibility and social responsibility in education, with board members acknowledging the challenges of balancing these priorities. As they navigate through difficult times, the board remains confident in the dedication of their staff and the potential for continued improvement in the district.