School District reports academic achievement at 61% despite more schools improving

The Alabama Board of Education Work Session held on July 15, 2025, focused on key metrics regarding academic performance across the state. A significant discussion point was the academic achievement rate, which currently stands at 61%, notably lower than the overall average of 83%. This disparity highlights areas of concern within the education system.

During the meeting, officials noted that while the graduation rate is not the weakest area, the primary challenges lie in mathematics and English Language Arts (ELA) performance. The discussion emphasized the importance of these subjects, as they are critical components of student assessments, including the ACT.

In a positive development, the state reported an increase in the number of schools achieving higher performance ratings, rising from 203 to 262 this year. Additionally, there was a decrease in the number of schools classified as "D" or "F," dropping from 219 to 206. This trend indicates an overall improvement in school performance across Alabama.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing these academic challenges and to support schools in enhancing student achievement. The board acknowledged the importance of ongoing evaluation and support for educators to ensure sustained progress in the state's educational outcomes.