Imagine Language and Literacy is making waves in Hillsborough County, with a digital education program that supports over 8,000 elementary students in their journey to mastering English. During the recent School Board meeting on August 26, 2025, board members highlighted the program's impressive statistics, revealing that 98% of students in grades 1 to 5 had active accounts, achieving an overall lesson pass rate of 85%.
The program is particularly crucial as it caters to the needs of English Language Learners (ELL), who make up 20% of the district's student population. Board member Gray emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by these students, noting that they often struggle with proficiency in standardized testing. "One fifth of our population is an astonishing number," she stated, urging the board to prioritize resources and support for ELL students.
Superintendent Ayers and his team are committed to enhancing educational outcomes for ELL students. They have developed a strategic district plan that includes professional development for teachers to better support these learners. The board members expressed their support for ongoing initiatives, with member Combs praising the program's effectiveness and the positive impact it has had on students from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to Imagine Language and Literacy, the meeting also covered the Evolve program, which focuses on character development and resilience among high school students. Launched as a pilot at eight high schools, the program received positive feedback, with 98% of participants feeling more connected and valued at school.
The board unanimously approved both programs, reinforcing their commitment to providing essential resources and support for all students, particularly those facing language barriers. As the district moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed academically and socially.