In a recent meeting held on September 23, 2025, the Columbus County Schools Board gathered to discuss significant updates and achievements within the district, highlighting a renewed focus on transparency and accountability in education. The atmosphere was charged with optimism as board members reviewed the revised school calendar and celebrated notable improvements in school performance metrics.

The meeting commenced with a recommendation from the superintendent to approve the revised 2025-2026 school calendar, aimed at enhancing clarity for parents regarding grading periods for grades 6 through 12. The board swiftly approved the calendar, signaling a commitment to better communication with families.

As the discussion shifted to accountability results, the board was presented with encouraging data from the past school year. Notably, ten schools either met or exceeded growth expectations, with Old Doc Elementary School standing out for its exceptional performance. The district celebrated the removal of low-performing status for three schools: Chadbourne Elementary, Halsborough Artesia Elementary, and West Columbus High School. This marked a significant milestone, as the district is no longer classified as low performing for the first time since the 2018-2019 school year.

The superintendent emphasized the importance of transparency, sharing detailed performance grades and growth measures. The data revealed that while some schools still faced challenges, there was a clear upward trend in performance grades across the district. For instance, Medelco School saw a six-point increase in its performance grade, while CCCA School jumped an impressive 13 points, inching closer to achieving a letter grade A.

Laura Hunter, a key figure in the district's data analysis, provided a deeper dive into the performance metrics, particularly focusing on early literacy. She highlighted the need to address gaps in reading proficiency, especially in second and third grades, where a decline in performance was noted. Hunter underscored the importance of a robust curriculum that supports both decoding and comprehension skills, aiming to close the widening gap as students progress through grades.

The board's discussions reflected a collective commitment to continuous improvement and a strategic focus on achieving higher educational standards. As the meeting concluded, members expressed pride in the district's progress while acknowledging the work that lies ahead. The path forward is clear: with a focus on data-driven strategies and community engagement, Columbus County Schools is poised to enhance educational outcomes for all students.