The Monticello Public Schools Board convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss significant updates and initiatives aimed at enhancing educational outcomes across the district. The meeting highlighted the collaborative efforts of middle and high school administrators to align their instructional strategies with district-wide goals, focusing on improving literacy, attendance, and graduation rates.

During the meeting, middle school representatives presented a comprehensive roadmap detailing their approach to fostering a cohesive instructional framework. They emphasized the importance of collective efficacy among teachers, ensuring that all staff members are aligned in their teaching strategies. This framework includes a focus on the science of reading and tailored accommodations for diverse learners. The middle school team also discussed their commitment to using data-driven discussions to inform instructional practices, with plans to regularly assess student progress through tools like FastBridge.

Rachel, a middle school administrator, elaborated on the structured professional development sessions that encourage teachers to collaborate and share effective strategies. This ongoing reflection and adaptation are designed to enhance the learning environment for all students, particularly those who may struggle academically.

Transitioning to the high school updates, Principal Laurie Hanson and Assistant Principal Matt Colwell echoed the middle school’s commitment to continuity in instructional practices. They outlined their focus on understanding diverse learners and utilizing data to inform teaching methods. The high school is also implementing EduCLIMBER, a new data management system, to better track student progress and tailor support to individual needs.

Both schools are prioritizing family engagement and attendance, recognizing that consistent student presence is crucial for academic success. The high school team noted the challenges of engaging families at the secondary level and is exploring innovative outreach strategies to foster stronger connections.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration between the middle and high schools, ensuring that all educational efforts are aligned with the district's overarching goals. As the school year progresses, both teams are poised to adapt their strategies based on data insights, aiming to create a supportive and effective learning environment for every student in the Monticello Public Schools district.