The Ottumwa Schools Board Meeting held on September 22, 2025, focused on the recent performance metrics of the district's schools, particularly highlighting improvements in academic growth and graduation rates. The meeting began with a presentation by Maria, who provided insights into the school performance profile, previously known as the school report card. This profile tracks year-over-year performance, emphasizing growth and proficiency in Iowa assessments.

Key highlights from the presentation included that ten out of eleven physical school buildings in the district experienced notable growth this year. Two schools, Eisenhower and Horace Mann, received commendable recognition for their achievements in meeting school improvement goals. The district's overall academic performance showed alignment with state growth metrics in English language arts and math, indicating that students are not only growing but doing so at a rate faster than their peers statewide.

The discussion also touched on work-based learning initiatives, which have expanded significantly. The percentage of high school graduates participating in work-based learning experiences increased from 4% to approximately 30%. This growth reflects the district's commitment to ensuring students graduate with a clear understanding of their career pathways and purposes.

Graduation rates at Ottumwa High School (OHS) were another point of pride, with the 2024 class exceeding state averages. The board anticipates even higher graduation rates for the current year, showcasing the effectiveness of the district's educational strategies.

The meeting concluded with a call for community involvement in providing work-based learning opportunities, such as internships and apprenticeships, to further support students in exploring potential career paths before pursuing post-secondary education. Overall, the discussions underscored the district's commitment to continuous improvement and student success.