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Summers Elementary VPK team honored after second consecutive perfect CLASS score — district highlights statewide firsts
Summary
Summers Elementary teachers and VPK staff were recognized for a perfect CLASS observational score for a second consecutive year; district and early-learning officials praised classroom relationships and instructional support.
The Columbia County School Board on April 8 recognized Summers Elementary’s VPK (Voluntary Prekindergarten) classroom after the program received a perfect CLASS score for the second consecutive year — a result district officials described as unique in Florida.
Dawn Odom, coordinator for VPK in the district, told the board the state’s 2024 legislation required all VPK classrooms to participate in a CLASS observational assessment that rates emotional support, classroom organization and instructional support on a 1-to-7 scale. She said of 5,043 public and private VPK classrooms evaluated statewide in 2024–25, Summers Elementary was one of seven perfect sevens and the only program in Florida to receive a perfect seven two years in a row.
“Number one, it’s the relationship between the teacher and the paraprofessional in that classroom,” Odom said, describing what CLASS measures. Principal Cooper introduced the teachers, and the board presented certificates and a copy of the Department of Education announcement to Ms. Rodriguez; the principal and board members praised the teachers and staff for the classroom environment and the recognition.
Why it matters: VPK classroom quality evaluations are statewide measures of early-education practices. The district emphasized that Summers’ classroom relationships and instructional support produced observable results under the state’s assessment tool.
Board remarks and next steps: Board members thanked Summers staff, noted widespread community pride and asked that the district publicize the achievement. No formal board action or vote was required for the recognition.
