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Richland 2 reviews changes to promotion and retention policy to align with state Read to Succeed updates
Summary
District staff presented revisions to policy IKE (promotion and retention) to align high school promotion with state accountability and to incorporate changes from the state's Read to Succeed law; the revisions were discussed as a second reading and no final action was taken.
Richland School District 2 staff presented proposed revisions to policy IKE, which governs student promotion and retention, explaining the changes aim to align high‑school promotion rules with state accountability measures and reflect recent state updates to Read to Succeed.
“Changes to the policy have to do with really clarity and wording, alignment, especially at the high school level, the retention and promotion requirements to state accountability requirements,” said Jen Morrison, the district’s senior chief of academics. She identified two significant Read to Succeed changes: the cut score for required summer reading camp has increased, and portfolios are no longer allowed as an exemption.
Board discussion focused on transitional cohorts and language that references the 2023–24 school year. Dr. Franklin (senior chief for HR and student services in the discussion) advised the board that a dated provision should remain until affected cohorts complete high school: removing the date now could give the appearance the change applies retroactively to students who are still in high school.
Trustees asked staff to clarify language about English learners and retention. Trustee Nikki Porter raised concerns about whether students who have exited English learner status but still face academic struggles could be advanced without support; staff responded that an additional checklist and guidance for English learners must be considered as part of the promotion/retention decision.
No vote was taken; the item was presented for discussion as a second reading and staff noted they would return with revised language where necessary.
