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District revisits ‘profile of a graduate’ and flags kindergarten readiness as an area to address
Summary
Chief academic officer James Ray reviewed district progress on a published ‘profile of a graduate,’ highlighting above-state outcomes for graduation and postsecondary rates while noting lower preschool enrollment and kindergarten readiness.
MADISON COUNTY — James Ray, Madison County Schools’ chief academic officer, returned the board to a district initiative called a “profile of a graduate,” saying it frames K–12 learning goals and will guide stakeholder work in fall 2025 and 2026.
Ray told the board the district’s published indicators compare favorably with statewide numbers: "Graduation rate state is 92 percent. Average we're at 94. Post-secondary rate is, state's 81, we're at 92. And then college going rate, we're at state's at 53 and district's at 55. And then college degree attainment, 38 for the state, 45 for Madison County." He said those measures suggest the system is producing results but that the district lags in preschool enrollment and kindergarten readiness, which he and staff want to address.
Ray said the district plans site-based councils and broader stakeholder meetings beginning in fall 2025, with follow-up community meetings in fall 2026 to refine the profile based on local priorities. Starla Brown, preschool director, was mentioned as working on preschool screens and enrollment strategies. Board members discussed expanding preschool access and the potential return on investment; one board member noted, citing a presenter, that "over 85 percent of brain development occurs before age 5" and that the "return on investment for early childhood is $5 for every dollar invested."
Why it matters: The profile of a graduate sets long-range instructional aims; identifying kindergarten readiness and preschool enrollment as gaps could change where the district directs outreach, funding and program expansion.
Ending: Ray and board members said the district will publicize the metrics and convene school- and district-level conversations to set goals before fall 2026, with district staff returning with proposals on preschool strategies and outreach.
