Burlington High outlines test-score, career and culture goals; student groups showcase programs

Burlington High School staff presented the high school’s 2024–25 school improvement plan to the Burlington Area School District board at the Feb. 10, 2025 board meeting, outlining academic targets for ACT English and reading, a modest increase in math proficiency, expanded dual‑credit and industry certification opportunities, and a set of culture initiatives aimed at increasing students’ sense of belonging.

“We are laser focused on student growth, engaging in meaningful data review, and taking intentional action to support our students,” said Amy, a Burlington High School presenter, summarizing the plan and the school’s three priority areas: academic achievement, career readiness and school culture.

The plan includes specific, measurable targets and classroom- and school-level actions. Carrie Fidler, presenting the English/ELA goal, said the school aims to raise the share of students at or above the ACT English benchmark from 61% to 65% and to nudge the reading benchmark rate from 48% to 50%. Fidler reviewed baseline horizon testing data and described curriculum and intervention steps — use of the StudySync curriculum, targeted grammar and craft instruction, and expanded use of a Flex Success period for reteaching and enrichment.

Math presenters described a goal to increase the percentage of students at or above the ACT math benchmark from 37% to 40%. Presenters said preliminary horizon testing showed some students beginning the year near the benchmark and pointed to curriculum adjustments (reordering topics such as…