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Indian River County superintendent reports jump to mostly A-rated schools, highlights reading and graduation gains
Summary
Dr. David K. Moore told the Town of Indian River Shores council that the district rose from mostly lower grades to 95% A-rated schools, cited a 96% graduation rate and emphasized the district's use of the science of reading, middle-school acceleration and expansion of K–8 configurations.
Dr. David K. Moore, Indian River County superintendent of schools, told the Town of Indian River Shores council on Oct. 23 that the district has moved from a small number of A schools to “95% of our schools being an A.”
Moore said the district eliminated C-rated schools, now has three B schools and is working toward his goal that “every single school in this district should be an A.” He highlighted a 96% graduation rate and said roughly 90% of last year’s graduates completed an Advanced Placement course, a dual-enrollment course or earned a career industry certification.
Why it matters: The presentation framed recent improvements as the result of changes in curriculum and instruction that county leaders say make students more likely to finish high school ready for college or careers. Moore told the council the district is adapting now to shifting demands for public education, including how facilities are used.
Moore described several specific academic achievements and instructional priorities. He said middle-school acceleration — allowing middle-school students to take some high-school courses — ranks among the state’s top programs, and the district’s third-grade reading scores rose to second in Florida. On literacy, Moore said the district’s curriculum is “grounded in the science of reading” and that phonics has been embedded in early grades.
Moore said the district has focused on targeted improvement at previously low-performing schools, citing a school that rose from 38% proficiency two years ago to 71% this year. He also urged earlier engagement with children, noting the district’s legislative request to manage Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) locally so the district can reach students earlier.
Council questions and context: Councilman Carroll asked whether the district uses phonics, referencing reports from other states. Moore replied that Indian River County’s approach centers on the science of reading and phonics instruction in lower grades and scaffolding for students who accelerate early. Moore also said parents are choosing a mix of educational options — including homeschools and micro schools — and the district plans to explore using facilities to provide supplemental services.
What’s next: Moore said the district will continue work on innovation and facility configuration, including expanding K–8 options where there is parental demand. Council members thanked Moore and his team for the reported progress and said they look forward to next year’s update.
