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La Porte schools report record early‑grade literacy, rising early‑childhood enrollment and expanded career pathways
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Sandra Wood described district efforts to reverse long-term enrollment decline through enhanced communication, new programs (La Porte Online, early childhood center), a 93.3% iRead passage rate, a 94% high‑school graduation rate and expanded CTE and dual‑credit offerings.
Dr. Sandra Wood, superintendent of La Porte Community Schools, told attendees the district is working to counter a long-term enrollment decline with stronger communication, program expansion and partnerships that create clear pathways to college and careers.
"From day one, one of my top priorities has been strengthening communication, transparency, and trust between La Porte community schools and our community," Wood said, describing a restructured pre‑K through 12 leadership model and initiatives to make district information more accessible.
Wood cited several measurable achievements: a 93.3% iRead passage rate in 2025 (the highest in district history at the elementary level) and a La Porte High School graduation rate of 94%. She said those results reflect classroom practice shifts and expanded programming including CTE and dual‑credit opportunities aligned with Indiana's new high‑school diploma requirements.
To reach families directly, Wood highlighted ParentSquare, a district messaging platform that she said has produced nearly 4,000 staff posts and more than 108,000 messages since the beginning of the year. She also noted an in‑house district podcast and a Slicer Ambassadors program that brought community members into schools for behind‑the‑scenes sessions.
Wood described program expansions designed to retain and attract families: the district launched La Porte Online (approaching 120 enrolled students in its second year), opened an early childhood center (199 students last year, 318 this year, projected about 348 by year‑end) and added career pathways including public safety and civic arts. She said food services serve about 2,000 breakfasts and 4,300 lunches daily and that meals are provided free to all students; the program has recognition from the USDA's healthier school meals initiative.
On safety and operations, Wood described digital security improvements, updated video systems and secure entry procedures, and said the La Porte County Sheriff's Department provides two full‑time resource officers on campus each school day. She closed by emphasizing professional learning communities for staff collaboration and invited families to "choose La Porte" when making school decisions.
Wood's remarks were offered as an account of district priorities and progress; she and Mayor Dermody remained after the program to take additional questions from attendees.
