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Iroquois High School reports rising AP participation, new freshman seminar and expanded CTE options
Summary
High school leaders told the board they’ve increased AP enrollment and success, implemented SEL screeners and a freshman seminar, and expanded Career & Technical Education partnerships (BOCES, New Visions) to give students earlier exposure to career pathways.
School leaders presented a five‑year overview of curricular and cultural work at Iroquois High School and outlined goals to strengthen Tier 1 instruction and social‑emotional supports.
The principal said the district engaged consultants (Susan Isaacs and a Niagara University specialist, Lisa Kolonowski) to build relationship‑based practices and adapt RTI/MTSS screeners for high‑school use. The high school has implemented SEL screeners (Waypoints) and a new freshman seminar course intended to build executive‑function skills, transition supports, community building and student voice.
On academics, presenters highlighted mastery as an 85+ score and described how the district studied question‑level results after June exams to inform instruction. They noted some courses (geometry, living environment, earth science/chemistry) were measured on newly revised exams that increase inquiry and literacy demands; the district reported it outscored the state on a new exam this year but acknowledged ongoing areas for improvement.
Advanced Placement participation has grown markedly; presenters reported that last year 91% of students who took AP exams scored a 3 or better. Administrators pointed to district messaging and teacher preparation as drivers of higher enrollment and success.
Leaders also described expanded CTE opportunities through BOCES, the Harkness Center, partnerships with Buffalo State and Canisius College, and a New Visions program placing seniors in embedded, college‑level career experiences in fields such as engineering, conservation, the medical field and education.
Board members asked about pacing, where certain subjects trend below others, and how students are introduced to CTE/BOCES options; presenters said counselors introduce options in 10th grade and that the freshman seminar gives earlier exposure.
What’s next: The district will continue to strengthen Tier 1 instruction with explicit evidence‑based practices, refine the freshman seminar, and monitor New York State framework changes (Portrait of a Graduate/New York Inspires).
