Montessori Academy shows multi-year gains; Dansby launches middle-school FFA pilot

Two school presenters highlighted classroom programs and student engagement at the Decatur SD 61 board meeting on Dec. 16.

Nate Tallent, principal at Montessori Academy for Peace, presented FastBridge and IAR data showing several years of gains (an overall increase of roughly 3.6% across assessment cycles) and described steps the school has taken to support teacher development and program quality. Tallent detailed staff-focused professional development including voluntary peer-practice days, an internal Montessori Excellence Committee that leverages long-tenured teachers to provide in-district PD, and multiage classroom practices that aim to provide continuity for students.

"We have 24 DPS grads on my staff alone," Tallent said, noting that district alumni on staff contribute to consistency and institutional knowledge. He also described community partners—Antioch Christian Church, The Cross Church, Lampstand and Hillside Bethel—that provide meals, volunteer support and facility space for events and staff development.

Delia Jackson presented a first-quarter update on the Dansby Junior Magnet School FFA pilot, reporting enrollment of about 99 students (43 sixth-graders, 38 seventh-graders and 18 eighth-graders). Jackson said student surveys showed strong interest in agriculture and STEAM connections; about 80% of students either participate in or expressed interest in FFA activities. She outlined hands-on projects and community-service work including meal-packing for students during long breaks and participation in career-exposure trips such as the Farm Progress show.

Both presenters fielded brief questions from the board and were thanked for sharing program highlights.