Parsons Elementary shows reading gains and community programs, principal says
Summary
Parsons Elementary principal Holly Kitson told the board the school has implemented direct phonics instruction, achieved 82% staff retention, sustained enrollment growth since merger and will hold several celebratory and STEM events. She shared data on continuous-enrollment students showing higher FastBridge scores.
Parsons Elementary principal Holly Kitson presented school highlights to the District 61 board on Jan. 27, reporting sustained growth and several classroom and community initiatives.
Kitson said Parsons adopted a science-of‑reading approach and that 100% of scholars receive 30 minutes of direct phonics instruction; she described a 3‑ to 5‑year rollout tied to the school improvement plan and noted the school’s continuous‑enrollment cohort (182 students enrolled since Sept. 1, 2023) scores 10–16 points higher on FastBridge than the general enrollment. She reported 526 scholars currently enrolled and an 82% staff retention rate.
Kitson highlighted school culture and family events — including the Race to Success medals (this year: 125 bronze, 60 silver, 22 gold for reading; 101 bronze, 58 silver, 38 gold for math), the success bell (rung more than 800 times this year), a Polar Express theater trip for all scholars, a resident author program featuring Andrea Hill (a 5th‑grade teacher), and upcoming events including Founders Day and a STEM family night April 16 with a new STAR Lab.
Kitson also noted classroom staffing: 95% of classrooms have certified staff, there are two teaching‑assistant vacancies and one long‑term substitute in a special education cross‑categorical position. She invited community members to support school celebrations and partnerships. Board members praised the work and thanked staff for their presentations.
Kitson concluded by offering follow‑up contact for questions and by highlighting the historical marker at Parsons that recognizes Judge Parsons and Black educators from Decatur Public Schools.
