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WJCC highlights literacy, kindergarten orientation pilot and student engagement events
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Kiefer described literacy initiatives, a kindergarten orientation pilot expanding to six schools in 2026–27, a $250,000 math innovation grant, and community events including a Multiple Choice screening and student leadership opportunities that will feed into local workforce and civic programs.
Dr. Kiefer outlined programmatic priorities that accompany the FY27 budget request, emphasizing literacy, early‑grade supports, and expanded pathways to career and civic engagement.
The division said literacy remains its top instructional priority. Administration reported supporting more than 1,900 elementary and middle‑school students with individualized reading plans and noted expanded family resources available in English and Spanish. A Title I family literacy event held Feb. 4 reached 122 family members, and an elementary literacy volunteer training had been rescheduled to Feb. 20 because of weather.
Dr. Kiefer described a kindergarten orientation pilot used at three schools that included six student‑experience days followed by two staff days for class assignment; after evaluation the program will be reduced to a four‑day model plus two staff days and is scheduled to expand to six schools for 2026–27. He said surveys of families and staff informed changes to timing and notification.
The division also highlighted awarded grants: a $250,000 math innovation grant to extend hands‑on numeracy practices and a $60,000 middle‑school acceleration grant to support a summer bridge course. Administration noted 155 students are participating in New Horizons this year and that additional career‑technical capacity is a stated district objective.
Student voice and civic engagement activities mentioned included an Impact Through Service Day on April 18 and a Leadership Connect event on April 23 that will pair high‑school students with local government leaders. The administration encouraged community participation in a free community screening of the documentary Multiple Choice developed by William & Mary alumnus Ted Dintersmith.
The administration said these investments and events are intended to strengthen student readiness for enrollment, employment and enlistment paths, and to deepen community ties that support the division's strategic objectives.
