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Superintendent Petrago outlines findings from first 100 days and proposes organizational alignment
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Petrago reported results of listening sessions and district data showing uneven tier-1 instruction, concerns about literacy and math, student engagement issues including vaping, and recommended organizational changes to strengthen professional learning, technology and communications.
Superintendent Dr. Petrago presented a "first 100 days" report to the Modesto City Schools Board on Dec. 15 that combined qualitative listening sessions with quantitative measures and recommended targeted organizational shifts to improve instructional consistency.
The report summarized themes from eight focus groups, student listening sessions and family forums: strengths in extracurricular programs and facilities; weaknesses in grade-level literacy (students not decoding by third grade), high course-failure rates in some classes, persistent long-term English learner (LTEL) reclassification gaps, and uneven classroom experiences that reduce student engagement. "Our vision is that every student graduates with the skills, knowledge, and character traits essential to thrive and contribute to society," Petrago said, framing the findings.
District staff described the listening process and student feedback analysis, noting that participation in this year's state-of-district survey exceeded prior years (from ~450 in prior years to more than 2,600 respondents) and produced thousands of open-ended comments clustered by theme. Senior directors emphasized the need for safe, predictable learning environments, targeted academic and SEL support, and clearer two-way communication with families.
Recommended changes included creating a combined "professional learning and technology" division that would align IETS and CIPD functions, creating a senior director role for English-learner support within that structure, and merging communications with community engagement to increase authentic outreach. Petrago said these are realignments of existing staff rather than additional hiring and that the district is not incurring extra recurring costs for the changes described.
Trustees asked for clarifications about data visuals and about how the district will measure progress. Petrago said the district will continue monitoring KPIs (CAASPP, interim assessments, attendance, behavior) and add regular, structured listening circles so students, staff and families remain part of an ongoing feedback loop.
The board did not vote to adopt a new budget or reorganization package at the meeting; trustees requested follow-up reports that will include details and outcome measures so they can exercise oversight and hold staff accountable.
