District presents Aspire 2029 update highlighting proficiency gains and student supports

Dr. Decker presented the teaching‑and‑learning spotlight at the Franklin Special Board of Education's April 28 meeting, previewing a new Aspire 2029 strategic plan update video and summarizing progress across academics, student supports, and community engagement.

"Tonight, the teaching and learning spotlight shines on the Aspire 2029 strategic plan update video," Dr. Decker said, describing district actions including updated essential standards and success criteria in reading and math, strengthened common formative assessments, and deeper instructional alignment. He told the board that on the spring 2025 state assessment Franklin Special District "saw growth in every subject area across all grade levels, with several grades achieving double digit proficiency gains in just 1 year," and noted the district's 2025 designation as an exemplary district among 14 statewide.

Dr. Decker emphasized supports beyond academics: the district has expanded mental‑health partnerships, provides a school counselor or partnered mental‑health professional in every school, and maintains a certified therapy dog in each building. He cited the district's Unified Champion Schools designation as evidence of its inclusion work and noted summer programming plans, including a Young Scholars Institute and a summer learning camp with transportation and meal services.

Board members had no substantive follow‑up questions during the presentation. Dr. Decker also reminded the board that the first budget work session would begin immediately after the meeting and that additional sessions are scheduled for May 18 and June 15 to review operating budgets, revenue, personnel, and cumulative budget impacts.

The presentation was framed as an update on implementation progress; no formal actions were taken during this agenda item.