Spring Middle School principal reports big gains in attendance and school climate

Aaron Lever, principal at Spring Middle School, told the Superior School District board on May 11 that the school has seen measurable gains in student engagement and climate this year. "A 35% increase in attendance, a 65% decrease in behavior growth, and a 13.5 point increase on school rule forecast," Lever said, and he reported that "93% of students report feeling valued at Superior School."

Lever said more than 700 students completed the school survey and credited intentional relationship-building and expanded extracurricular options for the improvements. He highlighted the school’s career fair, which engaged more than 800 eighth-grade students, and the work of eighth-grade leaders who help with fifth-grade tours, transition nights and Spartan Start activities designed to build connections for incoming sixth graders.

Board members noted the high survey participation and asked about historical trends; Lever said four years ago positive responses were in the 50–60% range, and that the recent results represent sustained improvement. The presentation also described broad student engagement: more than 400 students participate in clubs that range from athletics to a Dungeons & Dragons club, and student leaders run fundraisers and community drives.

The board praised the students who attended the meeting and recognized staff support, including Miss Prescott, whom the principal identified as a staff organizer. The presentation concluded with board appreciation and encouragement to continue scaling programs that support belonging and attendance.