Ferndale Middle School highlights student supports and after-school programs at board meeting

Ferndale Middle School used the April 21 board meeting to present building-level priorities and direct student testimony about academic and social supports.

Principal Mr. Ker told the board the school organizes work around five district pillars—self-reflection, transparency, attendance, collaboration and data—and described monthly grade-level meetings, student celebrations and a data-driven process that uses I-Ready and Panorama to inform instruction. He said the school’s support staff includes two counselors, a restorative practice coordinator, a social worker and mental health specialists who meet biweekly to triage student needs.

“Every school has a story to tell and I'm here to tell you Ferndale Middle School's story,” Mr. Ker said, framing the presentation around attendance improvements and student supports. He reviewed interventions such as Back on Track after-school programming and a tutoring partnership with Ferndale Youth Assistance, and said the school uses a student success team and MTSS protocols to identify tiered supports.

Counselor Mrs. Castle introduced six students who described extracurricular and academic supports. One student said staff “are very caring” and emphasized that teachers try to hear both sides of a situation; another said the school gives students “a chance” to try activities again if they don’t make a team. Students credited staff with helping them stay organized and supported.

Board members responded with praise: several cited the student panel as a highlight and noted recent National Junior Honor Society inductions and other recognitions.

The presentation closed with a brief photo and refreshments; no formal board action was required.