Negron highlights assessment gains, graduation rates and partnerships in year‑in‑review

Superintendent Doctor Negron framed the 2025–26 school year as the second year of the district’s 'Path to Excellence' strategic plan and presented preliminary metrics the administration says show progress across academics, attendance and post‑graduation outcomes.

Negron cited preliminary Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) results showing a 1.2 percentage‑point increase in third–eighth grade students scoring level 3 or above in English language arts, and reported gains in other measures: a 2‑point gain in third‑grade reading accuracy, increases in NGSS proficiency (6% in grade 11, 3% in grade 8), and an algebra readiness outcome with 76% of enrolled students scoring a 3 or 4 on the SBA. He also highlighted graduation and postsecondary destinations: 1,227 students (including summer graduates) earned high‑school diplomas; about 73% were reported to be headed to two‑ or four‑year colleges.

The superintendent attributed part of the success to targeted resource allocation, professional learning, and community partnerships with Yale, SCSU, the New Haven Chamber of Commerce and industry partners such as Electric Boat. He told the board the district protected approximately 72 positions for the next fiscal year through advocacy and budget management. Board members praised the report while also emphasizing ongoing staffing shortfalls and the importance of continuing data quality work.