The School Board approved several key action items in last night’s meeting, including the Striving for Comprehensive & Civic Readiness Plan for the 2024-2025 academic year, specific building goals for Rossman, Roosevelt, the Middle School, ALC, and High School, Lane Change Requests, and an additional staffing request for a Type III driver.
Superintendent Mark Jensen presented the State of the District Annual Report for the 2023-2024 school year, highlighting student involvement and academic achievement successes. According to Jensen’s report, 82% of students took part in one or more after-school activities, and the district’s graduation rate reached 89.3%, surpassing the state’s rate of 83.3%. Other student demographics include 1.1% English Language Learners, 22.4% Special Education students, 2.4% homeless students, and 44.9% receiving free or reduced-price meals.
Updates on district technology infrastructure showcased significant progress. Recent network upgrades now provide 5 to 20 times more bandwidth between buildings, a 10 GB Internet connection, a centralized phone system, and in-classroom technology improvements, including digital displays under two years old in 183 classrooms, replacing displays over a decade old. Across the district, there are now over 3,000 wireless devices available to students and staff.
Renee Kerzmann, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology, also introduced the Striving for Comprehensive & Civic Readiness Plan. The plan, aimed at enhancing student engagement and preparing them for civic responsibilities, received unanimous approval from the board.
A positive update on the district’s “Focus on Attendance” initiative revealed an increase in student attendance, showing that school efforts to engage students and reduce absences are making an impact.