The Ralph Raider food shelf saw an unprecedented level of community support, receiving 105 donations totaling $177,258.46. Superintendent Diane reported that over 41,000 pounds of food were donated in November, more than doubling the previous year’s amount. This outpouring of generosity was attributed to efforts by schools, student groups, and district staff who organized food drives. The board expressed profound gratitude for the community’s support, emphasizing its impact during the holiday season and the ongoing issue of food insecurity.

Financially, the board approved a property tax levy of $72,955,573.36 for 2026, as presented by Paula Steele, the director of finance. This figure represents an $8.6 million increase over the previous year, driven by a $10 million voter-approved capital project levy and a $1.4 million decrease in debt service. The levy was passed without discussion.

The meeting also focused on educational achievements and future goals. A comprehensive report on achievement and civic readiness highlighted that 76% of four-year-olds met kindergarten readiness goals, surpassing the target. The district also reported a graduation rate increase to 97% for the class of 2024, although English learners remained below the 90% mark. Efforts to enhance support for multilingual learners and guide students in their four-year planning were credited for these improvements.

In terms of college and career readiness, the district noted an increase in ACT scores, bucking national and state trends. The introduction of a new career planning software, School Links, aims to better support students in their post-secondary transitions, replacing the older Naviance tool. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to engage students with career interest surveys, guest speakers, and internships, tailored to their individual interests.

The board’s discussion also addressed access to rigorous coursework. The district has maintained a high participation rate in college credit courses and is working to reduce racial disparities in Advanced Placement (AP) course participation. The participation gap has decreased from 8% to approximately 6%. The board emphasized the need to continue addressing these disparities.

Further, the board reviewed efforts to close racial and economic achievement gaps, particularly in state math assessments for Hispanic and Black students. Recent data shows a slight increase in proficiency, and the district is optimistic about reaching its 2026 target due to new middle school resources and support systems in place.

In terms of workforce diversity, the board set a target to increase the percentage of teachers of color to 6% by 2026, up from 4.9% in 2022. The current rate of 5.9% reflects ongoing efforts through the “grow your own” program, which supports students and adults within the district pursuing teaching careers.

The meeting also took time to honor Diane Glasheen, who is stepping down as board chair after eight years of service. Board members praised her leadership and dedication, acknowledging the challenges faced during her tenure, including navigating the district through the COVID-19 pandemic. Glasheen expressed gratitude for the support she received from her colleagues, family, and the community, reflecting on her journey from volunteering to serving on the board.