The meeting also focused on the district’s operational plan for 2025-2026, detailing improvement projects aligned with strategic anchors like engaged, enthusiastic learners and effective operations. This plan aims to personalize learning experiences. Superintendent Jeff Ronneberg and Dr. Hopron emphasized the importance of readiness for students’ futures. The operational plan, which integrates feedback and innovative learning approaches, provides a three to five-year outlook on student engagement and achievement.

Student achievement data was another key discussion point, with particular attention paid to fourth and eighth graders’ proficiency in reading and math. The data revealed that students with fewer risk factors had higher proficiency rates, yet those facing more challenges showed significant growth. Notably, students eligible for free and reduced-price lunch exhibited lower proficiency rates but met or exceeded growth targets from fall to spring. For eighth graders, engagement increased with opportunities for choice and collaboration, with 87% reporting high interest in their most engaging classes. The board’s analysis highlighted the importance of sustained growth over time, with students in the district for four years or more achieving higher proficiency rates.

The board also discussed college credit attainment among recent graduates. For instance, 74% of the class of 2023 and 83% of the class of 2024 participated in at least one college credit course. Additionally, nearly half of the 2024 class earned 12 or more college credits by the end of their senior year, with a significant majority taking multiple Pathways classes. The meeting addressed the impact of special education services on graduation rates, noting that students in supportive programs like Thrive are counted against graduation statistics despite the program’s benefits.

Updates were provided from the second week of school, with Superintendent Jeff Ronneberg reporting a positive atmosphere among students and staff. He noted the successful integration of approximately 50 new staff members and the high retention rate of existing personnel. Kindergarten camp, which facilitated the transition for over 250 new kindergarteners, was highlighted as a successful initiative. The superintendent also emphasized community engagement, referencing activities that connected elementary students with high school football players.

The board addressed the upcoming operating levy referendum, stressing its importance and urging community involvement in understanding its implications. The board welcomed community discussions and presentations regarding the levy.

In a lighter segment of the meeting, student representatives shared updates on ongoing extracurricular activities, including the tennis season and preparations for homecoming events. The homecoming dance was confirmed to take place in the high school cafeteria.

Finally, the meeting concluded with acknowledgments of community contributions and expressions of gratitude for the support received by students and staff. The board expressed appreciation for the emotional support provided during recent challenging times.