In a recent government meeting, officials presented the outcomes of the district's summer reading and graduation readiness camps, highlighting significant improvements in student literacy and credit recovery. The summer programs, designed for students in grades two through eight and high school, aimed to bolster reading skills and support students at risk of falling behind academically.

The \"Getting Ready\" summer camps, which took place over 15 days in June, served 974 out of 2,232 invited students. The program focused on foundational reading skills, comprehension, and fluency, utilizing targeted instruction based on district data. Notably, students demonstrated substantial progress, with many moving from below-target reading levels to on-target levels after intensive instruction. For instance, second graders increased their reading speed by an average of 13 words per minute, surpassing typical growth rates.

Middle school camps also reported positive outcomes, with 6th to 8th graders showing average growth in word recognition and fluency. Enrichment activities, including arts and physical education, complemented the rigorous academic focus, contributing to a well-rounded experience for participants.

The high school \"Graduation Ready\" program provided critical support for students who had not completed necessary courses. Of the 491 students who attended, the percentage on track for graduation rose from 44% to 70%, indicating a successful recovery of credits across various subjects.

Feedback from staff and students was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to participate again next summer. However, officials acknowledged the need to improve attendance rates and ensure that more students in need are invited to future camps.

Moving forward, the district plans to integrate successful strategies from the summer programs into the school year and continue supporting students who require additional help to graduate on time. The meeting concluded with commendations for the staff's efforts and a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes for all students.