In a recent government meeting, education officials highlighted significant academic improvements across several schools, emphasizing the importance of both celebrating successes and addressing ongoing challenges in student performance.

At East San Jose Elementary School, notable gains were reported, with third to fifth graders achieving a 19.1 percentage point increase in reading scores and a 19.7 percentage point increase in math scores. Principal Eder Ortiz was recognized for his leadership and the hard work of the staff. The meeting also showcased impressive results from other schools, including Sandia Base Elementary, which saw a 27.8% increase in reading, and MacArthur Elementary, which recorded a 32% increase in math scores after merging resources from a closed school.

Middle schools also demonstrated progress, with Grant Middle School achieving a 15.4 percentage point increase in math and Eisenhower Middle School a 16.8 percentage point increase. The meeting underscored the importance of career-connected learning, exemplified by Valley High School's welding program, which has successfully prepared students for careers in trade fields, with many graduating with OSHA certification.

Community support initiatives were also highlighted, such as the walking school bus organized by Wilson Middle School's community school coordinator, Kelly Davis, aimed at ensuring student safety during commutes.

While celebrating these achievements, officials acknowledged the need for continued efforts to improve reading and math proficiency and graduation rates. The commitment to enhancing educational outcomes for all students was reiterated, with a call for collective responsibility among leadership to ensure effective systems are in place for student success.