The Cherry Creek School District Board of Education meeting on January 13, 2025, focused on key educational goals and progress updates regarding student literacy and proficiency. The district aims to enhance student performance across critical grade levels, specifically targeting grades 2, 4, 8, and 10, which are pivotal for academic development.

Superintendent Smith outlined ambitious proficiency goals for the upcoming years. By 2025, the district aims for 60% of second graders to demonstrate reading proficiency on the STAAR assessment, an increase from 45.4% to 56% for fourth graders on CMASS, and an increase from 51.4% to 61% for eighth graders. Additionally, tenth graders are expected to improve their proficiency from 75% to 80% on the PSAT.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing implementation of the Cherry Creek Literacy Plan, now in its second year. Data presented showed a positive trend, with schools reporting increased success in literacy instruction. The district is focusing on seven components of universal literacy instruction, including data-driven decision-making, which has been identified as an area needing further support.

Celebrating early successes, the district noted significant growth in literacy among Title 1 schools, with an increase in students scoring at or above benchmark levels. This progress is attributed to strategic actions taken to enhance data literacy and targeted interventions for students requiring additional support.

Looking ahead, the district plans to continue refining its approach to literacy instruction, emphasizing the importance of understanding student experiences and needs. The board discussed the necessity of aligning professional development and instructional strategies to better support educators and students alike.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving literacy outcomes and ensuring that all students have the resources and support necessary to succeed academically. The next steps will involve ongoing data analysis and targeted interventions to meet the established proficiency goals.