The Hendry County School District's recent meeting highlighted both achievements and challenges in its strategic planning, focusing on academic performance, school culture, and community engagement.

One of the key discussions centered around academic proficiency goals. The district aimed for a 40% to 60% proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) and a 40% to 70% increase in math and algebra. However, the results showed only a slight increase in ELA from 43% to 44% and in math from 45% to 47%, indicating that these goals were not met. The change in test items was noted as a complicating factor in comparing results year over year.

In contrast, the district successfully improved its school culture and climate, achieving a rise in attendance rates from 87.9% to 94.4% and reducing suspension rates by over 62% since 2020. These accomplishments reflect a positive shift in the school environment, which is crucial for student success.

Teacher recruitment and retention also emerged as a significant topic. The district aimed to eliminate non-credentialed staff positions, reducing vacancies from 49 to zero, and to improve teacher retention from 88% to 95%. While the retention rate reached 93.6%, it fell short of the goal, prompting discussions on new strategies to enhance staff stability.

Family and community engagement saw positive results, with increased communication and parent attendance at conferences exceeding the targeted 10% growth. This improvement underscores the district's commitment to fostering strong relationships with families.

Fiscal stewardship was another area of focus, with the district meeting its goal of maintaining a healthy fund balance and minimizing returned grant funds. This financial stability is essential for supporting ongoing educational initiatives.

Looking ahead, the district is actively seeking community input to refine its strategic plan. Upcoming town hall meetings will provide opportunities for parents and residents to share their thoughts and suggestions, ensuring that the plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.

In summary, while the Hendry County School District has made strides in several areas, particularly in school culture and community engagement, it faces ongoing challenges in academic performance and teacher retention. The district's commitment to continuous improvement and community involvement will be vital as it works towards achieving its educational goals.