The St. Francis Area Schools Board meeting on June 23, 2025, spotlighted critical educational goals and strategies aimed at improving student performance and discipline. A significant concern emerged regarding third-grade literacy, where recent FastBridge screening data revealed a drop in students achieving grade-level proficiency—from 57% to 49%—prompting a renewed focus on enhancing reading skills.

Board members discussed the importance of addressing this decline, emphasizing that while the numbers may reflect a trend, they do not diminish the efforts of teachers and students. The meeting also highlighted the district's commitment to closing the achievement gap, particularly for students receiving special education services, where progress is being made.

In addition to academic performance, the board reviewed discipline data, noting a positive trend with a decrease in disciplinary incidents compared to the previous year. However, the need for further evaluation of discipline strategies was acknowledged, with discussions around reinstating school resource officers and expanding the Genesis program, which provides alternative learning opportunities for students instead of suspensions.

The board also addressed college and career readiness, suggesting a reevaluation of current assessment methods to better reflect students' preparedness for life after graduation. The latest graduation rate data showed an increase to 90.3% for the 2023-2024 school year, indicating progress in this area.

Looking ahead, the board plans to refine strategies for literacy and math proficiency, with a focus on aligning assessments with current classroom instruction. The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhancing the image of the State's Academy, promoting it as a viable option for students seeking a smaller, more supportive learning environment.

As the district prepares for the upcoming school year, these discussions set the stage for targeted improvements in both academic achievement and student well-being, aiming to create a more effective and inclusive educational experience for all students.