Scott County Schools Board Recognizes Student Achievements and Addresses Performance Metrics in Recent Meeting

Georgetown, Kentucky – The Scott County Schools Board of Education recently recognized student achievements and discussed school performance metrics from the ongoing 2023-2024 academic year during a meeting held on November 1, 2024.

Superintendent Billy Parker highlighted the district’s initiative to integrate the “profile of a learner” into school curriculum, particularly at Southern Elementary, which began nominating students of the month based on key competencies and Leader in Me habits. Parker awarded medals to five students for their exemplary behavior as good citizens.

Assistant Superintendent of Student Learning, Stephanie Emmons, presented changes in performance evaluations under the newly implemented accountability system by the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE). The system uses a comprehensive School Report Card to inform performance standards. For example, Emmons noted a drop in the proficiency index for elementary English Language from 70.1 in the previous year to 67, which, despite still being categorized as “very high,” reflects a -3.1 decline.

Emmons reassured the board that despite this slight decrease, twelve out of fourteen schools in the district performed at a medium level or better, emphasizing the importance of overall performance versus isolated metrics. The accountability system includes a change indicator to assess performance changes year-to-year, prompting district officials to identify areas for improvement.

The board celebrated notable successes, particularly for Stamping Ground Elementary and Scott County Middle, which demonstrated the most significant improvement. Emmons pointed out that since the 2021-2022 school year, four schools had officially exited Targeted School Improvement (TSI) status, thus avoiding more extensive intervention from KDE.

Parker outlined plans for further evaluation of other schools still under TSI status, which will involve a two-day visit by educational experts from KDE. The goal is to collaboratively develop new strategies for improvement while ensuring that all schools maintain a focus on growth.

In addition to academic discussions, the board approved construction updates for a new elementary school and changes to current projects. Clotfelter/Samokar Vice President Tony Thomas reported a minor cost increase of 0.21 percent and 0.62 percent for the high school and athletic complex, respectively. The board approved the final schematics for the proposed tenth elementary school, which includes a fortified storm shelter and additional classroom resources.

As the district continues to improve its educational strategy and facilities, officials remain committed to enhancing student performance and ensuring a positive learning environment across all schools.