West Carroll School Board Honors Long-Serving Employees, Reports on Strategic Improvements

ATWOOD (November 6) — At Thursday night’s meeting, the West Carroll School Board presented certificates with notes of written appreciation to employees who have been with the school system for twenty years or more.

Director of Schools Preston Caldwell expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you for your 20-plus years of dedication and loyalty to West Carroll.”

Chairman William Robinson added, “You all have set the example to give back to the school system.”

A total of 14 employees were present to receive their certificates. For those who were not present, the certificates were given to their respective principals to distribute.

Mr. Caldwell presented impressive statistics regarding the updated 5-Year Strategic Plan.

Chronic absenteeism dropped from 16.4 percent to 12.8 percent, and the graduation rate increased from 96 percent to 98 percent. Achievement in grades 2-5 for economically disadvantaged students rose from 20 percent to 29 percent. Achievement in grades 6-8 for all students rose from 26.5 percent to 31 percent. Similarly, achievement in grades 9-12 for all students rose from 26.5 percent to 31 percent. Mr. Caldwell was proud to announce these improvements to all present.

Principals of all three schools provided reports on events from the month of October, as well as goals and events planned for the coming month.

Mr. Caldwell reported that there have been no threats of violence in the district and that they do not currently see any effects from the government shutdown, which he will be monitoring closely. The primary school’s renovations are nearing completion, and they have already had an architect assess the elementary school.

Mr. Caldwell closed the meeting by reiterating the school system’s mission: “Prepare students for life beyond the classroom.”