Kansas City, Missouri: Positive Trends in School Performance Report
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has recently unveiled its Annual Performance Report (APR) scores for the 2023-2024 school year, revealing that 60% of Missouri schools have improved their scores compared to the previous year. The report highlights a renewed focus on literacy and math skills, alongside efforts to connect students with real-world learning opportunities.
Karla Eslinger, the state’s education commissioner, expressed optimism about these results. “We are at that tipping point,” Eslinger stated, emphasizing that the collaboration among teachers, leaders, and communities is beginning to show tangible improvements in education across the state. The median score for Missouri school districts in 2024 stands at 78.8%, up from 76% in 2023.
Growth in Graduation Rates
According to Lisa Sireno, assistant commissioner of the Office of Quality Schools, graduation rates have also seen a positive trend, with 635 more students earning their high school diplomas this year compared to last. DESE’s data shows that an impressive 94% of graduates are either employed, enrolled in college, serving in the military, or participating in other post-secondary education.
The scores further indicated a “modest” improvement in attendance among students. Eslinger noted that the state is using this data not just for tracking progress but as a guiding framework to ensure that the educational needs of every student are being met. “Overall, the statewide distribution of APR scores is showing positive movement because of the hard work at the local level,” she remarked.
Hickman Mills Seeks Reclassification
One district making significant strides is the Hickman Mills C-1 School District in south Kansas City, which regained its accreditation after losing it in 2012. Superintendent Dr. Yaw Obeng highlighted a strategic plan centered on student achievement, resulting in an APR score of 72.7%. However, Obeng argues that their true score should be 76.7%, claiming that inconsistencies in DESE’s reporting system have led to missing points in important categories such as Graduation Rate Data.
According to Obeng, annual improvements have been evident, stating, “We’ve been waiting many years for this, and we’ve done the work to be successful.” The district has invested in programs like a real-world learning center, which offers students various career pathway options to enhance year-round learning.
DESE’s Response
In response to Obeng’s concerns, DESE chief communication officer Mallory McGowin affirmed that the department acknowledges the district’s issues with data accuracy but believes there may be a misunderstanding regarding APR score calculations. “DESE will continue to work with Hickman Mills directly to resolve these questions,” she stated.
Eslinger confirmed that ongoing discussions are in place with Hickman Mills, aiming to ensure clarity and support. However, the timeline for reclassification remains uncertain, with the State Board of Education set to review accreditation statuses at their meeting on January 7, 2025.
Looking Ahead
The DESE will utilize the data from 2024 and 2025 to guide any potential changes in classifications. The reclassification process requires several conditions to be met, including superintendent certification and compliance with state laws. As this process unfolds, many in the education sector remain cautiously optimistic about future improvements.
Missouri’s education system is on the move, and the latest APR scores provide hope that sustained advocacy, strategic planning, and community effort will continue to elevate student success across the state.
