INDEPENDENCE, Ohio – Independence schools achieved a top grade of five stars on this year’s Ohio School Report Cards.
“We are incredibly proud that Independence Local Schools has earned the highest rating of five stars on the state report card this year,” said Superintendent Kelli Cogan.
“This recognition reflects the hard work of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the unwavering support of our families and community. While these results are a strong measure of success, they represent just one part of who we are as a district. Our focus remains on cultivating a legacy of excellence by ensuring every student is known, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.”
The ratings are issued annually by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and confirmed Independence schools as having strong performance across multiple areas and scoring top marks in several key categories.
A school statement said: “While these results are an important measure of success, they represent only part of the district’s well-rounded approach to education.”
The district scored an overall rating of five stars based on a weighted formula of multiple categories. It scored a five for achievement in Ohio state tests and end of course examinations and four stars for progress in academic performance compared to expected growth. The district is currently reviewing its K-12 curriculum to address gaps.
In the ‘Gap Closing’ category the district scored five stars indicating it is meeting performance expectations in English language, arts, math and graduation, and it also scored a maximum five stars for its graduation rate and early literacy.
A four-star rating was given for the schools’ college, career, workforce and military readiness which measures how well a student is prepared for life after high school.
The school statement added a quality profile in-depth report will be published next month to provide a comprehensive overview of the district’s achievements, innovative programs, and student successes. The statement said: “The quality profile will provide a full picture of the district’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, future-ready students and cultivating a legacy of excellence.”