Brooks Brief for November

Post Written by Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks

I am thrilled to share the recent CCRPI results for Baldwin County Schools, which provide compelling evidence that our teachers are indeed doing the right work! The data confirms significant growth in student progress and readiness across all grade levels. These scores reflect the dedication and tireless effort of every teacher, administrator, and staff member. Congratulations to each teacher, support staff, and administrator as you make student learning and mastery of standards your focus every day. 

Highlights of Our CCRPI Gains

The results show a clear upward trend, demonstrating our students' increased preparedness for their next steps.

• Progress and Readiness Soar: Our students are showing outstanding growth:

• High School Progress: Baldwin High School's Progress score of 92.1 significantly exceeded the state average of 82.2.

• Middle School Progress: Oak Hill Middle School reported a Progress score of 87.4, an impressive +15.7-point increase, with Math surging by +22.68 points. Though OHMS is on the 2025-2026 Promise Scholarship list, this is a reminder that the data for this decision is lagging data that is over a year old. Continued positive trajectories are evident at OHMS and student achievement is increasing as measured by Georgia Milestone assessment data. 

• Closing Gaps: Oak Hill Middle School earned a perfect 100.0 in Closing Gaps, meeting performance improvement targets in ALL areas for Math, Science, and Social Studies.

• Readiness: Baldwin High School surpassed the state average in Readiness with a score of 77.3, and Elementary Readiness increased by 3.0 points to 83.2.

• Content Mastery Improvements: We saw improvements in Content Mastery across all levels: Elementary (2.9 points), Middle School (8.5 points), and High School (+4.2 points). High School gains were most impressive in U.S. History (+7.84) and Biology (+7.29)

District's Commitment: Literacy for All Scholars

While our progress is strong, the Georgia Milestones data highlights the continued need to intensify our focus on core content mastery, particularly Literacy Proficiency.

This is our commitment:

• Structured Literacy: We are providing evidence-aligned, structured literacy curriculum and training to our staff to build the foundational reading skills necessary for students to access complex content across all subjects.

• Science of Reading Curriculum: Core curriculum has been aligned to the science of reading to ensure ALL students are exposed to the rigor of academic vocabulary, reading on grade level fluently, and promoting deep comprehension through aligned writing tasks.

• Community Partnership: Through Baldwin Reads (LVA) and Baldwin Books with Bobcats (MHA), we have partnered with local industry and universities to ensure our students read 1 million words before the end of the school year, increasing the number of students who read on grade level. Our media specialists and school teams across the district continue to encourage and promote reading by actively checking out books from the library and increasing the number of minutes read each day. Be on the lookout as Malcom Mitchell's READ BOWL gets ready to kick off. Let's get a trophy (and Malcom!) to Baldwin!

Important District Updates

Policy IFCD: Volunteer Background Checks

During the November business meeting of the BOE, Policy IFCD, regarding school volunteers, was approved. For the safety of our students and staff, all volunteers who will have consistent and routine interaction with students are required to complete a National Criminal History Background Check. We thank all approved volunteers for their commitment to our students' safety and success! (For detailed procedures, please REVIEW HERE)

Fiscally Responsible Focus: Prioritizing Our Mission

To address the financial challenges presented by the uncertainty of federal funds and the increase in state vouchers to private schools, we must make responsible budget reductions.

We remain absolutely dedicated to providing a high-quality learning environment and supporting our employees. However, we are called to be vigilant stewards of taxpayer dollars.

This means:

• Purchases from general funds and federal funds will be streamlined and focused 

• No unbudgeted spending will be approved

While cost reductions are never easy, this process will ultimately strengthen our focus: student achievement. Thank you for your serious focus and understanding.

More specifics will be shared in the coming months as we begin the 2026-2027 budget process. Your input will be sought during this process as well. 

Strategic Planning Kicks Off in January

We are excited to announce that the process for developing our next five-year strategic plan will begin in January. This is a vital step in shaping the future of our district, and we look forward to engaging all stakeholders. Your voice will be critical in shaping our next steps!

High School Student Board Member

Beginning in January 2026, a high school student, selected through an application and selection process, will join the Board of Education governance team as a non-voting member. This student will bring an invaluable perspective to our board as we prepare today's students to become tomorrow's community leaders.

Cultivating Citizenship with Leader in Me

Our Leader in Me program and school Lighthouse teams continue to strengthen the citizenship component necessary for the future success of our students. We are proud of the way our students are developing leadership skills and positive habits.

Happy Holiday Season!

In closing this month's newsletter, I want to extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude to all who Believe in Baldwin. Your dedication is the foundation of our students' achievements.