Forest Hills Education Leaders Discuss Student Retention and Preschool Outreach Strategies

The Forest Hills Public Schools Special Board of Education Meeting held on March 19, 2024, focused on key issues affecting student engagement and retention within the district. The meeting began with discussions on the importance of collaboration among students, staff, and parents to ensure successful educational outcomes. A board member emphasized that if two out of three groups—students, staff, and parents—are not ready for changes, it is crucial to address the concerns of the group that is hesitant before moving forward with significant adjustments.

The conversation then shifted to recent changes in school schedules, including the introduction of hybrid courses and a lab for virtual learning. These adjustments were made to alleviate traffic issues and better accommodate students' needs. The board member noted that successful implementation of changes relies heavily on the readiness of the involved groups, particularly highlighting the importance of student support.

Another significant topic discussed was the district's student retention strategy. The board acknowledged that while Forest Hills has a commendable 94% capture rate of resident students, there is still a need to address the outflow of students to other districts. The board member pointed out that many families choose private preschool programs that lead into their elementary education, which can limit the exposure of these families to the offerings of Forest Hills schools.

To combat this, the board discussed the potential for establishing stronger connections with local preschool providers to ensure that families are aware of the educational opportunities available in the district. The board also recognized a trend of student attrition during transitional phases, such as moving from elementary to middle school and from middle to high school. Understanding the reasons behind these departures, often linked to sports or dissatisfaction with school experiences, was deemed essential for improving retention.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the need for enhanced communication and collaboration among the district, families, and local preschool programs to foster a supportive educational environment. The board expressed a commitment to exploring these relationships further to ensure that Forest Hills remains a competitive choice for families in the area.