Four Indian River schools hit 90% third‑grade reading; district reports strong multi‑year gains

The School Board of Indian River County on June 1 spotlighted four elementary schools that reached or exceeded the district’s 90% third‑grade reading benchmark and presented data showing districtwide gains across multiple subjects.

Superintendent Dr. Moore introduced a short video and said Oyola, Rosewood, Beachland and Liberty third‑grade cohorts each met or exceeded the 90% threshold (the superintendent cited figures of about 93 for Oyola, 91 for Rosewood, 95 for Beachland and 95.1 for Liberty). He framed the achievement as the result of sustained, districtwide literacy priorities and classroom practice.

The presentation expanded to multi‑year trends: Dr. Moore said district ELA proficiency (grades 3–10) has increased faster than the state’s rate, with the district moving from roughly the low‑60s to mid‑60s–70s in several grade groups. He reported similar upward trends in math, citing a district overall math rate near the mid‑60s and larger gains at the elementary level. Social studies, civics and science scores were also described as improving above state averages.

"This is a monumental achievement by the school," Dr. Moore said, noting the district has prioritized early‑grade reading as a lever to improve performance across subjects. He told the board that official district and school grades will be released later by the state and that the district is awaiting that validation.

Board members praised teachers and principals and thanked families and community partners. Several directors and board members highlighted that improvements in third‑grade reading have a compounding effect as those students progress through middle and high school.

The presentation closed with a promise to continue focusing resources on instruction and on building sustainable practices that support students and teachers. The superintendent said the district will publish validated grades and additional details once the state posts the official results.

The meeting then moved to public input and other agenda items.