FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 15, 2023
Lyons Central School District Takes a Pivotal Step Forward
The Lyons Central School District has met another significant milestone in improving student achievement. The New York State Accountability System, which measures academic success, has published data that shows significant improvements throughout the district. This testing data comes a few months after the Lyons CSD Class of 2023 earned one of the district’s highest graduation rates spanning the past twenty years. District officials believe growth is rooted in actions resulting from the community-developed strategic plan, which was implemented with the recent "Restore the Roar" initiative.
Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Matthew Barr, the district has embarked on a transformative journey to reimagine its daily practices and processes. This deliberate shift has already begun to yield impressive results, with a noticeable improvement in academic performance. Grades 3-8 English Language Arts and Mathematics state test data shows the highest results in over a decade (data excludes years when NYS testing was impacted or unavailable due to COVID). Specifically, one of the bright spots is an improvement in 3-8 Math Results, as students in the district earned proficient scores at more than double the rate of prior years.
"Our instructional staff members are focused on developing a curriculum that not only imparts facts and knowledge but that is also engaging and relevant. Our Assistant Superintendent, our administrators, instructional coaches, and our teacher leaders have played crucial roles in the efforts to make this transformation happen," notes Dr. Barr.
A key component in the district's success is the implementation of the Orange Frog Workshops, a unique program that fosters a positive and optimistic culture within the educational community. Through workshops, trainings, and purposeful actions, positivity is infused into members of the district’s daily actions. The Orange Frog Philosophy promotes the idea that a positive mindset can lead to increased creativity, resilience, and well-being.
"Our commitment to the Orange Frog Principles is about more than just creating a positive atmosphere; it's about equipping students and staff with the tools to better approach challenges with hope and optimism" Dr. Barr stated.
In conjunction with the district’s academic growth is the recently approved capital project. Barr says that improvements to infrastructure signify a commitment to providing students with a learning environment that mirrors the innovation taking place in the classrooms. Upgraded facilities, modernized infrastructure, and cutting-edge technology are investments in the spaces where students learn. It is these improvements that he believes will help ensure a future that inspires further growth.
"The milestone we are celebrating today is a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated educators, staff, students, and really our entire community. This is a step, but certainly not the final step, in improving our district," Dr. Barr reflects. “Lyons has some of the best staff and students around, and I am excited to see what the future will bring. We will remain relentless in our commitment to continuous growth, to ensure that we provide students the opportunity to be successful not only now, but for long after they leave our school walls."