Baldwin
LAURINBURG — Scotland County Schools has made significant strides in several areas of academic achievement, according to the 2023-24 Accountability Data Report that was released by the Department of Public Instruction on Sept. 5.
For the 2023-24 school year, 80% of the district’s schools met or exceeded growth expectations. Notably, three schools — Scotland Early College High (SEarCH), South Johnson Elementary, and Sycamore Lane Elementary — improved by a full letter grade.
The district’s four-year cohort graduation rate also increased more than one percentage point to 87.8%, surpassing the North Carolina state average of 86.9%. While official dropout data will be released in October, school officials are optimistic that the district’s dropout rate will continue its downward trend.
In addition to these achievements, the district demonstrated improvements in 18 out of 21 tested areas, reflecting “the effectiveness of our educational strategies and the dedication of our staff.” Currently, the district is also 98% staffed.
“Overall, these scores are a testament to a great team effort,” Superintendent Dr. Adell Baldwin remarked. “We know that we still have a lot of work to do, but I am so proud of the strides that we have made.” Baldwin continued, “One of the things that I’m most proud of though, and what these scores don’t necessarily measure, is the level of energy and excitement that is in the buildings from both students and staff. We are all looking forward to a great school year.”
Local school officials will provide further comments on the report at the upcoming Board of Education meeting scheduled for Sept. 9, 2024, at 6 p.m.