Decatur students and staff began the new school year energized by last year’s achievements and focused on continued academic growth, stronger attendance, and lasting connections with families.

Academic Priorities

Superintendent Steve Watkins said the district’s four-day school week made the first two days a transition period before a full week of instruction begins Monday. The district recorded significant academic improvement last school year and wants to continue that progress.

Watkins said the district’s academic focus will include both classroom rigor and attendance. “We had a good school year last year. We saw a lot of great growth in achievement last year,” Watkins said. “That goes to show what a great staff that we have here at Decatur and their dedication to seeing students successful.”

Supporting Students and Families

The district will continue limiting student cellphone use during the school day. Watkins said the policy began last year and produced what he described as a positive response from students and families.

Decatur will again provide free breakfast and lunch for all students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The district also will provide school supplies. “All of our students K-12 eat free breakfast and lunch,” Watkins said. “We offer all the school supplies. Parents at Decatur would not need to be out any out-of-pocket money from their personal experiences for anything that’s school-related.”

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.