Staff report

NORTH LIMA — The South Range Local School District has announced a historic academic achievement for its district. For the first time in more than 10 years, 80% of South Range students met or exceeded reading performance benchmarks on all seven state tests.

These results span elementary literacy through high school English II, yielding previously unrealized growth rates in the district’s achievement areas, according to the district.

This announcement comes as a result of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce recently releasing preliminary scores for grade-levels that tested subjects such as literacy, numeracy, the sciences and social studies within the achievement component. South Range’s results demonstrate strong achievement across every tested reading area.

“This milestone reflects the district’s unwavering commitment to the Raider Way — a culture of excellence built on high expectations, continuous improvement and student-centered learning,” South Range Schools Superintendent Jarred Zapolnik said.

South Range’s literacy achievement culminates a decade of progress. Over the past 10 years, the district has implemented data-driven instructional improvements with stronger curriculum alignment, optimized progress-monitoring and targeted student support, resulting in elevated performances across all grade levels, its news release states.

“Reading is the foundation upon which all learning is built,” Zapolnik said. “This accomplishment demonstrates what can happen when an entire community comes together around a shared vision of excellence. Our students have worked incredibly hard, our teachers have embraced evidence-based instructional practices, and our families have partnered with us every step of the way. This is a tremendous accomplishment for Raider Nation.”