Holyoke Public Schools is ending the 2024-25 school year celebrating significant accomplishments at every grade level in every school.
“Proud. Grateful. Amazed. Energized. Hopeful.” That’s how Superintendent Anthony Soto recently characterized his feelings as he reflected on Holyoke’s 10-year journey through state receivership, which is expected to end on July 1, 2025.
While the path through receivership didn’t always follow a straight line, the goal has remained firmly in sight: To ensure that all Holyoke students develop the skills and access the opportunities that will allow them to graduate high school prepared for life, career, and college.
While there’s still more work to be done to fully achieve the district’s vision, mission, core beliefs, and equity commitments, now is the time to celebrate all that staff, students, families, and the community have accomplished together, Mr. Soto said, citing a few examples:
This year’s graduation rate is the highest on record since the state began reporting cohort-based graduation rates in 2006.
Early literacy, reading and numeracy rates, English language acquisition, and biliteracy skills are improving.
More than 50% of students in grades 11-12 are enrolled in advanced coursework, and 86% of these students are students of color. This year, 134 high school students participated in work-based learning.
The district's common instructional vision is dedicated to providing engaging, rigorous instruction that meets diverse needs, fosters a love for learning, and prepares students for future success
Overall student attendance is higher while dropout rates are on the decline.
For additional information, please refer to the HPS website for a more complete look at recent accomplishments.
Looking ahead to the 2025-26 school year, Superintendent Soto said that district and school leaders have identified two priority areas of focus:
High-quality lessons using inclusive practices: HPS will continue its efforts to prepare for and deliver high-quality lessons across all tiers so ALL students are supported to develop grade-level skills and knowledge.
Belonging and well-being:
HPS will also continue to focus on strengthening a sense of belonging and well-being for all of our students and staff members.