Florence School District Outlines Summer Projects, Busing Changes, Policy Updates, and Growth Ahead of 2026–2027 School Year

 As the school year comes to a close, the Florence School District is preparing for a busy summer of facility upgrades, policy reviews, academic planning, and continued growth in student programs, according to a year‑end message from Superintendent and Elementary Principal Mitch Reed.

Reed thanked students, families, staff, and community members for their support throughout the year, noting that preparations for the 2026–2027 school year are already well underway.

Strong Summer School Participation Expected

Summer school information has been sent to families, with opportunities again available for students in grades K–5. The district anticipates another strong turnout and credits families for their commitment to keeping students engaged academically during the summer months.

Policy Reviews and Program Planning Continue

District administrators and staff will spend the summer reviewing and updating several key areas, including:

• Student and parent handbooks

• Discipline procedures

• Cell phone expectations

• Nurse policies

• Special education caseloads

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Budget priorities, staffing needs, and new program implementation are also being evaluated as part of the district’s ongoing improvement efforts.

Career and Technical Education Participation Growing

Student interest in Northeast Technical High School (NTHS) continues to rise. The district currently has 41 students enrolled or on the waiting list for NTHS programs. With increased participation comes increased cost, and next year’s projected investment is approximately $81,000.

Reed said the district views these opportunities as valuable career‑building experiences that support students’ long‑term success.

Major Facility Improvements Underway

Several building and infrastructure projects are planned or already in progress, including:

• HVAC upgrades

• Concrete and grounds work.

• Technology and audio enhancements between buildings

• Improvements in newly renovated classrooms

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Construction also continues on the district’s new building project. Groundbreaking took place on May 18, and crews are currently working on the foundation ahead of steel arriving later this summer. Classroom layouts have been adjusted to utilize space for students and staff better.

Transportation Changes Affect Watertown Drop-Off

The district is continuing discussions with neighboring districts regarding bus routes and transportation services. The Watertown School District recently informed Florence officials that Florence buses will no longer be allowed to drop students off at the Boys & Girls Club after school.

Under state law, Watertown may limit Florence to one pickup location within city limits. At this time, the Watertown Armory is the only approved pick‑up and drop‑off site for Florence students using district transportation.

Academic Data Shows Growth, With Areas for Continued Focus

Reed said staff is reviewing spring assessment data, including Smarter Balanced and MAP testing results. While Smarter Balanced scores highlight areas needing improvement, MAP results show strong student growth across grade levels. Staff will continue analyzing data to support student achievement.

Improving Communication and Student Accountability

The district is also reviewing expectations around student behavior, communication with families, and cell phone procedures. One priority moving forward is improving communication with parents regarding missing assignments, mirroring the systems already used for behavior notifications.

Staffing and Enrollment Planning Continues

As the district prepares for next year, discussions around staffing, enrollment, and classroom placement remain ongoing. Reed emphasized that the district is committed to making decisions that best support both students and staff as the district continues to grow.