Guest Commentary | A year of real progress for our schools
This year has been one of the most encouraging and energizing years we’ve seen in the School District of Lee County. As someone who lives and works in this community, I’ve watched our students, teachers, and families pour their hearts into learning — and the results show just how powerful that commitment can be.
Our students are achieving at the highest level in a decade
Preliminary data show our district grew by 3 district grade points, reaching 63 total points — the strongest performance we’ve had in more than 10 years.
Behind that number are real students mastering tough content, teachers pushing for excellence, and families supporting learning every day.
It’s not just a statistic. It’s a reflection of a belief we all share: our kids can achieve incredible things when we give them the tools and support, they deserve.
We’re keeping our schools safe and our students supported
This year, we continued investing in school hardening measures and expanding mental health supports for students. Safety and well-being aren’t just priorities — they’re promises we make to every family who trusts us with their child each day.
Our buses are getting students to school — on time and ready to learn
One of the biggest improvements families felt firsthand was transportation. This year, over 98% of buses arrived on time, a huge jump from 80% last year. That means calmer mornings, smoother routines, and students starting their day ready to learn.
We’re being responsible with every dollar
We made $26.5 million in reductions at the District Office, and we didn’t just cut — we reinvested. Those dollars went straight to the classroom, especially toward teacher pay. Lee County led the entire state with an average 7% raise for teachers and a $4,000 increase in starting salary.
When we say we value our educators, we’re backing it up with action.
We strengthened our voice in Tallahassee
This year, we built stronger relationships with the Florida Legislature and successfully advocated for a change in state law. Because of that work, our district can now pay teachers up to an additional $10,000 for serving students who struggle the most in English Language Arts, Math, and Science.
This is a win for students, a win for teachers, and a win for Lee County.
Our classrooms are fully staffed
We made major progress in filling teacher vacancies, ensuring students have consistent, qualified educators in front of them every day. Stability matters — and our students feel the difference.
A community moving forward together
This year’s progress didn’t happen by accident. It happened because our community showed up-teachers, students, families, staff, and partners all pulling in the same direction.
Lee County is proving what’s possible when we believe in our kids, invest in our schools, and work together with purpose.
Jada Langford Fleming represents District 6 on the Lee County School Board.