Fort Recovery Schools Earn Five-Star Rating, Expand Student and Staff Programs

Fort Recovery Local Schools is beginning the new academic year with a five-star state report card and several programs aimed at improving literacy, leadership and communication.

Superintendent Tony Stahl discussed the district’s progress during an appearance on WCSM’s Spectrum. Stahl is entering his fourth year as superintendent after previously serving as the district’s middle school and high school principal.

The district earned an overall five-star rating on Ohio’s latest school report card, matching its rating from the previous year. Stahl credited students, employees, parents and the Fort Recovery community for the district’s performance.

Fort Recovery is also expanding its focus on literacy. District literacy specialist Abby Scheidt was selected to serve as a ReadOhio coach, providing access to additional training and resources that can be shared with teachers throughout the district.

A middle school science club is also expanding a hydroponics program that began last year. Students are growing produce indoors and in an outdoor garden, with some of the food expected to be used by the school cafeteria.

The district has also introduced its Indians Leadership Academy. Participating employees meet monthly to hear from local professionals, study leadership topics and develop skills they can apply in classrooms, athletics, transportation and other areas of the district.

Another change this year is the implementation of ParentSquare. The communication platform consolidates classroom announcements, district notices, weather delays and other information into one system for parents.

Stahl said the district is also developing guidelines for the responsible use of artificial intelligence. Ohio school districts were required to adopt an AI policy and establish a work group to help determine appropriate training and safeguards for students and employees.

Future facility projects under consideration include improvements at the football and track stadium, additional storage and officials’ facilities, and possible sound and lighting upgrades in the auditorium.

More information about district programs is available through the Fort Recovery Local Schools website.