The School District of Palm Beach County earned an "A" rating from the Florida Department of Education for the third consecutive year. This year, 143 district-operated schools, or 84%, received "A" or "B" ratings, an increase from 120 schools the previous year. The district also achieved a record graduation rate of 93.5%. District leaders reported that 86% of seniors participated in college-level coursework, taking at least one Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Advanced International Certificate of Education, or Dual Enrollment course. Additionally, 144 recent graduates earned an associate degree alongside their high school diploma.
S.D. Spady Elementary School in Delray Beach achieved one of the district's most dramatic improvements, jumping from a "C" rating to an "A" this year. Principal Rona Tata, who has served as principal for 15 years after five years as assistant principal, led the turnaround. Three years ago, the school modified its early childhood curriculum program, which starts at age 3 and combines with kindergarten. Those students are now in third grade and performing at higher levels. Spady Elementary was one of four district schools to improve from a "C" to an "A" rating this year, along with Dwight D. Eisenhower K-8, Glade View Elementary, and West Gate Elementary.