Minooka High Reading Scores Decline Yet Remain Above State Average

Reading assessment scores at Minooka Community High School have decreased over the past academic year, although they still exceed state averages. This trend was highlighted during a school board meeting on August 20, 2025, where Phil Pakowski, the assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, presented an analysis of state assessment testing results.

Scores from Pre-ACT and ACT assessments for students in various grades showed a downward trajectory. For instance, freshman Pre-ACT Growth scores in reading dropped from 18.4 in the fall to 17.3 in the spring. Similarly, sophomore scores fell from 19.0 to 18.8, while junior ACT scores decreased from 20.3 to 19.7. These figures prompted extensive discussion among board members regarding potential causes for the decline.

Pakowski attributed the dip to broader societal trends, particularly noting that students may not be reading as much as in previous years. He stated, “I don’t think our students are reading as much as they used to. I think the cellphone is a big issue, along with attention span, and it’s not for a lack of our teachers trying and our teachers working with our students.”

As the new academic year unfolds, Minooka 111 is implementing strategies aimed at improving reading assessment scores alongside other core subjects. Pakowski mentioned that several teachers have enrolled in ACT mastery courses to enhance classroom instruction. Additionally, efforts are underway to integrate reading instruction across various subjects, providing students with a more comprehensive educational experience.

Despite the recent declines, Minooka 111 continues to perform above state averages in all four ACT subject areas. The high school’s composite ACT score for the past year was 19.6, surpassing the state average of 18.7.

Budget and Transportation Updates for Minooka 111

During the same board meeting, the budget for the 2025-26 school year was also discussed. John Troy, assistant superintendent of business and general counsel, provided an overview of the district’s finances, which will be finalized by the end of September as required by state law. The budget reflects approximately 6% growth in equalized assessed value, as reported by state officials.

Troy emphasized that the district maintains solid fund balances, remaining within the board’s target of 15% to 20% for fund reserves. “We still have very solid fund balances,” he stated. “We will be tweaking this budget as the month unfolds, and we will be presenting the final budget at the budget hearing in September.”

Additionally, Superintendent Robert Schiffbauer reported on transportation changes for the new school year. This year marks the first instance of resource pooling between Minooka 111 and Minooka Community Consolidated School District 201, with Minooka 111 overseeing operations for both districts. Schiffbauer acknowledged that the first day of school was challenging, but noted improvements have been made to ensure efficient transportation for students.

As Minooka Community High School embarks on the new academic year, the district remains focused on addressing reading scores while also navigating budgetary and operational challenges.