Pickerington Local: Background

Section Objectives

At the completion of this section, participants will be able to understand the community and history of Pickerington Local School District, along with its academic profile.

Introduction to Pickerington Local Schools

Located just east of Columbus, Pickerington Local School District is the fifteenth largest school district in the state of Ohio, serving over 11,500 students across 14 campuses. Drawing families from across the state and even the nation, Pickerington Schools is a destination district with a diverse community of learners and an excellent academic and athletic reputation. The district's mission is to provide an engaging, innovative, and holistic learning experience that empowers all students to become responsible, productive citizens.

Pickerington’s students come from 73 countries and speak over 58 languages. The student body is 7.8% Asian or Pacific Islander, 31.8% Black, Non-Hispanic, 6.5% Hispanic, 7.5% Multiracial, and 46.3% White, Non-Hispanic.

Pickerington’s district-level student reading achievement results showed a dip in students’ reading performance in the later elementary grades. The data revealed gaps in students’ foundational reading skills, which prompted its pursuit of high-quality English language arts instructional materials based on the science of reading.

“Pickerington is a rapidly growing district. Our English learner numbers have skyrocketed. We have been very blessed with a rich increase of students from different backgrounds and everything that they bring to us. We have also seen an increase of students receiving free or reduced lunch and in our number of title buildings. We have 14 schools, seven elementaries, three middle schools, two junior high schools, two high schools, and one alternative school (15 schools but 14 school buildings). We also have a preK-inclusive program, which is a special education program with typical peers. It is a very tight community that is very involved with the schools.”  

Leslie Kelly, Executive Director, Teaching and Learning 

Reflection Questions

  • What are the assets of your district, school, and community?  
  • What opportunities exist in your district, school, and community? 

Learn More

Find more information about the district on the Pickerington Local School District website.

 

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