EDITOR’S NOTE: This is one in a series looking at what Lake County communities, agencies and school districts experienced in 2024 and what is facing them in 2025. The Wickliffe School District is reflecting on a year of achievements and preparing for 2025 as 2024 draws to a close. Superintendent Joseph Spiccia reported that the district achieved a 100% graduation rate in 2024, underscoring the commitment to student success. The district also introduced three new dual enrollment courses in Allied Health, Pro MBA and Programming and Software Development, further expanding opportunities for students. Additionally, the district’s annual career fair saw participation from 47 businesses and organizations, helping students explore career paths and network with industry leaders. The Family Resource Center made a significant impact throughout the year by serving more than 1,700 clients and securing a $100,000 grant from the Cleveland Foundation. Spiccia said that Wickliffe’s facilities and staff also earned notable recognition. The Campus of Wickliffe received the 2024 Outstanding Project Award from Learning by Design Magazine and the 2024 Showcase Award from the Willoughby Western Lake County Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, teachers, students and coaches received prestigious honors, including the following: • Michelle Fall and Julia Thornhill being nominated for the Franklin B. Walter Outstanding Educator Award. • Vince McGill receiving the R.A. Horn Outstanding Student Award. • Marlana Mucciarone and Steve Gribovicz named Coaches of the Year in softball and girls’ soccer, respectively. • Eliza Wills and Ava Gabriel earning All-Ohio honors in girls’ soccer and basketball. Meanwhile, the Wickliffe School Board recently approved a strategic plan for 2025–2029. Key initiatives include improving mathematics outcomes; expanding humanities course offerings; revisiting grading practices to ensure accurate reflection of student knowledge; enhancing communication with underserved populations; and balancing fiscal responsibility with high-quality educational experiences. “This plan reflects our ongoing commitment to student achievement and equity,” Spiccia said. While optimism abounds, the district faces significant challenges in the coming year, Spiccia said. “A projected deficit will require the district to propose a levy in 2025 with efforts underway to minimize the financial burden on the community,” he said. “State-level legislative changes pose another hurdle, particularly in areas like technology, curriculum, coaching requirements and support for vulnerable students.” Additionally, the growing teacher shortage is beginning to affect Wickliffe as well as districts statewide, Spiccia said. “We remain proactive in addressing these challenges through careful planning and collaboration with our community,” he said. Despite these obstacles, the district continues to prioritize innovation, student success and community engagement. “With a track record of excellence and a clear vision for the future, the district is well-positioned to navigate 2025 and beyond,” Spiccia said.