Independence Local Schools Superintendent Kelli Cogan joined fellow educational leaders as a panelist during the Cuyahoga Valley Chamber of Commerce State of the Schools event held May 13 at the Holiday Inn in Independence.
During the discussion, Cogan shared updates on the district’s continued progress in academics, curriculum, community engagement, strategic planning and long-term facilities planning.
A major focus of the presentation centered on the district’s commitment to rigorous and relevant learning opportunities for students. Cogan highlighted the district’s strong academic performance, including Independence Local Schools earning an overall 5-star rating on the 2024-2025 Ohio School Report Card. The district also earned 5 stars in Achievement, Gap Closing, Graduation Rate and Early Literacy.
Cogan discussed several curriculum initiatives designed to support student achievement and vertical alignment across grade levels. At the elementary level, the district has implemented Bridges in Mathematics for preschool through fifth grade, emphasizing conceptual understanding, interactive lessons and real-world problem solving. Additional updates included hands-on science learning opportunities in grades K-8 and enhanced literacy instruction through UFLI phonics intervention and the Wonders Reading curriculum.
The presentation also highlighted the district’s focus on preparing students for college and careers through Advanced Placement, Honors and College Credit Plus coursework. Independence High School currently offers 13 AP courses, while 87 students are earning college credit through CCP opportunities. Students also have access to career pathways through the Cuyahoga Valley Career Center, where juniors and seniors gain hands-on experience and industry certifications in high-demand fields.
Cogan also reflected on several recognitions earned by the district this year, including Independence Primary School receiving the 2026 Governor’s Science of Reading Award and the preschool program earning the Gold Step Up to Quality Award. Independence Primary School was additionally recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for the third time in school history.
Community engagement was another key topic during the event. Cogan emphasized the importance of partnerships between the district, city and community organizations through events such as the Community Expo and Cultural Fair. These experiences help strengthen relationships with families while celebrating the diversity and shared pride within the Independence community.
The discussion also addressed the district’s aging facilities and future planning efforts. While the proposed PreK-8 building project is not moving forward at this time, district leaders continue to evaluate long-term needs and priorities to ensure students and staff have safe, effective and modern learning environments.
Looking ahead, Cogan shared excitement about the district’s continued focus on strategic planning, student-centered learning opportunities and strong partnerships with families, businesses and the broader community.
“At the core of our work, curriculum, instruction and assessment are intentionally aligned,” said Cogan. “Building a legacy of excellence means focusing on what matters most, strengthening the learning environment so students continue to grow and our staff are equipped to provide the highest quality learning experiences.”