As the leaves turn and a new school year begins, the Toledo Public Schools community has much to celebrate. The 2024–2025 school year marked a time of remarkable growth, innovation, and renewed spirit across the district—proof that when a community believes in its students, incredible things happen.
A Rising Graduation Rate
Toledo Public Schools continues to build on a powerful trend of academic achievement. Over the past decade, the district’s graduation rate has climbed from 63% to over 80%, with 55% of the Class of 2024 earning college credit, industry credentials, or remediation-free ACT/SAT scores. More than 30 students even graduated with an Associate’s Degree—a milestone that sets a new standard for college and career readiness in northwest Ohio.
Building Opportunities That Inspire
From classrooms to construction sites, TPS is investing in the future. Toledo Public Schools led efforts to expand opportunities for students through new partnerships and innovative programming. This year saw the opening of the Electric Vehicle Center, the expansion of the Natural Science and Technology Campus, and the exciting announcement of a new, renovated home for the Toledo Pre-Med and Health Sciences Academy at Mercy College.
Each new opportunity opens the door for students to explore emerging career fields and develop the skills that will shape the Toledo workforce of tomorrow.
A Vision Recognized Nationwide
Leadership matters—and this year, the nation took notice. Dr. Romules Durant was named Educator of the Year by the Council of Great City Schools, a national recognition of his commitment to visionary leadership and student success. His focus on equity, innovation, and community collaboration continues to redefine what’s possible for public education.
Investing in the Heart of Our Community
Thanks to the trust and support of Toledo voters, TPS is moving forward with exciting facility upgrades and the renovation of the Scott Park Campus—a transformative project designed to inspire students across multiple disciplines, from construction and design to education and business. Beyond academics, the Scott Park vision extends into the community itself—creating a space where residents can learn, work, and play together.
Curiosity Takes Flight: Hawkins STEAM Students Release Monarch Butterflies
At Hawkins STEAM Academy, third graders recently experienced science in action as they watched their classroom butterflies take flight.
After weeks of studying the Monarch life cycle—from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis—students released their butterflies into the wild, even letting them rest briefly on their hands and shoulders before takeoff. Each Monarch was tagged for Monarch Watch, allowing students to track its migration journey south and contribute to real-world research.
By connecting curiosity with hands-on discovery, Hawkins students are learning that science isn’t just something you read about—it’s something you live, explore, and share with the world.
Mark Your Calendars: Important Dates This Fall
As the first quarter of the 2025 school year wraps up, families can look ahead to key district dates and events:
Families can always stay up to date by visiting the TPS District Calendar at www.tps.org/calendar.
Redefining Success in Public Education
While state report cards offer one perspective, TPS believes that true success can’t be captured in a single grade. It’s seen in the perseverance of students, the dedication of teachers, and the ongoing growth happening inside every classroom.
As the Board of Education shared in their letter to the community:
“True success is not measured by a single grade—it’s found in the growth of our students and the challenges they are overcoming.”
The Toledo Public Schools Foundation proudly stands beside the district, celebrating every milestone that brings us closer to a brighter future for all TPS students.