The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce has released its 2024–25 state report cards, and Wadsworth City Schools received an impressive overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, exceeding state standards. Alongside the state report card, the district published its annual Quality Profile, which provides a deeper look at academics, arts, athletics, student leadership, fiscal stewardship, and community partnerships.
Areas of Strength
Achievement & Progress: Wadsworth earned 4 stars in both achievement and progress, reflecting strong student performance on state tests and year-to-year academic growth above expectations.
Gap Closing: With a 5-star rating, the district significantly exceeds standards in closing educational gaps across student groups.
Graduation: Also earning 5 stars, Wadsworth continues to graduate students at rates well above the state average.
Scholarships & College Credit: The Class of 2025 has already earned more than $1.75 million in scholarships, while logging 500+ hours of college credit and 78 Honors Diplomas.
Advanced Learning: Students excel in AP and Career Tech opportunities: 85% of AP students scored a 3 or higher, and 93% of Career Tech students were proficient on technical assessments.
Arts & Activities: The drama department staged six productions in 2024–25, while music programs earned superior ratings at state contests. More than 70% of students participate in extracurriculars.
Student Services: The district continues to expand supports for gifted learners, special education students, and mental health needs through initiatives like Grizzly Academy and PBIS.
Fiscal Stewardship: Wadsworth received the Auditor of State Award for financial reporting. The district spends $15,005 per pupil, below the state average, and maintains strong AA credit ratings, saving taxpayers on financing costs.
Community Partnerships: With more than 400 volunteers and connections to local businesses, nonprofits, and universities, Wadsworth schools thrive through deep community involvement.
Areas for Improvement
Early Literacy: Wadsworth earned 3 stars in this category. While 100% of third graders advanced to fourth grade, only 42% of
K–3 students improved in literacy year-to-year, and about 75% reached reading proficiency by the end of grade three. Continued focus on Ohio’s Science of Reading initiative will be key.
College, Career, Workforce & Military Readiness: New to the state report card this year, Wadsworth earned 3 stars. About 66% of graduates met at least one readiness benchmark, such as earning college credit, completing industry-recognized credentials, or achieving remediation-free ACT/SAT scores. That’s a decline from the prior year, showing an area of focus for improvement.
Looking Ahead
Wadsworth’s Five-Year Strategic Plan continues to guide growth, with goals including expanded STEM pathways, new course offerings, and strong teacher development — 71% of staff already hold advanced degrees. With the support of families, staff, and more than 400 community partners, the district remains committed to continuous improvement while celebrating outstanding success across academics, arts, athletics, and student opportunities.
