Frankfort, IL — Frankfort School District 157-C is celebrating strong student growth and top-tier school designations following the release of the 2025 Illinois Report Card by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The annual Report Card provides a detailed analysis of student performance data from the 2024–2025 school year. Frankfort School District 157-C’s full report is available at www.illinoisreportcard.com.
This year’s Report Card reflects the state’s new proficiency benchmarks in English language arts, mathematics, and science. Frankfort School District 157-C’s proficiency rates—87.9% in English language arts, 81.4% in mathematics, and 73.2% in science—are among the highest in Illinois, placing the district among the state’s top-performing school systems. These scores also establish a new statewide baseline and cannot be compared to prior years. However, student growth percentiles remain consistent, allowing the district to continue tracking progress over time. More information about the new benchmarks is available at www.isbe.net/feedback.
“This annual report is much more than a collection of data points; it is a testament to the dedication of our students, the commitment of our exceptional educators and staff, and the unwavering support of our engaged parents and community members, said FSD 157-C Superintendent Dr. Doug Wernet. “All members of our school community should feel proud of these results. The growth and accomplishments of our students are truly impressive.”
Frankfort School District 157-C students performed particularly well in academic growth too, which measures the progress students make from year to year. The district’s Growth Percentiles of 61.8 in English Language Arts and 61.0 in Mathematics indicate that, on average, students are making more than a year’s worth of academic progress compared to their peers statewide.
“These growth figures are a testament to the personalized approach our teachers take to meet students exactly where they are,” said Dr. Wernet. “This is where the true impact of our dedicated staff shines through, and we are thrilled with these results.”
As part of federal accountability requirements, each Illinois school receives an annual summative designation, reflecting its overall performance across several indicators, including student proficiency, academic growth, and school climate. Illinois uses five designations: Exemplary, Commendable, Targeted Support, Comprehensive Support, and Intensive Support.
All three schools in Frankfort School District 157-C received high ratings for 2025:
• Hickory Creek Middle School – Exemplary (Top 10% statewide)
• Chelsea Intermediate School – Exemplary (Top 10% statewide)
• Grand Prairie Elementary School – Commendable (Top half statewide)
While proud of these accomplishments, district leaders emphasize that the Report Card is one measure of success among many.
“This data helps us refine our conversations about where we can continue to grow,” said Superintendent Dr. Wernet. “This isn’t about celebrating scores—it’s about being transparent, accountable, and focused on growth,” Wernet added. “Standardized assessments are one way the state measures school and student success, and we take that responsibility seriously. However, they represent only one piece of the bigger picture.”
He continued, “We measure success in many other ways that matter deeply to our mission—helping students develop strong study habits and executive functioning skills, supporting their emotional well-being, building independence, encouraging participation in a wide range of activities, and ensuring that every child feels safe, connected, and happy to come to school each day.”
Frankfort School District 157-C believes that every student can meet high expectations and that families and the community play an essential role in student success. A detailed presentation of all Illinois Report Card indicators will be provided at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, November 18, at 7:00. p.m. The meeting will be held at the District Office, located at Grand Prairie Elementary School, 10482 West Nebraska Street, Frankfort.
View Frankfort School District 157-C’s complete Illinois Report Card data at illinoisreportcard.com.