OKEECHOBEE, FL – June 27, 2026 – Okeechobee County Schools demonstrated year-over-year student progress in the 2026 Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) and End-of-Course (EOC)
assessment results. When comparing 2026 results to 2025 results, the District showed growth in multiple
tested areas, including English Language Arts, middle grades mathematics, Algebra 1, science, Biology,
and Civics.

In English Language Arts, Okeechobee County improved 2 percentage points overall in Grades 3-10. The strongest growth was seen in Grades 9-10 English Language Arts, where students improved 6 percentage points compared to the prior year. Grades 6-8 English Language Arts also improved 2 percentage points.

Mathematics results also showed encouraging growth in the middle grades. Grades 6-8 FAST Mathematics improved 7 percentage points compared to PM3 2025. When FAST Mathematics and EOC results are combined, mathematics in grades 6-8 improved 7 percentage points.

Okeechobee County also posted a 7 percentage-point gain in Algebra 1 EOC performance for students in Grade 8, ranking second among Heartland Educational Consortium districts in that area.

Science results reflected additional progress. Grade 5 Statewide Science improved 4 percentage points, and Biology 1 EOC performance improved 4 percentage points compared to the prior year.
The District also saw strong growth in Civics, with Civics EOC performance improving by 8 percentage points compared to 2025.

“These results reflect the hard work of our students, teachers, school leaders, and support staff,” said
Superintendent Dylan Tedders. “We are proud to see year-over-year growth across multiple grade levels
and subject areas. This progress is the result of focused instruction, careful use of student data, and a continued commitment to helping every student succeed.”

Several of the District’s strongest gains were seen in secondary-level coursework, including Grades 9-10
English Language Arts, Grades 6-8, Mathematics, Algebra 1, Biology, and Civics. District leaders noted that these results provide meaningful momentum as schools continue strengthening instruction and supporting students at every level.

“These outcomes give us important reasons to celebrate,” Tedders said. “They also reinforce the value of staying focused on continuous improvement.”

Okeechobee County Schools will use this year’s results to build on successful practices, strengthen
classroom instruction, and continue ensuring every student has the opportunity for success.