DOTHAN, Nearing his first 100 days leading Dothan City Schools, Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew has released a progress report outlining what he has observed, what has improved, and where the district must focus its energy next.
Since stepping into the role, Dr. Askew has spent much of his time inside classrooms and meeting with the people most connected to the district — students, teachers, parents, support staff, and community partners. His report highlights insights gathered from more than 100 school visits, community forums, and reviews conducted by specialists in literacy, mathematics, and special education.
Dr. Askew said the findings reinforce both optimism and urgency.
“We have incredible educators doing meaningful work every single day,” he said. “At the same time, our data clearly identifies areas where students need more support, and this plan is about bringing consistency and direction to our efforts.”
Advancing literacy achievement is identified as the top priority in the report.
“Reading is the foundation of everything that follows; graduation, employment, independence,” Dr. Askew said. “We must sharpen our literacy instruction so that every student leaves our schools with this essential skill.”
Along with literacy, the report points to several critical improvement targets:
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Raising math proficiency
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More consistency in instructional practices across campuses
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Enhanced behavior intervention systems
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Strengthening technology and district operations
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Recruiting and retaining high-quality staff
The superintendent said these initiatives will help better align personnel, programs, and funding with student needs.
A national expert team is currently reviewing DCS special education services. Dr. Askew said the district is already taking action based on early feedback and will continue to develop changes after the panel’s full recommendations are delivered.
“We want to ensure every student receives the appropriate support to succeed,” he said.
Although the report outlines challenges — including achievement gaps and staffing shortages — Askew stressed that the district has a strong base to build on, thanks to positive school environments and dedicated employees.
The release of the report, he said, marks a turning point.
“This work is about strengthening outcomes for students and, ultimately, strengthening the future of Dothan,” Askew said. “Stronger skills lead to stronger students — and that creates a stronger community.”
