How South Bend Schools Boosted Graduation Rates

South Bend schools have been under fire for their improved graduation rates. Some people think the schools are cheating. But the truth is, the schools have been working hard to help students succeed. Here's how they did it.

The Strategies

1. Accurate Student Counting

   • Verified student records to ensure accurate graduation rates.
   • Checked for student movement or dropout.

2. Personalized Plans

   • Created individualized plans for each student.
   • Assessed credits earned and needed to stay on track.

3. Extra Credit Opportunities

   • Offered after-school programs and online courses.
   • Provided chances for students to catch up.

4. Community Involvement

   • Regular meetings with students and parents.
   • Partnered with local organizations for additional resources.

The Results

The improvements in graduation rates are significant:

• Adams High School: 88.59% → 92.15%
• Riley High School: 83.63% → 93.82%
• Washington High School: 74.63% → 87.77%
• Rise-Up Academy: 43.75% → 92.52%
• Virtual School: 67.44% → 76.34%

The Impact

These improvements are not just about numbers. They are about giving students the support they need to succeed. The schools have shown that with hard work and dedication, they can help more students graduate and achieve their goals.