Efforts to keep high school seniors on the path to college and careers are paying off for Plymouth High School.
In a report prepared by the Guidance Department of PHS that was presented to the School Board on March 3, showed 45 percent of the 262 graduating in 2014 went on to a four-year college. Another 15 percent enrolled in a two-year college program. Fourteen graduates went into the military, two enrolled in vocational/technical training and 85 did not pursue any higher learning.
According to Aimee Portteus, director of guidance, the top choice for those entering four-year-programs was Indiana University South Bend and Ivy Tech was the top choice for those enrolling in two-year programs. Porttues said, “Both schools come and do onsite admission visits.”
PHS continues to add AP/Dual (Advanced Placement) Credit courses that allow students who successfully complete the class work to earn high school and college credits simultaneously.
There was also good news for students taking more rigorous classes. According Portteus, 64 of those class obtained a Core 40 with Academic Honors and1 earned a Core 40 Techinical Honors. Other students achieved diplomas in following: 118 achieved Core 40; 52 held general diplomas; 3 were given honorary diplomas (foreign exchange students); 12 were granted general diplomas (with evidence based waivers); 3 earned diplomas as of October 1; and five were given Certificates of Completion
(IEP Program).
The Board also heard results from both the SAT test scores and the ACT Test scores. In 2013, the average PHS score was 479. Results from the 2014 scores show an increase to 491. The state average in 2014 was 497 and the national average was 497. In the math portions, PHS students showed a significant increase from 477 in 2013 to 498 in 2014. In the writing and English portions of the test, PHS students ranked at or higher than the state average or the national average.
The number of students taking the ACT went from 74 in 2013 to 103 in 2014. PHS students ranked a few points higher than the state or national averages.
Additionally, the Board continues to provide help for the Adult Education Program that is overseen by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. Adult Education Director, Deb Sherwood, said, “The program is supposed to integrate education and training.” Sherwood stressed that the program is designed not only for those seeking GED. She indicated there are other classes for those who to build up skills. She said some might have already earned a GED or even earned some college credits, but need additional training to obtain or advance in their careers. The Plymouth Schools must approve the program by signing forms of assurances such as maintaining records for the program.
Sherwood said adding ESL classes has increased their enrollment by some 30 students. According to Sherwood, there is an expected 5 percent drop in funding from the next state budget.
Carol Anders Correspondent
