March 2, 2015
Area educators understand the need for students to have a high school diploma and have a number of ongoing programs to keep students on the right path to graduation. The IDOE (Indiana Department of Education) released the graduation rates for the 2013-2014 school year last week.
Overall, Indiana’s graduation rose from 88.6 to 89.9 percent. Graduation rates are one of the factors that the IDOE uses to assign grades to school districts each year.
The rates for Marshall County schools were among the top in the state, but local school officials know they can’t let their guard down since the stakes are high for students. Aimee Portteus, director of guidance at Plymouth High School, points to obtaining a high school diploma is a major factor for students’ ability to find future successes. Portteus said, “The chance of finding a rewarding career without a high school diploma is low.” She added, “Getting your high school diploma gives students the opportunity to perform job functions at a higher salary, than they would be able to do if they did not have a diploma.”
Daniel Tyree, Plymouth Schools superintendent, said, “The increased graduation rates in Indiana and at Plymouth High School is a tribute to the accountability program that the IDOE has established for schools, and specifically the hard work our teachers and administrations.”
Plymouth High School, Principal, Jim Condon said, “We work diligently with individual students, their parents, and teachers, to establish four yea plans towards completion of high school graduation requirements and, simultaneously, post high school opportunities.” He indicated that the annual meetings held with the each student’s counselor are in place to assess progress made towards completion of their plan and, at the same time, changes are made as needed. “When a student falls behind in terms of credits earned towards graduation, classroom interventions are implemented with the intent of getting the student back on track.” Condon said.
Carol Anders Correspondent