The Good
Texas, the former home of a large number of underperforming students has seen an improvement. No longer known as “dropout factories,” Texas schools have seen a boost in overall graduation rates. The improvement was so great that in 2012, the state ranked at second place in the nation for highest percentage of high school students who earned their diplomas.
Skepticism
Leaders in the education field note the increase as a result of local and state level programs that were set in place. One of these included the restructuring of the state’s curriculum requirements due to a new law. However, the success is still viewed with skeptical eyes. In areas such a preparedness for college and career, the advancement has not been as significant. The Dallas Independent School District is the home of a dropout prevention initiative that has seen more and more students graduate. However, they made a statement that too many students are not “functionally literate” and this could hinder their progress in college and beyond.
High School Grads Turned College Drop Outs
Statistics are showing that many high school graduates who attend college may leave before they obtain their degrees. Over the last decade, a consistent 30% of students drop out before they complete their academic programs at four year institutions. At community colleges and two year schools, one third of students don’t return after their first year. The problem is that these students are not fully prepared to face the challenges of university life.
Attendance: A Loophole for Diplomas
Schools who were in need of boost in graduation rates, underwent a series of procedures and policy changes to increase numbers. Attendance was a big factor. Parameters were set to cater to students who would have normally passed despite their number of absences. Provisions were made where students could make up attendance hours and therefore qualify for their diplomas.
Conclusion
Leaders in education are pointing out that things may not be as good as they seem in these Texas high schools. Preparation for college is not where it should be and teens are missing out on valuable life lessons. The future of this state’s success will result in an undeniable session of scrutiny. For more information visit the New York Times article by Morgan Smith, here: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/26/us/with-climbing-graduation-rates-come-renewed-doubts.html?ref=education&_r=0
