In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the Yakima School District's graduation rates and postsecondary outcomes, highlighting significant improvements and ongoing challenges. The district reported an 81.8% four-year graduation rate for the class of 2024, marking a steady increase over the past few years. The five-year graduation rate also showed positive trends, while the six-year rate remained stable.
Key individual success stories were shared, including Trenton, a Davis High School graduate who will play baseball at Columbia Basin College, and Jocelyn from Eisenhower High School, who is pursuing a veterinary technician program at Yakima Valley College. The district emphasized its commitment to ensuring all students graduate on time or within six years, with a focus on inclusivity.
Data presented revealed that 26% of Davis graduates enroll in four-year universities, 22% in two-year institutions, and 52% enter the workforce. Eisenhower's statistics were similar, while Stanton Academy had a higher percentage of students entering the workforce. The meeting also addressed graduation rates by school, with Davis leading at 89.1%, followed by Eisenhower at 86.7%, and Stanton at 44.1%.
Concerns were raised regarding graduation rates among specific demographic groups, with fluctuations noted in categories such as Native American and Black American students. The district is actively working to improve these rates through initiatives like \"college in the high school\" programs.
Board members commended the resilience of students and staff, acknowledging the challenges many students face in completing their education. The meeting concluded with a call for continued support and resources to help all students succeed beyond graduation.