Lawrence High reports rising graduation and early-college participation; administrators highlight pathways to work and college

Victor Karavajjo, addressing the committee, gave an overview of graduation and postsecondary trends at Lawrence High and across the district. He said 790 students are slated to graduate this year and reported that roughly 67% of those graduates planned to enroll in two- or four-year colleges, while about 16% planned trade-school paths. Karavajjo highlighted that two students will matriculate at Ivy League universities as part of the postsecondary snapshot.

Karavajjo described expansion of early-college opportunities: roughly 385 full-time early-college scholars are enrolled, and a pilot dual-degree track could yield 64–66 college credits for some students graduating with an associate degree as well as a high-school diploma. He said the district saw large gains in advanced-course participation and AP passing rates (the district reports increased AP pass rates over recent years), and emphasized career-technical pathways such as aviation flight training, health-assisting certification, and arts programming that aim to align student interests with post‑graduation options.

Speakers acknowledged barriers some students face — particularly undocumented students and those working full time — and described re-engagement strategies including night school, alternative programs and employer partnerships that allow students to hold more regular work hours without missing school.

Next steps: administrators will provide further detail on postsecondary persistence (placement and remedial course rates) and a breakdown of early-college seats and transfer agreements between local colleges so the committee can assess capacity and equity of access.