Counseling Department Says Hastings High Class of 2026 Achieved 100% Graduation; Counseling to Expand Career Pathways

Laurie, the district's counseling lead, presented the Future Steps summary for Hastings High School's Class of 2026, reporting that 112 seniors graduated and the district recorded a 100% graduation rate for the second consecutive year. "This year, we submitted, well, the senior submitted 16, 1,642 applications," Laurie said while reviewing application volume and post‑secondary destinations for graduates.

She listed outcomes by credential: 110 Regents diplomas, two local diplomas, four CDOS credentials, three technical endorsements and six seals of biliteracy. Laurie described scholarship and athletics outcomes—"We also had 9 athletic commitments, 2 d 1, 6 d 3, and 1 d 2"—and said the counseling department will expand career exploration across earlier grades, pilot a Tuesday 'college connections' format to replace individual college visits, strengthen peer leadership, partner with BOCES and expand mental‑health awareness work.

Trustees asked about deferrals, wait lists and alumni engagement; Laurie said she would follow up with more specific deferral data and noted the department plans to survey graduates at six months and again at one year to track outcomes. The presentation concluded with broad board praise for the counseling team's work and a request that staff consider gap‑year information and alumni participation in future outreach.