The 2022-23 graduation rates for Newberg-Dundee Public Schools show growth over the previous year and continue to stay well above the state average.
The School District delivered a four-year graduation rate of 85.5 percent, improving upon its 2021-22 rate of 82.7%. This year, the School District surpassed the state average by more than 4 percentage points, according to data released by the Oregon Department of Education on Jan. 25.
“We are so proud of our hard-working students and staff,” Superintendent Stephen W. Phillips said. “Our whole staff came together to give students the support that they needed to earn their diplomas and to pursue their college and career goals.”
However, Newberg-Dundee students have had high grad rates for years. Why do they do so well and how will they continue to improve?
Newberg High School Principal Tami Erion said that there are several factors that contribute to NHS graduation numbers, including providing in-school and after-school interventions to support students who are struggling, ensuring students have access to social/emotional supports, and partnering with parents to align support systems at home and school.
“I am incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication of staff, parents, and the community in supporting our students through their four-year journey in high school,” Erion said. “Despite over a year of distance learning, these students persevered and made significant gains during their junior and senior years. These results reflect a collective impact from Newberg educators in grades K-12.”
Catalyst Alternative High School Principal Chris Stevens said that his staff focuses on connecting with students to improve graduation rates.
“I cannot stress enough the importance of building relationships with students,” Stevens said. “Students who have trusting, positive, and supportive relationships with their teachers tend to show more engagement in learning, behave better in class, and achieve at higher levels academically. That is to say that connecting with students does truly guide them toward graduation and a positive future.”