Del Norte freshmen sign commitment to graduate
Del Norte High School freshmen promised to earn their caps and gowns in four years on Wednesday — a step to combat the district’s falling graduation rate.
Roughly 400 members of the class of 2020 signed the “Believe You Can and Will” pledge during their first school-wide pep rally. The document also includes a list of tips for success, such as asking for help, monitoring progress and inspiring others.
“We are stating our expectations clearly,” said principal Jo Sloan. “We wanted to do it in a positive spirit.”
Del Norte administrators introduced the pledge three years ago, but this was the first time it was tied to an assembly.
Superintendent Raquel Reedy complimented the effort
and said she hopes other schools will follow suit.
“You are thinking about the future,” Reedy told the students. “This is something that will support your expectations for yourself. The fact is you’re the one who has control of your life.”
Albuquerque Public Schools has long struggled to get kids across the finish line with their educations.
Only 61.7 percent of the student body in APS graduated on time last year, down from 62.7 percent in 2014 and 68.7 percent in 2013.
APS’ 2015 numbers are lower than the statewide 68.6 percent rate and far below nearby Rio Rancho, where more than 82 percent received diplomas.
Across the country, the average graduation rate has risen steadily to a record high of 82 percent during 2013–2014, the most recent year federal data is available.
Reedy has called the district’s slipping graduation rate a challenge without an easy fix, but has stressed that administrators are looking at new approaches to the problem.