SHS improves graduation rates

Springfield High School officials say they will stay the course in improving their Annual Yearly Progress graduation rates.
http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20120917/THISJUSTIN/709179948

Springfield High School improves graduation rates By Christian Avard Staff Writer | September 17,2012 SPRINGFIELD — Springfield High School officials say they will stay the course in improving their Annual Yearly Progress graduation rates. According to the Department of Education, the school was obligated to make structural changes in order to meet a standard of 77 percent graduation rate in 2011. This standard is set by the state. Springfield High School fell short of AYP graduation rates in 2010. In 2010, the high school’s graduation rate was 71.2 percent and in 2011, it was 79.2 percent. Springfield High School Principal Bob Thibault said school officials are pleased with the progress. Graduation rates improved, they met the AYP threshold, and they meet adequate state standards as well. Graduation rates increased because school officials focused on instruction of students. Teachers were taught to engage students in all aspects of their education. As a result, students developed a greater interest in learning and were more likely to graduate, according to Thibault. “In the classrooms, we have to tie things to their own experiences and show them why it matters. We ask ourselves, ‘How are they connected to things (they’re) involved with in the real world?’” Thibault said. Enhancing teacher instruction was another means of keeping students in school. Teacher training programs, such as the Penn Literacy Network, are being implemented. The Penn Literacy Network is a comprehensive professional development and curricular enhancement program based on the University of Pennsylvania. David Kohn and Elizabeth Mirra were hired to implement the plan, “coach” teachers, and enhance curriculum engagement. Examples of curriculum engagement would be problem-solving, critical thinking, logical reasoning and inclusion. PLN enhances learning and strengthens teaching skills, according to Thibault. “The basic philosophy is, you cannot talk about quality instruction unless you have a common language. For example, I’ll observe a class and notice there was no engagement. But what does that mean? This program came in and gave us a common language on engagement.” Springfield High School also tried alternative means to keep students from dropping out. They changed the climate of the school, including physical improvements; installed a positive code for students, such as being on time, accountable and appropriate; and other programs that inspire students to do their best. The high school also established an Alumni Hall of Fame as a means to engage students. The Hall of Fame recognizes alumni that excelled in a field or contributed to a local community in a meaningful way. Thibault said the new hall of fame will give students something to shoot for and that students can go on to great things after high school. One measure of improving students’ performance is a system Thibault calls the “Cosmos Code.” “It’s a lot of the little things that you do. The idea is you want a model for kids that explains ‘this is what you need to do and we will reward and recognize you for it through the Cosmos Code.’ We want them to know they are cared for and part of the community and valued,” Thibault said.