Phone: (541) 863-3115 • 558 Chadwick Ln • Myrtle Creek, OR 97457

 

Graduation rates on the rise

The Oregon Department of Education announced on Jan. 26, 2023 that the statewide high school graduation rates are now the second highest in Oregon’s history.

South Umpqua School District is thrilled to announce that our district’s graduation rate continues to improve.

For the four-year cohort, the rate increased from 68.89% in the four-year cohort in 2021 to 74.11% in 2022. For the five-year cohort, the rate climbed from 76.09% to 76.14%.

This latest graduation rate is the highest of the four largest districts in Douglas County.

We’re incredibly proud of South Umpqua High School and South Umpqua Online Academy.

“There are many factors that contribute to our increased graduation rates, the resilience of our families, students, teachers, staff and community are major factors,” said South Umpqua High School Principal Carl Simpson.

Simpson also pointed out that there are several minor factors that, when combined, support a highly successful learning environment. We have worked closely with the Oregon Center for High School Success for the last three years to put these factors and systems in place to give our students the greatest opportunity to be successful. Our educators have worked tirelessly to implement these systems, curriculum, and interventions to support our students and families.

Students on track to graduate by the end of their freshman year is the greatest indication of future graduation rates. The transition from middle school to high school is critical and we have invested much time and effort to ensure our freshman students have the tools they need to have a successful high school experience. These factors along with an inclusive encouraging school environment that deeply values healthy positive relationships built between families and the entire South Umpqua High School staff make increased graduation rates possible.

“All of us at South Umpqua High School are dedicated to ensuring that every student has the greatest educational experience possible, that will give them the most potential opportunities for their future,” said Simpson.