The Oregon Department of Education has released state-wide data on high school graduation rates, and McMinnville High School (MHS) has again improved its rates across the board. For the first time, all subgroups have outperformed the state averages by double-digits.

McMinnville’s graduation rate rose just over two points to 86.85 percent, which is a little over 12 points above the state average. The Oregonian described MHS as one of three “super-star high schools … in a league above the rest [that] once again led the way on helping nearly all students earn diplomas in four years.”

“We’ve steadily improved our graduation rates over the years, which is a testament to the work of teachers and administrators at every level,” said Superintendent Maryalice Russell. “From the youngest grades through high school, our staff is working to raise the achievement of all our students. These efforts are all reflected in these results, and staff across the district deserve credit for contributing to the success of these students.”

For the first time, the state also released data measuring the impact of Career Technical Education (CTE) coursework. Statewide, students who took just one CTE class graduated at a rate 11 points higher than state average.

“More than half our graduating class took two or more Career Pathway classes,” said MHS Principal Tony Vicknair. “The graduation rate for those students was 95 percent. This affirms what we have long believed – that students who earn credits in any of  our 18 Career Pathways are better engaged and more likely to graduate.”

Click here to see graduation rates by subgroups. 

2/17/2017