More Utah HS Students Graduate than National Average
None by KCPW
Whites Excel, Hispanic Students Lag
(KCPW News) Utah's high school graduation rates are significantly higher than the national average, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Eight-four percent of Utah high school kids graduated in 2004, compared to the national rate of 69 percent. Another survey by Education Week finds Utah's white students have the best graduation rates, but black students in Utah graduate more than the national average, too.State Office of Education Spokesman Mark Peterson says both studies show significant gaps between graduation rates of Utah's majority and minority students. Just over half of Hispanic students in Utah graduate from high school. State graduation data could soon change -- the Class of 2006 was the first required to take a basic skills test before graduating, and many struggled. Peterson says that data will not be ready for release until the fall.
Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom. Copyright 2008 KCPW
1. Deena Ely said:
I applaud the graduation rates of this State. Educator's are to be commended, especially since we are dead last in funding for education per pupil in the nation.
I researched the dropout rates in my district and was astounded to find Cyprus High School has a 30.1% dropout rate, Kearns High has a 26.6% dropout rate. What is happening to this significant segment of our youth on the westside? I have asked this question of the GEA and I'm personally trying to get this issue in the open so we can find solutions to support our youth. They are the future. I am not so sure that Hispanic students are the only ones failing at Cypus and Kearns. Obviously demographics vary from town to town.
"The future of the race, marches forward on the feet of little children."
Anonymous
Thank you for letting me comment on this very important topic.
Sincerely,
Deena Ely
Magna Utah
deenadely@yahoo.com
Add your comment: