Success or Failure – you make the call
There is a saying that it is easier to bounce back from failure than from success. And if you look at all the celebrities going to hell in a handbasket, there just might be some truth to it. But take New Orleans after the failure of the levees flooded our beloved city – I’ve been very proud of where we have come from there. Now where we’ll go after the oil spill is anyone’s guess. Meanwhile here is something from Leslie Jacob’s Educate Now that is reason to celebrate:
There are critics who claim that New Orleans high school students are no better off, and may be even worse off, than they were before Katrina. This is not correct.
Without a doubt:
1. High Schools Are Better
In 2005, 67% of high school students (grades 9-12) attended a failing high school. In 2010, this percentage dropped to 36%* – a huge improvement!
2. More Students Are Performing Basic or Above:
In 2005, only 40% of students scored Basic or above on the English section of the Graduation Exit Exam (GEE), compared to 52% this year. Math gains are even more impressive, with a 21 point gain: 39% in 2005 to 60% in 2010.
3. Senior Graduation Rates Are Up:
In 2005, only 79% of seniors graduated. This year, 90% of seniors graduated – an 11 point jump.
Our high schools are far from perfect, but the improvements in school and student performance provide a basis for optimism.