Lynwood – Open access to high-level courses, expansion of Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs and increased emphasis on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) have helped boost Lynwood Unified’s graduation rates to record highs in 2014-15.

The graduation rate rose from 80.8 percent to 89.1 percent at Lynwood High School, the larger of the District’s two comprehensive high schools. Firebaugh High School’s rate – already high in 2014 – rose nearly two percentage points to 90.4 percent. The figures measure graduation rates for the cohort of students who entered ninth grade in 2011.

Lynwood Unified Superintendent Paul Gothold attributes the increase to the District’s work at cutting dropout and suspension rates, and elevating the number of students taking courses needed to qualify for admission to the University of California and California State University – up to 41.4 percent from 33 percent since 2011.

“At a time when we are asking more of our students and educators than ever before, this announcement is another sign that they continue to rise to the occasion,” Gothold said. “Preparing students to be successful in college and in sustainable careers after school is our ultimate goal. I am extremely proud of our administrators, teachers, staff, and of course our students.”

Gothold said eliminating remedial classes and student tracking has increased academic rigor for all students, making a major impact on raising the graduation rates.

“Lynwood Unified students and staff are extraordinary,” LUSD Board of Education President Alma-Delia Renteria said. “Everyone is working hard and stepping up to the challenge. We have seen increased high school success because of the support our schools are providing to students to help them complete their education.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

GRADUATION1: Open access to high-level courses and expansion of Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs helped boost Lynwood Unified’s graduation rates, with Firebaugh High School’s graduation rate rising nearly two percentage points to 90.4 percent in 2014-15.

GRADUATION2: Lynwood Unified’s graduation rates soared to record highs in 2014-15, with Lynwood High School’s graduation rate rising from 80.8 percent to 89.1 percent.