Paramount, CA – Paramount Unified graduates increased college enrollment by 8 percentage points when 69 percent of 2019 graduates enrolled in colleges this fall as the District continues to strengthen programs that lead to college success.

The new high of students enrolled in four-year or two-year colleges is up from 61 percent a year ago. The District also set a new record for students enrolled in the California State University (CSU) system after 493 graduates from the summer graduating class were admitted to the system.

“To see our students growing and achieving successful futures after graduation is very exciting for our District and community,” Assistant Superintendent, Secondary Educational Services Ryan D. Smith said. “College and career readiness is a focus area of our District’s strategic plan, and this data is evidence that the hard work is paying off.”

Paramount Unified’s Strategic Plan was developed by a team of more than 40 stakeholders representing students, teachers and staff, parents, community members and campus and district leaders. The plan for college success calls on students, staff, parents and community members to collaborate to ensure:

• All students graduate on time
• All students are eligible to attend a four-year college
• All students possess the skills necessary to be successful in any career path
• All students receive personalized guidance on which post-secondary options best meet their goals

The District has achieved its commitment to producing college- and career-ready students through several programs, including annual college fairs which provide valuable information to families on college access; college prep curriculum; and waiving the cost of PSAT/SAT tests to make them accessible for all students.

“It takes a community effort to truly help our students realize the power of their potential,” PUSD Superintendent Ruth Pérez said. “The positive data reflect all of Paramount pouring resources into our children. Together, we will continue to passionately pursue college success for all of our students.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

121119_PARAMOUNT_COLLEGE1: Paramount Unified reached a record high in fall 2019 for graduates enrolled in colleges.

121119_PARAMOUNT_COLLEGE2: Paramount Unified’s Strategic Plan, developed by a team of more than 40 stakeholders, focuses on ways to strengthen programs that lead to college success.