Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
For the first time in its history, Warsaw Community Schools officials are attempting to track the progress of graduates.
Although officials highlighted some impressive facts from a survey, an accompanying assessment revealed 36 students had never attained a diploma.
Director of counseling Sandy Carmichael conducted a study on the class of 1994 that looked at their impressions of high school and their current status.
The study was conducted 1 years after their expected graduation date and allowed officials to see who was actually still seeking education beyond what would be their freshman year in college.
Of 444 students, 82 percent graduated on time. Another 9 percent graduated later or acquired their general education diploma.
But another 8 percent, approximately 36 students, had dropped out and never sought to graduate, according to the study.
That rate is believed to be average, compared to other schools.
"When I look at it as 8 percent, I feel pretty good. When I look at it as 36, I feel pretty bad," she said.
Carmichael credited programs aimed at dropouts and others for boosting the eventual number of those who have graduated. Programs such as AIMS, which works with dropouts, is a "critical link," she said.
A followup survey showed that 84 percent of the respondents felt their high school academic preparation was either excellent or good. Of those respondents, two-thirds considered their preparation as good.
According to the survey, 54 percent of the respondents said the personal counseling available was considered excellent, and another 25 percent considered it to be good, Carmichael said.
About 89 percent of the respondents said their overall experience at the high school was excellent or good.
Although board members expressed their appreciation for the study, Dan Robinson pointed out that results of the survey are likely skewed because many of the respondents tend to be college students.
College students, he said, are more likely inclined to appreciate their high school experience.
Carmichael agreed in part.
"It gives us some valid information, especially for those who are going on to college," Carmichael said.
The survey is based on responses from 72 students, representing 16 percent of the class. Although it might sound low, it is considered to be above the threshold of credibility.
Carmichael said she hopes to continue similar studies, and is contemplating a five-year study that could include followups using telephones.
Carmichael said the class of 1994 was chosen, in part, because of her familiarity with almost all of the students.
