Newberg High School’s graduation rate continues to increase according to data released today by the Oregon Department of Education.

The four-year graduation rate for the Class of 2016 is 79.3 percent. This is the school’s highest graduation rate since Oregon began reporting cohort graduation rates in 2009. This marks steady improvement since 2013 when 70 percent of the Class of 2013 graduated in four years.

The 2016 graduation rate is nearly a four-point increase over the 2015 graduation rate of 75.7 percent.

The state graduation rate for all students is 74.8 percent. The nearly three point increase reflects an upward trend in the last two years.

The 2016 cohort graduation rate describes the percent of students that began high school in the 2012-13 school year and achieved a regular or modified diploma by August 31, 2016.

“This increase in the percentage of students who are graduating in the Newberg School District really is a reflection of very focused work in our system,” said Superintendent Kym LeBlanc-Esparza. “We asked staff to commit to a belief of "All Means All" and these numbers are reflective of that commitment.  We have also engaged with community partners so that every student has the opportunity to experience relevant 21st Century teaching and learning.” 

Newberg graduated 303 students in June of 2016, 29 more than in 2015. Superintendent LeBlanc-Esparza is particularly encouraged about higher percentages of graduates among students overcoming barriers of poverty and disabilities.

• Economically disadvantaged students up 11.2 points to 67.2 percent (59.4 percent in 2011
• Students with disabilities up 32.8 points to 67.9 percent (41.7 percent in 2011)

New students with limited proficiency in English entering during their mid-high school years continue to be challenged – 40 percent achieved a diploma, a slight drop from 44 percent in 2015.

Oregon is now tracking the progress of graduates earning a half credit or more in Career Technical Education (CTE) courses. Of the 301 Newberg students falling in this category, 86 percent achieved a diploma.

“While we still have work to do to successfully reach graduation with every student, the work we have done over the last few years gives very strong evidence that we are doing the right work and moving in a positive direction for all kids,” said LeBlanc-Esparza.  

“I am very proud of the work our staff is doing in the Newberg School District. Change can be challenging, but our staff is committed to ensuring that every student has an opportunity to learn through authentic experiences that help them build 21st century skills.    Our increase in graduation rate is the result of commitment to better outcomes for every student and a collective responsibility for making it happen.”