District reports rising on-time graduation rates; Freshman Academy and Connections highlighted

The Sioux Falls School District 49-5 presented data showing steady growth in on-time graduation over the last six years, with district rates increasing from just under 85% to just under 90% and completion rates (diploma or requirements within five years) hovering near 90%.

Kristen Grama, the district’s high school curriculum coordinator, told the board the district serves a large cohort of students who face barriers to graduation — including students on individualized education programs and English language learners — and described supports designed to keep students on track. She cited the Connections summer program, which lets incoming ninth-graders tour and orient to their high schools, and the Freshman Academy (offered since 2008) as critical to early success; she said 91–96% of Freshman Academy participants recently advanced to 10th grade.

Grama noted other supports including targeted recovery options, personalized counseling and flexible pathways for students needing extra time, and she asked the board to acknowledge the high-school graduation and transition report. A board member cited specific numbers from the report, noting the district’s on-time graduation at 88.7% compared with a state average of 85.7%, and credited the Freshman Academy and early interventions for progress. The board voted by voice to acknowledge the report.

Board members encouraged middle school students to sign up for the Connections program and reiterated the district’s emphasis on keeping class sizes and supports that help students graduate on time.

The board acknowledged the report and moved on to budget business.