Ala.’s graduation rate will fall with new formula

Birmingham, Ala.(WVTM)—-The National Governor’s Association approved a new high school graduation formula that requires school systems to only count students who graduate within four years.

For the first time in 2012 all states will calculate graduation rates the same way.  Both the state’s top educator and a local school official insist this isn’t bad news.

Two years from now Alabama will change the way it defines a high school graduate.  In fact all 50 states will do the same.

Jefferson Co Schools, Lillian Hunsinger said, “I think people probably will be shocked.  I think the person out there, everyday Alabama, probably will be, saying, “oh my goodness”.“

That’s because every school district’s graduation rate is expected to drop on average, 20 percentage points.  According to the latest data, the state’s average right now is 85 percent.  When the new formula takes effect in 2012 - it will be 65 percent.

State Superintendent, Dr. Joseph Morton said, “It’s harder to meet graduation under this definition, but that’s okay.  It’ll at least be the first time in our nation’s history that we’ve had a common definition of a high school graduate.“

Under the strict new guidelines, state’s will only be able to count students as graduates if they pass the grade in four years.  Students who get GED’s, take longer to get their diplomas or pass the exit exam, but don’t finish high school credits won’t be counted.

Hunsinger said, “We’re very excited that the graduation rate now is focusing on individual students.  It is a way for us to look at every child graduating on time.“

Dr. Morton has a message for parents whose children are in danger of not graduating in four years.

Dr. Morton said, “Keep your child in school.  If you will keep your child in school, we will have programs to help your child.  Don’t let your child drop out of school.“

With the new formula, Dr. Morton, believes the state will be 7 percentage points behind the national graduation average of 72 percent.

Take a look at some of Central Alabama’s current graduation rates.

Alabama – 85%

Anniston City Schools – 64%
Birmingham City Schools – 83%
Hoover City Schools – 95%
Tuscaloosa City Schools – 69%

Etowah County Schools – 79%
Jefferson County Schools – 86%
Shelby County – 89%
Tuscaloosa County – 81%

These rates are from the 2008-2009 school year.  That is the last year recorded.  With the new formula, these numbers are expected to drop 20 percentage points.