All students — no matter their zip code — deserve schools that help them learn the skills they need to compete in today's global economy. That's why the Department of Education has called for directing greater attention and resources to our lowest-performing high schools to ensure more students have the opportunity to graduate and carry on through college.
Thanks to President Obama's efforts and the work of young people, educators, community leaders, and business leaders across the country, high school graduation rates are rising. Take a look:
There's more we can do to build on this progress. Today, the Administration held the first White House Summit on Next Generation High Schools, bringing together innovators who are 'redesigning' the high school experience to better prepare students for a real chance at success. Here are some of the school redesign principles that we know work:
- Personalized learning
- Work-based learning experiences
- Deeper ties to post-secondary education
- A focus on expanding STEM opportunities for girls and other groups of students who are underrepresented in high-growth, well-paying fields
By putting in place reforms that are rigorous, relevant, and focused on real-world experiences, school districts and their communities can better prepare students for graduation and successful adulthoods beyond high school.