In 2023, five high schools in the Klamath County School District (KCSD) achieved graduation rates above 90%, with Bonanza Junior/Senior High School leading the way with a perfect graduation rate of 100%. This significant achievement reflects the school's dedication to supporting its students and creating a conducive learning environment. The success of the graduating class of 2023 is attributed to their determination, grit, and perseverance, especially in overcoming the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Individual High School Graduation Rates
Bonanza Junior/Senior High School: 100% Henley High School: 97.9% Lost River: 91.7% Gilchrist: 90.9% Chiloquin: 90.5%
Mazama High School's graduation rate was 88.4%, slightly down from the previous year but still significantly higher than the state average.
Superintendent and Principal Perspective The principal of Bonanza Junior/Senior High School, Jordan Osborn, attributes the perfect graduation rate to the dedicated efforts of every staff member, including teachers, support staff, secretaries, bus drivers, and custodians. Osborn expressed pride in the class of 2023, acknowledging their resilience in the face of adversity and emphasizing the school's commitment to supporting struggling students on a daily basis.
Districtwide Graduation Rate The overall four-year on-time graduation rate for the Klamath County School District was 79.90%, representing a slight decrease from the previous year and falling 1.4 percentage points below the state's rate. Despite this, Falcon Heights, an alternative high school for at-risk students, has shown consistent improvement in its graduation rates over the past five years.
Completer Rates and Support Programs The district's four-year completer rate for 2023 was 83.2%, with a five-year completer rate of 85.8%. This data reflects the district's commitment to supporting students who may be behind on credits or at risk of dropping out. Programs such as Falcon Heights and the Great Basin Homeschool Center are instrumental in helping all students find a path to graduation.
Focus on Bonanza Principal Osborn highlighted the efforts undertaken by Bonanza Junior/Senior High School to create a culture and climate conducive to success. The school has implemented systems to support struggling students, including regular grade checks and personalized interventions for failing students. Additionally, facility improvements and the introduction of new programs and classes have contributed to the school's continuous improvement.
Ongoing Initiatives The district is focused on implementing more social-emotional supports, new math curriculum, and small-group and project-based learning in elementary schools to positively impact student learning and graduation rates. Superintendent Glen Szymoniak emphasized that achieving outstanding graduation rates begins at the kindergarten level and requires continuous investment in student success at every grade level.
Future Plans The district plans to increase the availability of career and technical education courses at both junior high and high school levels to engage students and enhance their employability. Additionally, ongoing support for houseless students and a focus on improvement through engaging learning, career education, and a caring staff will remain integral to the district's initiatives.
Overall, the Klamath County School District is committed to supporting its students at all levels, ensuring a conducive environment for learning, and fostering a culture of success that extends beyond high school graduation.
