Davenport Community School District Enlists Graduation Alliance for Dropout Reengagement Initiative
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH (PRWEB) July 16, 2015 -- Graduation Alliance, experts in career planning and alternative education helping students prepare for employment opportunities, has been selected by Davenport Community School District (DCSD) to expand its Student Reengagement Program. This initiative is the latest in DCSD’s continuing strategy to improve graduation rates and will provide in-district students under the age of 21 the opportunity to complete their diplomas through online classes.
Guided by a dedicated Dropout Prevention Task Force, DCSD has developed a multi-pronged approach to reengaging and supporting dropouts who have struggled to succeed in traditional secondary education programs. The district cut its dropout rate in half between 2010 and 2013, and is continuing to expand its strategy to overcome barriers represented by poverty.
With the help of budget-neutral solutions delivered by Graduation Alliance, the district will offer a standards-aligned, fully accredited online program, providing a more flexible path to diploma attainment. As part of the program, students will receive wireless-enabled laptops so that they can complete their studies while accounting for their own individual circumstances.
“We are excited by the potential of this new partnership,” said Dr. Art Tate, superintendent of Davenport Community Schools. “Graduation Alliance’s program is a game-changer, offering yet another opportunity for students who have left school to reengage and earn the high school diploma they need to be successful.”
Dr. Tate worked closely with the DCSD school board and Graduation Alliance leadership to ensure that all curriculum and student supports meet Iowa Department of Education standards. DCSD will formally announce the partnership this August at its annual Graduation Destination Event.
“Community-focused, innovative partners like Davenport Community School District are critical to Graduation Alliance’s continued success,” said Keith Myers, senior vice president of Graduation Alliance. “The flexibility of our solution and the individualized supports we provide each student – from academic to socio-emotional – naturally dovetail with Davenport’s commitment to continuously improve graduation rates. We’re pleased to participate in this next chapter of their continued success”.
For more information regarding DCSD’s Graduation Destination Event, which will take place August 15, 2015, visit this link.
About Graduation Alliance
Graduation Alliance strengthens communities, states and the economy by preparing and empowering tomorrow’s workforce. Through highly effective postsecondary planning, alternative education and training programs, Graduation Alliance ensures every student has an opportunity to succeed during and after high school. For more information about Graduation Alliance, visit http://www.graduationalliance.com.
About Davenport Community School District
The Davenport Community School District (DCSD) is the third largest school district in the State of Iowa. The District serves nearly 16,000 students, preschool through 12th grade, in four communities. DCSD’s legacy stretches back to its founding in 1858. Since that time, the district has offered its diverse community of students unmatched opportunities in core academic areas, as well as nationally recognized Project Lead The Way/STEM programs, fine arts, culinary arts, and a strong athletics legacy. For more information about Davenport Community School District, visit http://www.davenportschools.org.
Olivia Hoff, C. Blohm & Associates, +1 (608) 216-7300 Ext: 22, [email protected]
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