DEARBORN- Recent data released by the State of Michigan reveals graduation rates for the Dearborn Public Schools have increased over five years from 76% in 2011 to 93% in 2016, while drop-out rates have decreased 72%.

In 2011, there was a total of 113 drop-outs compared to 32 in 2015-16.

“This is great news for our community,” Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko said. “I’m extremely proud of our students and truly appreciate the hard work of all staff members who brought about this success.”

The improved graduation rates and decreased drop-out rates are the partly the outcome of a district wide effort that started with the youngest students in pre-school and kindergarten and stretched into the high school years. But, recent success is focused on the district incessantly pursuing creativity in its course offerings as well as committing to meeting the needs of individual students by adding vital staff positions

Although graduation rates are greatly focused on students in grades nine through twelve, the Superintendent doesn’t recognize just one “silver bullet” program for the achievement. Maleyko explains that the application of several programs such as co-teaching and the English Language Learning model; timely use of assessment data; the impact being made by instructional, non-instructional, and administrative staff members; support from parents and community; and the restructuring of how schools work together in order to focus on improving instruction and meeting the learning needs of individual students assisted in the improved rate.

He added that providing support to early childhood, culture and climate, students with special needs, and English Language Learners also played a role.

“This is an accomplishment to celebrate but our work is not done,” Maleyko said. “We must continue to build upon our success and achieve even better results so that all students will have a quality learning experience.”