Many of the state’s high schools now give rising ninth graders a day to get to know their new schools before the rest of the students start back after summer break.
But along with the typical ninth grade transition day, the St. Vrain Valley School District goes a step farther by offering an optional, two-week summer JumpStart program for its new freshmen. Close to 600 students enrolled in JumpStart at the district’s eight comprehensive high schools. The $263,000 program, which wrapped up this week, is provided at no cost to families and combines algebra and language arts readiness with opportunities to connect with teachers and classmates. Successful completion earns students an elective credit.
As part of its work to boost graduation rates, St. Vrain has increased support for students in that key first year of high school. Research shows on-time graduation is largely determined by how students do their freshman year, with those who fail more than one class significantly less likely to graduate.
The extra support continues after the first day of school…