Home > School and Learning > Your Child's School > Choosing a Quality School > 5 Sensational School Success Stories

Slideshow Iconslideshows MORE

|

5 Sensational School Success Stories

Previous
5 of 6
Success written on chalkboard
Next

Harry S. Truman High School

Independence, MO

Every year, the International Center for Leadership in Education chooses individual schools to serve as role models for the rest of the nation to follow. This year, only 20 schools were chosen — Truman High School was one of them.

Its journey to becoming a model school started with the High School Task Force, a group of 50 people made up of parents, teachers, administrators, and community members. The Truman staff took the 24 recommendations developed from the High School Task Force, and began implementing them into the curriculum. They sought to strengthen relationships with students and parents to help get everyone involved, and revamped instruction for all students through lesson protocols, literacy across the curriculum, and by making the instruction seem relevant to the students.

The work done by the Task Force has paid off. ACT scores have steadily risen, and currently stand at 22, with a 60 percent participation rate. Only 50 percent of incoming freshmen test at grade level when they begin high school, but that number jumps up to 70 percent of seniors testing at grade level when they graduate. And perhaps best of all — the 4-year graduation rate has risen over the past few years and now stands at 89 percent.

Next: More popular galleries

you might also like:

from our community:

what’s hot

  1. Top 10 End-of-the-Year Gifts for Teachers
  2. 10 Gender-Predicting Old Wives' Tales
  3. Top 12 Fundraising Ideas
  4. VIEW ALL

stay connected

Sign up for our free email newsletters and receive the latest advice and information on all things parenting.

Enter your email address to sign up or manage your account.

Facebook icon Twitter icon Follow Us on Pinterest

editor’s picks

highlights

8 Printable Thank-You Cards for Teachers
As the end of the school year approaches, it's nice to thank your favorite educators for all their hard work. Print any of these free printable teacher appreciation cards to show your gratitude in a cute and simple way.

Great Gift Ideas for Dad's First Father's Day
Every dad's first Father's Day is a special one. Honor Daddy's important new role with a fun and heartfelt gift from you and your baby.

Safest Sunscreens for Kids
Wondering what the best sunscreens are to use on your child? Check out these natural sunscreens for kids. They're chemical-free and will keep your child safe from the sun’s harmful rays.

11 Succulent Vegetarian Recipes for the Grill
Barbecue season isn't just for meat-lovers! These vegetarian recipes for the grill are a healthy and delicious alternative to typical barbecue fare.