The state of Oregon made significant changes to its school report card system for this past school year, 2008-2009. Schools now are categorized into three groups: Outstanding, Satisfactory or Needs Improvement. La Pine High is one of four Central Oregon high schools that is categorized under the lowest of those three. I would like to take a few lines to review the good work and improvement that has taken place at LPHS in the area of academic achievement in the last two years.
We have recorded our highest two years of test scores in reading and math as school in the last two school years. We recorded our highest writing and science score during that same two-year period. Our graduation rate increased by nearly 10% this last year. Our drop out rate data, to be finalized in coming weeks, indicates that our drop out rate was significantly reduced for the second consecutive year, leading to a rate nearly 75% lower than two years ago. In short, students are finishing high school at a higher rate, and recording record scores in all subjects during the last two years.
The report card rating of "Needs Improvement" is one that doesn't capture the steps forward that have been taken at LPHS. However, we are not in the business of making excuses and ducking the accountability this report card provides. We recognize there is significant room for continued improvement, and are working strategically and diligently to continue on the path we have been on for the last two years.
I do believe that LPHS is on the right track in the area of student achievement. Our data indicates that we are moving forward at a significant clip in our efforts to make La Pine High a place that promotes academic excellence. We have come a long way in two years, and do not plan on slowing or stopping this good work in coming years.
Going the Distance,
Jay Mathisen
Staying Connected to Your Teen