Essential Questions for High School Graduation
High School Graduation Playbook: Chapter 2
Overview
High school graduation is a vital step toward economic stability, independence and opportunity. A diploma opens doors to college, career training and jobs with upward mobility, but earning a diploma means more than completing coursework. Students must leave high school equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to navigate whatever comes next. Communities can support graduation outcomes by pairing rigorous academics with career exploration, real-world learning, and strong support for mental health and basic needs.
This is part 2 of StriveTogether’s Cradle-to-Career Outcomes Playbook: High School Graduation. The playbook synthesizes research and practical guidance communities can use to improve high school graduation.
High School Graduation Progress
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1. Are all students graduating from high school on time, ready to successfully transition into further education, training or employment?
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2. Are students demonstrating satisfactory academic progress, consistent attendance and positive behavior to be considered on track for graduation?
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3. Are students accessing, completing and succeeding in rigorous college- and career-ready coursework?
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4. Are students taking the necessary steps to have a post-high school plan and receiving sufficient counseling support along the way?
Leading a school system to strong graduation outcomes
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5. Does the Local Education Agency (LEA) and school monitor the progress of all students and intervene when students show early signs of challenges?
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6. Does the Local Education Agency (LEA) or school provide intensive, individualized support to students who have fallen off track?
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7. Does the Local Education Agency (LEA) or school engage students by offering curricula and programs that connect schoolwork with college, career an
Teaching, learning and high school coursework
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8. Do students have effective, representative teachers and leaders?
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9. Are teachers and schools making significant contributions to academic growth for students?
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10. Do students attend school in systems with adequate funding to prepare students to graduate with college- and career-ready high school degrees?
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11. Do students have access to high-quality, rigorous curricula and coursework?
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12. Do students have strong, supportive relationships with teachers/adults at school?
Experiences and neighborhood conditions
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13. Do families live in well-resourced neighborhoods?
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14. Do families with children have access to public support (i.e. health care access, nutrition programs, economic support, etc.)?
Positive school environments
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15. Do students attend schools with safe, inclusive and supportive environments?
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16. Do students attend schools that prioritize their social, emotional and physical development and well-being?
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17. Are there students who disproportionately experience exclusionary discipline?
High School Graduation Playbook
Download the playbook