[DSRP Evidence](https://dsrpevidence.org/)

# Ithaca Schools' Graduation Rate Goes Up

## Details

**Authors** Friend K

**Year** 2014

**Publisher** The Ithaca Voice

**Kind of work** press

**Discipline** Education

**Secondary disciplines** Public Policy

**Kind of engagement** press

[Read it](https://ithacavoice.org/2014/06/ithaca-schools-graduation-rate-goes/)

## In authors' words

### What they set out to do (purpose)

The article examined a multi-year rise in the Ithaca City School District’s four-year graduation rate, which increased from 76% in 2009–2010 to 85% in 2012–2013. District leaders discussed several changes occurring during this period, including increased classroom technology, greater student engagement, individualized support, tutoring, mentoring, transportation, meals, and extensive teacher involvement.

### What they found (results)

ICSD reported three consecutive years of improving graduation rates, alongside other reported improvements such as higher SAT scores, better attendance, and fewer discipline issues. Superintendent Luvelle Brown attributed much of the improvement to greater access to technology and a more engaging school day, while Principal Jarett Powers emphasized individualized student support and teacher commitment. The article explicitly notes, however, that it is impossible to determine which individual factors caused the increase in graduation rates.

## Commentary

### In short

Coverage of the work in The Ithaca Voice. The article documents improved educational outcomes during a period of broader instructional and technological change in ICSD while the district was being actively trained in DSRP.

**Patterns it shows** S, R

**How to cite this** Friend K (2014). Ithaca Schools' Graduation Rate Goes Up. The Ithaca Voice.