New Bedford High School graduation rate up 6.5% to 82.5% in 2019

New Bedford High School’s 2019 four-year cohort graduation rate has increased to 82.5%, the highest in 14 years, based on the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (DESE) recent reporting on statewide graduation rates. The 2019 four-year cohort graduation rate was 82.5%, a 6.5% increase, from the previous year and representing tremendous growth from the 2010 low of 61.4%.

School leaders expressed pride at the latest numbers showing the overall increases at New Bedford High School are highlighted by a 37.1% increase from 52.6% in 2018 to 89.7% in 2019 for Black students. English Learner (EL) students saw tremendous growth for the second consecutive year increasing by 26.5% from 53.5% in 2018 to 80% in 2019.

“This progress is awesome and I am extremely proud of our students for taking control of their future. Tremendous thanks to our staff on the high school level and at all elementary and middle schools as well. This is a direct reflection of high expectations and believing in our students, staff, families and the entire community. It is a direct correlation to the recent investments that we are making in our students’ future,” Superintendent Thomas Anderson stated. He also noted that, “This reflects the dedication by our entire team to the overall teaching and learning process. This is about people and our ability to inspire and motivate everyone to be invested in the teaching and learning process.” Superintendent Anderson also expressed his appreciation to the willingness of all staff to work with students to provide opportunities for them to be successful.

The New Bedford High School drop-out rate, a key metric reported by DESE, is 1.5%, compared to 1.4% in 2018.

Mayor Jon Mitchell said, “This is exciting and encouraging news, and it is an indication that New Bedford High School continues on its measurable upward trajectory. It is a testament to the work of teachers, staff and students at New Bedford High that the school has made such meaningful progress every year. The school’s graduation rate is a reflection of an excellent education that ensures every student is prepared for their next step, whether it’s attending some of the country’s most competitive colleges, serving our nation in uniform, or starting a successful career.”

Headmaster Bernadette Coelho said, “We remain committed to working closely with every student to ensure they not only graduate from high school but feel prepared to embrace new challenges on their continued journey. Our graduation rate continues to climb because of the hard work of our students who embrace the opportunities they have at New Bedford High School alongside a staff committed to ensuring every child succeeds.”