Graduation rate rises in Alleghany

Alleghany County Schools was named sixth in the state for cohort graduate rate, with a rate of 86.2 percent, an increase from last year's rate of 78.1.

The announcement came recently from the Department of Public Instruction.

In a press release from the school system about the graduation rate, Superintendent Jeff Cox remarked, "The cohort graduation rate for the entire state is currently 74.2 percent." Of the graduation rate and other recent test results, he added, "I could not be prouder of our students and staff for our outstanding academic achievement during 2009-2010. I congratulate our students and staff on our high academic achievement."

After learning that Alleghany County has the sixth highest cohort graduation rate in the state, AHS Principal Paul Crouse offered, "We are excited to be recognized for our high graduation rate at Alleghany High School. There are many factors that contribute to students' success in high school, but developing a strong relationship between student and teacher is crucial. Our teachers and guidance counselors simply refuse to give up on students, no matter the circumstances, and our students know that."

Surrounding Area

Of the surrounding area results, Elkin City Schools attained a cohort graduate rate of 86.5, landing in the fifth highest rate in the state. Meanwhile, Surry came in with a 77 percent rate, with Wilkes attaining a rate of 74.6. Ashe received a cohort graduate rate of 73.4.