June 2, 2014 - Mayor Tom Henry today visited Wayne High School to congratulate students on recent classroom achievements and emphasize the importance of getting a good education that can lead to productive career opportunities.
The graduation rate at Fort Wayne Community Schools is now at over 90%. Wayne High School experienced the highest increase in graduation rates among FWCS schools.
“I’m encouraged by the superior and innovative learning that takes place in our local schools,” said Mayor Henry. “The work being done at FWCS demonstrates a strong commitment to excellence that is making a positive difference in the lives of our young people. By investing in our future, we’re positioning our City as a leader in education and job growth.”
“We know schools are a key component to economic development,” Superintendent Wendy Robinson said. “Reaching this graduation rate did not happen overnight, and we are not done yet. Every student must be prepared for life after high school, whether they are going to college, the military or directly into the workforce. It starts with relationships, with our teachers knowing their students and making the connection between the rigorous coursework in the classroom and the careers they will someday have in the community.”
Fort Wayne Community Schools’ graduation rate has been consistently higher than the state average over the last five years. The district began laying the groundwork for reinventing its high schools about a decade ago, with the most noticeable improvements coming in 2009 when schedules returned to a seven-period day, guidance offices were restructured, teachers were provided additional support, and Programs of Study and an increased number of Advanced Placement and dual credit courses were added to each high school.