GCHS grad rate rises for third-straight year

GREENE COUNTY

Greene County High School is celebrating another year of progress, as its combined graduation rate increased to 89.1% in 2025, up from 88.1% in 2024 and 86% in 2023.

This marks the third consecutive year of improvement in the graduation rate and continues a trend of outperforming the state average. The GCHS combined graduation rate exceeded the state rate of 84.9% in 2023 and 85.7% in 2024.

“This achievement reflects the commitment of our entire school community, students, families, teachers, coaches, counselors, and staff, working together to ensure every student has the support they need to succeed,” GCHS Principal John Ellenberg said.

Several key strategies have contributed to the rising graduation rate at GCHS. Counselors work closely with students using transcript analysis tools that provide clear, personalized roadmaps to graduation. This proactive approach empowers students to take ownership of their progress, stay informed about their credits, and make confident decisions about their education.

The school’s College & Career Academy pathways have also made a significant impact. Students who complete a pathway graduate at a 100% rate, demonstrating the value of hands-on, interest-driven learning. These programs connect classroom instruction to real-world skills and open doors to both college and career opportunities.

Additionally, GCHS has expanded flexible learning environments to ensure each student can learn in the setting that best meets his or her needs. Through strong educational partnerships, students have access to a variety of options that keep them engaged and on track.

The school’s career coaching mentoring program has further supported students as they prepare for life beyond high school. More than 100 community volunteers, career coaches, and mentors work alongside the counseling office to help students stay focused on post-secondary planning, academic requirements, and the skills necessary for success after graduation.

GCHS Transcript Analysis Sheets also provide a live picture of a student’s academic journey, accessible digitally to students, parents, teachers, career coaches, and the school counseling team.

This collaborative system allows for a tailored educational experience through real-time progress tracking and a team-based advisory approach that keeps each student’s goals and needs at the center of planning.

“Our mission is to meet students where they are and help them discover what’s possible,” GCHS Graduation Coach Greg Simmons said. “When students review their Transcript Analysis Sheet, they can clearly see their academic progress, create a plan for success, and feel the strength of a team committed to their future. Aligning students’ career aspirations with their educational journey keeps them focused and motivated to graduate.”

In addition to these targeted efforts, GCHS continuously seeks to strengthen relationships between students and staff, expand career exploration opportunities, and provide consistent academic support, all of which contribute to student success.

“This success is not only about the graduation rate, but about what it represents: students who are better prepared for their futures,” GCSS Director of Teaching and Learning Dr. Jody Worth said. “We are investing in them not just as graduates, but as lifelong learners, leaders, and contributors to our community.”