Indy Standard

George Washington High School has been recognized as a Demonstration School by the Center for High School Success (CHSS) for its efforts in improving student graduation rates, particularly focusing on ninth graders. This recognition allows the school to share its strategies with other schools across the nation.

The school's Ninth Grade On-Track (9GOT) rate has seen a significant increase since it began collaborating with CHSS in 2020, rising from 55% to 83%. Dr. Aleesia Johnson, superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools, commented on this achievement: “Through its partnership with the Center for High School Success, George Washington and the district have transformed the ninth-grade experience, improving academic achievement and attendance while driving success for our students.”

The collaboration with CHSS has provided George Washington High School freshmen with a structured support system that helps them adjust to high school expectations and develop essential skills. The partnership has also contributed to creating a positive school culture focused on academic success and community involvement.

Dr. Stanley Law, principal at George Washington High School, noted that despite challenges during the 2020-2021 school year due to COVID-19, which saw only 55% of freshmen on track for graduation, the school improved significantly in subsequent years. “Through intentional efforts, we improved to 75% the following year, and we reached our best performance yet last year with an 85% on-track rate,” Law stated.

Law praised his team of teachers for their resilience and commitment to student success. “They consistently seek innovative and strategic ways to support student success," he said. "Their focus on achieving maximum results for our 9th-grade students reflects their dedication to impactful, data-driven progress.”