Martinsville City Public Schools continues to see increases in its on-time graduation rate.
Last year’s rate was 90 percent for students graduating in four years, and this year’s rate of 94.62 percent is nearly a 5-point increase.
According to a recent Virginia Department of Education report, Martinsville’s rate exceeds the state on-time graduation rate by two points.
The school system’s rate of 95 percent is higher than the neighboring districts of Danville City (81 percent), Pittsylvania County (89 percent), Henry County (91 percent), Patrick County (93 percent), Franklin County (93 percent), and Halifax County (93 percent).
The city school division also leads in specific areas compared to the state average.
The graduation rate among Hispanic students is 94 percent, which is 13 points higher than the state; the graduation rate among students with disabilities is 100 percent, or 10 points higher than the state. The graduation rate among economically disadvantaged students is 96 percent, seven points higher than the state. The graduation rate among Black students is 96 percent, five points higher than the state.
“In Martinsville we take a systems approach,” Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Angilee Downing said. “This work starts in pre-school so that as students transition from grade level to grade level, they are ready to be successful. This mindset is the core principle of our district. It’s the dedication of our teachers, administration, support staff, and families who all work as a team to empower success, just like our vision says.”
“I am excited about our graduation rate and look forward to reaching a 100 percent rate,” said Superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley. “I appreciate the great efforts of our students, parents, teachers, staff, community, and administrators in achieving this great status. The data reflects that we are above the state average, and we must strive to continue providing our families with a first-class education.”