Graduation program needs support
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RONAN — Ronan School District wants to bring its 1.7 percent dropout rate down, and is asking for the support of community members and businesses to help more kids walk across the graduation stage.
Curriculum Director Christina Barbachano is in the process of writing a $2,500 to $5,000 grant that will request state funding from the Graduation Matters Montana program. If it receives the funds, the district will implement programs that will help students identify potential college options and submit college applications.
The school plans to have a night where students and parents can find out more about filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It also intends to have teachers conduct phone calls to students throughout the year to check if students have applied for scholarships and colleges. The school plans to add seven spots to the 35 currently available for students to take online classes that help recover credits and graduate on time.
Middle school and elementary students will partake in career fairs. Kindergartners will sign pledges to graduate.
“We’re trying to prevent dropouts and promote college readiness from the very beginning,” Barbarchano said.
Part of the program will include building a network of professional contacts and programs that offer dual credit courses and other opportunities to get started on post-grad work early.
Barbarchano also wants to connect with local businesses that would be willing to mentor students and participate in career readiness.
Part of the grant writing process requires Barbachano to list any business support the school can expect, so she is asking any business with interest in helping establish a Graduation Matters program at Ronan call her office in the next two weeks. Paid business sponsorships for a Graduation Matters banner for the school are available.
“There are many ways to participate,” Barbachano said.
Barbachano can be reached at (406) 676-3390.
