Conclusions
Without a doubt, the middle-school years can be rough waters. Even as children are making the emotional, physical, and social transition into adulthood, they're also ready for more academic challenge. So they move among 5 or 6 teachers specializing in subjects, instead of staying in one elementary classroom. It's a lot of change all at once.
This data story shows that the success of these transitional experiences during this critical juncture directly relates to graduation rates.
More specifically, the data reveal points of vulnerability that also offer opportunities to improve 9th-grade success. Each of the red-flag problems -- absenteeism, challenging behavior, poor test performance, suspensions -- needs attention more immediately so the issues do not linger or get worse. To be sure, by themselves schools can not meet all the changing needs of this age group. They'll have to work closely with parents, the community, and outside partners to help children get on a promising academic track and stay there.
