Grades are an essential part of high school, and this year has started off strong. The first quarter concluded last month, and Granger High set new academic records.
Currently, the school has the fewest F’s recorded in the last five years. In 2021, 32% of Granger students received F’s in the first quarter. Last year, that number dropped to 17.5%, and this year, it’s decreased further to 15.7%. “In total, there are about 23,550 grades for all of Granger, and out of those, only 3,704 were F’s,” Dr. Howe said.
Dr. Howe also noted that there are fewer students this year, which might be contributing to the improved grades. Additionally, the first quarter saw the highest number of students making the honor roll. Achieving honor roll status requires a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and 854 students qualified this quarter.
As for the reason behind these improvements, Dr. Howe says it’s hard to pinpoint. “It’s very hard to tell because just because there’s a correlation doesn’t mean it’s a cause,” said Dr. Howe. Some correlations, such as the school being mostly phone-free, could be helping reduce distractions. “The only cause and effect of this amazing feat that we can say for sure is the students’ hard work and their efforts,” Dr. Howe said.
Students who make the honor roll are rewarded with a taco truck lunch, while those who achieve a 4.0 GPA get lunch with the principal, featuring Panda Express. Additionally, GTV broadcasts mentions and congratulations to celebrate this achievement. “We do want to do more to congratulate the students for this amazing feat,” Dr. Howe said.
To help improve grades, students are encouraged to attend FLEX sessions. “We’re trying to get at least a third of the students to go to FLEX so we can help them,” Dr. Howe said. Students can talk to their teachers during FLEX for personalized support.
For students needing to make up credits, after-school recovery is available in E203 from 2:10 to 4:00 p.m. Parents are encouraged to monitor their child’s grades and discuss them regularly to ensure progress.
