Only five of the 33 graduates met the graduation criteria.
A high school in a remote part of Texas, in the United States, postponed its graduation after finding that only five of its 33 graduates met graduation criteria, according to a report in CNN. Marlin High School’s 28 students failed to graduate due to attendance and academic performance.
The school took to Facebook to share an official press release stating, “Marlin High School has announced that high school graduation will be moved to June. The high school’s decision to postpone graduation gives students more time to complete necessary graduation requirements, many of whom failed due to attendance or grades.”
They added that the move is part of a “wider effort by Marlin ISD to maintain high academic expectations and ensure student success.” They continued, “The district has reaffirmed its commitment to providing students with the necessary resources and support, and the new graduation date is seen as evidence of this commitment.”
Superintendent dr. Darryl Henson said in a statement: “Our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. We firmly believe that every student in Marlin ISD can and will reach their potential. We have high expectations, not as an imposition, but as a show of confidence in the capabilities of our students. As we face these challenges, one thing is clear: students in Marlin ISD will be held to the same high standard as any other student in Texas.”
He went on to say on Twitter, “Our district will grow through this setback. Let this be a lesson learned for all. As we continue our annual graduation audit, it is our duty to ensure that all students meet all requirements. Support , accountability and integrity remain paramount.”
A mandatory parent-teacher meeting was held at the high school on May 24. According to CNN, Dr. Henson said at the meeting, “The state of Texas has graduation guidelines. This isn’t a dance floor… It’s not a come-home pep rally. This is graduation.”
According to the superintendent, 17 students were now still qualified to graduate in June after working this week to make up missed classes and assignments. On Thursday, the day the students were due to graduate, the community organized an informal graduation ceremony to honor the students at a church.