An Evaluation of a High School Graduation Coach Initiative in an Urban School District

• In Event: 53.041 - Research, Evaluation, Assessment, and Accountability in Schools: Showcasing the Work of Graduate Student Scholars

Abstract

Using a mixed methods design, this proposal describes an evaluation of a graduation coach initiative that aimed to increase high school graduation rates in an urban school district. Administrative data were analyzed, and this was supplemented with a series of interviews and observations in the district’s five comprehensive high schools. Both quantitative and qualitative findings support the conclusion that the initiative has been successful in increasing the number of students who complete high school in the district. The evaluation concludes with a list of best practices utilized by graduation coaches and recommendations, including the expansion of the program.

Authors

• David T. Marshall, Auburn University

• Thy Nguyen, Norfolk Public Schools

• Karren Patillo Bailey, Norfolk Public Schools