Community pride | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Howard High School, once one of the lowest performing schools in Tennessee, is undergoing a transformation with the support of the community, dedicated staff, and innovative programs to prepare students for college and career success.

Key Insights

• 🏫 The community is coming together to support Howard High School and its efforts to become a great school, despite its current challenges.
• 🏫 The new principal is working tirelessly to unite the school and provide support for the students, which is commendable.
• 📚 Howard High School has a rich history and was the first African American school in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
• 🎓 The school has produced many successful individuals in the past, highlighting its potential.
• 🏢 The school was previously one of the lowest performing in the state, with a low graduation rate.
• 💔 The students at Howard High School face numerous traumatic experiences and live below the poverty line, making their achievements even more incredible.
• 💼 Many students at Howard High School have part-time jobs and family responsibilities, which can affect their attendance.
• 💪 Through various initiatives like Future Ready Institutes and Saturday Success Academy, the school is providing practical opportunities and support to help students succeed both academically and in their future careers.

Transcript

Howard High School had challenges. It’s in the bottom 5% of the high schools in Tennessee. The thing that’s hopeful here is how the community’s coming together to say we want Howard to be a great school. There’s a new energetic principal that has been trying to bring the school together and help the kids. It’s heroic work. Howard originated in 1865... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How has the community rallied to support the revitalization of Howard High School?

The community has been actively involved in supporting Howard High School, with individuals, businesses, and civic organizations believing in the school's mission and investing in its success. This support has been crucial in implementing new programs and providing opportunities for students.

Q: What initiatives are being implemented at Howard High School to improve student success?

Two key initiatives at Howard High School include the Future Ready Institutes, which offer students career-focused opportunities, and the Saturday Success Academy, which provides extended learning opportunities and support to prevent students from falling behind academically.

Q: How is Howard High School addressing the challenges faced by its students?

Howard High School recognizes the unique challenges faced by its students, including poverty, trauma, and other responsibilities such as part-time jobs and parenting. The school aims to create a supportive and inclusive culture where students feel valued and provided with the necessary resources to succeed.

Q: What impact does the transformation of Howard High School have on future generations?

The transformation of Howard High School is not only focused on improving outcomes for current students but also on changing the trajectory for future generations. By equipping students with the skills and support needed for success, they can pass on these opportunities to their children and create a positive cycle of educational achievement for years to come.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Howard High School, established in 1865 as the first African American school in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has a rich history but has faced significant challenges in recent years.

• The school has a high poverty rate, with 93% of students living below the poverty line, and many students facing traumatic life experiences.

• Under the leadership of a new principal and with the support of the community, Howard High School is implementing programs like Future Ready Institutes and Saturday Success Academy to improve attendance rates and academic progress, with the aim of preparing students for post-secondary education and successful careers.