1. Destination Graduation Simpson County School District Achieving Excellence in Education

2. Destination Graduation Every student entering the ninth grade at High School should graduate in four years. Two major factors in the drop out rate are: retention in lower grades and having an adult in their life who cares. How can we avoid retention and nobody caring? – The Pre-K Initiative: Children need to come to school ready to learn and on “grade level”. – Students who struggle need intensive intervention and support from a caring adult, a “graduation coach”.

3. READ TO ME The Pre-K Initiative supports reading to or with every child for 20 minutes everyday. School District staff meet with parents at day care providers, Head Start Centers, church groups and other organizations to share packets of information on making every child a reader. Businesses support the READ TO ME Campaign by placing posters in their stores to promote reading to and with children.

4. Graduation Coaches Volunteers are needed to work with students who may be struggling to “make the grade” in school. We want volunteer readers and coaches for every student that needs a bit of extra help and incentive to learn. You can make a difference! Sign up to help. Volunteer to be a graduation coach! Call 601-847-8000 or email us at projectgrad@simpson.k12.ms.us. projectgrad@simpson.k12.ms.us

5. Community Forums The District sponsors community forums throughout the year. These forums are opportunities to meet school leaders and ask questions about the Simpson County Schools. Your organization can host a community forum by contacting Dr. Tom M. Duncan at 601-847-8000 ext. 306.