By Josh Meyer
Superintendent USD 350
Special to the Tribune

On November 22, the state commissioner of education, Dr. Randy Watson and state board member, Dennis Hershberger presented USD 350 staff and students with the Commissioner’s Award with Highest Distinction. St. John-Hudson is one of only seven school districts in the state to receive this recognition. This is the second year in a row for the Tigers to earn this award.

Each year, the Kansas State Department of Education tracks post-secondary progress for all school districts in the state. They look at students two years after high school. If they have earned an industry certificate, an associate’s degree, or if they have successfully completed two years toward a degree then they have met this particular measure of success.

This is not to say that everyone needs to go to a university or get a bachelor’s degree to be successful. But we know that 70-75% of jobs require some sort of post-secondary education or training. In order for students to have access to these jobs, it is important that educators prepare them for success after high school. This includes college but also includes technical school and industry recognized credentials (such as welding or nursing).

The latest data for USD 350 students shows a 5-year average of 66% for post-secondary progress. That is a bit short of the goal of 75%, but well above the state average and well above the rate predicted for this size of student population. Tiger students have been so successful in this area which is the reason for the award. It shows how hard USD 350 students work and is a testament to the efforts the staff put in every day to ensure student success. New banners in the school hallway recognize this accomplishment.

Thank you to Dr. Watson and Mr. Hershberger for taking time to recognize St. John-Hudson staff and students.