Alberta high school completion rates continue to rise

High-school graduation rates in Alberta continue to rise, particularly among Indigenous students, English-language learners, and students with emotionaland behavioural disabilities.

"I believe that some of the more focused First Nations, Mtis and Inuit programming that has come online has really helped," Education Minister David Eggen said Wednesday during a tour of Edmonton'sCentre High Campus, where Aboriginal Studies isthe most popular course.

Eggen also praised programming that "opens the doors" for students, such as the dual-credit strategy that allows students to earn credits in high school and post-secondary institutions at the same time. He is also impressed withprogramming around the trades. Both of these initiatives are offered at Centre High.

"So much of being able to complete high school, get that diploma, is the confidence that a student can bring to the high school classroom," said Eggen. "I believe creating different ways that we can be successful really makes a big difference."

Since 2010, the three-year completion rate for Alberta students with emotional and behavioural disabilities has increased by10 per cent, according to data provided by Alberta Education.

Also since 2010, the three-year completion rate for Aboriginal students has increased by eight per cent, while the completion rate forEnglish-language learner students has increased by four per cent.

Overall, Alberta's three-year high school completion rate increased to 76.5 per cent in 2014/15 from 74.2 per cent in 2010/11.

Among students who spend five years in high school, the completion rates are higher 82.1 per cent in 2014/15, compared to 79.3 per cent in 2010/11.

Ahmed Abdikadir, a recent Centre High graduate, said the curriculum equipped him with public speaking skills and exposed him to a possible career as a firefighter or police officer.

But Abdikadir, who had "never used a tool before," participated in the school's two week construction boot camp and decided on a career in the trades.By the time he graduated, Abdikadir had earned the certifications he needed to land his first job in hisfield.

"I was very thankful to get a job in the oil and gas industry," said Abdikadir, adding he is now completing five weeks of electrical training and then plans to do an electrician apprenticeship.

"When I first arrived I had my mind set on achieving a high school diploma," said Abdikadir. "What I didn't know was how this journey was going to change me as an individual."