KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – When it comes to graduation and drop-out rates, Kalamazoo Public Schools students took a far greater hit during the COVID-19 pandemic than those in most other districts.
The Board of Education has been asking for a detailed breakdown on the numbers for over a year and finally got it last night. The data, compiled by the state, revealed that nowhere were the changes as dramatic as Kalamazoo’s.
Asst. Superintendent Dr. Amy Vondra says the gaps between white students and black and brown students were greater here than in other urban districts.
Board President Ti’Anna Harrison called the numbers appalling, especially the dropout rates, and she wants to know where those students went.
Dr. Vondra says some were lost to the justice system, but many took jobs at local businesses, and getting them back won’t be easy.
She says it’s just going to take time, but they are doing everything the research, staff and students say they should be doing.
Trustee Jermaine Jackson says the district needs “boots on the ground” in the community to get those students back in class, and should send someone out to knock on doors and show those young adults the district cares about their future.
Trustees asked for a more detailed report on what specifically the administration is doing to address graduation and drop-out rates at next month’s meeting.
Some speculate Kalamazoo’s steeper decline may have been due to a decision by its former Superintendent to remain in virtual-learning longer than most other districts.
reporting by John McNeill
