(New Lexington, OH) - The New Lexington School District has received accolades for its innovative programming, resulting in notable improvements in attendance and graduation rates. With a vision to motivate students and enhance their employability, the district has
adapted course offerings to generate student interest and align with the employment needs of local businesses.

The graduation rate has increased from 78.7% in 2016 to 93.4% in 2022. “Administration took a look at graduation data to see what students were doing after graduation,” Morgan Holman, the workforce and wellness administrator, explained. “We identified ways to motivate our students and give them opportunities to earn credentials to become more employable by the time they graduate.” 

Since 2018, the district has established partnerships with various organizations and secured grant funding to expand its initiatives. Notable developments include the acquisition of a forklift simulator and a semi for CDL credentialing, as well as the enhancement of the Workforce Development Center, where students can access credentials such as drug testing, ServeSafe, OSHA, CPR, and driver's education. 

The district has enhanced job shadowing opportunities and work visits through the Panther Partners program, featuring a Business Advisory Council with 48 business partners. Their dedicated Workforce Development Center now provides additional pathways and access to counseling, addiction support, and after-school services. 

Students planning to attend college have had the opportunity to earn college credit
through partnerships with Central State College and Hocking College. 

“These new programming initiatives have led to remarkable outcomes, including a consistent increase in attendance rates and higher graduation rates,” Holman shared. “It’s been fantastic to partner with area schools and businesses and see these improvements.

The future is looking bright for both our graduates and the community.”