On January 16, 2020, the New York State Education Department released the 2019 graduation data. “Once again, it is my pleasure to report that Yonkers Public Schools’ graduation rate is up over last year reaching 88% of our seniors graduating on time,” announced Yonkers Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez. “Over the past five years, our graduates have increased by 10% percentage point, this is outstanding. The Trustees commend the work of our Superintendent Dr. Quezada, his instructional team, school administrators, teachers and, most importantly, the diligent effort of our students and the encouragement and commitment of their families.”
“Our high school principals, assistant principals, school counselors, teachers and pupil support staff are doing a phenomenal job relentlessly moving our students to on time graduation. Yonkers outperforms urban school districts across the state. Our students’ on time graduation rate is 4.6 percentage points higher than the statewide average. Every subgroup’s graduation rate increased and outperformed the State and Big 5 city schools,” stated Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, Superintendent of Schools. “Beginning in the ninth grade our schools focus their work to ensure that all students progress toward graduation and parents/guardians are kept informed of their child’s progress. By providing access to an array of academic and social-emotional opportunities, we are closing the achievement gap for all of our students. This includes the additional time for August on time graduation, which truly reveals our students capacity to achieve graduation as well as college and career readiness.
“Despite the chronic underfunding to Yonkers Schools by New York State, our students continue to amaze us – increasing their graduation rate by an incredible 16% in just eight years,” said Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano. “I can only imagine what our students could accomplish if our District was provided the funding they so desperately need and deserve. Congratulations to the dedicated Yonkers Board of Trustees, our talented Superintendent and the wonderful administration staff and teachers who commit themselves each day to the successes of our schools and who work tirelessly to ensure our students reach their fullest potential.”
