CFHS celebrates 100% graduation rate

CLARK FORK — Last year, Clark Fork High School was one of only a few in the state to achieve a 100% graduation rate with a 23-student cohort size. CFHS principal Phil Kemink expects a similar result this year.

CFHS was one of eight traditional schools in Idaho to achieve a perfect graduation rate in 2023. Other Idaho schools that ranked similarly include Grace High School in Caribou County with a 100% graduation rate and a 37-student cohort size, and Murtaugh High School in Twin Falls County with a 100% graduation rate and 23-student cohort size. All other Idaho schools that achieved a 100% graduation rate had cohort sizes under 20 students. 

A four-year cohort size is determined differently than a senior class size and includes students who drop out between their freshman and senior years.  

“Students who are entering grade nine for the first time form a cohort that is subsequently ‘adjusted’ by adding any students who transfer into the school during the next four years and subtracting any students who transfer out, immigrate to another country, or pass away during that same time period,” Idaho Department of Education officials said. 

Kemink said the school’s small size paired with officials’ efforts to connect with kids and families all contributed to the school’s success. 

“Our daily schedule allows us the opportunity to support all levels of learners, with additional support on Fridays,” he said. 

Some specific programs at the school, including those that encourage hands-on learning experiences have also contributed. 

“In years past, our experiential learning program allowed our school, and greater community, to connect in meaningful ways with real life application, bridging academics with real life application,” he said. 

The COVID-19 pandemic heavily impacted attendance and graduation rates, he said. Due to the student population size at CFHS, a single student can make around a 5% difference in final graduation rates. 

The state-wide graduation rate average was 83% in 2023, 79.9% in 2022, and 82.3% in 2021, the IDE website said. CFHS’s 2022 graduation rate was 83.3% while its 2021 graduation rate was 95.2%. Traditionally, the school has remained between 95% and 100%, Kemink said. 

Lake Pend Oreille School District Superintendent Dr. Becky Meyer also celebrated the school’s success.

“Graduation rate is an indicator of a healthy and engaged school environment,” she said. “I’m so proud of CFHS teachers and administrators for really living out our mission — every student, every day.”

    Phil Kemink, CFHS principal, said the school’s small size paired with officials’ efforts to connect with kids and families all contributed to the school’s success.