As we get close to graduating the Class of 2016, the high school graduation rate, statewide, for the Class of 2015 was up for the sixth year in a row, at 82-percent. But high schools in Nevada County show much higher rates. It was 94-percent at Nevada Union, but principal Dan Frisella says it would be a lot higher, if the 12 to 18 seniors with “severe needs” were not factored in…

click to listen to Dan Frisella

Frisella believes high school graduates are now much better prepared for college or a career…

click to listen to Dan Frisella

Frisella says today’s tougher state academic standards have also helped. Meanwhile, the 2015 graduation rate for Bear River High School is 97-percent, with a zero dropout rate. The dropout rate for Nevada Union is just point-9 percent.