Education is the key to success: State Senator Delgado congratulates graduates amidst high dropout rate

SPRINGFIELD, IL—Illinois State Senator William Delgado (D-Chicago) was the guest speaker at two recent graduation ceremonies in the 2^nd District: North-Grand High School’s graduation ceremony and Ana Roque de Duprey Elementary School’s eighth-grade graduation.

In both speeches, Senator Delgado congratulated the students on their hard work and achievements while also emphasizing the importance of setting higher educational goals. Delgado encouraged the students to choose the right path and continue their education despite potential obstacles that could lead to dropping out of school.  

“Education is the key to success. Once you have earned a degree, no one can take that away from you. It is our job as parents, teachers and mentors to ensure that our children have the greatest opportunity to better their lives and communities with an education. We must take the necessary steps to lower the already high dropout rate in Illinois,” stated Senator Delgado.

Under a new federal formula for determining more accurate graduation rates reported by the Chicago Tribune, Illinois’ 2011 graduation rate stood at 50.2%, a large decrease from the 90.3% reported in 2010. The new formula determines graduation rates by tracking a cohort of individual students as well as requiring students to graduate in four years. 

“These students represent our future leaders. We should be at a 100% graduation rate among all students. They need a strong support system and a government they can turn to when faced with obstacles and challenges while earning a degree,” continued Delgado. 

Earlier this month, Senator Delgado voted in favor of SB 3259 which raises the minimum dropout age in Illinois from 17 to 18 years old. The bill passed both chambers and is now awaiting the Governor’s signature.