GreatSchools.org launches expanded College Readiness Rating

New information helps parents understand if their children can access high-level courses and Dual Enrollment in community colleges

OAKLAND, CA (December 12, 2019) — GreatSchools.org, a national nonprofit empowering parents with information to unlock educational opportunities for their children, released a new, expanded College Readiness Rating including new data about advanced courses and programs to earn college credits while still attending high school. For the first time, GreatSchools is adding information about Dual Enrollment, or the opportunity for high school students to take college classes earning credits towards an associate degree. Also, parents can now find information about the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program found in many public high schools in communities across the country.

“The updated College Readiness Rating is part of a continuing effort to provide parents, and those working on behalf of students and families, a more nuanced and equitable view of school quality,” said Jon Deane, CEO of GreatSchools. “I’m especially excited we’re able to offer information about Dual Enrollment, which can give students a more affordable path to college and career success.”

The GreatSchools College Readiness Rating measures how well high schools prepare their students for success in college and career, compared to other schools in a state. The rating includes a high school’s graduation rate, data about college entrance exams (SAT/ACT performance), and information about enrollment in advanced courses – specifically Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Dual Enrollment courses.

GreatSchools’ analysis of successful high schools outlines key best practices, including offering high level courses to all students as soon as 9th grade. It also highlights the importance of eliminating barriers to ensure that all students have access to advanced course opportunities.

“Communicating with students and families as well as helping them understand where they can participate in high level classes and Dual Enrollment programs can be a lifelong educational game-changer,” says Dr. Linda Gallegos, Principal at Veterans Memorial Early College High School in Brownsville, TX. “For predominantly minority communities like ours, it is critical to knock down barriers and provide opportunities at the campus for students to gain college credits which will in turn make their college life beyond high school quicker and less expensive as well as better prepare them for a successful future.”

GreatSchools also recently added new information about school district spending. Learn more here.

About GreatSchools:
GreatSchools is the leading national nonprofit empowering parents with essential information to improve educational opportunities for their child. Using GreatSchools’ trusted ratings and school quality information, parents can find the right school for their family and take action to improve schools in their communities. Thousands of articles, tips and interactive tools offer parents easy-to-use resources to support their child’s learning and wellbeing every day. Families, community leaders and policymakers turn to GreatSchools for the school information they need to guide children to great futures.