Oconee Schools Superintendent Highlights Importance of High School Graduation

First-year Oconee County Schools Superintendent Andy Smith addressed the Walhalla Rotary Club on Monday, emphasizing the critical value of completing high school. Speaking on the district’s dropout rate and responding to Rotarians’ questions, Smith pointed to earnings data showing that individuals without a diploma or equivalent face significant disadvantages in securing well-paying jobs. He noted that while 9th grade is a common point when students drop out, the risk can begin as early as third grade if a child struggles to achieve minimum reading proficiency, underscoring the district’s focus on early intervention to keep students on track for graduation.