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National Competition to Enhance 9th Grade Success Rates

The Center for High School Success (CHSS), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing high school graduation rates, recently announced an exciting opportunity for U.S. school districts. The inaugural 9th Grade Success Accelerator cohort, set to begin in January 2027, aims to provide critical support to districts willing to boost their 9th Grade On-Track Rates. School superintendents interested in participating must submit their expressions of interest by October 30, 2026.

The Importance of 9th Grade

A wealth of research has demonstrated that ninth grade is a pivotal year for students on their path to graduation. According to landmark studies conducted by the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research, students who finish their freshman year on track—meaning they earn sufficient credits with no more than one failed core course—are significantly more likely to graduate. This finding is crucial as it reveals that early indicators of student success predict graduation rates more accurately than test scores, socioeconomic status, or ethnicity.

Kaaren Andrews, the executive director of CHSS, emphasizes the importance of real-time data: “Unlike graduation rates, which reveal problems four years too late, on-track data gives district leaders a real-time way to see which students need support while there’s still time to act.” With this competition, CHSS hopes to drive districts away from relying solely on lagging indicators and to focus more on proactive measures that foster student success.

Transforming Practices

The momentum of research-backed practices is already visible in cities like Chicago, where attention to freshman performance has led to a remarkable increase in graduation rates—from 57% in 2006 to 83% in 2025. This transformation underscores the potential that lies in tracking and supporting 9th graders effectively. In adapting such beneficial practices, other major districts—including Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.—have begun to monitor similar metrics, with states like Oregon, Colorado, and Indiana implementing statewide initiatives to support on-track efforts in ninth grade.

Tara DeBois, deputy director of CHSS, remarked on the challenges faced by ninth graders: “It’s hard to be a ninth grader. New school, more rigorous classes, and greater expectations of independence can make the transition challenging.” The 9th Grade Success Accelerator aims to cultivate a network of districts committed to implementing robust strategies that help students successfully navigate this significant year and lay the foundation for future academic and career success.

How the Accelerator Works

The 9th Grade Success Accelerator will select up to ten school districts that are dedicated to achieving significant gains in their 9th grade success rates. Over 18 months, these districts will benefit from comprehensive support that includes training, coaching, data analysis, and peer learning opportunities. The initiative is fully funded by philanthropic support from MacKenzie Scott, ensuring that selected districts have the resources they need to create effective and lasting changes.

The application process is straightforward, requiring interested district leaders to express their interest by October 30. Those chosen for the cohort will be announced on December 15. For further details and guidance on how to begin the partnership journey, districts can visit highschoolsuccess.org/accelerator.

Conclusion

The Center for High School Success is paving the way for 9th Grade Success across the United States. By leveraging evidence-based practices and fostering collaboration among districts, this initiative promises to enhance educational outcomes and help students stay on track for graduation. For high schools aiming to improve performance and student support systems, this Accelerator represents a significant step toward lasting success in the educational landscape.