Fulton County Schools, led by Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney, has achieved an extraordinary milestone with the district's highest graduation rate in history, an impressive 90.3%. Across 14 high schools, graduation rates have surpassed 90%, with some even exceeding 97%. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the united effort of educators, students, and their families.
Dr. Looney attributes the remarkable graduation rates in Fulton County Schools to a decade-long focused approach. He highlights the commitment of the board, stating that "The board has had this goal for the last decade," showcasing the determination and persistence of the district's leadership. This unwavering dedication has effectively aligned resources, cultivated a shared vision, and established a supportive and motivating environment for students.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, high school graduation rates are closely linked to positive outcomes such as higher employment rates, increased earning potential, and improved overall quality of life. Individuals with a high school diploma are more likely to secure stable jobs and earn higher salaries compared to those without a diploma. These statistics serve as a reminder of the significance of achieving high graduation rates and the impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole (U.S. Department of Education, n.d.).
Fulton County Schools has made it a priority to create a learning environment that is both relevant and challenging. Dr. Looney firmly believes in engaging students in their education and ensuring that it is meaningful for them. He emphasizes the need for rigor and challenge, stating that "We have to make school relevant for our students... it has to be rigorous and challenging for them."
Dr. Richey asked Dr. Looney recognizes the critical role of socio-emotional connections in instilling trust and motivation among students. He asserted this during the interview, "We know the evidence has proven... you can't reach a person's mind until you reach the heart." Creating an environment where students feel cared for and supported is instrumental in fostering their sense of hope and belief in their own potential.
Dr. Looney further explains, "When they know that we care, then they want to help themselves progress in life. It's about instilling that hope, not through our words, but through our actions." By prioritizing students' social and emotional well-being, Fulton County Schools cultivates an atmosphere where students can thrive academically.
Fulton County Schools' astonishing graduation rates serve as a testament to effective leadership, teamwork, and the power of building relationships with students. Dr. Looney's emphasis on a united effort and student-centered education has propelled the district to new heights. The achievement of these record-breaking rates sets an inspiring example for educational institutions nationwide.
Dr. Rashad Richey, host of the award-winning 'Rashad Richey Morning Show' on News & Talk 1380 – WAOK/V-103FM (HD3) (Weekdays 7am -10am), and the 'Dr. Rashad Richey Review' on SiriusXM's Urban View (Sundays at 1pm and 9pm), was voted 'Best Talk Radio Personality in Atlanta' by readers of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and named 'Most Trusted Voice in Atlanta' by the Atlanta Business Journal, making him the first African-American to receive these distinctions.
The intelligent and fearless television news anchor for the opinion news show, 'Indisputable with Dr. Rashad Richey' on the TYT Network, which was named 'fastest growing TV news show in America', and Political Commentator for The People's Station V-103 FM, America's largest urban station, also serves as President of Rolling Out, the largest free-print urban publication in the country. This multimedia powerhouse with over 3-million combined subscribers/followers on Facebook Watch, YouTube, Podcasts, and Twitch combined, is a noted multidisciplinary academic scholar and university professor/lecturer and an Emmy-nominated television Political Analyst for CBS News Atlanta.
Believing in the power of knowledge and education, Dr. Richey holds several advanced degrees, making him one of the most academically credentialed individuals in American history according to America News Now. Completing doctoral research studies in federal policy reform from Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Richey also holds a PhD from the Business University of Costa Rica where his research and doctoral dissertation highlighted the nuances and intersectionality of politics, policy and religion.
Being a student of leadership, Dr. Richey completed studies in Executive Leadership at Cornell University and was accepted into a specialty executive law program at Harvard University in International Finance: Policy, Regulation, and Transactions. Understanding the connectivity of culture and science, Dr. Richey earned his Master of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Pacific, where his master's thesis researched cognitive functionalities of brain entrainment. Dr. Richey also completed a Master of Science in Applied Physics and Quantum Mechanics from Universidad Empresarial, his master's thesis was adapted into a book titled, 'Ancient Egyptian Mastery of Quantum Physics, Vibratory Frequency, and Geometric Sciences: An Overview of Complex Scientific Applications in Ancient Cultures', which quickly became the #1 Physics, #1 Science, #1 History, and #1 Egyptian Genre b0ok on the Amazon platform.
Recently, Dr. Richey completed his Juris Doctor (law degree) from Renaissance University after transferring from Birmingham School of Law, where he attended for 2 years. He accepted the position as Director of Global Legal Operations for the multinational law firm, The International Law Group of Human & Civil Rights Attorneys P.C., also known as The Fairness Firm, with offices in the USA, Canada, France, Spain, and Cape Town Africa.
As host of The Rashad Richey Morning Show, Dr. Richey has interviewed everyone from Vice-President Kamala Harris to TI, and always brings relevant information, the best on-air debates, and most insightful interviews in media. Tune in every weekday morning from 7am-10am on News and Talk 1380-WAOK, V-103FM (HD3), www.WAOK.com, or on the Audacy App.
