Back-to-school report focuses on Simon Youth Academy's perfect graduation rate

The Simon Youth Pacers Academy at Washington Square in Indianapolis, Ind., was the focus of a back-to-school story produced by WXIN-TV Fox 59, the city's Fox affiliate, during the school's first day of classes on Aug. 8, 2011. The academy is one of the first nationwide school's supported by Simon Youth Foundation to return after summer break.

Fox 59's Vanessa McClure interviewing a student

Vanessa McClure, the reporter assigned to the story, spoke with students, the academy's principal, Teresa Knox, and SYF President and CEO J. Michael Durnil, Ph.D.

When asked about the impact of Simon Youth Academies nationwide, Durnil said that the academies are dramatically driving down drop-out rates in the 23 communities in 13 states where they are located.

"Washington Square is a great example of this impact," Durnil told Fox 59. "The school reported a 100 percent graduation rate this past fall, meaning all eligible seniors earned their diploma."

Durnil said that he is proud that academy's strong performance is playing an important role in aiding Indianapolis Public Schools, SYF's partner in supporting the academy at Washington Square, as the district takes a multi-step approach to improving drop-out rates.