Video: ‘Newsweek’ Study Recognizes Northeast Mississippi High School

FULTON, MISS. (WCBI) – High school students at IAHS are learning a valuable lesson about personal finance.

They are part of the “Career Pathways” class at Itawamba Agricultural High School. It is one of many initiatives in place to help students prepare for life after high school.

“We get them ready for whatever path they want to go to,” said Teacher Lori Holland.

Recently, IAHS was recognized by “Newsweek” Magazine’s “2016 Beating the Odds” report. The school is in the top 400 nationwide of high schools that are especially effective when it comes to teaching and assessing low income students.

That report said IAHS had a graduation rate of 96.1 %, with 87.2 % of last year’s graduating seniors enrolled in college when the study was made.

IAHS Principal Trae Wiygul says students are encouraged to develop their drive to succeed, no matter their circumstances.

“We don’t have the best resources, we don’t have , we are a county school, we don’t come from a wealthy county but we are rich in hard work and work ethic and these kids they want to have success,” Wiygul said.

Amy Jo Holcomb has taught at IAHS for fifteen years and says instructors have a genuine care and concern for each student.

“We try to fill the gaps for what they need, whatever their missing. Whether it’s school supplies they need, or whether it’s a heart thing, whether they need love, care and support they can get it here,” Holcomb said.

Students appreciate the emphasis on life after high school.

“Helps me with financials, and grants, stuff I didn’t know, now I do know from this class,” said IAHS Student Destiny Wilkes.

“There’s a lot of stuff after high school I don’t know how to handle, but hopefully, with Mrs. Lori’s help here, I will be able to conquer it like a normal functioning adult, and not a child,” said IAHS Student Krishtan Farrar.

Teachers and administrators say the Newsweek honor is nice, but they believe the real reward comes in knowing they are making a lasting difference in the lives of students.

Approximately sixty percent of students at IAHS qualify for the free or reduced lunch program.