Canutillo ISD helps students get high school diploma

The Canutillo Independent School District is looking to improve one of its programs that helps students who have dropped out.

The Opportunity Academy allows students to make up credits on non-traditional schedules so they can obtain their high school diploma.

Currently, 17 students are enrolled and eight are expected to graduate this Spring, but CISD is not getting credit for attendance nor funding for the students it’s helping.

Last week, the Board of Trustees approved an extension of the program called Optional Flexible School Day.

If approved by the Texas Education Agency, it will get the district funding, depending on average daily attendance, improve enrollment numbers and increase the graduation rate.

CISD is working to submit its application to the TEA, it would still need approval.

A spokeswoman for the district said the program works because of the flexible hours for students who have dropped out.

“There are different situations as to why these kids are not going to traditional school,” said Liza Rodriguez.

She said some of them are working full-time, some are mothers and some of them are working to take care of their families.

“We want to provide a service to make sure that they also get their high school diploma and have the same opportunities as everyone else,” Rodriguez said.

The program is available for students ages 17-26. CISD also offers a GED program to its community members.