Challenge

South Harrison High School, located in the rural community of Bethany, Missouri, faced significant challenges in providing diverse learning opportunities for its students. One of the most pressing issues was the lack of available foreign language teachers, particularly for Spanish and French. Because many universities require students to earn foreign language credits while in high school, it was critical for the school to be able provide those courses. Despite advertising the position for years, the school was unable to find a qualified teacher, limiting students’ college readiness. 

Additionally, the school struggled with high failure rates in core subjects. Many students transferred in with incomplete coursework or had difficulty passing required classes. Without a structured credit recovery program, these students were at risk of falling further behind and not graduating on time. South Harrison High School needed a flexible and effective solution to provide language courses, support struggling students, and improve overall academic success.

Solution

To address these challenges, South Harrison High School expanded its partnership with Edmentum, which originally began in 2009, and implemented Edmentum’s EdOptions Academy and Courseware in 2021. 

Access to World Languages Unlocked Through Virtual Learning

EdOptions Academy provided a virtual learning experience that combined Missouri-certified teachers with high-quality online curricula, and it was specifically called upon to serve students completing their foreign language requirements. Unlike previous programs, EdOptions Academy ensured better student engagement and overall communication between the teachers, the students, and the school.

Chandelar Hagan, the school’s counselor, explained, “Edmentum is providing our students the opportunity to expand their future plans so they can attend those larger universities that do require the foreign language prerequisites.” 

Rather than reporting to a classroom during their language elective time, students reported to the library. This dedicated period allowed students to work at their own pace with the added accountability of regular school day instruction. As a result, students received an engaging, differentiated, and effective learning experience in subjects they wouldn’t otherwise have had access to. 

Second Chances Made Possible with Digital Curricula as Credit Recovery 

For students needing credit recovery, the school introduced Courseware, Edmentum’s ESSA-evidenced. grades 6–12 digital curricula. This program allowed students to retake failed courses in a self-paced, supportive environment during the school year at the district’s North Central Career Center with a designated teacher facilitating student progress. The school even extended the use of Courseware to summer school, allowing students to make up credits and stay on track for graduation. 

Mrs. Hagan expressed why providing options for students to see success was critical: “I love being able to give students a second chance. They’re kids. They’re young. We’re able to say that we are going to help the students figure that out because we’re able to offer that through Courseware. I just love that it’s able to give students a second chance to be able to earn a credit in a different way.” 

To further enhance student success, South Harrison High School introduced an advisory period called “Bulldog Time.” This daily session provided students with individualized academic support, ACT preparation using Edmentum’s Study Island, and time to work on Edmentum courses. This holistic approach created a structured environment for students to catch up, improve their skills, and prepare for their next step in life. 

Result 

The impact of Edmentum’s solutions at South Harrison High School has been transformative. Students who once struggled to complete their foreign language requirements were able to meet the necessary prerequisites for college. For example, one student who initially did not plan to attend a four-year university decided in her junior year to apply to the University of Missouri. Thanks to EdOptions Academy’s flexibility, she completed her Spanish courses in time to qualify for admission. 

The credit recovery program has also been a game changer. One senior who transferred into the district with several failed classes successfully recovered his credits through Courseware, and he is now on track to graduate with his class. The structured support system provided by the North Central Career Center allowed him to regain confidence in his abilities and complete his coursework at a manageable pace. 

Perhaps the most significant improvement has been the dramatic reduction in failure rates. Before implementing Edmentum’s programs, 20 to 30 percent of students were failing at least one class. Through Bulldog Time and the integration of Courseware, that number has dropped to just six percent, showcasing a 24 percent improvement in course passing rates and the effectiveness of a blended learning approach. 

South Harrison High School’s success story highlights how innovative digital solutions can bridge educational gaps and provide students with the opportunities they need to succeed. By leveraging Edmentum’s EdOptions Academy for foreign languages, Courseware for credit recovery, and Study Island for ACT preparation, the school has not only expanded learning opportunities but also significantly improved student outcomes. This approach serves as an inspiring model for other rural schools facing similar challenges, demonstrating that with the right tools and commitment, every student can achieve success.