Washington Initiative Boosts Ninth Grade Success

A state-run program is increasing course pass rates for ninth graders across 60 Washington schools.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector editorial illustration of an open book on a desk overlooking a forest, representing academic success. — Washington's Ninth Grade Success initiative has significantly increased freshman course passage rates by providing targeted academic and attendance interventions for students. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Washington's Ninth Grade Success initiative has driven a 6 percentage point increase in freshman course passage rates statewide. The program provides targeted support for students facing low grades and truancy to ensure they stay on track for graduation.

Why it matters

Ninth grade serves as a critical academic milestone where students often fall behind, and the initiative aims to prevent dropout rates by intervening early. Successful course completion during this year is a primary indicator for high school graduation.

The initiative has expanded to 78 schools over seven years. In North Thurston Public Schools, ninth grade pass rates climbed from 65.8% in the program's first year to 75.4% during the 2024-2025 school year.

The players

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

This is the primary agency responsible for overseeing public K-12 education across Washington state and managing the state's school funding requests.

North Thurston Public Schools

This local school district serves as an implementation site for the state initiative to monitor and improve freshman academic outcomes.

The details

Teachers and school support staff collaborate to identify students struggling with attendance or academic performance. Through personalized empathy talks and direct consultations with families, these staff members implement interventions tailored to individual student needs.

Washington launched the initial Ninth Grade Success pilot program between 2019 and 2021.
North Thurston ninth graders achieved a 75.4% course pass rate during the 2024-2025 school year.
North Thurston Public Schools received $6,000 in startup funding for the 2025-2026 school year.

Culture Shift

The program reflects a growing shift toward targeted early-intervention models in secondary education. By prioritizing ninth grade as a pivotal year, school districts are moving away from reactive remediation in favor of proactive, relationship-based support systems.

Families in participating districts may experience increased communication from school staff regarding their child's academic progress and attendance. The initiative's goal is to ensure students remain on track for high school graduation through these direct support interactions.

The takeaway

Early intervention during the freshman year is a proven strategy for improving long-term graduation outcomes. Parents of ninth graders should actively participate in school support meetings to help align home and classroom efforts.