High Schools in Dowagiac Union School District

The Dowagiac Union School District in Michigan is home to two high schools: Union High School, the larger and more traditional comprehensive high school, and Pathfinders Alternative Educational, a specialized school serving a more at-risk student population.

While Union High School boasts a strong 90.5% four-year graduation rate and outperforms the district and state on most academic metrics, Pathfinders Alternative Educational faces significant challenges, with a mere 9.3% four-year graduation rate and a staggering 53.1% dropout rate. This disparity highlights the unique needs and struggles of the students served by Pathfinders, who likely require more specialized support and resources to succeed.

Interestingly, both high schools serve economically disadvantaged student populations, with over 60% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, well above the state average. This suggests that the Dowagiac Union School District faces significant socioeconomic challenges that impact student outcomes across the board. The district's investment in Pathfinders Alternative Educational, with its higher per-student spending, demonstrates a commitment to providing specialized support for its most vulnerable students.