At the Virginia Board of Education meeting on October 24, 2024, Graham High School earned an Exemplar Performance Award from the Virginia Department of Education. The Exemplar Performance Award was awarded to Grahan High School for continuous improvement in the increase of graduation and completion index and a decrease in the dropout rate.
In April 2018, the Virginia Board of Education approved the final guidelines of the Guidance Document Governing Certain Provisions of the Regulations Establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia establishing the criteria for three types of recognition: (1) highest achievement, (2) continuous improvement, and (3) innovative practices. Recognition for highest achievement and continuous improvement are awarded annually based on the most current data and accreditation status. Recognition for innovative practice is awarded every two years and will be awarded later this school year upon completion of the nomination and review process.
Graham High School was one of 49 schools recognized in the state of Virginia for the Continuous Improvement Award. The criteria for being recognized with the Continuous Improvement Award requires an increase in the Graduation and Completion Index (GCI) for each of the past three years with a total increase across the three years of four percent or more; and the school must demonstrate a decrease in the dropout rate for each of the past three years with the total reduction across three years of 15 percent or more of the first year’s dropout rate.
Upon learning of Graham High School's exemplary award for continuous improvement, Dr. Christopher B. Stacy, superintendent of schools, said, “I’m very proud of the work being performed at Graham High School by the administration, faculty, students, and community! Our students staying in school and receiving high school diplomas is of paramount importance.”