At Hiram Johnson High School in Sacramento, a dedicated guidance counselor named Jessica Gunning is making waves in her mission to ensure every student graduates. With many students being first-generation college-goers or family graduates, Ms. Gunning's efforts have been nothing short of remarkable. Two years ago, she achieved a perfect graduation record for her assigned students, a first in her 16-year career. However, challenges remain as the school’s graduation rate stands at 78%, below the state average of 86%. Across Sacramento County, dropout rates have risen by 32% since the pandemic, with issues such as attendance and mental health affecting students' progress.

The Struggles and Triumphs at Hiram Johnson

In the heart of south Sacramento lies Hiram Johnson High School, where Jessica Gunning dedicates herself daily to guiding students through their educational journey. Her office walls are adorned with countless photos of smiling graduates, each one a testament to her relentless commitment. These images inspire current students who aspire to join the ranks of those captured in gowns. Despite her achievements, Ms. Gunning faces the sobering reality that not all students will walk across the stage. The California Department of Education reports a graduation rate of 78% at Hiram Johnson, meaning nearly one in five students doesn't graduate annually. This trend mirrors a broader issue across Sacramento County, where yearly dropouts have surged by 32% from pre-pandemic levels.

Ms. Gunning attributes much of this increase to challenges like transportation, family obligations, and heightened anxiety post-pandemic. Many students struggle to adapt back to in-person learning after prolonged periods of remote education. To combat these obstacles, she prioritizes personalized connections with each student, crafting tailored plans for those lagging behind. Her approach has proven effective; one struggling student earned an impressive 75 credits in a single semester under her mentorship. Yet, the counselor-to-student ratio remains a concern, standing at 1:250 at Hiram Johnson, significantly lower than California’s average of 1:443.

Despite the hurdles, Ms. Gunning remains optimistic, driven by the bonds she forms with her students. Some former pupils even return with their children to meet their cherished counselor, adding new chapters to her wall of memories. For Ms. Gunning, success isn't just about numbers but about empowering potential-filled individuals to overcome adversity.

As society grapples with the repercussions of high dropout rates—such as increased incarceration and economic loss—Ms. Gunning’s work exemplifies the profound impact a dedicated educator can have. Her story highlights the importance of personal connections and support systems in transforming lives. As we delve deeper into Sacramento County’s dropout crisis, it becomes clear that solutions lie in understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by each student. Through compassionate guidance and unwavering dedication, educators like Ms. Gunning pave the way for brighter futures.