PEABODY — Peabody Public Schools is expanding opportunities for students to get back on track academically and earn their diplomas, with credit recovery programs and alternative pathways to graduation helping drive an increase in graduation rates at Peabody Veterans Memorial High School (PVMHS).
According to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), PVMHS’s four-year graduation rate increased from 85.7% in 2024 to 90.7% in 2025, a 5% improvement that exceeded the state’s target of 90.2%. The school also saw significant gains among English learners and students with disabilities, whose graduation rates increased by 23.2% and 10.3%, respectively.
To support students who need additional time or resources to complete required coursework, PVMHS offers multiple credit recovery options designed to help students meet graduation requirements while continuing to work toward their academic goals.
One option is the school’s “Period 8” program, which operates Monday through Thursday afternoons and provides eligible students who are deficient in a core academic course needed for graduation with an opportunity to recover credits. The instructional time helps students address missing credits and make progress toward earning their diplomas.
PVMHS also offers a night school option for students who need to recover credits. Through the online Edgenuity program, students complete coursework while meeting regularly with one of the three “graduation coaches.” These staff members provide ongoing support and help students stay focused on completing the requirements necessary to graduate.
The Peabody Learning Academy (PLA) provides another pathway to graduation for PVMHS students, offering an alternative for students to pursue academic success.
“Every student deserves the opportunity and support needed to reach graduation,” said Superintendent Josh Vadala. “By offering multiple ways to recover credits, complete coursework and receive individual support, we are working to ensure that students have the resources they need to overcome challenges and receive their diploma.”
In addition to strengthening credit recovery opportunities, PVMHS is focusing on improving its Grade 9 passing rate.
This year, the school has implemented a more intentional approach to connecting Grade 9 students with their school community, their peers and consistent adult support. Over the summer, PVMHS elevated a Grade 9 dean of students and two dedicated school counselors to provide support.
The school also named 20 Grade 9 advisory teachers and implemented a process to thoughtfully match students with advisory groups and individual advisors based on a survey of students’ needs, passions and subject comfortability. Throughout the school year, a Grade 9 advisory team and data team will work together to support students and teachers.
PVMHS also continues to develop its advanced coursework options. The school offers 25 Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including the recent addition of AP Business and Personal Finance and AP Computer Science Principles. Teachers make individualized course recommendations each spring to help students select classes that appropriately challenge them while supporting academic growth.
DESE data shows that the percentage of PVMHS students completing advanced coursework increased from 48.7% in 2025 to 57.4% in 2026, exceeding the state’s target of 53.5%.
“Through our credit recovery programs, graduation coaches and alternative learning opportunities, we can provide students with the individualized support and flexibility they need to get back on track and earn their diplomas,” said PVMHS Principal Brooke Randall. “We are proud of the progress our students are making, and we remain committed to helping every student reach their full potential.”
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