Latest California High School Exit Exam Results

Milpitas High's graduation rates have hovered between 95 and 97 percent in the last decade, according to California Department of Education Data.

Students who drop out are one factor, but another is passing the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE), a requirement to receive a diploma.

Sophomores begin taking the exam and can retake English or math sections in their later years, but as of the latest test results, some seniors will not be graduating in June.

However, seniors who have completed all other requirements will be able to walk and get a certificate, according to Milpitas High Principal Ken Schlaff.

Based on February exam results presented to the school board this week, 27 students from MHS and Cal Hills considered English learners have not passed the exam in addition to 13 "regular" students.

Students with disabilities have been exempt since 2009, and are able to receive their diplomas if they meet other requirements, said Beverly James, director of assessment and special projects for the district. There are about 23 from both high schools who have not passed the exam so far this year.

But the latest exam results from May will not be available until July, after the big graduation. For the students that miss the June ceremony, Milpitas High offers a small graduation in August, according to Principal Ken Schlaff. 

"I always keep my fingers crossed for these students," he wrote in an email. "If they don't pass the May test, they have support from the district for a number of years and, therefore, they still have the ability to receive a high school diploma."

Students have access to CAHSEE math classes and labs, said James.  

At Milpitas High, a staff member along with counselors are available help students improve their scores, according to Schlaff.

The results from February's exam were presented to school board members by James at the regular meeting on May 24.

Cal Hills 2009-2010

The number of seniors enrolled at Milpitas High, at the time the February exam results were presented each year at the school board meeting, was 667 for the Class of 2011 and 677 for the Class of 2010.

The number of seniors enrolled at Calaveras Hills Continuation High School, at the time the February exam results were presented each year at the school board meeting, was 90 for the Class of 2011 and 79 for the Class of 2010.