News & Announcements

During the Nov. 19 Board of Trustees meeting, James Gianotti, Executive Director for Educational Services, presented the 2024 graduation rate, which rose to 87.77%, marking another year of improvement for Lyon County School District (LyonCSD). This trend underscores the district's vision of Graduating all students to college, career, and life successful.

The Nevada Department of Education calculated the 2024 Four-Year Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate on Nov. 1. This metric accounts for students who begin as part of a high school cohort and earn a standard diploma within four years, with adjustments for transfers and non-graduates.

LyonCSD's focus on personalized support has contributed to steady gains across most high schools. The 2024 graduation rates for each school compared to prior years are as follows:

Dayton High School

2024: 92.64%
2023: 91.93%
2022: 85.89%
2021: 89.86%
2020: 86.36%

Fernley High School

2024: 87.04%
2023: 87.94%
2022: 84.35%
2021: 84.62%
2020: 86.19%

Silver Stage High School

2024: 89.55%
2023: 83.91%
2022: 91.78%
2021: 90.54%
2020: 95.45%

Smith Valley High School

2024: 100%
2023: 100%
2022: 100%
2021: 100%
2020: 85.71%

Yerington High School

2024: 94.68%
2023: 86.17%
2022: 86.46%
2021: 90.11%
2020: 85.29%

The overall district graduation rate of 87.77% for 2024 reflects a steady climb from prior years:

2023: 86.41%
2022: 84.57%
2021: 87.82%
2020: 86.58%
2019: 86.46%

By comparison, the state graduation rate for 2024 is 81.6%, slightly higher than the 2023 rate of 81.39%. In previous years, the state rate was 81.72% in 2022, 81.31% in 2021, and 82.57% in 2020.

The district’s success is attributed to efforts like the college and career interventionists, who work closely with students facing academic challenges. These specialists focus on the bottom 25% of performers at each school, helping them overcome barriers like absenteeism or credit deficiencies. Counselors also support students by maintaining four-year academic plans tailored to individual needs.

Graduation rates reflect more than just numbers; they demonstrate the district’s commitment to ensuring every student has the tools and resources they need to succeed. Programs such as LyOnline and adult education offer alternative pathways, ensuring students have every opportunity to complete their diplomas.

As of November, LCSD’s 87.77% graduation rate significantly surpasses the state average of 81.6%, reflecting its commitment to preparing students for bright futures.

Unfortunately, our graduation rate does not take into account any Adjusted Diplomas or Adult Education/High School Equivalency graduates.  If it did...

Celebrity Chef Jonathan Zaragoza Brings Mexican Cuisine to Fernley High School in Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month

On October 9, Fernley High School played host to a special event that brought together culinary expertise, cultural celebration, and the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine. Organized by the Lyon County School District's Nutrition Services provider, Chartwells, the event featured renowned Celebrity Chef Jonathan Zaragoza. The event was a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, offering students a unique opportunity to learn and taste traditional Mexican food firsthand.

Dayton and Fernley High School culinary students gathered during the two lunch periods to attend cooking demonstrations by Chef Zaragoza, where they learned the art of preparing authentic Mexican dishes. Chef Zaragoza, a part of Chartwells' Global Eats program, shared his culinary journey and his passion for Mexican cuisine with the students.

Chef Jonathan Zaragoza showcased his culinary skills by preparing his well-known Corn and Pineapple Salsa, among other dishes, guiding students step-by-step through the process while sharing stories about how food plays a pivotal role in his cultural heritage. Following the demonstration, students had the opportunity to taste his delicious dishes.

In addition to sampling the food, students were provided with recipe cards to recreate the dishes at home. Chef Zaragoza also took part in a lively Q&A session, where he answered questions about his culinary journey, cooking techniques, and the importance of nutrition in schools.

This event not only gave students a taste of flavorful, authentic Mexican cuisine but also offered a rich educational experience, emphasizing the deep connection between culture and food. Chef Zaragoza held a special discussion with the combined Spanish classes, where he reflected on how his heritage has shaped both his cooking and career. The session left many students feeling inspired to pursue their own culinary passions.

The event, part of a broader effort by Chartwells and the Lyon County School District, highlighted the importance of celebrating cultures and promoting healthy, nutritious meals. Chef Zaragoza’s visit was an engaging way to honor Hispanic Heritage Month, connecting students with the rich traditions and tastes of Mexican cuisine.

Communications & Public Relations

communications@lyoncsd.org