By Pam Teal

For the Reporter

The Boeing Company awarded a $250,000 grant to be used to support the success of Renton School District ninth graders on Oct. 11.

“Boeing is proud to partner with the Renton Schools Foundation and the Renton School District to support successful middle to high school transitions for students,” said Gina Breukelman, senior manager of Boeing Global Engagement.

“We are deeply committed to students and families in the Renton community, home of the 737 family of airplanes, where thousands of Boeing employees live and work.”

Renton School District staff will use the grant funding to ensure ninth grade students stay on track to earn grade level credits, attend school regularly and graduate on time by:

• establishing ninth grade Success Teams at all district comprehensive high schools

• consistent review of ninth grader “on track” status, including grades and attendance

• creating plans to support students not on track for success

• tutoring and student groups for ninth grade students who need support

• summer transition programs for eighth graders, prior to their ninth grade year