Malad High School Celebrates Historic Success in Dual Credit and Graduation Rates

Tucked into the hills of Oneida County, Malad High School (MHS), like many rural high schools, has long served as more than just an educational institution; It’s the center of community pride, ambition, and resilience. And recently, that pride has reached new heights. 

This year, Malad High School celebrated a record-setting academic achievement: eight students graduated with an associate’s degree from Idaho State University (ISU) and one student earned their Licensed Practical Nurse certification, an extraordinary feat for a school with just 305 students.

“Malad High School is the story of relationships and the strength of a small community,” says Dr. Holly Kartchner, director of outreach and retention at ISU’s College of Arts and Letters. “The hub and heart of the area is centered around the Malad Dragons.”

MHS was established in 1903, with early classes held in public buildings around town. Four-year courses began in 1909, and the first full graduating class of six students completed their education in 1913. Over the years, the school has evolved through several buildings, with the current high school dedicated in 1981. Since then, class sizes have ranged from 40 to over 100 students.

Today, MHS continues its tradition of excellence, fueled by community support, strategic vision, and forward-thinking education initiatives. At the heart of Malad’s academic success is a commitment to providing college-level opportunities for students without requiring them to leave home.

Elizabeth Kent, advanced opportunities coordinator and early college advisor at MHS, has successfully expanded the Early College Program, doubling the number of Associate Degree graduates each year since taking the lead.

Kent explains that one of the most effective ways to motivate MHS students to pursue dual credit and early college opportunities is by helping both them and their parents understand how valuable and achievable it is to earn college credits during high school.

Kent hosts an annual Associate’s Degree Information Night, where she walks families through how dual credit classes can count toward both high school and college requirements.

“Once I help parents and students realize that concept,” Kent says, “obtaining an associate's degree at ISU will become within reach for many of our students.”

This tailored guidance is matched with an offering of in-person dual credit courses taught by Malad’s own faculty. Kent has helped numerous teachers become dual credit certified, allowing students to take courses like college algebra or upcoming additions like Biology 1101 + Lab and Biology 1102 + Lab. These classes not only satisfy state high school graduation requirements but also fulfill ISU’s general education objectives.

“We offer so many in-person dual credit classes that we only need a few online,” said Kent. “That also makes a huge difference, not only for our kids, but also for our teachers.”

Kent says that the collaboration with ISU has been key. “ISU (specifically Holly) gave us a chance!” Kent says. “Without ISU's help to establish the program five years ago, we would not have the success we do.”

“It’s truly incredible that a school the size of Malad High has so many students graduating with college degrees,” said Dr. Kandi Turley Ames, dean of the College of Arts and Letters at ISU. “This speaks volumes about the dedication of the students, the support of the community, and the strength of our partnership. We’re proud to celebrate this milestone with them and excited to see where these students go next.”

Students who once may not have considered college are now not only attending ISU, but also graduating early due to the boost in their college credits during high school. “Academic confidence, college readiness, and future plans have improved at our high school because of the ECP program,” Kent said. “We have significantly increased the number of students who decide to pursue their degrees at ISU.”

The ripple effect continues as more families with multiple children move through the program. “I have now been at the school long enough and helped two siblings get their associate degrees,” Kent says. “They have another sibling who is starting. For some families, it is becoming a choice, and helping those students get a jumpstart is what they want when they already know they plan on being in school for advanced degrees.”

Malad’s small graduating class received millions in scholarships this year, a powerful example  of what investment in rural education can yield. “Success is celebrated and losses are seen as challenges to overcome,” said Kartchner. “Malad loves their kids, and it was demonstrated at the awards event when presenter after presenter praised the students for their success both in and out of the classroom.”

“Building a program takes time,” Kent emphasized. “But if you’re patient and work hard to establish it, it will slowly become fruitful. I am hopeful that students will continue to graduate with their Associate of Arts degree from ISU every year.”