Housed in the Monroe Educational Campus, The High School of World Cultures offers a safe and welcoming environment for new immigrants, some of whom have had little education in their home countries.

Given their backgrounds, it’s not surprising that it takes many students more than four years to graduate. But teachers encourage them to stay—rather than drop out—and nearly 90 percent graduate eventually—even if it takes them six years.

Parents are encouraged to stop by whenever they like, and Principal Ramon Namnun speaks Spanish. While most students speak Spanish, the school is equipped to help students who speak other languages as well.

More than 90 percent of students say their teachers inspire them to learn, according to the Learning Environment Survey. Most students say they feel safe at school, but one-third of teachers say order and discipline could be improved. There are metal detectors at the entrance of the building.

Admissions: The school is open to immigrant students who have been in the country for less than two years. Students are admitted year round. (Clara Hemphill, statistics and interview, August 2012)