As of Tuesday, the enrollment in the online charter school was 288, up from 277 on Oct. 1.

The private college says it’s the first in the state to offer education students training in proficiency-based education and technology teaching.

During a debate in 2010, then-gubernatorial candidate Bill Beardsley said he supported teaching creationism in school. On Monday, he said he doesn’t think schools should teach it.

The state ranks 16th in the nation and is one of 36 that saw increases in the overall graduation rate.

Participation is at a record level as various courses give students a way to cut tuition costs, get a taste of what’s ahead or help decide whether to pursue a degree.

Winthrop High School, raising money for hunger relief in advance of Friday’s School Spirit Challenge, is making plans to raffle off a new car.