Central Georgia News

High-school seniors in Georgia achieved a notable milestone as the graduation rate for 2023 reached 84.4%, showcasing an increase from the previous year's 84.1%. This achievement was revealed by the Georgia Department of Education, highlighting the state's progress in education and commitment to student achievement.

According to the Georgia Department of Education, the 84.4% graduation rate is a historic milestone since the implementation of the adjusted cohort calculation mandated by federal law in 2011. Over the years, Georgia has seen a significant 14.7 percentage point increase in statewide graduation rates, with 107 school districts surpassing a 90% graduation rate and 43 districts achieving rates of 95% or higher.

In a press release, State School Superintendent Richard Woods expressed his pride in Georgia's high-school seniors and acknowledged the efforts of teachers, leaders, and families in supporting the students. He emphasized the importance of the positive results, stating that they represent new opportunities for students' futures. Superintendent Woods expressed confidence in continued positive results as the state invests in academic recovery and builds a student-centered educational system.

Governor Kemp's investment in education played a significant role in this milestone. In May 2023, he signed a bill for substantial pay raises for state employees, public university staff, technical college staff, and public school teachers. Additionally, support staff, including school cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and nurses, received salary increases, while school custodians received one-time bonuses. This historic investment of $13.1 billion in K-12 education aimed to improve compensation and support across the educational sector.

The on-time graduation rates for the 2022-2023 academic year varied across ethnic groups. Asian and Pacific Islander students had the highest graduation rate at 94%, followed by white students at 87.1%, multiracial students at 82.5%, Black students at 83.7%, and Hispanic students at 77.6%. Notably, Georgia has a historical reputation for having a relatively narrow graduation rate gap between Black and white students.

Georgia's achievement of a record-breaking graduation rate reflects the state's commitment to providing quality education and opportunities for its high-school seniors. The steady increase in statewide graduation rates over the years showcases the continuous efforts to support student success. With ongoing investments in education and a student-centered approach, Georgia aims to build a brighter future for its students.