In Case You Missed It: How the States Got Their Rates

In case you missed the original October release, Achieve's "How the States Got Their Rates" report takes a close look at the 93 diploma options that were available to high school students in 2014. The state graduation rates in this report are those that comprised the nationwide 82% graduation rate, the highest one yet. More students graduating is certainly worth celebrating; however, many students are graduating with a diploma that does not prepare them for what lies ahead in college or a career. Two questions that should be answered before we can celebrate a higher graduation rate:

1. Can a student complete the state's minimum graduation requirements, complete the state's assessment requirements and/or GPA requirements, receive a diploma, and still not be ready for a two-year or technical school, an apprenticeship, the military, or a four-year institution?

2. Do students and families fully understand the implications of selecting courses and, in some states, certain diplomas and what those choices mean for their options after high school? To read the original press release, click here.

Media Contact: Chad Colby (202) 419-1570, ccolby@achieve.org or Kelly Van Beveren: 202-745-2306, kvanbeveren@achieve.org