Graduation rates for the Class of 2015 in Florida grew 1.7 percentage points over last year resulting in a 12-year high. Since 2003-04, Florida’s statewide graduation rate climbed to 77.8 percent — an increase of more than 18 percentage points.
“This news is further evidence that Florida’s public education system is serving our students well. More students are achieving success by earning a diploma, which will enable them to pursue higher education and meaningful careers,” Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart said. “I am grateful for the parents and educators who have supported these students in their education thus far and I want to congratulate the graduates and encourage them to continue chasing their dreams.”
African American students’ graduation rate increased 3.2 percentage points since last year. The graduation rate for Hispanic students rose 1.7 percentage points over 2013-14.
The graduation rate measures the percentage of students who graduate within four years of their first enrollment in ninth grade. The rate is calculated for an adjusted cohort of students – a group of students on the same schedule to graduate – taking into account those who enter or exit the group.
In Florida’s 2014-15 cohort, 4.1 percent of the students dropped out and 18.1 percent are still enrolled in school, earning a certificate of completion, special diploma or GED-based diploma. Florida’s graduation rate only considers standard diploma recipients as graduates in the calculation. Students who earn a special diploma, a GED-based diploma, a certificate of completion, or have been retained and are still in school after four years are counted as non-completers in the calculation. Non-graduates include students who have been retained and are still in school, received certificates of completion or received GED-based diplomas.