OLYMPIA, Wash.-Washington public school students are graduating at higher rates than ever before and are more prepared for higher education, according to the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction.
The 4-year graduation rate for the Class of 2023 reached 83.6%, a record high, with the total number of graduates increasing by 1,200, according to data released by OSPI on Dec. 19.
“Over the past five years, our Legislature has invested in more school counselors, expanded pathways to graduation aligned with student interests, and increased student access to rigorous coursework,” said State Superintendent Chris Reykdal.
According to OSPI, the largest gains were made by students who are identified as American Indian/Alaska Native, whose graduation rate rose by 3.7 percentage points.
Students who are experiencing homelessness and students with disabilities also made gains, with their graduation rates rising by 2.3 and 1.5 percentage points, respectively, as compared to 2022.
Data from the Washington State Education Research and Data Center also shows that less Washington students are starting college needing to take pre-college courses.
“Engaging in advanced coursework has been shown to better prepare students for postsecondary education…,” Superintendent Reykdal said.
