Minnesota's graduation rate hits all-time high: How did the largest school districts perform?
Minnesota's high school seniors graduated at a record pace in 2024, with 59,720 students – or about 84.2% – earning their diplomas.
The graduation data released May 7 by the Minnesota Department of Education also shows increases among students across a wide range of demographics and income levels.
Gov. Tim Walz said that the record graduation rate is a "testament to the historic investments we made to provide free school meals, support teacher training, expand mental health resources and promote technical training opportunities."
'The state is proud to celebrate the graduating class of 2024 and remains committed to supporting Minnesota students, setting them up for success beyond the classroom," Walz said in a statement
Willie Jett, the state's education commissioner, said the graduates "worked hard and overcame challenges to achieve this milestone."
'I am thrilled to see the success of many of our student groups – especially those most at risk – and a closing of the achievement gap as we work to make sure every student, of every background, zip code and ability has access to a world-class education," Jett said in a news release.
The graduation rates increased across nearly all the different demographics measured by the state.
American Indian: 62.9%, up from 61.3% in 2023
Asian: 88.1%, up from 85.4% in 2023
Black: 73.9%, up from 72.1% in 2023
English learners: 67.2%, up from 63.4% in 2023
Hispanic or Latino: 71.7%, up from 69.2% in 2023
Two or more races: 80.1%, down from 80.3% in 2023
Students eligible for free or reduced-price meals: 74.4%, up from 71.9% in 2023
Students receiving special education services: 67.4%, up from 65.6% in 2023
White: 89.3%, up from 88.7% in 2023
Anoka-Hennepin Public School District: 2,827 students graduated; 85.6%
Saint Paul Public Schools: 1,956 students graduated; 76.5%
Minneapolis Public School District: 1,844 students graduated; 73.8%
Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan: 2,087 students graduated; 88.1%
Osseo Public School District: 1,396 students graduated; 84.6%
South Washington County Schools: 1,440 students graduated; 92.5%
Elk River Public School District: 942 students graduated; 89%
Wayzata Public School District: 822 students graduated; 96.3%
Lakeville Area Schools: 969 students graduated; 91.6%
St. Cloud Area School District: 537 students graduated; 66.1%
This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Minnesota graduation rate hits record high in 2024, data shows
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