A newly released report from the Office of Accountability offers a detailed look at graduation and dropout rates for the 2025 accountability year, presenting encouraging news for several local school districts. The data, based on the four‐year adjusted cohort method for students who entered Grade 9 in the 2020–2021 school year, show that while the statewide graduation rate stands at 89.2% with an 8.5% dropout rate, local districts are performing notably above these averages.
In Newton Municipal School District, Superintendent Glenda Nickson announced a graduation rate of 95.7% alongside a dropout rate of 2.2%. “Newton Municipal School District is proud to announce an outstanding 95.7% graduation rate and a 2.2% dropout rate, a testament to the hard work and dedication of our scholars, teachers, staff, and community,” Nickson said. She continued, “This success is the result of a shared commitment to excellence. Our scholars continue to rise to the challenge, supported by devoted teachers, staff, and families who believe in their potential. Every step forward is a reflection of the hard work and perseverance of our entire school community. Trust the process. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but with determination, anything is possible. It’s always a great day to be a Tiger!”
Union Public School District also reported exceptional results, with a graduation rate of 96.9% and a dropout rate of 0.0%. Superintendent Tyler Hansford expressed his pride in the district’s long-term commitment to student success: “UPSD is extremely proud of its graduation rate accomplishments that were recently announced. The results are the culmination of efforts from students, parents, and teachers for the last 17-18 years. The path to graduation begins at birth and allows students to leave the halls of this school ready to take on whatever is next—whether that’s college, career, entrepreneurship, or the military.”
Not to be outdone, Newton County School District reported a graduation rate of 93.8% and a dropout rate of 4.4%. Superintendent Brooke Sibley highlighted the district’s commitment to academic excellence and career readiness, noting, “We are incredibly proud of our students and educators for their unwavering commitment to academic success. Our continued progress demonstrates the strength of our educational programs and the dedication of our community to ensuring every student is prepared for their future.” The district’s emphasis on dual enrollment opportunities, workforce partnerships, and individualized support services has been a key factor in achieving these results.
The report also provides insights from other districts in the region. Within Scott County School District, for instance, Lake High School’s graduation rate is reported at 80.9% with a dropout rate of 19.1%. In stark contrast, Sebastopol Attendance Center achieved a perfect 100.0% graduation rate with a 0.0% dropout rate.
