Florida announces historic high school graduation rate reaching 92.2 percent for the 2024-25 school year
Tallahassee, Florida – Florida has achieved a historic milestone in education, recording the highest high school graduation rate in the state’s history at 92.2% for the 2024-25 school year, Governor Ron DeSantis announced during his State of the State address. This remarkable achievement marks an increase of 2.5 percentage points from the previous year and reflects a sustained rise of 4.9 points since the 2021-22 school year. The record-breaking graduation rate highlights the progress Florida has made in ensuring student success across the state.
“Florida’s historic graduation rate reflects the power of Governor DeSantis’ strong leadership, clear expectations, and unwavering commitment to student success,” said Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas. “These achievements demonstrate what can be accomplished when we uphold rigorous standards, provide robust support to schools and prepare every student for success beyond graduation.”
The state’s record-setting graduation rate was accompanied by gains across all student groups, signaling improvements in equity and access to educational resources. English Language Learners (ELLs) experienced the largest increase, with graduation rates rising 5.6 percentage points from last year and 13.3 points since 2021-22. African American students also saw significant progress, with a 3.9-point increase from last year and a 7.2-point increase over the past three years. Hispanic students’ graduation rate grew 2.6 points from 2024, and 5.7 points since 2021-22.
Students with disabilities also benefited from Florida’s focused initiatives, with graduation rates rising 2.3 points over the previous year and 5.6 points over three years. Economically disadvantaged students, who often face additional barriers to completing high school, saw an increase of 3.3 points from last year and a 6.4-point increase since 2021-22. These gains reflect concerted efforts to provide support and resources for all learners, ensuring they have the tools needed to reach graduation.
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Florida’s progress in education is tied to policies emphasizing high standards, accountability, and parental involvement, as well as expanded education options for families. The state has implemented programs to provide schools with targeted resources, enhance teacher development, and focus on preparing students for postsecondary education and career opportunities. Officials note that these efforts have contributed directly to the steady improvement in graduation rates across multiple student populations.
The 92.2% graduation rate not only sets a new benchmark for Florida but also serves as a national example of what sustained investment, clear policy goals, and community support can achieve. Educators, administrators, and families across the state have played a vital role in this success, providing the guidance, encouragement, and support students need to complete their high school education.
For parents, students, and community members, the record graduation rate offers a clear sign that Florida’s commitment to student achievement is producing tangible results. The state’s education system continues to prioritize preparing students for life beyond the classroom, whether that means pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or exploring technical and vocational opportunities.
Florida’s historic graduation rate demonstrates that when schools, families, and policymakers work together, every student can have the opportunity to succeed. For more information about Florida’s graduation rates and detailed data, residents can visit the Florida Department of Education website at https://www.fldoe.org/accountability/data-sys/edu-info-accountability-services/pk-12-public-school-data-pubs-reports/students.stml.
