Graduation rates rose for students who started high school in 2014 by 0.2 percent over the previous year to 80.4 percent, a report from the State Education Department released Wednesday found.
“When we provide students with high-quality learning opportunities, we give them a real chance at success in life,” said Regents Chancellor Betty Rosa.
The annual report showed the high school graduation rate grew by 9.5 percent over the last decade between high school freshman in 2004 and 2014.
But while the achievement gap between minority students and white students remains, the difference is shrinking. At the same time, graduation rates in the five largest school districts have been largely flat.
The graduation rates for black and Hispanic students statewide has increased, narrowing the achievement gap with white students by 0.9 percentage points.
In the city of Rochester, where 53.5 percent of students entering high school four years ago graduated, the rate actually increased by 1.6 percent.
“Increased graduation rates across the state show that when we invest in our schools, we are investing in our students and their future,” said NYSUT President Andy Pallotta. “Full funding of our schools is an investment not just in the short-term outcomes of our students, but in the long-term future of our entire state. We will continue working closely with state decision makers to ensure teachers have access to the resources that will lead to higher graduation rates again in the coming year.”
NY State of Politics:
Read More
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.