Tennessee high school graduation rate highest since new criteria

NASHVILLE — The state’s education commissioner announced Tuesday that Tennessee’s 2015-16 high school graduation rate of 88.5 percent is the highest since the state changed to a more rigorous calculation of graduation rates in 2011.

The latest statewide graduation rate was up nearly a full percentage point since last year and overall has increased three percentage points since the state implemented the more rigorous calculations, according to a release from the Department of Education.

“Our schools and districts should be proud of the work they have done to support students on their journeys to and beyond high school graduation,” Education Commissioner Candice McQueen said in the release. “High school graduation is a critical step in allowing students to embark on their chosen paths in life. However, as more Tennessee students are earning their diplomas, we must ensure that they are all leaving with the knowledge and skills to be successful in college and the workforce.”

Read more on the Tennessee Department of Education website.