Miami-Dade's Graduation Rate Hits All-Time High

MIAMI, FL — Miami-Dade school officials have reason to celebrate heading into the long holiday weekend. The district's graduation level has hit an all-time high of 80.7 percent for the 2016-2017 academic year. The graduation rate is up 22 percent over the 58.7 percent graduation rate only 10 years earlier.

"This rate marks the highest graduation rate M-DCPS has achieved since the Florida Department of Education began tracking graduation statistics with modern methods in the late 1990’s," according to district officials, who also said that the increase occurred despite a more rigorous Grade 10 Florida Standards Assessments English Language Arts component.

“This is remarkable news for our school district and it is a testament to the work and dedication of the M-DCPS family,” said Superintendent Alberto Carvalho. “Despite tougher standards, our students continue to shine."

Carvalho praised families, school board members, teachers and community leaders.

Officials said that Miami-Dade schools now use a comprehensive tracking tool that monitors student progress through high school.

"Student Services staff provides support to students as early as 9th grade and ensures they are completing requirements on time," officials added. "Enrichment programs with a strong focus on literacy prepare students to meet state assessment graduation requirements."

The 2017 graduating classes of North Miami Senior High School (top) and South Miami Senior High School prepare for new challenges. Photos courtesy Miami-Dade County Public Schools