The graduation rate for the Class of 2021 in Palm Beach County’s district-operated schools climbed to a historic high of 95.9 percent, according to the Florida Department of Education.
This rate represents an increase from the 94.4 percent graduation rate at district-operated schools in 2020. The district’s overall graduation rate, including charter schools, is 91 percent, up from 90.2 percent.
The school district’s graduation rate, which was released on Jan. 4, continues to outpace the state’s average of 90.1 percent, and exceeded the graduation rates of five of the other six large urban school districts statewide.
All but one of the district’s 24 high schools have a graduation rate of 90 percent or higher. Eighteen high schools graduated in excess of 95 percent of their students. Seminole Ridge and William T. Dwyer high schools increased more than five points, while Suncoast High School had a 100 percent graduation rate.
The district also continues to close the achievement gap. During the five-year period from 2017 to 2021, the number of graduates increased by 9.7 percentage points for Black students, 5.7 percent for Hispanic students and 3.8 percent for White students.
Also notable over the last five years is the 15.7 percent increase in the graduation rate among English language learners and students with disabilities, which increased by 12.5 percent.
“I’m extremely proud of our students, teachers, school administrators, the school board and the entire team, as well as parents and community partners for their outstanding work and support during the unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic,” School Superintendent Mike Burke said. “Although our challenges continue, our district is committed to educating, affirming and inspiring each student to achieve post-graduate success and be prepared for the global workforce.”
