Mary Persons High School announces the 2023 four-year graduation cohort rate. The rate rose to 94.3%, the highest recorded rate in Mary Persons’ history. The previous year’s local graduation rate was 92.8%.
“Graduation rates continue to be the gold standard for evaluating high schools and districts. The 2023 graduation rate is a testament to the work of our students, teachers, support staff, administrators and parents,” stated Superintendent Dr. Jim Finch. “We are grateful to serve a community where education matters. To that end, we will continue to put our best foot forward and deliver a quality PK-12 educational experience that results in a graduation rate we can all be proud of and fulfills our mission to learn, grow, and succeed.”
| School Year | Georgia | Mary Persons High School |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 80.6% | 86.8% |
| 2018 | 81.4% | 84.8% |
| 2019 | 82.0% | 86.1% |
| 2020 | 83.8% | 92.1% |
| 2021 | 83.7% | 91.0% |
| 2022 | 84.1% | 92.8% |
| 2023 | 84.4% | 94.3% |
Georgia’s high-school graduation rate increased in 2023, rising to 84.4% – an all-time high since the state began using the adjusted cohort calculation now required by federal law, and slightly up from 84.1% in 2022. Georgia’s graduation rate has increased by 14.7 percentage points since 2012.
Georgia calculates a four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate as required by federal law. This rate is the number of students who graduate in four years with a regular high school diploma divided by the number of students who form the adjusted cohort for the graduating class. From the beginning of ninth grade, students who are entering that grade for the first time form a cohort that is subsequently “adjusted” by adding any students who transfer into the cohort over the next three years, and subtracting any students who transfer out.
While all states use the same calculation, each state sets its own requirements for students to earn a regular high school diploma. Georgia has some of the highest requirements in the nation for students to graduate with a regular diploma.
“I am thrilled that we have achieved the highest graduation rate in the history of our school and we celebrate along with everyone PK-12! This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our students, teachers, staff, and the entire school community of Monroe County,” said Tammy Marion, principal at Mary Persons High School. “Our students have shown incredible perseverance and determination throughout their educational journey, and it’s evident that their efforts have paid off. This record-breaking graduation rate reflects not only their academic achievements but also the supportive environment we have fostered here at Mary Persons High School. When we work together, set high standards, and provide the necessary resources and support, our students can excel beyond expectations.”