The graduation rate for the Class of 2024 in Duval County has set a new precedent, surging beyond the state average for the first time in years where no testing requirements were waived. A commendable 95.3% of students from traditional high schools donned their caps and gowns, marking an improvement of over three percentage points from the previous year, according to a report from Duval County Public Schools. When considering all educational institutions, including charter schools and alternative options, Duval County's comprehensive graduation rate reaches 90.9%.
This milestone is part of a continual ascension for the district, whose graduation rates have seen a steady climb of more than 32 percentage points since 2009, a rate of increase that surpasses the state's growth by over 11 points. "The great work of our high schools in preparing students for graduation is supported by strong foundations in our elementary and middle schools," Dr. Christopher Bernier, the Superintendent of Duval County Public Schools, credited the early stages of education for this achievement. Notably, out of 21 traditional high schools, 19 boast graduation rates of 90% or higher, according to Duval County Public Schools.
Several schools have emerged as exceptional standouts. Institutions such as Andrew Jackson, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, Darnell-Cookman School of the Medical Arts, Stanton College Preparatory, and Samuel Wolfson School for Advanced Studies proudly celebrate 100% graduation rates. Moreover, A. Philip Randolph Career Academies displayed significant growth, with a 9.35% climb in graduation rates, followed closely by Englewood High School's 7.23% increase. Over a decade-long stretch, Andrew Jackson High in particular witnessed an impressive hike of 29.8 percentage points, culminating in a perfect graduation rate.
In the broader scope, student subgroups also reached new heights in graduation rates, as evidenced by the remarkable numbers among African American students (85.5%), Hispanic students (85.3%), those of Low Socioeconomic Status (83.9%), Exceptional Student Education students (88.0%), and English Language Learners (76.3%). Reflecting on the district's success, Dr. Bernier shared in a statement obtained by Duval County Public Schools, "I know I speak for thousands of parents and guardians of recent graduates when I say thank you for doing such amazing work with our students," in a note of gratitude to the dedicated staff of Team Duval.
