Graduation Rates Up In Indiana; Southwestern Tops Area Schools

Southwestern High School had a graduation rate of 94.94 percent in 2020.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) – Graduation rates in Indiana have increased in 2020.

The Indiana Department of Education announced on Friday that the state’s graduation rate has increased from 87.29 percent in 2019 to 87.69 percent last year.

2020’s graduation rate reflects the State Board of Education’s waiver of the Graduation Qualifying Exam requirement for the 2020 cohort, which could not be administered due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to the differences between federal and state accountability equations and standards the IDOE also has released the federal graduation rates. Indiana’s rate was 87.01 percent, which is higher than the state’s federal graduation rate a year prior (86.46 percent).

Locally Southwestern High School had the best graduation rate at 94.94 percent. Graduation rates for other area schools are as follows:

• South Ripley – 94.68
• Jennings County – 90.94
• Rising Sun – 88.89
• Madison Consolidated – 88.50

Other area schools:

• Batesville – 97.56
• East Central – 97.07
• Lawrenceburg – 92.57
• South Dearborn – 89.95

“This modest improvement in Indiana’s 2020 graduation rate is encouraging, especially as Hoosier students and educators have tackled unprecedented challenges throughout the pandemic,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “As evidenced by data and research, we know a person’s educational attainment impacts their future quality of life, health, living wage employment, and sustained earning. That’s why it’s critical we continue to increase the number of students graduating from high school, as well as encourage strategic K-12, postsecondary and employer partnerships to maximize lifelong success for every Hoosier student.”