Jason Futch
reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com
Hamilton County High School (HCHS) continues to celebrate a continued growth in its graduation rates, with a 9 percent increase over the last three years.
The increase marks one of the highest rates achieved outside the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. The graduation rate for the 2023-24 school year reached 82.8 percent, significantly higher since the 2021-22 rate of 75.4 percent.
“This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication of Hamilton County educators, students and the broader school community,” the Hamilton County School Board said in a press release. “Over the past few years, the district has worked diligently to improve academic outcomes by implementing strategies that support students from their freshman year through graduation.”
The Florida Department of Education recently highlighted Hamilton County’s graduation rate improvement in its state report, underscoring the district’s progress. In a year where Florida’s statewide graduation rate stood at 89.7 percent, Hamilton County demonstrated significant growth from prior years, overcoming challenges and reinforcing the district’s commitment to educational excellence.
“Florida leads the nation in education because we put education over indoctrination, empower parents, and have made school choice universal,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “This record graduation rate is a prime metric of our success, in addition to our number-one-in-the-nation rating.”