D51 Achieves Highest Graduation Rates in Seventeen Years
Posted on 01/10/2024
Grand Junction, CO - The Colorado Department of Education released the latest four-year graduation rate data for the state and school districts, showing an overall positive trend across the state of Colorado. The four-year graduation rate measures the number of students who started ninth grade in the 2019-20 school year and earned their high school diploma in 2022-23.
District 51 earned a graduation rate of 81.2%, the highest rate for District 51 in the last 17 years (the furthest back CDE tracks). District 51 graduation rates also surpassed the pre-pandemic graduation rate of 79.6%, highlighting the incredible work District 51 school staff and students have demonstrated through a challenging time. Additionally, graduation rates are tracked over time as districts continue to support students who may need additional years to reach their graduation goals. District 51 outpaced the state in the 7-year graduation rate, reaching an impressive 88.8%.
District 51 subgroups with more than 50 students revealed notable improvements. Graduation rates for students who identify as Hispanic/Latino increased by 2.5%, White students increased by 1.1%, students of 2+ races increased by 1.9%, students with disabilities increased by 4.9%, and students identified as Gifted & Talented increased by 2%. While there is still work to be done, these improvements are a testament to our dedication to providing an inclusive and supportive education for all students. In District 51, we believe that every student belongs and every student matters.
Also noteworthy, Fruita Monument High School saw an impressive 2.5% increase in their graduation rate compared to last year, reaching a four-year high of 93%. Similarly, Palisade High School increased their graduation rate by 1.6%, achieving a four-year high of 89%.
"We are excited to see the positive trend in graduation rates in District 51,” said D51 Superintendent Dr. Brian Hill. “Our staff and students are committed to academic success and growth, and I am proud of the hard work that goes into ensuring our District sees continuous improvement. We remain focused on ensuring every D51 graduate embodies the traits within our Strategic Plan Graduate Profile and is prepared for success in college, career, and life beyond D51.”