Graduation Rates

What Effect Did the Pandemic Have on High School and College Graduation Rates?

The pandemic has undoubtedly had a profound impact on various aspects of our lives. Not only has it affected the way we work and live, but it has also had a significant impact on the education sector. One of the most significant impacts of the pandemic on education has been on high school and college graduation rates. Initially, many thought that the pandemic would cause a decline in the number of students who would graduate, but this has not been entirely true.

High school graduation rates for the class of 2020 were stable, with a national graduation rate of 85%. Meaning, there was almost no change in the graduation rate from the previous year. However, several schools and institutions reported lower graduation rates due to the challenges presented by the pandemic. Schools with higher percentages of students from marginalized communities and those who rely on school systems for support, were the most vulnerable. Many of them struggled to access virtual learning resources, lacked adequate internet connection, and had difficulty adjusting to the pandemic’s new learning model.

The colleges, however, had a different story. The college graduation rates decreased significantly as a result of the pandemic. Colleges had to change to virtual learning systems—which was the only option. This meant that many students had to switch from on-campus learning to remote learning. Remote learning works for some students but not for others. The drop was most noticeable among low-income students and international students. This is due to many reasons, including the lack of an adequate environment to learn in at home, mental health challenges, financial constraints, and travel restrictions.

However, it is not just the graduation rates that have been impacted by the pandemic. The career prospects of recent graduates have also been affected by the pandemic. Jobs that graduates might have expected to pursue no longer exist. Recent Graduates found it difficult to secure jobs immediately due to the pandemic’s harsh economic impact on many businesses, particularly start-ups. Graduates experienced more rejections, longer lead times to get feedback from companies, and limited employment opportunities, which resulted in increasing doubts as to whether their earning power would ever recover.

In conclusion, the pandemic has had a significant impact on high school and college graduation rates, even though the effect varied from state to state. High school graduation rates remained relatively stable, whereas college graduation rates dropped. This has made the transition from the academic world to the workforce more difficult for many recent graduates. We must learn from these experiences and find better ways of ensuring that students from every background can access the support and training they need to succeed in their studies and future careers.    

U.S. Cities With The Best and Worst Graduation Rates

Education is a crucial factor in determining the growth and development of a country. A high school degree is the minimum level of education required to enter the workforce, and it is therefore essential that the graduation rates of cities across the United States are closely monitored.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average graduation rate for high schools in the United States was 85% in 2020. However, there are significant variations in the graduation rates of cities across the country. In this article, we will look at the cities with the best and worst graduation rates in the United States.

Cities With The Best Graduation Rates

1. Irvine, California

Irvine is a city located in Orange County, California. It has the highest graduation rate in the country, with 98.7% of high school students graduating in 2020. The city boasts of excellent schools, qualified teachers, and a rigorous academic curriculum.

2. Frisco, Texas

Frisco is a suburb located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area in Texas. It has a graduation rate of 98.2%, thanks to its world-class school district, responsive and supportive parents, and effective education policies.

3. Lakeville, Minnesota

Lakeville is a city located in Dakota County, Minnesota. It has a graduation rate of 98.2%, offering an excellent education to its students. The city has well-funded schools, qualified educators, and support programs that make it easy for students to succeed.

4. Westfield, New Jersey

Westfield is a town located in Union County, New Jersey. With a graduation rate of 98%, Westfield has consistently maintained a culture of excellence in its school district. The town’s investments in the education sector make it a favorable place to raise a family.

5. Davis, California

Davis is a city located in Yolo County, California. With a graduation rate of 97.8%, Davis is an ideal place for students to acquire an education of the highest quality. The city is home to the University of California, Davis, which offers excellent opportunities for higher education.

Cities With The Worst Graduation Rates

1. Detroit, Michigan

Detroit has the lowest graduation rate in the country, with only 77.8% of high school students graduating in 2020. The city has been plagued by economic difficulties for decades, and its public education system has been ailing due to underfunding and poor management.

2. Indianapolis, Indiana

Only 79% of high school students graduated in Indianapolis in 2020. The city has been struggling to provide quality education to its residents, mainly due to underfunding. However, the city has recently been investing in education policies that aim to improve graduation rates.

3. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque has a graduation rate of 80.7%, ranking it among the cities with the lowest graduation rates in the country. The city has a long history of economic difficulties, which has affected its education system. The city’s schools have been underfunded, and its teachers are underpaid, leading to a lack of motivation among students.

4. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis has a graduation rate of only 81%, making it one of the worst-performing cities in the United States in terms of high school graduation rates. The city’s education system has been struggling with poverty, a lack of resources, and low teacher morale, making it difficult for students to succeed.

5. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland has a graduation rate of 81.7%, making it one of the cities with the lowest graduation rates in the country. The city has been struggling with poverty and economic difficulties, which have affected its education system. Additionally, Cleveland has a high student-to-teacher ratio, leading to low motivation and poor performance.

In conclusion, graduation rates are crucial in determining the growth and development of cities across the United States. Cities with high graduation rates tend to attract more investment, while those with low graduation rates struggle to maintain economic viability. It is therefore, essential that education stakeholders in poorly performing cities work to improve policies, resources, and learning outcomes to enhance graduation rates.     

College Football Schools with the Best and Worst Graduation Rates

College football is popularly viewed as an institution that leads to a life of achievement, fame, and luxurious living. However, the reality is quite different, as many college football players fail to graduate. The proof of this is apparent in the graduation rates of schools where football is a dominant force. The disparity between schools with high and low graduation rates is huge, and it’s a cause for concern. This article will look at some of the best and worst college football schools’ graduation rates.

Schools with the Best Graduation Rates

1. Duke University: With a graduation rate of 97%, Duke University leads the pack as the most proficient university concerning academics and football. Despite being a mid-tier football team, Duke University has consistently produced intelligent and focused graduates.

2. Notre Dame: Notre Dame is a household name when it comes to college football. They are also a leading institution regarding academics, with a graduation rate of 97%. Boasting of a storied football history and an excellent educational environment, Notre Dame’s graduation rate is impressive.

3. Stanford University: Stanford University boasts of a graduation rate of 94%. The university is known for supplying top-notch graduates with exceptional skills and knowledge, and its football team isn’t just a group of athletes but a group of academic achievers.

Schools with the Worst Graduation Rates

1. Texas Tech University: Texas Tech University is a well-known college football institution with a graduation rate of 64%. That’s a significant drop from the overall college graduation rate of 90%. While the university may have an exceptional football team, its educational credentials remain questionable.

2. Louisiana State University (LSU): Louisiana State University has a graduation rate close to the national average, which is 68%. For a well-established college football team like LSU, this figure doesn’t bode well. They may be a force to be reckoned with on the football field, but their abilities to graduate their students seem to need improvement.

3. University of Louisville: The University of Louisville is home to another poor graduation rate of 64%. Despite making it to the top 20 in the country, the university’s low graduation rate is an alarming factor. The university may have an excellent football program, but the overall educational environment seems to need some improvement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the graduation rate of college football institutions is an important factor to consider. While some universities have shown that excelling in both academics and football is possible, others need to improve their academic credentials. College football should be viewed as an avenue towards life-changing opportunities and not as a gateway to disappointment. The best and worst colleges in the country regarding graduation rates provide clear evidence of this fact.  

See Best and Worst High School Graduation Rates By State

As the anticipation for high school graduation builds each year, it is important to assess how well each state is preparing their students for graduation. The graduation rates of states can have a significant impact on their economy and overall success.

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the national average high school graduation rate in 2018-2019 was 85%. However, this number varies significantly from state to state.

The state with the highest graduation rate is Iowa, with an impressive 91.5%. Four other states, New Jersey, Connecticut, West Virginia, and Kansas, all have graduation rates upwards of 89%.

On the other hand, some states are struggling significantly with high school graduation rates. Louisiana has the lowest graduation rate at 76%. New Mexico, the District of Columbia, and Alaska also have graduation rates below 80%.

Looking at these numbers, it is evident that there is room for improvement across various states.

So what does this mean for the states with low graduation rates? Lower graduation rates often lead to a less educated workforce, which can negatively impact the economy. Additionally, students who don’t graduate high school are at a higher risk of poverty, unemployment, and criminal activity.

More importantly, these statistics highlight the importance of investing in education. Improving graduation rates requires investment in comprehensive programs that address the root causes of school dropout, such as poverty and inequity. This may include more resources for teachers, after-school programs, and mental health support.

Ultimately, higher graduation rates lead to a better-educated workforce and a more prosperous economy. By focusing on improving the high school graduation rates of all students, we can ensure that each state is moving toward a brighter future.   

States Have a Legacy of Underfunding Black Colleges

Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have been an integral part of America’s higher education system for more than 150 years. These institutions were established to provide quality education to Black students and have played a critical role in shaping Black culture and society for generations. However, HBCUs have long struggled with underfunding, leaving them at a significant disadvantage and hindering their ability to offer the same level of education as other institutions. This underfunding is a direct result of state governments consistently failing to provide adequate financial support.

Many states have a legacy of underfunding Black colleges, leading to a lack of resources, outdated facilities, and an inability to pay faculty and staff competitive salaries. This lack of funding has a ripple effect on the education offered at HBCUs, limiting the number of courses and programs offered, and hindering the acquisition of modern equipment and technology to better equip students with advanced skills and knowledge.

Even more concerning, the underfunding of HBCUs can directly contribute to the achievement gap between Black and White students, perpetuating systemic racism.

The lack of funding for HBCUs has not been an unintentional issue, either. Throughout history, states have been accused of intentionally underfunding HBCUs as a way to suppress Black education, limit opportunities for Black students, and maintain the status quo of racial inequality.

Additionally, several court cases have been filed against states for their underfunding of HBCUs, including a landmark case in Mississippi where the state was ordered to pay millions of dollars in reparations to its Black colleges.

To address the issue, state governments must recognize the importance of HBCUs and prioritize their funding needs. This includes not only basic funding, but also resources for updating infrastructure, hiring and retaining highly qualified faculty, and expanding programs to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse student population.

Black colleges have played a significant role in American history. They have educated prominent figures such as Martin Luther King Jr, Thurgood Marshall, and Kamala Harris. The continued underfunding of these institutions sends a message to Black students that they are not valued, and it jeopardizes their ability to receive an excellent education.

It is time for states to acknowledge their responsibility for the underfunding of HBCUs and take action to provide them with the necessary financial support to continue their legacy of providing high-quality education to Black students. As our society continues to move towards equality and social justice, this is a critical step in leveling the playing field for Black students and providing them with the same opportunities as other students.  

What States Have the Worst Graduation Rates?

Education is an important aspect of modern society. It is through quality education that individuals are able to acquire knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to contribute meaningfully to society. It is, therefore, disheartening to note that not all states have good graduation rates. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, some states have dismal graduation rates compared to others. In this article, we will explore what states have the worst graduation rates.

New Mexico

New Mexico has consistently been ranked at the bottom of the list of states with the worst graduation rates. It is reported that only around 74% of high school students in New Mexico are able to graduate. There are many factors that contribute to the state’s low graduation rates. Some of the main factors include a high poverty rate, a low median household income, and a high percentage of English language learners. Another contributing factor is the state’s high dropout rate.

Nevada

Nevada is also one of the states with the worst graduation rates. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the Silver State only has a 76% graduation rate. The state is also known for having a high percentage of English language learners and a high percentage of low-income families, which can affect student success. Additionally, Nevada has been struggling to attract and retain quality teachers, which can also negatively impact graduation rates.

Louisiana

Louisiana is another state with a low graduation rate. Only about 77% of high school students in Louisiana graduate. One of the factors that contribute to this is the state’s high poverty rate, which affects many students’ ability to learn and succeed in school. Additionally, Louisiana has been struggling to address its teacher shortage, which could be another reason for the low graduation rate.

Oregon

Oregon has a graduation rate of around 78%. The state has been ranked as one of the states with the worst graduation rates for several years. One of the key factors that contribute to this is the state’s high absenteeism rate. The state has also been struggling to address its student performance issues in math and science, which could be another reason for the low graduation rate.

Arizona

Arizona is also one of the states with the worst graduation rates. The state has a graduation rate of around 79%, which is below the national average. One of the factors that contribute to this is the state’s high poverty rate, which affects many students’ ability to learn and succeed in school. Arizona also has a high percentage of English language learners and a high dropout rate, which could be contributing to the state’s low graduation rate.

In conclusion, it is evident that there are several states with the worst graduation rates. We have explored some of the factors that contribute to low graduation rates in these states. While some of the issues are beyond the control of schools, there are actions that educators can take to address some of these issues to help improve graduation rates. These include addressing student absenteeism, providing adequate resources to schools, and attracting and retaining quality teachers. By working together, we can help ensure that all students have access to quality education and the opportunity to graduate high school.    

What Cities Have the Worst Graduation Rates?

Education is a crucial aspect of a person’s life. It is the foundation that can open better opportunities and lead to a brighter future. However, in some cities, the education system is struggling, and graduation rates are low. In this article, we will take a closer look at the cities with the worst graduation rates in the United States.

1. Detroit, Michigan: Detroit has long been known as a struggling city despite its rich history. Its education system has been no different. The graduation rate in Detroit has been hovering around 80%, much lower compared to the national average of 85%. The city has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, which makes it difficult for students to succeed academically.

2. Cleveland, Ohio: Cleveland is another city with a dismal graduation rate. The city has a graduation rate of 75%, which is significantly lower than the national average. The city’s economy has been struggling, and the lack of job opportunities has added to the education system’s struggles.

3. Baltimore, Maryland: Baltimore has a graduation rate of 76%, which is among the lowest in the country. The city’s education system has been marred by corruption, mismanagement, and lack of resources. There has also been a high level of crime in the city, which has negatively impacted students’ ability to succeed academically.

4. Memphis, Tennessee: Memphis has a graduation rate of 78%, which is lower than the national average. The city’s education system has faced several challenges, including funding cuts and teacher shortages. The city also has one of the highest poverty rates in the country, which has had a significant impact on the education system.

5. Indianapolis, Indiana: Indianapolis has a graduation rate of 82%, which is lower than the national average. The city’s education system has faced several challenges, including insufficient funding, teacher shortages, and high dropout rates. The city’s poverty rate is also higher compared to the national average, which has contributed to the education system’s struggles.

In conclusion, education is critical for a person’s success, and low graduation rates can have a significant impact on a city’s economy and future. The cities mentioned in this article have faced several challenges in their education system, including poverty, crime, and lack of funding. Improvement can be made by addressing these issues and investing in education to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.     

What Countries Have the Worst Graduation Rates?

Graduation rates are an important indicator of a country’s education system. The percentage of students who complete their secondary education can give insights into the effectiveness of policies, resources, and support provided by governments. Countries with high graduation rates often have a better-educated population, stronger economies, and greater social mobility. On the other hand, countries with low graduation rates face significant challenges in improving social and economic outcomes. In this article, we will discuss the countries with the worst graduation rates and explore some of the reasons behind their poor performance.

1. South Sudan

South Sudan, a country in East Africa, has the lowest graduation rate in the world, with only 27% of students graduating from secondary school. The country has been plagued by conflict, poverty, and a lack of infrastructure, all of which have contributed to its education crisis. The government has struggled to provide adequate resources and support to the education system, resulting in poor quality education, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, many families cannot afford the costs of education, forcing children to drop out and work to support their families.

2. Chad

Chad, a landlocked country located in Central Africa, has a graduation rate of 34%. The country faces significant challenges in providing education to its population, particularly for girls and children in rural areas. The education system is severely underfunded, and many schools lack basic resources, such as textbooks and trained teachers. Additionally, conflict and displacement have disrupted the education of many children in the country.

3. Angola

Angola, a country in Southern Africa, has a graduation rate of 43%. The country’s education system has struggled to recover from the effects of a long civil war, which ended in 2002. While the government has made efforts to improve education, many schools lack resources and qualified teachers. Additionally, poverty and high levels of inequality have made it difficult for many children to access education.

4. Niger

Niger, a landlocked country in West Africa, has a graduation rate of 44%. The country faces significant challenges in providing education to its population, particularly in rural areas. The education system is underfunded, and many schools lack basic resources, such as textbooks and qualified teachers. Additionally, early marriage and child labor often prevent children, particularly girls, from completing their education.

5. Afghanistan

Afghanistan, a country in South Asia, has a graduation rate of 49%. The country has faced decades of conflict and instability, which have severely impacted its education system. Many schools have been destroyed, and students and teachers have been threatened or attacked. Additionally, poverty, gender inequality, and cultural attitudes towards education have made it difficult for many children, particularly girls, to access and complete education.

In conclusion, the low graduation rates of these countries reflect broader issues of poverty, conflict, and inequality. While governments and international organizations have made efforts to improve education in these countries, there is much work to be done to ensure that all children have access to quality education. Addressing these challenges will require investing in resources and training for teachers, improving infrastructure, and addressing the underlying social and economic issues that prevent children from completing their education. Only then can we hope to improve graduation rates and create a brighter future for these countries.  

What Countries Have the Best Graduation Rates?

Education is an essential aspect of human development, and as such, the graduation rate in any country is an important indicator of knowledge acquisition level. A country with a good graduation rate tends to have well-educated citizens, making that country more competitive in terms of industry, innovation, and productivity.

According to data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the countries with the highest graduation rates are primarily located in Asia and Europe. These countries invest heavily in their education systems, promoting the personal and professional development of their students.

South Korea is known for having the highest graduation rate in the world, with an impressive 97.3% of students graduating from high school. This country has a strong education system, with a focus on STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Additionally, South Korea invested a considerable amount of resources in education, resulting in high academic performance and impressive graduation rates.

Japan, Finland, and Norway follow South Korea closely, with graduation rates of 96.8%, 96.7%, and 95.9%, respectively. Japan has a strong educational foundation that emphasizes hard work and discipline, resulting in high graduation rates and excellent academic performance. Finland has a unique educational structure that emphasizes individualized learning, student-centered teaching, and almost no homework; this approach seems to work, as Finland consistently ranks highly in educational performance. In Norway, the government invests heavily in education, providing students with equal access to education regardless of social class, income level, or geographic location.

Other countries with high graduation rates include Switzerland (95.6%), the Netherlands (93.9%), and Ireland (93.2%). Switzerland boasts an excellent vocational education system that prepares students for careers in various industries. The Netherlands has a unique education structure that enables students to choose their path at an early age, either vocational or academic, guaranteeing graduation rates remain high. Ireland has a comprehensive education system supported by a strong economy, making education easily accessible and ensuring high graduation rates.

In conclusion, it is apparent that countries that invest heavily in their education system tend to have higher graduation rates. From Asia to Europe, countries with robust education systems and a focus on STEM subjects perform exceptionally well. As such, governments should prioritize education-related reforms to ensure a well-educated populace. A well-educated population is a crucial aspect of a country’s success, competitiveness, and productivity.     10:25 AM

What Cities Have the Best Graduation Rates?

As the world becomes more competitive, higher education has become increasingly important in securing a successful future. Graduation rates are an indicator of the success of universities in educating and pushing students to achieve higher. Cities with the best graduation rates tend to be those with a strong commitment to education. Here are some of the top cities with the best graduation rates.

1. Boston, Massachusetts

With more than 100 colleges and universities, Boston is a hub for higher education. The city is home to some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, such as Harvard and MIT. Boston’s 2018 graduation rate was 87.5%, making it one of the highest in the country.

2. San Francisco, California

San Francisco has a strong focus on education and is home to some of the best colleges and universities, such as the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and the University of San Francisco. The city’s 2018 graduation rate was 85.6%, higher than the national average.

3. Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is known for its political and cultural importance, but it also has a strong education system. The city is home to some of the top universities, including Georgetown University and George Washington University. The city’s 2018 graduation rate was 83.2%, higher than the national average.

4. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a booming tech hub and is home to some of the biggest tech giants, such as Microsoft and Amazon. The city also has a strong education system and is home to the University of Washington, one of the top public universities in the country. Seattle’s 2018 graduation rate was 81.8%.

5. Austin, Texas

Not only is Austin known for its vibrant music and food scene, but it’s also known for its strong education system. The city is home to the University of Texas at Austin, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the country. Austin’s 2018 graduation rate was 80.1%.

In conclusion, cities with the best graduation rates tend to have a strong academic focus and a commitment to education. These five cities, Boston, San Francisco, Washington D.C., Seattle, and Austin, have made education a priority and offer some of the best colleges and universities in the country. These cities are great options for students seeking a top-notch education.