School District reaches highest grad rate

HOUSTON COUNTY — Graduating high school is the ultimate goal for students not only in the Houston County School District but all over. This past year, the Houston County graduation rate reached an all time high at 94.6%.

According to records obtained by the HHJ, since 2023, the graduation rate in Houston County has increased by 7%. In 2026, the State of Georgia Average graduation rate is 88.5%. 

Superintendent of Schools Richard Rogers said in an interview that he is very proud of the students and staff who contributed to the historic rate. 

He said the rate falls on the district’s ability to innovate and the ability to meet the students’ needs such as allowing students who may need hybrid learning. 

“At the end of the day, we’re just committed to what helps those students find success,” he said. 

Rogers said he believes virtual and hybrid learning correlates to the higher graduation percentage. 

“We are innovating just to meet the needs of students, but to me it all starts with the relationships [we have] with students, staff and the community,” he said. 

Continued positive momentum the school district has gained might contribute to the graduation rate, Rodgers said. He said morale is high, the budget is solid and the students are even more engaged. 

“[The graduation rate] affirms a lot of what we’re doing and we’re going to keep looking and seeing what we can do better,” he said. “When you focus on people and you focus on innovating and meeting people’s needs, you have a formula for success.” 

Rogers said it would be amazing to have an even higher graduation rate, but steps do need to be taken to achieve that. Currently, the teachers and principals have been working hard on attendance. 

Rogers said the district needs to continue to be child-centered and child-focused for the graduation rate to increase even more.