Atlanta, September 29, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has achieved a groundbreaking graduation rate of 90.5% for the Class of 2025, marking the first time it has surpassed 90%. In total, 3,095 students graduated on time, an increase from 2,873 in 2024. For the third consecutive year, APS outperformed the state average of 87.2%, with 11 schools achieving graduation rates above 90%. This milestone highlights the district’s ongoing commitment to improving academic performance and addressing disparities among student subgroups.
Atlanta
Atlanta Public Schools (APS) has reached a historic milestone by achieving a graduation rate of 90.5% for the Class of 2025. This notable achievement marks the first time the graduation rate has surpassed 90% and reflects an upward trend from last year’s graduation rate of 88.6%.
In total, 3,095 students graduated on time in 2025, a significant increase from 2,873 graduates in 2024. The graduating cohort for 2025 comprised 3,421 students, which is slightly larger than the 2024 cohort of 3,250 students. This achievement marks the highest graduation percentage recorded by APS since the state adopted the cohort graduation rate methodology in 2012.
Continuing Success Against State Average
For the third consecutive year, APS has outperformed the state average graduation rate of 87.2%. Notably, eleven out of sixteen APS schools with graduating classes improved their graduation rates compared to 2024. This demonstrates a positive trend in academic performance across the district.
Outstanding Achievements of Individual Schools
The Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy maintained a perfect 100% graduation rate for the seventh consecutive year. Frederick Douglass High School experienced the most considerable improvement among traditional schools, increasing its graduation rate by 7.33 percentage points. Other notable improvements include:
- Booker T. Washington (+5.70)
- Midtown (+2.56)
- BEST Academy (+3.32)
- KIPP Collegiate (+2.36)
- Carver STEAM (+12.41)
High Achieving Schools
Eleven APS schools achieved graduation rates above 90%:
- Coretta Scott King YWLA (100%)
- Charles Drew Secondary (98.2%)
- BEST Academy (97.4%)
- Atlanta Classical Academy (97.2%)
- KIPP Collegiate (96.6%)
- Midtown (95.3%)
- North Atlanta (93.7%)
- George Washington Carver Early College (93.7%)
- Jackson High School (91.1%)
- George Washington Carver STEAM Academy (91%)
- Therrell (90.5%)
Record Rates Among Student Subgroups
Record graduation rates were reported among various student subgroups, including:
- Black students: 89.1%, the highest ever recorded
- White students: 97.3%, surpassing 2024 rates
- Students with disabilities: 83.1%, up 3.82 points from 2024
- English learners: 82.6%, up 0.15 points
- Economically disadvantaged students: 88.9%, up 2.1 points
The graduation rate gap between Black and White students has narrowed to just over 8 percentage points, down from nearly 11 points in 2024. APS Superintendent Dr. Bryan Johnson emphasized the importance of this achievement and the continual efforts required to prepare graduates for their future endeavors. Meanwhile, Atlanta Board of Education Chair Erika Y. Mitchell recognized this milestone as a testament to the dedicated efforts of students, educators, families, and the wider community.
Summary and Implications
This record-breaking graduation rate not only signifies improvement within Atlanta Public Schools but also sets a foundation for future academic strategies aimed at supporting all students in achieving success.
FAQs
What is the graduation rate for Atlanta Public Schools for the Class of 2025?
Atlanta Public Schools achieved a graduation rate of 90.5% for the Class of 2025, surpassing 90% for the first time in history.
How does the graduation rate for APS compare to the state average?
APS’s graduation rate has exceeded the state average of 87.2% for the third consecutive year.
How many students graduated on time in 2025?
A total of 3,095 students graduated on time in 2025, up from 2,873 graduates in 2024.
Which school achieved a perfect graduation rate?
Coretta Scott King Young Women’s Leadership Academy maintained a perfect 100% graduation rate for the seventh consecutive year.
What improvements were seen among the student subgroups?
Record graduation rates were reported among student subgroups, including Black students at 89.1% and students with disabilities at 83.1%, up 3.82 points from 2024.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | 2024 Rate | 2025 Rate | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Graduation Rate (APS) | 88.6% | 90.5% | +1.9% |
| Graduates On Time | 2,873 | 3,095 | +222 |
| State Average Graduation Rate | 87.2% | 87.2% | No Change |
| Black Students Graduation Rate | 86.5% | 89.1% | +2.6% |
| Students with Disabilities Graduation Rate | 79.28% | 83.1% | +3.82% |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Atlanta Schools Achieve Record Graduation Rates
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Loses Federal Funding
Atlanta Airport Loses $37.5 Million in Federal Grants
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport Loses Federal Funding
Atlanta Airport Faces $57 Million Funding Crisis Over DEI Programs
Strategic Benefits Advisors Recognized as Top Company
Georgia Universities Stand Out in College Rankings
Families of Shooting Victims Sue Local Authorities and Discord
Bibb County School District Expands Dual Enrollment Program
Chronic Absenteeism in Georgia Schools Reaches Alarming Levels
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Atlanta Public Schools Graduation Rate Tops 90%
- WSB Radio: Atlanta Public Schools Tops 90% Graduation Rate
- AJC: Georgia’s High School Graduation Rates Reach New High
- Wikipedia: Graduation Rate
- Google Search: Atlanta Education News
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
