On-time graduation rate hits 91.4 percent in Prince William County

The new on-time graduation rate of 91.4 percent for students who entered Prince William County high schools in the fall of 2011 and graduated in 2015 continues a steady climb from 83 percent seven years ago, and again outpaces statewide results, according to a news release from Prince William County Schools.

PWCS continued to close the gap in performance of student subgroups, showing solid increases from last year and significantly outperforming results from across the Commonwealth.

Graduation rate for black students increased from 89.2% in 2014 to 91.2% in 2015, compared with 86% percent statewide;
Graduation rate for Hispanic students increased from 84.2% in 2014 to 85.0% in 2015; the VA rate is 84%.
Graduation rate for economically disadvantaged students increased from 85.2% in 2014 to 87% in 2015; and
Graduation rate for students who were “Limited English Proficient” at any time in high school increased from 81.6% in 2014 to 84.3% in 2015.

“Once again we have cause for celebration,” said PWCS Superintendent, Dr. Steve Walts, who noted that 51 percent of all students earned advanced studies diplomas, up from 47 percent in 2014.

Only three PWCS high schools now trail the VA on-time graduation rate, with all three closing the gap. Gar-Field High School led the upward climb, with an on-time graduation rate increasing by more than three points over 2014, to a new level of 85.3%.

“Gar-Field’s gains reinforce what can be accomplished through hard work and dedication,” added Walts. “They reinforce our commitment to continuous improvement for every student and every school.”

Details for Schools:
Seven of 11 PWCS high schools showed increases in on-time graduation rates.
Eight of 11 PWCS high schools had graduation rates higher than the state average.
Once again, all PWCS high schools met the graduation benchmark required for full accreditation (Graduation and Completion Index). ​