CLAY COUNTY-The Tennessee Department of Education announced last week the statewide graduation rate jumped to a record 92.1%, and the local school system here was among the highest in the state, boasting a rate just shy of 100%.

Clay County Schools, along with the McKenzie Special School District, South Carroll Special School District, and West Carroll Special District, all had over a 99% graduation rate for the 2023-24 school year.

Overall, 73 districts statewide graduated 95% or more of their students on time.  A total of 1,756 more students graduated in the 2024 cohort compared to last year, making up a total of 67,232 students graduating across the state.

“Once again, Tennessee’s unwavering dedication to fostering student success has led us to achieve an extraordinary milestone—setting a new state record for graduation rates for the second consecutive year,” said Lizzette Reynolds, Commissioner of Education. “This achievement reflects the tireless efforts of our district and school leaders, educators, and families working together to help all our students achieve their goals and be successful.”

A total of 78 districts improved their graduation rates from 2023 to 2024, with seven districts improving by five percentage points or more.

The English learners student group demonstrated a 12-percentage point increase in their graduation rate from 67% in 2022-23 to 79% in 2023-24.

A total of 23 districts finished the year with over a 99% graduation rate for at least one of the following student groups:  English Learners, Black, Hispanic, Native American, Economically Disadvantaged, and Students with Disabilities.

In order to advance academic achievement and prepare students for postsecondary success, districts continue to offer summer programming and tutoring supports for additional learning time, innovative college and career exploration, and access to Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

For more information on graduation rates for individual districts and schools, visit tn.gov/education.