Local Graduation Rates on the Rise

Pensacola, FL (Newsradio 92.3) -- High school graduation rates are climbing in both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. In Escambia County, 89.5 percent of students graduated this past school year — up more than 5 percentage points from the year before. West Florida High led the district at nearly 100 percent. Escambia's rate has jumped more than 34 percentage points since 2010. In Santa Rosa County, the graduation rate hit 93.1 percent, topping the statewide average of 92.9 percent. Superintendent Karen Barber credits dedicated educators and expanded career and technical education programs. The statewide graduation rate also improved, reaching just over 92 percent.