Minnesota sets new graduation record amid stagnant test scores

(The Center Square) – Minnesota high school graduation rates hit a record high for the second straight year, even as test scores show little recovery from pandemic-era learning loss.

New data from the Minnesota Department of Education shows the class of 2025 recorded a four-year graduation rate of 84.9%, the highest in recorded state history and an increase of 0.7% from the previous year’s record.

Gov. Tim Walz praised the milestone, pointing to investments in schools and student support systems.

“This is a moment worth celebrating,” Walz said, adding that students earning diplomas are better positioned for careers and higher education.

Graduation rates increased across nearly every student group, with some of the largest gains among American Indian students, whose rate rose nearly 5% from last year and 9% since 2021. State officials also said this is due to pointed investments by Minnesota.

“This represents real momentum and reflects intentional investments in education,” ...