The final estimate for the 2018 on-time graduation rate in VPS is 85 percent, up from 82 percent in 2017. The five-year trend has shown an increase of 11 points from 74 percent in 2014. The district’s on-time graduation rate in 2010 was 64 percent. Graduation rates in nearly every student demographic group have risen significantly over the past five years. The official graduation rate will be finalized by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction in February 2019.
| Student group | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| District total | 74% | 80% | 80% | 82% | 85% |
| American Indian | 42% | 60% | 78% | 55% | 85% |
| Asian | 87% | 91% | 88% | 85% | 84% |
| Black | 67% | 83% | 69% | 82% | 71% |
| Hispanic | 57% | 69% | 76% | 76% | 80% |
| Pacific Islander | 48% | 60% | 59% | 39% | 79% |
| Two or more races | 63% | 73% | 84% | 83% | 85% |
| White | 79% | 84% | 82% | 85% | 87% |
| Free and reduced-price meals | 61% | 72% | 70% | 73% | 79% |
| English language learner | 47% | 51% | 55% | 55% | 64% |
“This 85 percent on-time graduation rate reflects the hard work occurring at every grade level and in every school,” said Superintendent Steve Webb. “It’s a testament that all students can be successful with the right kinds of opportunities and support so generously provided by our employees, families and our Vancouver community.”
The gain in graduation rates is the direct outcome of a decade of dedicated work in several priority areas in the district’s strategic plan:
- High-quality standards-based curriculum, instruction and assessment practices
- Early learning programs and collaboration with early learning providers
- Upgraded facilities and new technology tools to allow students anytime, anyplace learning
- Programs of choice providing students with options that allow them to develop their abilities, talents and interests
- Family engagement and Family-Community Resource Centers that build assets and remove barriers to learning
- Safe and supportive schools creating cultures of respect and trust
“By improving outcomes for children in school and helping more students cross the 12th grade finish line, we can prepare them for future success in life. The entire learning community of Vancouver Public Schools should proud of this work,” said Webb.