ALBANY, Ga. – The Dougherty County School System (DCSS) once again outpaced the state of Georgia in high school graduation rates, marking the fifth consecutive year the district has surpassed the statewide average. According to newly released data, DCSS achieved a four-year graduation rate of 89.6% for the Class of 2025, exceeding the state average of 87.2%.
But for DCSS, success is about more than crossing the graduation stage, it’s about what comes next. The Class of 2025 didn’t just leave with diplomas in hand; they left prepared to take their next step in college, career, or military service.
“This accomplishment speaks to the resilience of our students and the dedication of our teachers, staff, and families who walk alongside them every step of the way,” Superintendent Kenneth Dyer said. “For five straight years, Dougherty County has outperformed the state average, and that consistency demonstrates our commitment to ensuring our graduates are future-ready.”
“When the Class of 2025 walked across the stage, many had already earned credentials that opened doors to higher education or the workforce,” Dyer added. “Graduation is a milestone, but our true goal is to graduate students who are prepared for success in whatever path they choose.”
School Highlights
Dougherty Comprehensive High School finished with an 88.5% graduation rate, surpassing the state average for the third consecutive year.
Monroe Comprehensive High School recorded an 88.7% graduation rate, surpassing the state average for the second consecutive year.
Westover Comprehensive High School posted a 95.1% graduation rate, placing it among the top-performing high schools in Georgia and surpassing the state average for the tenth consecutive year.
A Commitment to Success
When the Class of 2025 walked across the stage at the Civic Center in May 2025, many of them already had college degrees or Technical College Certificates of Credit (TCCs) in hand.
According to data from the Dougherty County School System, there were a total of seven students who graduated with associate degrees and 135 who graduated with TCCs. Additionally, 416 graduated with industry-recognized credentials and 664 students graduated having completed a GaDOE Career, Technical, Agricultural and Educational (CTAE) pathway.
In Dougherty County, district leaders credit targeted interventions, expanded access to career pathways (including paid internships), and strong community partnerships for the district’s sustained success.
“Our goal is not only to graduate students, but to graduate them prepared,” Dyer said. “This milestone reflects the power of our village and the bright futures awaiting our graduates.”
Strategic Plan in Action
This achievement reflects the Dougherty County Board of Education’s strategic plan, which prioritizes Academic Rigor and Relevance. Through challenging coursework, internships, dual enrollment opportunities, and career-focused pathways, DCSS is ensuring that students graduate with both knowledge and real-world skills.
“Graduation is a milestone, but our focus on rigor and relevance ensures it’s more than just a walk across the stage,” Dyer said. “Our Future-Ready plan is about preparing students to thrive in life after high school.”