For the first time ever, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE)
compiled data on the percentage of students who graduate high
school within four years. The results that were released were
unique in that nearly every state used similar methods for
collecting data. The new, state-synchronized method of
determining graduation rates took into account students who have
dropped out or who have not earned a typical high school
diploma—factors that have been a concern when previously
analyzing graduation rates. Goals of the new graduation rate
analysis include helping states that have waived No Child Left
Behind show greater accountability; enabling states, districts,
and schools to develop strategies that will reduce dropout
rates; and aiming to see an increase in graduation rates,
according to a DOE press release. Data was collected from the
2010–2011 school year. None of the states had a four-year
graduation rate above 90 percent, but Iowa, Wisconsin, and
Vermont had rates in the upper 80s. New Jersey had an 83 pe