South Carolina High School Graduation Rates Reach Decade High With District Records

South Carolina's high school graduation rate has reached its highest point in a decade, with the statewide on-time graduation rate hitting around 87% in 2025. The number of schools rated excellent or good increased significantly, particularly at the middle and high school levels, while nearly half of elementary schools earned similar ratings. Despite these gains, the percentage of students meeting college or career readiness standards still lags behind the graduation rate, though the gap is narrowing. Spartanburg County schools largely surpassed the state average, with some high schools achieving graduation rates above 94%, but challenges remain in improving outcomes for students living in poverty. Greenville County Schools set a record with a 90.6% graduation rate, the highest in the district's history, alongside improvements in college and career readiness and standardized test scores. State Superintendent Ellen Weaver emphasized the need for continued support and higher teacher salaries to sustain progress and ensure diplomas carry real value.