Each of the state's four major ethnic groups showed strong gains. Rates for African-American and Hispanic students increased five percentage points or more over the past year.
Graduation rates for African-American students rose from 73.8 percent for the class of 2009 to 78.8 percent for the class of 2010. Hispanic students' graduation rates were 73.5 percent in 2009 and climbed to 78.8 percent for the class of 2010.
Graduation rates for white and Asian students surpassed the 90 percent mark with the rate for white students at 91.6 percent while Asian/Pacific Islander students earned the highest rate at 93.8 percent.
Graduation rates for local districts and schools will be available in late July.
"Our students are staying in school, accepting the challenge and meeting high achievement goals," said Robert Scott, commissioner of education. "It's clear that our dedicated educators are providing students a strong foundation on which to build their future. We will continue to provide the tools necessary to maintain this outstanding progress."
