Bibb County graduation rate climbs to record high, beats Georgia average
Bibb County schools post highest graduation rate in a decade as Central, Southwest, and Rutland lead with more than 90%.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT)- The Bibb County School District’s graduation rate has reached its highest level in more than a decade, continuing a trend of surpassing the state average for the third consecutive year.
Graduation rate hits record high
The Georgia Department of Education reported the Class of 2025 graduation rate at 88.97%, topping the statewide rate of 87.2%. The district’s rate represents an increase of nearly 37 percentage points since 2012, when Bibb’s rate stood at 52.3%.
Schools showing the strongest performance
Three of Bibb’s seven high schools posted graduation rates above 90%. Central High School led the district at 96.51%, followed by Southwest High at 92.90% and Rutland High at 90.43%. Southwest’s progress is especially notable, climbing from 39.10% in 2012.
Leadership credits teamwork
“We continue to see progress in our graduation rate, and this is due in large part to the collective hard work throughout our district,” Superintendent Dr. Dan A. Sims said. “This graduation rate reflects the work of the entire Pre-K–12 spectrum. We are especially grateful for what happens at the high school level, which includes opportunities for students to learn, recover, and gain credits toward graduation.”
Gains at Southwest and Northeast
Southwest and Northeast High schools recorded the largest year-to-year gains, each increasing by 8%. The Class of 2025 also achieved record highs at Central, Howard, Southwest, and Westside high schools.
Mentorship and support models
“At Southwest High School and Law Academy, our rise in graduation rate reflects our belief that when students are seen, supported, celebrated, and empowered, they succeed,” Principal A. Bernard Young said. “Every student is connected to a dedicated cohort counselor who supports them from freshman year through graduation, and our Ubuntu Mentoring Model ensures they are surrounded by a village of advocates.”
