Chicago Students Have Higher High School Graduation And College Enrollment Rates: Report
High School Graduation Rates Reach All-Time High
The class of 2023 in the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) district had a high school graduation rate of 85%, according to a new report from the To&Through Project and the University of Chicago’s Consortium on School Research. This marks an all-time high for the district.
College Enrollment Rates Rebound from Pandemic
The report also found that college enrollment rates for Chicago students are rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic. Of the graduating class of 2023, 63% enrolled in a two-year or four-year institution of higher education within a year of graduation, marking a 2.5% increase from the previous year.
Disparities in Graduation and College Enrollment Rates
While high school graduation rates are rising, there are still significant disparities in graduation and college enrollment rates among different demographic groups. For example, boys had a lower graduation rate than girls, and Black and Latino boys had lower graduation rates than the district’s average. Students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) had a graduation rate of 55.9%.
College Completion Rates Remain Steady
Despite the rise in college enrollment rates, college completion rates remain steady. The report notes that college completion rates for students who immediately enrolled in a four-year institution after high school have remained steady at around 54% within six years. For students who immediately enrolled in a two-year college after high school, the completion rate is around 31%.
Why College Completion Rates Matter
College completion rates are important because they indicate the level of success students have in pursuing and completing a post-secondary education. A higher college completion rate suggests that students are more likely to achieve their academic and career goals, while a lower completion rate indicates that students may face challenges in completing their education.
What’s Next for Chicago’s Education System?
While there is room for improvement, the report highlights the district’s efforts to increase college readiness and completion. Chicago Public Schools officials have credited the district’s Freshman on Track program for contributing to the rise in high school graduation rates. The program aims to support students from the start of high school and provide them with a smoother transition to post-secondary education.
Conclusion
The report sheds light on the progress being made in Chicago’s education system, but also highlights the need for continued attention to disparities in graduation and college enrollment rates. By focusing on initiatives that support student success, such as Freshman on Track, and by fostering partnerships between the K-12 system and higher education institutions, the district can continue to make strides in increasing college readiness and completion rates for all students.
FAQs
- What is the high school graduation rate for the class of 2023 in Chicago’s public schools?
- 85%
- What is the college enrollment rate for the class of 2023?
- 63%
- What is the college completion rate for students who immediately enroll in a four-year institution after high school?
- Around 54% within six years
- What is the college completion rate for students who immediately enroll in a two-year college after high school?
- Around 31% within six years
