ATLANTA — New data from the Georgia Department of Education reveals that public charter schools significantly contribute to the state’s graduation rates. In 2025, Georgia’s charter high schools achieved a remarkable graduation rate of 90.3%, surpassing the statewide average of 87.2%. Notably, Baconton Charter School posted an impressive graduation rate of 98.2%.
The statistics demonstrate that 68% of charter high schools graduated 95% or more of their students within four years, compared to just 27% of non-charter schools. Furthermore, 27% of charter institutions achieved a perfect graduation rate of 100%, whereas only 4% of non-charter schools reached this milestone.
Top Performing Charter Schools in Georgia
Several charter schools stood out with exceptional graduation rates. The Academy for Classical Education, Lake Oconee Academy, Savannah Classical Academy, Statesboro STEAM Academy, Tapestry Public Charter School, and Utopian Academy for the Arts High School all achieved a perfect graduation rate of 100%. Additionally, Charles R. Drew Charter School Senior Academy and Baconton Community Charter School both recorded graduation rates of 98.2%, while other notable institutions included Walton High School at 97.9% and Hapeville Charter Career Academy at 97.5%.
Bonnie Holliday, President and CEO of the Georgia Charter Schools Association, expressed enthusiasm about these results. “The exceptional graduation rates at Georgia’s charter schools show what’s possible when students receive the support and personalized attention they need to thrive,” she stated in a news release. “These results underscore the need to expand high-quality charter options across the state, giving more students the opportunity to graduate prepared for college, careers, and future success.”
Statewide Graduation Trends
In addition to outperforming the state graduation average, a majority of charter high schools exceeded the graduation rates in their local districts or attendance zones. The state of Georgia employs a federally mandated four-year adjusted cohort method to calculate graduation rates. This year marks a significant achievement for the state, with the graduation rate for high school seniors increasing from 85.4% in 2024 to 87.2% in 2025. This is the highest graduation rate recorded since the implementation of the adjusted cohort calculation in 2011.
As Georgia’s charter schools continue to demonstrate their effectiveness in fostering student success, the focus on expanding quality educational options remains a priority. This progress not only reflects positively on the institutions but also highlights the ongoing commitment to enhancing educational outcomes across the state.
