The Bartow County School System maintained a strong four-year graduation rate of 94.7 percent, once again outperforming the state average of 88.5 percent and demonstrating the district's continued commitment to student success.
“We are proud that 94.7 percent of our students are graduating on time and prepared for what comes next,” said Bartow County School System Superintendent Clint Terza. “This achievement reflects years of intentional work by our students, staff, and families. Eight years ago, our district graduation rate was nearly 8 percentage points lower. By focusing on attendance, strengthening Tier I instruction, and providing the support students need to succeed, we have built a culture that helps more students reach graduation and beyond.”
Adairsville High School led the district with a four-year graduation rate of 99.3 percent, up from 99 percent the previous year. The school also reported the highest graduation rate among students with disabilities at 96.8 percent, a testament to its strong support systems and commitment to ensuring all students have the opportunity to succeed.
“I am extremely proud of the hard work from everyone involved in accomplishing this astonishing feat,” said AHS Principal Tony Stanfill. “The students, teachers, counselors, administrators, support staff, and parents all worked collaboratively to make sure our students were successful and graduated. Our counselors know our students, and they work tirelessly to place students in pathways, dual enrollment, Advanced Placement classes, Bartow County College and Career classes, internships, and/or work-based learning to ensure they find what motivates the student to graduate. It definitely takes a village to obtain this high graduation rate, and Adairsville High is truly that village. I also believe our focus on quality Tier I instruction and improving our daily attendance rate has contributed to our success.”
Cass High School posted the district's largest year-over-year gain, increasing its graduation rate from 93.1 percent to 95.5 percent, the highest in school history.
“Cass High School’s 95.5% graduation rate is the highest in our history, and I’m proud of the Class of 2026,” said CHS Principal Stephen Revard. “Just as meaningful, it comes alongside improved attendance and stronger academic performance. Our End of Course results showed increases in the percentage of students scoring proficient or above in Biology, U.S. History, and Algebra, and Cass earned AP Honor School recognition in five categories for the first time. Together, these results show that more students are coming to school, learning at higher levels, and graduating prepared for what comes next. This achievement belongs to our students and to the teachers, counselors, staff, and families who supported them.”
Woodland High School achieved a notable four-year graduation rate of 90.2 percent, highlighting the school's commitment to rigorous instruction, student support, and college and career readiness.
“Our goal is not simply for students to earn a diploma; we want their diploma to mean something,” said WHS Principal Melinda Wilder. “We have placed a strong emphasis on high-quality Tier I instruction, consistent attendance, and ensuring students truly master the standards required for each course. We are committed to maintaining high expectations while providing students with the support they need to meet them. Ultimately, we want every Woodland graduate to leave us prepared for whatever comes next, and we believe the value of a diploma is found not just in earning it, but in what students have learned along the way.”