Feds Release New High School Graduation Numbers

State-by-state rates reflect new measuring system meant to better capture dropout numbers

The U.S. Department of Education has released a first-ever list detailing state-by-state four-year high school graduation rates.

The data reflects figures from the 2010-2011 academic year, the first year for which all states used a common, more rigorous measure. States last year dumped flawed measurement formulas that often undercounted dropouts and produced inflated results, making cross-state comparisons inaccurate and volatile.

"By using this new measure, states will be more honest in holding schools accountable and ensuring that students succeed," U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said in a statement Monday. "Ultimately, these data will help states target support to ensure more students graduate on time, college and career ready."