Illinois High School Graduation Rate Hits 15-Year High

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Board of Education says the state’s high school graduation rate has reached its highest level in 15 years at 89%, up more than six percent from 2024. The 2025 Illinois Report Card also showed gaps narrowing among student groups, with the largest gains among Black, Hispanic, and special education students. Chronic absenteeism fell for the third straight year to 25.4%, while student growth in English and math continues to outpace pre-pandemic levels. Illinois added nearly 700 teachers, bringing the statewide total to a record 137,899, and more students enrolled in advanced and career-preparation courses.