The Douglas County School System has achieved the highest graduation rate in district history, with 91.78% of students in the Class of 2026 graduating within four years. The record-setting graduation rate increased from 90.74% in 2025 to 91.78% in 2026, exceeding Georgia's four-year graduation rate of 88.5%.

"This historic graduation rate reflects the extraordinary work taking place across the Douglas County School System," Superintendent Dr. Trent North said. "With the help of our teachers, administrators, counselors, staff members and families, students remained focused throughout their educational journey. I am incredibly proud of what Douglas County students have accomplished and grateful to everyone who helped our students reach this important milestone. As we recognize this graduation rate milestone, we remain focused on ensuring that every student leaves our schools prepared for success in college, career and life."

Each Douglas County high school posted a four-year graduation rate above 90% in 2026. Alexander High School recorded the highest rate at 94.13%, followed by Chapel Hill High School at 92.60%, Lithia Springs High School at 90.94%, Douglas County High School at 90.74% and New Manchester High School at 90.41%. The most significant increase occurred at Lithia Springs High School, where the graduation rate climbed from 81.89% to 90.94%, an increase of 9.05 percentage points.

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Dr. K'Asha Davis said, "A district graduation rate of 91.78%, with every single high school clearing 90%, proves that excellence is our standard, not the exception. Through the sharp focus of our staff, the determination of our students, and the unwavering support of our parents, we are growing greatness across the entire district. This achievement drives our entire community forward by launching our graduates into high-demand careers and sustainable futures."

The achievement comes at a time when graduation rates continue to rise across the state. According to the Georgia Department of Education, 147 Georgia school districts recorded graduation rates of at least 90% in 2026, including 69 districts with rates of 95% or higher. Georgia's graduation rate has increased by 21.1 percentage points since 2011.

Georgia calculates its graduation rate using the federally required four-year adjusted cohort methodology. The calculation measures students who earn a regular high school diploma or state-defined alternate diploma within four years against the adjusted cohort of students who entered ninth grade together and accounts for students who transfer into or out of the cohort.