LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Graduation rates in Michigan high schools have surged this year to near record levels.

The Michigan Department of Education reports that 81.77% of four year high school seniors graduated last year, which is the second highest rate in Michigan history.

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Experts are encouraged by the trend, especially considering the slight depression in graduation rates during pandemic years when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer shut down schools statewide.

State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice said in a statement that, “Rising four-year graduation rates in all categories, above pre-pandemic levels in almost all cases, are a welcome sign that student achievement is rebounding and a tribute to the hard work of Michigan students, educators, support staff and communities.”