[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz today celebrated new data from the Minnesota Department of Education showing Minnesota’s Class of 2025 achieved the highest four-year graduation rate in state history at 84.9%, marking the second consecutive year of record-breaking progress.

“This is a moment worth celebrating,” said Governor Walz. “Decades in the classroom have helped inform many of the goals I’ve set and the policies we’ve passed over the last seven years to support our students, teachers, and parents. Every student who receives that diploma is better equipped to navigate the challenges of landing a job, pursuing higher education, and building a future they feel excited about. Congratulations to an incredible class of students.”

Graduation rates increased across nearly every student group, with notable gains among American Indian, Black, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino students, as well as students receiving special education services and those from lower-income families. The graduation rate for American Indian students increased by nearly 5 percentage points from last year and has risen 9 percentage points since 2021, one of the largest gains of any student group.  Achievement gaps also continued to narrow in many areas. 

“The progress we’re seeing among Native students is meaningful and long overdue,” said Lieutenant Governor Flanagan. “This represents real momentum and reflects intentional investments in education. While we celebrate this progress, we remain committed to continuing this work until every student has the support and opportunity to graduate and thrive.”

“Our students are succeeding and leaving school prepared for career, college, and citizenship at record rates,” said Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett. “While there is still more to accomplish, it is clear our schools continue making gains in closing achievement gaps and ensuring every student of every background, zip code, and ability can thrive both in and out of school.”

The data reflect continued progress following historic investments in education and family economic stability, including universal school meals, a nation-leading child tax credit, expanded mental health resources, increased teacher pay, and long-term funding increases for schools. These efforts help ensure students are supported both inside and outside the classroom.

Minnesota is also seeing improvements in student engagement and school climate. Recent data show students increasingly report feeling safe, supported, and connected at school – key indicators linked to academic success and graduation.