The Maryland State Board of Education convened on March 26, 2024, to discuss critical updates regarding the 2023 cohort graduation data. The meeting, which lasted from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., featured presentations and discussions aimed at analyzing the state's high school graduation rates and the factors influencing these statistics.

Dr. Kate Wright introduced Chandra Hazlett, who presented the graduation rate information. Hazlett emphasized that all data shared during the meeting would be made public on the same day, ensuring transparency. She reported that Maryland awarded nearly 60,000 high school diplomas in 2023, maintaining a consistent trend over the past five years. The presentation included details on the adjusted cohort graduation rates, which account for students transferring in and out of schools.

For the class of 2023, the four-year adjusted cohort graduation rate was reported at 85.8%, a slight decrease from the previous year. Hazlett noted that this cohort faced significant challenges, including school closures and increased absenteeism due to the pandemic. The dropout rate for 2023 was recorded at 9.8%, with a notable demographic detail that 50% of dropouts were from the Hispanic/Latino student group.

Board members expressed concern over the disparities in graduation and dropout rates, particularly among Hispanic students. Member Greer highlighted the need for targeted outreach to families and communities to address these issues. Discussions also touched on the importance of understanding the reasons behind student dropouts, with suggestions for conducting exit interviews to gather insights on students' decisions to leave school.

The board acknowledged the necessity of disaggregating data to better understand the unique challenges faced by different student populations. Dr. Gholston pointed out that many students are unaccounted for after dropping out, complicating efforts to track their educational paths. The conversation underscored the importance of supporting local education agencies in addressing these disparities and improving overall graduation rates.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the ongoing impact of the pandemic on student outcomes and the need for strategic interventions to support at-risk populations. The board plans to continue monitoring these trends and exploring effective practices to enhance student retention and success in Maryland schools.