Bibb County reports 88.97% 4‑year graduation rate for 2025; board questions methodology and subgroup setbacks

The Bibb County Board of Education received a detailed update on Operation Graduation and the district’s 2025 four‑year graduation rate at its meeting. Nelson Render, with executive officers Dr. Steve Jones and Dr. Shar Williford, told the board the 2025 graduation rate increased to 88.97%, exceeding the state average (reported as 87.2%) and representing a 1.9 percentage point year‑to‑year gain.

Presenters highlighted that five of seven high schools posted year‑to‑year gains. Central High maintained a 96% graduation rate for a third consecutive year; Southwest High recorded a 92.9% rate — the district’s highest since the cohort model began; Howard, Northeast and Rutland also posted notable gains. The presenters credited focused leadership, graduation support teams, transcript audits, expanded credit recovery, freshman induction programs, and a range of career and…