High school graduation rates surpass state average; strategic plan continues to guide work forward

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, Osseo Area Schools’ graduation rate surpassed the state. Overall, the district graduated 85% of students in 2024 compared to 84% at the state level. This information was shared in an update by the Minnesota Department of Education May 7. Some of our district’s notable gains included a 7% increase (75% in 2023 to 82% in 2024) at Park Center Senior High School and a 3% increase (84% in 2023 to 87% in 2024) at Osseo Senior High School.  

“Seeing our graduation rates rise is certainly a moment to celebrate the dedication of our staff, scholars and families. It takes all of us working together to make progress like this happen” said Supt. Dr. Kim Hiel. “Even so, I want you to know that we aren’t finished yet. There is still much work to be done to ensure all of our scholars achieve this success.”

Digging deeper into the details, most racial groups represented at Osseo Area Schools made gains from 2023 to 2024, including: Asian (gain of 7%), Hispanic (gain of 5%), Black (gain of 4%) and Multiracial (gain of 1%). There were also gains for students receiving services for special education (gain of 7%), multilingual (gain of 6%), free/reduced price meals (gain of 4%) and homeless (gain of 2%). 

Much of our district’s recent focus these last several months has been on what’s needed to reach desired results. As Supt. Hiel shared with learning leaders, it happens through focused goals, alignment throughout the system, taking action and using measurement. Each school’s newly-created operational plan, which are part of the district’s overall strategic plan, are helping to make this happen. These plans will continue to be reviewed and reworked to reach successful outcomes. 

“Our Osseo Area Schools team is constantly looking for the best ways to support our scholars, and being consistent and coherent in our approach to pursuing excellence,” Supt. Hiel said. “Improvement is at the forefront of our everyday work so that all of our scholars have the educational experience they desire and deserve.”

Four-year graduation rate trends: