Maryland’s high school graduation rates have declined for the second consecutive year, according to newly released figures from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). In 2025, the four-year cohort graduation rate dropped to 86.4%, down from 87.6% in 2024. Of the 72,700 students in the 2025 cohort, only 62,800 earned their diplomas within four years.
State education officials noted that the most significant decreases occurred among multilingual learners and Hispanic students. The statewide dropout rate also rose, climbing from 8.3% in 2024 to 9.9% in 2025. At a January 27 meeting, MSDE leaders acknowledged the challenges and highlighted the need for additional support for students who are struggling to meet graduation requirements.
Dr. Joshua Michael, President of the Maryland State Board of Education, addressed concerns about the decline. While emphasizing the state’s commitment to supporting every student, he noted that gaps in resources and targeted interventions have contributed to the drop. “We are analyzing these trends closely to ensure that all students have access to the programs and guidance necessary to succeed,” he said.
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), one of the largest districts in the state, experienced a sharper decline than the statewide average. In 2024, the district reported a four-year graduation rate of 91.85%, but that figure fell to 88.77% in 2025. Of the 13,705 students in the 2025 cohort, 12,166 earned diplomas on time.
MCPS officials explained that the data reflects growing student needs that have outpaced available support systems. “While many students continue to succeed, the data suggests that more comprehensive interventions are required to address emerging academic and social challenges,” a spokesperson said. The district plans to expand the initiatives outlined in its Future Ready Strategic Plan, which focuses on enhancing student adaptability, critical thinking, and preparedness for postsecondary education and careers.
Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) also reported a decline, with its four-year cohort graduation rate dropping from 80% in 2024 to 79% in 2025. District officials noted that targeted programs are underway to address gaps in achievement, particularly among students who face language barriers, economic challenges, or other obstacles to timely graduation.
Across the state, multilingual learners are emerging as a particularly vulnerable group. Educators noted that while many of these students demonstrate strong academic potential, they often require additional language support, counseling, and family engagement to meet graduation requirements. The data suggest that current interventions may not fully address the unique needs of these populations.
Hispanic students also experienced larger-than-average declines. Advocates point to a combination of factors, including economic instability, challenges related to remote learning, and limited access to individualized academic support, as contributing to lower graduation rates in this demographic. State officials emphasized that equity-focused initiatives are being prioritized to close these gaps.
Statewide efforts to reverse the decline include expanding tutoring programs, strengthening school counseling services, and increasing access to vocational and technical pathways for students who may struggle in traditional academic settings. Additionally, districts are focusing on strategies to re-engage students at risk of dropping out, including mentorship programs, alternative education pathways, and early warning systems for academic or attendance issues.
Education leaders say that while the decline is concerning, Maryland schools continue to outperform national averages, and targeted interventions can help bring rates back up. MSDE is collaborating with local school districts, educators, and community organizations to identify strategies that address the root causes of the decline and ensure all students have the tools to succeed.
Dr. Michael stressed the importance of a collective response: “We must work together — state agencies, districts, families, and communities — to ensure that every student has the opportunity to graduate and pursue their postsecondary goals.” He added that the lessons learned from this cohort will guide future policies and support programs.
As the state monitors these trends, stakeholders are emphasizing that graduation rates are more than just numbers; they represent real students whose futures depend on access to quality education and support services. “Every percentage point matters because it represents a student whose potential we cannot afford to lose,” Michael said.
Maryland officials hope that the initiatives being implemented now will stabilize and ultimately improve graduation outcomes in the coming years, ensuring that students from all backgrounds — including multilingual learners and Hispanic students — have equitable opportunities to complete high school successfully.
