Story perspectives

Graduation Rates Up, Proficiency Down Across Midwest Schools

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced an 84.9% graduation rate, while Native American students' test scores declined to 33% reading proficiently.
In Wisconsin, Milwaukee Public Schools reports a graduation rate near 75%, while 21% meet English standards on the ACT.
Many graduates require remedial education, raising questions about standards-based grading and credit-recovery programs.
Despite increased spending, Michigan reports declining proficiency in key subjects, calling into question graduation statistics.

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Story summary

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced an 84.9% graduation rate, while Native American students' test scores declined to 33% reading proficiently.
In Wisconsin, Milwaukee Public Schools reports a graduation rate near 75%, while 21% meet English standards on the ACT.
Many graduates require remedial education, raising questions about standards-based grading and credit-recovery programs.
Despite increased spending, Michigan reports declining proficiency in key subjects, calling into question graduation statistics.