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December 11.2025

2 Minutes Read

How Utah’s High School Dropout Rates Were Cut in Half and What It Means for Education

Silhouetted graduates walking, bright background, Utah high school dropout rates.

Utah's Educational Triumph: A Closer Look at Dropout Rates

In an impressive turnaround, Utah's high school dropout rate has plummeted from 16.2% to just 8.5% over the past few years. This remarkable decrease is more than just a statistic; it reflects the concerted efforts of educators, families, and communities across the state committed to keeping students engaged and motivated.

The Power of Community Support

The latest report from the Utah State Board of Education highlights how collective action among schools, families, and community leaders is driving this positive change. State Superintendent Molly Hart emphasized that a blend of high expectations and strong support has allowed students to find their footing and excel.

Breaking Down the Numbers: Who’s Benefiting?

One of the most encouraging aspects of this report is the improvement in graduation rates among historically underserved student groups. Black students have seen a graduation rate rise from 80.6% to 83.9%, while Native American students' rates climbed from 77.5% to 80.1%. This progress signifies a broader commitment to equity and support within the education system.

But It’s Not All Smooth Sailing: The Reading Crisis

While these numbers shine a spotlight on success, there is a shadow of concern regarding declining reading scores among eighth graders. Despite leading in math, many students struggle with literacy, as noted by Christine Ivory from the Deseret News. With less than half of third graders reading at grade level, this issue poses long-term risks to educational outcomes and workforce readiness.

Addressing the Challenges Ahead

Utah's educators face the critical task of bridging the growing reading gap to sustain the state's educational progress. Efforts are in place to implement evidence-based programs targeted at improving literacy rates, ensuring that every student, regardless of background, gets the help they need to succeed.

As we celebrate the success in reducing dropout rates, it's essential to remember that the journey toward educational equity and literacy is ongoing. The collaboration between educators, parents, and the community remains more important than ever.

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How Utah’s High School Dropout Rates Were Cut in Half and What It Means for Education

Utah's Educational Triumph: A Closer Look at Dropout Rates

The Power of Community Support

Breaking Down the Numbers: Who’s Benefiting?

But It’s Not All Smooth Sailing: The Reading Crisis

Addressing the Challenges Ahead

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