CARROLLTON, GA – On Oct. 9, the Georgia Department of Education officially announced the 2024 statewide graduation rate, with Carrollton High School surpassing the state average for the 20th consecutive year at 91 percent. However, the real achievement goes beyond the numbers – it’s about the students behind the diplomas and the opportunities their education unlocks. CHS graduates must complete 28 course credits, surpassing the state’s 23-credit standard, further demonstrating the rigor of their education.

Of the 431 graduates in Carrollton High School’s Class of 2024, 145 were honor graduates, with 57 graduating with distinction. The class also set a new record with its largest-ever International Baccalaureate (IB) cohort, as 20 students completed the program. Of the graduates, 256 earned credit for accelerated enrollment via dual enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP), and/or IB courses. Moreover, 385 students completed career pathways through the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program, equipping them with real-world skills for today’s job market.

In addition to academic achievements, students showcased talents in athletics and the arts,  highlighting their diverse talents and proving their ability to shine in all three areas. A total of 85 graduates completed a fine arts pathway, and more than half participated in athletics, band, drama or chorus.

The Class of 2024 was a testament to the resilience and determination of its students, who came from diverse backgrounds and overcame numerous personal challenges. Programs like the Performance Learning Center (PLC) and Project SEARCH played a vital role in supporting these students, providing them with the resources and opportunities they needed to thrive. The PLC is designed to meet students’ diverse academic and social needs in a small, non-traditional high school setting. In partnership with the University of West Georgia, Project SEARCH is a transitional program that helps students with disabilities develop job skills and prepare for competitive employment.

Superintendent Dr. Mark Albertus emphasized that the district’s priority is preparing students for life beyond high school and setting them up for long-term success.

“Our goal is to ensure that our graduates are prepared for success, whether they are pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or joining the military,” Albertus said. “Graduating from CHS means more than just finishing high school — it means meeting rigorous academic standards and being equipped with the skills needed to compete in a global economy.”

After graduation, 75 percent of the class planned to attend a two- or four-year college, 21 percent entered the workforce, and 4 percent enlisted in the military. Moreover, 285 graduates qualified for the HOPE Scholarship, and, in total, the Class of 2024 earned close to $15 million in scholarships from colleges and universities.

CHS Principal Ian Lyle expressed his pride in students and teachers for continually maintaining high standards.

“Even with our growing student population, our dedication to excellence remains strong, as reflected by our consistently high graduation rates year after year,” Lyle said. “We place a high value on a diploma earned at Carrollton High School, and we are committed to supporting students as they work to achieve that goal.”