DCS schools lead historic Mississippi graduation surge

Key Points

• Mississippi’s statewide graduation rate reached a historic 90.8 percent for the 2024-2025 school year, the first time in state history it has exceeded the 90 percent threshold.
  
• DeSoto County School District (DCS) remains a top-tier performer, securing the 10th highest graduation rate in the state at 97.1 percent.
  
• DCS achieved a district-wide dropout rate of only 1.7 percent, significantly lower than the statewide average of 7.0 percent.

Mississippi public schools have reached a monumental milestone, surpassing a 90 percent graduation rate for the first time in state history. Leading this statewide charge is the DeSoto County School District, which once again established itself as one of the premier systems in the region with a graduation rate of 97.1 percent.

The 2026 Accountability System report, released by the Mississippi Department of Education, shows the state’s four-year graduation rate climbed to 90.8 percent. This achievement marks a significant upward trend from just six years ago, when the rate stood at 87.7 percent in 2021. Simultaneously, the statewide dropout rate has plummeted to a record low of 7.0 percent.

District Leadership Reacts

DeSoto County Schools Superintendent Cory Uselton credited the success to a “coordinated effort” from teachers, administrators, and support staff.

“One of our top priorities is expanding opportunities for our students, and this includes their time with DeSoto County Schools and also their postsecondary experience,” Uselton said. “We want every graduate to leave DeSoto County Schools with a clear plan, valuable experience, and the confidence to succeed beyond high school.”

Uselton noted that the entire district is “excited to see these results” and expressed gratitude for the employees who invest in students on a daily basis.

DeSoto County: A Model of Success

Within this rising tide of academic achievement, DeSoto County remains a standout. The district’s 97.1 percent graduation rate places it among the top ten districts statewide. Even more impressive is the district’s ability to keep students in the classroom; DCS reported a dropout rate of only 1.7 percent, tying for the 10th lowest rate in Mississippi.

Performance across individual high schools in the county reflects a culture of consistency. Lewisburg High School led the local pack with a stellar 99.0 percent graduation rate. Close behind were Lake Cormorant High School at 97.7 percent and Olive Branch High School at 98.5 percent.

Local School Performance Breakdown

The report highlights high achievement across the district’s secondary schools:

• Lewisburg High School: 99.0 percent graduation rate.
• Olive Branch High School: 98.5 percent graduation rate.
• Lake Cormorant High School: 97.7 percent graduation rate.
• Hernando High School: 97.5 percent graduation rate.
• Center Hill High School: 98.0 percent graduation rate.
• DeSoto Central High School: 96.8 percent graduation rate.
• Horn Lake High School: 96.6 percent graduation rate.
• Southaven High School: 94.6 percent graduation rate.
  

Closing the Gap

The state’s progress isn’t limited to general populations. The graduation rate for students with disabilities also saw a historic rise, reaching 71.1 percent in 2026, compared to 55.4 percent in 2021.

DeSoto County’s commitment to this subgroup was particularly evident, as the district reported an 86.1 percent graduation rate for students with disabilities, far outpacing the state average.