The Richmond County School System (RCSS) Class of 2025 recorded strong graduation outcomes across Georgia’s four academic pathway types, surpassing state graduation rates in the Advanced Academic and World Language pathways and posting high graduation rates in Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) and Fine Arts, according to data released Jan. 8 by the Georgia Department of Education.  

“A pathway is a series of focused courses that allow students to specialize in an area of interest,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of schools. “It helps students build expertise and prepare for success after high school.”  

Students completing a CTAE pathway posted a 98.18% graduation rate. CTAE pathways offer sequenced, career-focused coursework with opportunities for work-based learning, internships, and industry exposure. George P. Butler Comprehensive High School recorded the largest year-over-year gain, increasing by 2.87 percentage points, while multiple schools sustained multi-year 100% graduation rates.  

“Research shows that students who complete a CTAE pathway are more likely to graduate college and career-ready,” said Dr. Tommy Welch, deputy superintendent of school improvement and strategic initiatives. “These results reflect the hard work of our students and the dedication of the educators who guide them every day.”  

Students completing the Advanced Academic Pathway earned a 100% graduation rate, surpassing the statewide rate of 99.7%, while World Language pathway completers posted a 99.64% graduation rate, exceeding the state average of 99.39%. Westside Comprehensive High School recorded the largest year-over-year gain in the Advanced Academic Pathway, increasing by 3.28 percentage points.  

Students completing the Fine Arts Pathway graduated at a rate of 97.76% in 2025. T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School recorded the largest year-over-year gain in the category, improving 4.35 percentage points.  

For a complete list of pathway graduation rates, visit the Georgia Department of Education website.