Carrollton High School’s graduation ceremony in May celebrated 460 graduates and a 91 percent graduation rate. Photo courtesy of Brian Carmichael.
he Georgia Department of Education officially announced the 2026 statewide graduation rate, with Carrollton High School surpassing the state average for the 22nd consecutive year at 91.4 percent. CHS sets a high bar by requiring graduates to complete 28 course credits—well above the state’s 23-credit standard—giving students expanded opportunities through a diverse educational experience.
Of the 460 graduates in Carrollton High School’s Class of 2026, 140 students achieved honor graduate status with at least a 90 percent cumulative average. An additional 80 students earned the title of honor graduate with distinction, attaining a cumulative average of 95 percent or higher by the end of their senior year.
Across their transcripts, 283 graduates earned credit for accelerated enrollment via dual enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP), and/or IB courses. Moreover, 349 students completed career pathways through the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program, with over 220 work-based learning internships completed, 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. More than half of the class participated in athletics, band, drama, or chorus. Additionally, 44 student-athletes signed with a college to compete at the next level.
From earning titles in state-level competitions to gaining real-world experiences traveling to represent their organizations, graduates demonstrated resilience and determination, continually expanding the blueprint of achievement for which Carrollton City Schools is well known.
Never letting personal challenges hold them back from pursuing their goals, graduates benefited from programs like the Performance Learning Center (PLC) and Project SEARCH, which provided students 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 our graduates are ready to compete in the world beyond our walls, whether they are pursuing a college degree, entering the workforce, or enlisting in the military,” said Albertus. “Graduating from Carrollton means more than just finishing high school–every student must earn their diploma by meeting rigorous academic requirements and acquiring skills that help prepare them for life.”
After graduation, 82 percent of graduates plan to attend a two- or four-year college, 14 percent will enter the workforce, and 7 percent are enlisting in the military. An impressive 60 percent of graduates received the HOPE Scholarship, which provides tuition assistance for in-state institutions. In total, the Class of 2026 earned more than $15.15 million in scholarships from colleges and universities.
CHS Principal Dr. Eric Simmons celebrated these achievements and expressed his excitement to carry on this tradition of excellence.
“Year after year, Carrollton High School exhibits an impressive graduation rate, which is a testament to the hard work of our students and teachers,” Dr. Simmons said. “It is important to uphold expectations with the high value we place on a diploma from our school, and we are committed to supporting all students as they work to achieve their goals.”
Author: Jamie Tuggle
