Bloomington School District Graduation Rate Soars to 88%

Bloomington High School just celebrated an 11.5% jump in graduation rates, climbing from 76.5% to 88% in a single school year.

The achievement marks a turning point for District 87, where administrators presented the data at their first board meeting of the new school year in August 2026. Superintendent David Mouser announced the results alongside the launch of D87 United, a new campaign designed to rally the entire community around student success.

"We've put the vision into action," Mouser said. "It allows us to be able to all point in the same direction."

The graduation rate wasn't the only bright spot. Science test scores across the district jumped 18% from the previous year, while English and math scores also showed gains. Even the district's youngest learners are thriving, with Sarah E. Raymond School of Early Education earning gold status from the state's Preschool for All grant program for the first time in its history.

Nicole Rummel, assistant superintendent of teaching and learning, shared how the improvements reflect months of focused effort across all grade levels. The district created five key goals centered on achievement, belonging, culture, stewardship, and innovation.

Board members wore purple and gold D87 United T-shirts to the meeting, showing their commitment to the new direction. The campaign will include a dedicated website showcasing student achievements and community partnerships.

The Ripple Effect

The transformation extends beyond test scores and graduation caps. When nearly nine out of ten students cross the finish line with their diplomas, entire families benefit. Those graduates are better positioned for college, careers, and contributing to their community.

The district's approach focuses on bringing everyone together, from teachers and administrators to parents and local businesses. Mouser emphasized that success requires the whole community jumping in to support students at every level.

The D87 United campaign will keep goals visible and actionable rather than collecting dust on a shelf. Community members will see regular updates on student progress and opportunities to get involved in supporting local schools.

For Bloomington families watching their teens walk across graduation stages, the numbers represent real lives changed and futures opened up.

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