Oregon School District Hits 91.7% Graduation Rate

Jefferson County School District 509J in Oregon is showing the nation what's possible when schools treat students as people, not numbers.

The rural district hit a 91.7% graduation rate for 2024-25, crushing Oregon's state average of 83%. But the real story isn't just the overall number. It's what's happening with the students who typically struggle most.

Students living in poverty graduated at 88.6%, beating both the state average of 71.3% and the national average of 87%. Native American students, who statewide graduated at 74%, reached 86.8% in Jefferson County. English learners doubled their pre-pandemic graduation rate, climbing from 41% to 86%.

Perhaps most remarkable: students with disabilities graduated at 92.9%, higher than students without disabilities. That's nearly double their 50% graduation rate from just six years ago.

Superintendent Jay Mathisen credits a simple but powerful philosophy. "It really reflects the good work of our teachers and our staff and our school leaders to build connections with kids," he said. "To know them as people, not just names on a student roster."

The district launched "Students Flourish Here," a program focusing on attendance and family involvement. The approach recognizes that students stay engaged when they know the adults around them genuinely care.

The results speak to investments beyond test prep and curriculum. Jefferson County offers both a Spanish Dual Language Program and a Native Language Program, meeting students where they are linguistically and culturally.

Governor Tina Kotek praised educators statewide for the progress. "Achieving proficiency in core skills and graduating from high school create future possibilities for every child to reach their full potential," she said.

The Ripple Effect

When 42 students with disabilities graduate at rates higher than their peers, that sends a message far beyond one district. It proves that the right support systems can level the playing field entirely.

When economically disadvantaged students jump 10 percentage points in six years, that's generational change. These aren't just diplomas. They're pathways to college, careers, and breaking cycles of poverty.

The district still has work to do. Homeless students, while still above the state average, saw graduation rates dip this year. But the overall trend shows what happens when a community decides every student matters.

Small districts in rural America are proving they can outperform larger, better-funded systems through relationship-focused education and culturally responsive programs.