The graduation rate for Iowa’s class of 2012 increased by nearly 1 percentage point, according to a report released today by the Iowa Department of Education. 

According to a release, the 2012 statewide graduation rate was at 89.26 percent. This rate was an increase of 0.94 percent from the previous year, and a number that led the nation. 

“Iowa’s graduation rate is a testament to the hard work and commitment that teachers and school leaders show in classrooms across the state,” said Jason Glass, the director of the Iowa Department of Education. “While we work to continue that momentum, we also must look beyond the high-school diploma and make sure all students are prepared for success after high school.”

The rates increased for all groups but two, with significant increases among students who don’t consider English their first language, students with disabilities, and students from low-income backgrounds, the release said.