DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – Dothan City Schools received an overall grade of 80, a “B”, on the Alabama State Department of Education’s newly released 2024–2025 state report card, which was published Thursday, Nov. 13. The annual report card measures performance across academic achievement, growth, absenteeism, and other key indicators for every school in the state.
The district’s score marks an improvement over last year and reflects what officials describe as months of focused work across all 15 schools. According to DCS, the report “provides a comprehensive overview” of student progress while highlighting areas where additional support is needed.
Achievement and Growth Trends
Seven of the district’s 15 schools posted gains in academic Achievement, which measures student proficiency levels on state assessments.
In the Growth category—which evaluates academic progress year over year—all Dothan City Schools earned at least a “C.” Four schools received an “A,” nine earned a “B,” and two posted a “C.” District officials said those results “reflect the dedication of our educators and students to academic progress and development.”
Chronic Absenteeism Improvements
A majority of campuses also saw progress in reducing or maintaining chronic absenteeism, which is closely tied to academic performance. Twelve of the district’s 15 schools improved or held steady in this category. Officials noted that the gains “highlight the district’s ongoing efforts to engage students and families in promoting regular school attendance.”
College & Career Readiness and Graduation Rates
Because College and Career Readiness (CCR) and graduation rates reflect the previous year’s graduates, the data included on this report card comes from the 2023–2024 school year.
DCS recorded a CCR rate of 73.80% and a graduation rate of 94.80%.
During the 2024–2025 school year, the district rolled out new support programs aimed at increasing both numbers. These initiatives focused on additional resources, new pathways for students, and expanded readiness opportunities. Their results will appear on next year’s 2025–2026 report card.
Superintendent: ‘No room for complacency’
Superintendent Dr. Garrick Askew praised the district’s progress but underscored the importance of maintaining momentum.
“We are encouraged by our current report card results,” Dr. Askew said. “We also know that there is no room for complacency, as continuous improvement is a cornerstone of our work.”
Since stepping into the role, Dr. Askew has conducted a comprehensive review of district strengths and needed improvements through listening sessions, community meetings, school visits, and analysis from national education experts. This work will be detailed in his upcoming 100 Day Report, which outlines strategic initiatives aimed at academic growth and long-term district stability.
“DCS has much to celebrate and much to continue to plan for as we strive to better support our students in the areas of literacy, math, and special education,” Dr. Askew added.
Where to Learn More
Parents and community members are encouraged to explore the district’s five-year Strategic Plan along with the state’s full report card data. Both resources offer multi-year details and statewide comparisons.
Strategic Plan: https://www.dothan.k12.al.us/our-district/strategic-plan
State Report Card: https://reportcard.alsde.edu/selectschool.aspx
WDNews will continue following updates from Dothan City Schools as new information becomes available.
