Robbinsdale Area Schools’ (Rdale) four-year graduation rate for the Class of 2025 is 77.5%, a modest decrease from 78.7% last year and below the statewide average of 84.9%. But that number alone doesn’t tell the full story. When more time is considered, a greater percentage of Rdale students graduate than the state average.

Looking Beyond the Four-Year Snapshot

The four-year graduation rate captures how many students complete high school “on time.” But in a district as diverse as Rdale, many students take a different path—one that still leads to success.

When additional time is considered, the picture becomes clearer:

• Rdale seven-year graduation rate: 89.4%
• State seven-year graduation rate: 88.3%

This means that a greater percentage of Rdale students ultimately graduate than the state average, even if it takes longer than four years.

“We have students whose paths aren’t linear, and our system is designed to support that,” said Assistant Superintendent Dr. Bob McDowell. “When we look beyond the four-year mark, we see that more of our students are staying connected, continuing their education, and finishing strong.”

Strong Outcomes Across Student Groups

Rdale continues to demonstrate strong outcomes for several student groups, particularly when compared to state averages.

Black/African American students

• Rdale: 78.8% (4-year) vs. State: 76.4%
• Rdale: 90.9% (7-year) vs. State: 82.0%

Students receiving special education services

• Rdale: 70.8% (4-year) vs. State: 68.6%
• Rdale: 85.4% (7-year) vs. State: 78.1%

American Indian students

• Rdale: 76.9% (7-year) vs. State: 68.5%

Students eligible for educational benefits

• Rdale: 86.9% (7-year) vs. State: 78.6%

Multilingual and English Language learners: 

• Rdale: 84.8% (7-year) vs. State: 75.9%

“These outcomes reflect intentional work across our schools. We’re seeing the impact of targeted support, strong relationships, and a focus on meeting students where they are,” McDowell said. “We have to stay focused on both outcomes and experiences. It’s not just about whether students graduate, but how supported they feel along the way and where we can remove barriers earlier in their journey.”

Looking Ahead

District leaders say the focus moving forward is clear: improve outcomes across both timelines while continuing to support every student’s path to graduation. 

“Our goal is to ensure more students graduate in four years,” McDowell said. “At the same time, we remain committed to every student who needs more time. Success means making sure every student has a path and that they reach the finish line.”