Washington high school graduation rates inch upward

(AP) — Washington high school graduation rates are moving upward but the state still lags behind the national average.

[...] Washington's low-income kids and those from minority groups are still graduating at lower rates than the statewide average, according to The News Tribune (http://is.gd/qOQl06).

The state superintendent's office released last year's high school graduation rates.

The state education office looked at school districts in the state with poverty rates of more than 60 percent and spotlighted four that are doing outstanding work for low-income kids:

Among them are adults who believe every student can succeed, clearly defined and measurable goals, data-based early warning systems to flag at-risk students and an emphasis on supporting students, including connections to mental health and substance abuse assistance.