Alabama's 89 percent graduation rate is not accurate, but it may be months before the correct numbers are revealed.
A review of the state's graduation rates by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Inspector General shows the state misstated its rates by counting students who received Alabama Occupational Diplomas in its numbers. They also did not properly oversee local school systems' awarding of class credits, resulting in some diplomas that weren't honestly earned.
A state Department of Education spokeswoman says there won't be any recalculation of the 2014-15 rates at this time. Malissa Valdes-Hubert says the numbers for the 2015-16 school year are expected to be released in early spring.
Superintendent Michael Sentance says the department is establishing an internal audit unit to ensure protocols and procedures are followed.