The DeSoto Parish leads the state of Louisiana in the number of students who started the ninth grade and graduated on time four years later.

The announcement was made last week as the 2013-14 high school graduation rates were released.

DeSoto Parish’s graduation rate was 94.5 percent, which not only led the state, but the school system also maintained the highest graduation rate over the last three years.

DeSoto Superintendent Cade Brumley said, “This is a testament to the strategic and caring work of our educators.” He added, “It also shows that our students have an increased awareness for the benefits of a diploma. We won’t be completely satisfied until we hit 100 percent.” T

he only other school in northwest Louisiana to make the top 10 list for 2014 was Sabine Parish at 88.8 percent, putting it at No. 9. Bossier Parish’s was 79.8 and Caddo Parish’s rate was 67.7 percent.