Florida hit a 14-year high in high school graduation rates in the 2016-2017 school year, and both Escambia and Santa Rosa counties were part of the uptick. 

Gov. Rick Scott announced the increase Wednesday. Data shows the statewide rate rose to 82.3 percent, an increase of 23.1 percentage points since the 2003-04 school year and 1.6 percentage points since 2015-2016. 

Statistics on the Florida Department of Education website indicate that Escambia County saw a 3.4 percent bump while Santa Rosa increased by 0.7 percent over the course of the past two school years. 

Click here to see how the graduation rate in Florida's school districts compare.

"We want every Florida student to have access to a world-class education so they can succeed in the classroom and their future careers, and that is why my recommended Securing Florida’s Future budget includes historic funding for education for the sixth consecutive year, including significant investments for teachers and students in our K-12 system," Scott said in a press release.

"I look forward to working with the Legislature during the upcoming session to make sure our students have the resources they need to continue to build on this accomplishment for years to come,” he said.

Graduation rates for black or African American students, Hispanic students, students with disabilities and economically disadvantaged students have steadily increased in the past five years. 

Jake Newby can be reached at jnewby@pnj.com or 850-435-8538.