Upper Arlington Schools earned the state's top five-star rating for the fifth straight year, the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce announced Tuesday, Sept. 15.

The district is one of just 61 out of more than 600 Ohio districts to reach the highest mark on the 2025-2026 state report card. Upper Arlington also earned five stars in four individual categories for a fifth consecutive year: Achievement, Progress, Gap Closing and Graduation.

Its Performance Index score also rose.

That index has now climbed for five straight years, according to a district statement.

Grandview Heights Schools also earned a five-star overall rating, making both local districts among only four in Franklin County to hit the top tier. Bexley and New Albany-Plain Local rounded out the county's five-star group, according to ThisWeek News.

"We are honored to once again earn the state's highest rating, and this recognition reflects the dedication of our staff and the support of our families and community," Superintendent Robert Hunt said. "At the same time, we know the report card is only one measure of success."

Hunt said the district and each school building will review the data behind the ratings to identify what is working and where there is room to grow. The district also plans to evaluate student growth, achievement and well-being through its Quality Profile, an annual accountability report.

The five-star system, adopted by Ohio in 2021, replaced the former A-F grading model. Districts receive an overall star rating plus individual scores in six areas. Achievement and Progress each carry 25% of the overall weight, while Gap Closing, Graduation, Early Literacy, and College/Career/Workforce/Military Readiness each carry 12.5%.

Statewide, English language arts proficiency reached 62.2% in 2025-2026, up from 60.4% the prior year. Math proficiency climbed to 56.4% from 55.3%. Gov. Mike DeWine's office said both figures represent five-year highs, according to 10TV.

Chronic absenteeism statewide fell for the fourth consecutive year, dropping to 23.9% from 25.1%. More than 90% of Ohio districts earned three stars or higher, meaning they met or exceeded state expectations.

Families can view individual school and district results on the state's online report card portal. The Upper Arlington Board of Education posts its meeting schedule on the district's website.