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Camden School Officials Encouraged By Higher Graduation Rate

By Mike Dougherty

CAMDEN, NJ. (CBS) -- The graduation rate in Camden, New Jersey jumped six percent last year, and the school superintendent is optimistic about the future.

"We're not here to waive the victory flag," says Superintendent Paymon Rouhanifard.

Rouhanifard says this is progress to be proud of, and he's ready for the bumpy road ahead.

"We went from 56-percent to 62-percent," he says. "We've got a long ways to go and we're focused on the end goal, which is that all students have access to an excellent school."

Rouhanifard is in his second year on the job as superintendent. He says challenges at home sometimes prevent students from reaching their potential.

"So for us, it's about setting that bar higher," he says, "and ensuring the proper supports are in place."

And he wants to hear suggestions from parents and students about how improve conditions at schools in the city.

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