I think it is getting tougher to graduate within a traditional timeframe due to economic factors.  As a part-time college student myself, I understand the importance of obtaining a college education - but at the same time, I have to hold down multiple jobs to pay the bills.  So yeah, it is probably taking longer to graduate.  There is only so much time in any given day to dedicate to work, school, homework and family obligations.  

It may just be that Massachusetts is one of the tougher states in which to survive economically.

Do grad rates tell the whole story?

No Way! I don't believe the degree, or graduation rates tell the whole story. If a community college gives new immigrants to the US the opportunity to take even just one course at a college, the opportunity to believe and live the American dream, and the chance for a better life, then the community college is doing its job. Maybe the first child or parent of this immigrant family or immigrant community takes one class at a time, at night, while they work two jobs and maybe they don't graduate. But maybe, the next two or three children of this same extended family will graduate from a community college or public four institution because a role model has shown them the way and inspired them to get an education. And maybe, just maybe, they are attending a community college right now! Can you measure for me please the value of inspiration and pride? Can you assess for me please the value of a role model for a community.  Educating a community is done in the public schools systems and community colleges throughout the state and country.  Sometimes by planting the seed of one tree, a forest can grow. It is unfortunate that the Department of Higher Ed can't see the forest through the trees.

I love what was just said in the previous comment.  I agree 100%. I don't belive they can measure things correctly.  We don't live in a world where it's as simple as black and white.  Yes, if my children have an opportunity to go to college and that's all they have to focus on, yes I would most likely expect them to graduate when they are suppose too.  But unfortunately most students have to work and not only work one job but two or even three.  I'm sure, that on the job training and life experences are not being measured while attending college.  Personally, I don't care if it takes three years or five years to graduate.  As long as you do and don't quit.  I think that shows more than the diploma itself.  It shows a lot of qualities that a lot of people don't have.  I'm sure I am not measured:  40 yrs old, 20yrs out of high school, I've never been to college and this is my third year.  I am almost ready to graduate but with drew last semester because I got walking namonia and got to far behind and I want my grades to stay in good standing.  I am with drawing again this semester because of legal stuff that is going on and it is making it very difficult to focus on school.  But I will be back, and I will graduate, and I will continue my education.  I am not a quiter and my children will tell you so.  How do you measure showing your children that you are not a quiter, that you never give up.  Along with teaching them that there are times that you have to make choices as to what you need to do for you and sometimes you need to take a couple of things of your plate and that's ok.  I say to students everywhere, as a student and as a mother it does not matter when you graduate as long as you do!

We shouldn't be focused on graduation rates without considering the current realities that impact the time it takes for students to complete their course work.  As long as a student graduates, the time taken should not be the focus.