In the fifth year of the Georgia Milestones assessment, Dawson County students have shown improvement above state averages for the 2019 school year. During the Georgia Milestones Assessment System exams, students in grades three through eight are tested using an end of grade test, while high school students are administered end of course tests at the end of the winter and spring semesters. Students are graded in four levels, from the lowest, which is beginning learner, to developing learner, proficient learner and distinguished learner. Students who are rated a developing learner or above are considered to have a passing grade.