WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – As the new school year starts, a North Country educator is focusing on what’s coming next as New York state transforms public education and redefines high school graduation requirements.
Currently, there are three diplomas that graduates in New York can earn.
Beginning with the class of 2028, there will be a single diploma, as students will no longer be required to pass state Regents exams to graduate, although they can still choose to take the Regents tests.
In addition, a new credit requirement will take effect beginning with the class of 2031. Those students start high school next fall. Phase 3 starts in 2029, when the state will adopt new graduation requirements, called Portrait of a Graduate.
“We are anxiously awaiting some of the changes to be adopted by the Board of Regents. And we’re really excited cause it’s gonna open up pathways for kids, and it’s going to allow many ways to meet the graduation requirements,” said Chris DiFulvio, Jefferson-Lewis BOCES superintendent.
The Portrait of a Graduate requirements are built with the goal of meeting the needs of students and best preparing them for success, according to New York state.
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