Revised graduation requirements at Carlynton Jr.-Sr. High School are designed to better align student learning with state expectations, post-graduation readiness and workforce demands, officials say.
The school board on Tuesday, Jan. 20 approved revised requirements that will take effect beginning with the Class of 2029.
District officials say the changes follow a review conducted by a committee made up of administrators, teachers and counselors.
Updates include:
• Students will be required to complete a half-credit in digital productivity and data literacy, and a half-credit in personal finance. Carlynton officials say this ensures graduates have essential technology, data and financial literacy skills needed for adult life.
• The total requirement for Health and Physical Education credits will be reduced from 1.5 credits to 1 credit. Students will take a half-credit in health and a half-credit in physical education. This allows students to have more flexibility to schedule other elective courses, according to the district.
• Students will still be required to earn 3 credits in social studies, with 1 of those credits being in American government.
• A new, half-credit career education and work standards portfolio course will gauge students’ engagement in career exploration.
The total number of credits required for graduation will increase from 24 to 24.5 credits.
“These updated graduation requirements reflect our commitment to preparing students not only to meet state standards, but to graduate with the real-world skills necessary to succeed in college, careers and the workforce,” said Superintendent John Kreider. “The board’s approval is the culmination of thoughtful collaboration and careful planning focused on what is best for our students and our community.”
State graduation requirements, including Keystone exam proficiency or other appropriate alternatives, and successful completion of the state-required civics exam, will remain the same.
The updated graduation requirements will be communicated to students, parents and staff through school counseling offices and district communications, officials said.
