What it Takes to Graduate

1
What it Takes to Graduate

• Molly OConnor
• Assessment Communications Mgr.
• OSPI
• 1.11.07

2

• What does a
• High School Diploma
• mean to you?

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Its about choices and opportunities

• The more you learn, the more you earn.
• Knowledge improves quality of life.
• Students need a good education to compete in
  global job market.
• Students need skills employers want and need.

4
New State Graduation Requirements

• Starting with the Class of 2008
• Culminating Project.
• High School Beyond Plan.
• School and District Credits.
• Certificate of Academic Achievement /
  Certificate of Individual Achievement.

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Culminating Project

• Students use experience and knowledge to solve
  problems.
• Students explore a topic that interests them.
• Students apply learning in a real world way.

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High School Beyond Plan

• Students write down
• What they need to do to graduate.
• What they want to do after graduation.

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A course of study to keep all doors open

• 4 years of English
• 4 years of Mathematics
• 3 years of Science
• 3 years of Social Studies
• 2 years of World Language
• 1 year of Career Tech

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The Certificate

• Reading, writing and math.
• (Science added in 2010).
• Earned by passing
• High School WASL.
• A state-approved alternative.
• Cert. of Individual Achievement Only Options for
  students in special education.

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Whats tested on the High School WASL?

• Reading
• Writing
• Math
• Science
• To learn more and look at the sample High School
  WASL
• www.k12.wa.us

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Passed the High School WASL

• Complete state and district requirements.
• Take challenging coursework in 11th AND 12th
  grades.
• Know the requirements of the college or
  program your child wants to attend.

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Hasnt passed the High School WASL

• Student Learning Plans.
• Extra help during summer and school year.
• 5 chances to take WASL.
• 3 state-approved alternatives.

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Certificate Options

• Collection of Evidence
• PSAT, SAT and ACT Math Comparison
• WASL/Grades Comparison

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English Language Learners

• Earn the Certificate by taking the 10th-grade
  WASL with or without accommodations
• Possible Continuing Education Option
• Certificate earned at community college
• Can participate in graduation

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What YOU can do

• Know what your child should be learning.
• Get to know your childs teachers and their
  expectations.
• Use your childs interests and strengths to
  engage him in school but not at the expense of
  basic skills.
• Get help immediately if your child is struggling.

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What YOU can do

• Make sure your child attends school daily.
• Help your child pick classes.
• Encourage your child to do their best on tests.
• Turn off video games, TV, computer, cell phone,
  iPod.