Virginia Department of Education: High School Graduation Requirements Guide

The Virginia Department of Education has established comprehensive guidelines for high school graduation requirements to ensure that students in the Commonwealth of Virginia are adequately prepared for their future endeavors. This guide aims to clarify the various requirements, including the types of diplomas, credit requirements, and the importance of verified credits, which play a crucial role in a student’s journey towards high school graduation. Understanding these essentials will help students navigate their educational paths more effectively.

What are the graduation requirements for high school students in Virginia?

Overview of high school graduation requirements

In Virginia, high school graduation requirements are designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for both college and career opportunities. The Virginia Board of Education outlines that students must complete a certain number of credits for graduation in various subjects, including English, mathematics, science, and social studies, among others. The specific number of credits required varies depending on whether a student is pursuing a standard diploma or an advanced studies diploma, particularly in the 2018-2019 and beyond academic years. The Department of Education emphasizes that students must also meet additional requirements, such as verified credits, to successfully graduate from high school.

Types of diplomas available: standard and advanced studies

Students in Virginia have the option of earning either a standard diploma or an advanced studies diploma. The standard diploma is primarily designed for students who wish to enter the workforce immediately after graduation or pursue post-secondary education at a community college, with requirements that shall include verified units of credit. To obtain a standard diploma, students must complete a minimum of 22 standard units of credit, which include the core subjects and electives. On the other hand, the advanced studies diploma is intended for those who plan to attend a four-year college or university. This diploma requires a minimum of 26 standard units of credit and includes additional coursework in mathematics, science, and foreign languages, making it more rigorous and comprehensive.

Importance of verified credits

Verified credits are an essential component of the high school graduation process in Virginia, as they contribute to the total credits for graduation. To graduate, students must earn a specific number of verified credits, which serve as proof that they have demonstrated proficiency in core academic subjects. Verified credits are obtained by passing the Standards of Learning (SOL) tests associated with specific courses completed to satisfy this requirement. These assessments are designed to measure students’ knowledge and skills, ensuring they meet the educational standards set by the Virginia Department of Education, which shall approve courses to satisfy this requirement. The inclusion of verified credits in graduation requirements underscores the importance of academic achievement and accountability in the educational system.

How do credit requirements differ for the standard diploma and advanced studies diploma?

Credit requirements for the standard diploma

For students pursuing a standard diploma in Virginia, the credit requirements are structured to provide a foundational education. To satisfy this requirement, students must earn a total of 22 standard units of credit. These credits must include specific courses: four units in English, three units in mathematics (including Algebra I and Geometry), three units in science (with at least one unit in Earth Science, Biology, or Chemistry), and three units in social studies. Additionally, students are required to complete a unit of credit in health and physical education, as well as electives that can range from fine arts to career and technical education courses required for graduation. Meeting these credit requirements is crucial for students aiming to graduate with a standard diploma and fulfill the credits for graduation.

Credit requirements for the advanced studies diploma

Students who aspire to earn an advanced studies diploma must complete a more rigorous set of standard credit requirements. To earn this diploma, a student must accumulate a minimum of 26 standard units of credit. This includes the same core subjects required for the standard diploma but with additional requirements. Specifically, students must complete four units of mathematics, including Algebra II, and four units of science, which must encompass Biology and Chemistry, along with a third unit of either Earth Science or Physics. Furthermore, students must complete three units of a foreign language, which emphasizes the advanced nature of this diploma, and the requirement shall include at least one international baccalaureate diploma course. The increased credit requirements for the advanced studies diploma are designed to challenge students and enhance their readiness for higher education.

Understanding standard units of credit

A standard unit of credit in Virginia is generally awarded for the successful completion of a course that meets specific academic standards set by the Virginia Department of Education, which are approved by the board. A student must demonstrate mastery of the course content to earn this credit, which typically involves passing assessments and fulfilling all course requirements. Understanding how these standard units of credit are earned is vital for students and school counselors alike, as they play a pivotal role in shaping a student’s academic trajectory and ensuring that all graduation requirements are met on time.

What is verified credit and how does it impact graduation?

Definition of verified credit

Verified credit is defined as a credit earned through successful completion of a course coupled with passing the corresponding SOL test. In Virginia, these tests are critical assessments that gauge a student’s understanding of the material covered in the classroom. The necessity of verified credits serves to reinforce the educational standards expected of students in the Commonwealth, ensuring that all requirements shall include at least one verified unit of credit. For instance, a student must pass the SOL test in Algebra I to receive verified credit for the mathematics course, thus ensuring that they possess the necessary skills before graduation.

How to earn verified credits through SOL tests

To earn verified credits, students must take and pass the SOL tests that are aligned with their coursework and approved by the board. These tests are administered at the end of specific courses, and students must achieve a passing score to convert their course credit into a verified credit. The process of earning verified credits is straightforward: upon successful completion of a course, students are typically registered for the SOL test during the designated testing window. The Virginia Board of Education emphasizes the importance of these tests as they not only assess student learning but also help ensure that students are meeting the educational benchmarks necessary for high school graduation.

Locally awarded verified credit options

In addition to earning verified credits through SOL tests, students in Virginia may also have opportunities to obtain locally awarded verified credit. This option is particularly beneficial for students who may struggle with standardized testing but have demonstrated mastery of the content through courses completed to satisfy this requirement. Local school boards have the authority to establish criteria for awarding verified credit based on classroom performance, alternative assessments, or other metrics. It is essential for students to communicate with their school counselors to explore these locally awarded verified credit options to ensure they meet their high school graduation requirements and the necessary credits for graduation.

What should students entering the ninth grade know about graduation requirements?

Changes in graduation requirements since 2018-2019

Since the 2018-2019 academic year, there have been notable changes in the high school graduation requirements in Virginia, including the introduction of new courses to satisfy this requirement. These changes reflect the ongoing efforts by the Virginia Department of Education and the Board of Education to adapt to the evolving educational landscape and the needs of students. New guidelines have been implemented to streamline the credit requirements and provide more flexibility for students in their course selections, ensuring that courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include a variety of options. It is imperative for students entering the ninth grade to be aware of these changes, as they may impact their educational plans and the courses they choose throughout high school.

How ninth graders can prepare for high school graduation

Ninth graders can take proactive steps to prepare for high school graduation by familiarizing themselves with the graduation requirements and developing a comprehensive academic plan. Working closely with a school counselor can facilitate this process, as counselors can provide valuable guidance on course selection, credit accumulation, and strategies for success. Students should also consider enrolling in courses that align with their career interests or future academic goals, such as advanced placement or career and technical education credential courses. By setting clear academic objectives and staying informed about their progress, ninth graders can lay a solid foundation for their high school years and ensure they are on track to graduate.

Special education considerations for graduation requirements

For students with special education needs, understanding the graduation requirements is equally important yet often more complex. The Department of Education recognizes that these students may require tailored educational approaches to meet their graduation goals. Therefore, special education students may need to work with their Individualized Education Program (IEP) team to determine the most appropriate path to graduation. This may include considerations for modified credit requirements or alternative assessments that align with their unique learning needs, ensuring that all courses to satisfy this requirement are appropriate. It is essential that these students and their families engage in open discussions with educators to ensure that all graduation requirements, including verified units of credit, are met effectively and equitably.

What are the specific graduation requirements for students with special education needs?

Introduction to the applied studies diploma

The applied studies diploma is a specialized option available for students with special education needs in Virginia. This diploma is designed to accommodate students who may not meet the traditional graduation requirements due to their unique learning challenges. To earn an applied studies diploma, students must complete a minimum of 22 standard units of credit; however, the requirements differ in terms of the specific courses and verified credits completed to satisfy this requirement. This diploma emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, allowing students to gain valuable experiences that prepare them for life after high school.

Modification of credit requirements for special education students

For students pursuing an applied studies diploma, the Virginia Department of Education allows for modifications in credit requirements, enabling these students to graduate successfully. These modifications may include a reduction in the number of verified credits needed or the allowance for locally awarded verified credits based on classroom performance. The flexibility in credit requirements is essential for accommodating the diverse learning needs of students with disabilities, ensuring that they have equitable opportunities to graduate from high school.

Resources available for students with special needs

Students with special needs and their families have access to various resources to support them in meeting graduation requirements. The Virginia Department of Education provides a wealth of information on special education services, including guidance on IEPs, transition planning, and available support programs required for graduation. Additionally, local school districts often offer resources such as tutoring, mentoring, and counseling services tailored to assist special education students in navigating their educational journeys. Engaging with these resources can empower students to take ownership of their education and work towards achieving their graduation goals.