Q.What are the high school graduation requirements now? Please inform your readers. I think many of us think we know what kids should do, but I don’t think we do. Also, why do some schools require different things than other schools?
A. The state sets minimum graduation requirements, and all districts must prepare their students to meet these minimum requirements. Many districts institute their own requirements in addition to these to make the educational experience more challenging.
The state requirements are the following year-long courses (with the exception of the two one-semester requirements):
- English: Three courses
- Math: Two courses, including at least Algebra I
- Science: two courses
- Social studies: Three courses, including U.S. history and geography, world history and geography, and one semester of American government and one semester of economics
- Arts/Foreign language: One course
- Physical education: Two courses
The state also instituted the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) and all students must pass this to graduate.
When you really take a look at these basic requirements, they are pretty simple. We should ask more of our children.
If kids want to go on to college, those requirements are much more rigorous.
- English: Four years of English
- Math: At least three years, including Algebra I, geometry and intermediate Algebra as minimum requirements; four years are recommended
- Science: Two years, with labs included; three years are recommended
- Foreign language: Two years in the same language: three years are recommended
- Arts: An additional year
Contact the writer: Do you have a question about your child’s education? Carol Veravanich is an experienced teacher and assistant principal who answers readers’ questions each week. Contact her at www.goasktheteacher.orgor e-mail directly to firstname.lastname@example.org.