505.5 - Graduation Requirements

Students must successfully complete the courses required by the board and Iowa Department of Education in order to graduate. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that students complete grades one through twelve and that high school students complete 52 credits prior to graduation. The following credits will be required for graduation:

1. A minimum number of credits must be earned within certain disciplines as follows:

                  English/Language Arts              8 credits

                  Science                                               6 credits

                  Mathematics                                    6 credits

                  Social Studies                                 6 credits

                  Physical Education                      4 credits

                  Financial Literacy                        1 credits

 

2. Band, Choir and Physical Education are to receive 1 credit per term.

Graduation requirements for special education students will be in accordance with the prescribed course of study as described in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). Each student’s IEP will include a statement of the projected date of graduation at least 18 months in advance of the projected date and the criteria to be used in determining whether graduation will occur. Prior to the special education student’s graduation, the IEP team will determine whether the graduation criteria have been met.

Beginning with the class of 2022, requirements for students in special education to earn a regular high school diploma will include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, three years of science and the completion of the district’s physical education requirements.

In addition, students are required to complete 10 hours of community service.

The remaining credits come from electives or additional credits within the core areas.

In order to graduate early, students must have the approval of the Counselor, Principal and Superintendent. Code No. 505.6

 

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, 279.8; 280.3, .14. (2013)
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.2.5

Cross Reference:  505       Student Scholastic Achievement
                                        603.3    Special Education

Approved:  March. 10, 1997, Aug. 9, 2010, Jun 18, 2012, Aug. 20, 2018, April 12, 2021
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, June 14, 2010, Oct. 11, 2010, Jun 18, 2012, Oct 28, 2013, July 16, 2018, March 15, 2021    
Revised:  Apr. 14, 1997, July 12, 2010, Nov. 8, 2010, July 16, 2018, March 15, 2021