What are the new graduation requirements?

Recent state and district changes have been approved that impact graduation requirements for students graduating beginning with the class of 2008. To be eligible for graduation, a student must:

  1. Demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Academic Requirements (EALRS) by passing the Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL) and earning a Certificate of Academic Achievement.1
  2. Earn 22 Credits:2
    • 4 English
    • 2 Mathematics
    • 3 Social Studies
    • 2 Science (at least 1 lab science)
    • 1.5 Occupational Education
    • 2 Health & Fitness
    • 1 Fine Arts
    • 6.5 Elective
  3. Complete a High School & Beyond Portfolio.1
  4. Complete a Culminating Project.1
1 Required by the State of Washington
2 19 credits required by the State of Washington
 

The Certificate of Academic Achievement

The Certificate of Academic Achievement is earned through an assessment that is given in the spring of a student's sophomore year. Students are assessed for skill accomplishment in the areas of reading, writing, mathematics and science. Students will have opportunities in both their junior and senior years to retake components of the assessment that are not passed in the sophomore year. Students may be eligible to earn a Certificate of Individual Achievement by meeting standards in their area of disability as defined by their IEP.

Credits

Credits are earned by successfully passing high school courses. Students earn .5 credits for each semester course passed. Information on specific courses and credits can be obtained from your counselor. Universities, colleges or vocational training programs may require additional credits or other pre-requisites.

High School & Beyond Portfolio

All students enrolled in Central Kitsap School District shall have a High School and Beyond Portfolio that includes transcripts/test scores, a resume, cover letter, letters of recommendation, awards, certificates, personal statement, sample of best work, a Personal Education Plan, and artifacts of the Culminating Project to document a student's completion of the High School and Beyond requirement.

The Culminating Project

The Culminating Project provides students with opportunities to connect school to life outside of school.  students choose projects that connect to career, academic, community service, and/or cultural interests.  These projects are the basis for students to refine and demonstrate the skills they have gained in school while pursuing personal interests.  Students maintain learning logs and make formal presentations about their project.  Staff will use a common checklist or rubric to review each component  of the Culminating Project to ensure that it meets Central Kitsap School District standards.

Shirley Kenmochi - Executive Director of Secondary Education