NEW Graduation Requirements for the Classes of 2016, 2017 & 2018

The New Jersey Department of Education recently posted (9/30/14) a memo regarding graduation requirements for the Classes of 2016, 2017 and 2018.   Prior to this memo, all high schools in New Jersey were under the impression that as the State transitioned from the HSPA to the PARCC, there would NOT be a required exam for students to pass to receive a high school diploma.  This memo changed all of that.  The actual state memo can be found here: Graduation Requirements Class of 2016, 2017 & 2018.

What does this mean for the current juniors, sophomores and freshman?

Students will be able to satisfy the state requirements of demonstrating proficiency in English Language Arts and Mathematics in the following ways:

For current juniors (Class of 2016) in math courses covering content beyond Algebra II, they will not be expected to take PARCC End of Course Assessments in mathematics; however, the students must still demonstrate competency in mathematics in order to receive a state-endorsed diploma.  

If you were wondering what the passing score on the PARCC is, that will not be determined until the Fall of 2015.  We will keep you informed as the State releases this information.

As I mentioned, this memo was only released by the State about a week ago.  I will be sitting down with the guidance counselors in the near future to discuss a plan moving forward, as well as the best way to present this information to the students.  

NJDOE Memo - PARCC Frequently Asked Questions