Graduation in Arkansas
Graduation is an important milestone for students in Arkansas, marking the end of their secondary education and the beginning of their future. However, to earn a high school diploma in Arkansas, students must meet certain criteria. The Arkansas Department of Education has established guidelines that must be followed to ensure that students are sufficiently prepared for post-secondary education or the workforce.
Minimum Credits Required for Graduation
To graduate in Arkansas, students must earn a minimum of 22 credits during their high school career. These credits must be earned in specific subject areas, including four credits in English, four credits in math, three credits in science, three credits in social studies, one credit in physical education, and half a credit in health. Additionally, students must earn six credits in elective courses to meet the minimum requirement for graduation.
Required Courses for Graduation
In addition to the minimum credit requirements, students must also take specific courses to graduate in Arkansas. These required courses include Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, American History, Civics, and Economics. Students must pass all of these courses to be eligible for graduation.
Elective Courses for Graduation
Six elective credits are required for graduation in Arkansas. These elective courses can be chosen by the student and can be in any subject area. It is recommended that students select courses that align with their post-secondary education or career goals.
Passing Grades for Graduation
To receive a high school diploma in Arkansas, students must pass all required courses and earn a minimum grade point average of 2.0. If a student fails a required course, they must retake the course until they pass it to be eligible for graduation.
Requirements for Graduation Exams
Students in Arkansas must take and pass the high school exit exam or the ACT to graduate. The high school exit exam assesses proficiency in math, literacy, and science, while the ACT is a college entrance exam that measures academic readiness.
Alternative Pathways to Graduation
Students who are unable to meet the traditional graduation requirements may be able to use alternative pathways to earn their diploma. These pathways include the Arkansas Career Readiness Certificate, the Workforce Alliance for Growth in the Economy (WAGE) program, and the GED.
Special Education Graduation Requirements
Students with disabilities in Arkansas may be eligible for modified graduation requirements. These requirements are based on the student’s individualized education plan and may include modified courses, alternative assessments, or additional time to meet graduation requirements.
Early Graduation Options
Students who have met all graduation requirements before their senior year may be able to graduate early. Early graduation options include graduating at the end of the junior year or completing all graduation requirements during the sophomore year.
Graduation Requirements for Transfer Students
Transfer students must meet the same graduation requirements as students who have attended all four years at one school. However, credits earned at the previous school may be accepted if they meet Arkansas’ graduation standards.
Tracking Your Progress Towards Graduation
It is important for students to regularly monitor their progress towards graduation to ensure they are on track to meet all requirements. Students can use their high school’s guidance department to help track their progress and make sure they are taking the required courses and earning the necessary credits.
Conclusion: Meeting Arkansas Graduation Requirements
Earning a high school diploma in Arkansas requires meeting specific criteria, including earning a minimum number of credits, passing required courses, and earning passing grades. Students must also pass either the high school exit exam or the ACT to graduate. Alternative pathways to graduation are available for students who are unable to meet traditional graduation requirements. By tracking their progress and staying focused on their goals, students can meet all requirements and earn their diploma.
