Board of Education would develop alternative paths to standard diplomas

The Board of Education would develop alternative pathways for students to earn a Standard Diploma. The pathways would help students complete verified-credit requirements without necessarily passing applicable Standards of Learning assessments, including English language learners and students with limited or interrupted formal education. The Board would consult educators, school leaders, families, students, and other education stakeholders. Pathways could use projects, portfolios, work-based learning, dual-enrollment courses, career programs, apprenticeships, alternative assessments, and other approved activities. At least one pathway would use a nonassessment demonstration of competence to earn verified credit instead of a passing Standards of Learning assessment. The pathways could not replace or change the current requirements for a Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma. The Board would consider when approval and implementation should occur, including the first school year for students entering ninth grade, but the text does not set an implementation date.

The Board of Education would report its progress and proposed next steps to state education leaders and the Governor. The report would cover the alternative Standard Diploma pathways, stakeholder feedback, and possible approval and implementation plans. The report would include detailed descriptions of the pathways developed and summarize the perspectives received during consultation. The report would be due to the Governor and the chairs of the House and Senate education committees by January 1, 2027.