GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

MSSD students are expected to graduate with a diploma and pursue postsecondary goals. Two types of diplomas are available: standard and merit.

All students, regardless of the type of diploma or certificate they earn, must meet the following graduation requirements:

• 40 hours of community service
• Senior year internship experience
• Annual portfolio

Merit Diploma Requirements

Cumulative GPA must be 3.0 or above.

Attain a 10^th grade reading level as demonstrated by schoolwide standardized assessments. 

Course Credit requirements:

–      English (4 years)

–      Mathematics (4 years including Algebra 2 or geometry)

–      Science (4 years)

–      Social Studies (4 years)

–      Physical Education (1.0 total credits)

       o    ½ credit of P.E.

       o    ½ credit of Health

–      Electives (3.0 total credits)

       o    ½ credit of Deaf Studies

       o    ½ credit of Technology

       o    ½ credit of Arts

       o    The remaining 1.5 credits are electives up to students’ choice. 

Standard Diploma Requirements

Cumulative GPA must be 2.0 or above.

Attain a 5^th grade reading level as demonstrated by schoolwide standardized assessments. 

Course Credit requirements:

–      English (4 years)

–      Mathematics (3 years including Algebra 1)

–      Science (3 years)

–      Social Studies (3 years)

–      Physical Education (1.0 total credit)

       o    ½ credit of P.E.

       o    ½ credit of Health

–      Electives (3.0 total credits)

       o    ½ credit of Deaf Studies

       o    ½ credit of Technology

       o    ½ credit of Arts

       o    The remaining 1.5 credits are electives up to students’ choice. 

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS

The Certificate of Completion is not a diploma. When a student has completed the high school course requirements for graduation but has further transition needs, the student’s IEP team may elect to use a certificate. Meeting the requirements for a certificate will entitle the student to participate in graduation activities, but does not end the student’s right to a free appropriate public education.

Students earning certificates will have transition plans in their IEPs that specify linkages with adult services that will assist with employment or postsecondary training. The student may choose to continue pursuing a diploma and will receive a diploma once all diploma requirements are met.

To earn a certificate of completion, the student must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better, and earn the following credits:

• English (4 years)
• Mathematics  (3 years)
• Health  (1/2 semester) 
• Additional academic coursework