The state Board of Education’s new set of graduation requirements is aimed at assuring Georgia’s students graduate high school college and work ready.
“This is a tremendous day in the history of Georgia education,” State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox said. “We are no longer setting high expectations for just some students. As a state, we are saying that all students can learn at a high level.”
The new graduation rule, passed unanimously by the state Board of Education — eliminates Georgia’s “tiered” diploma, in which there were different expectations for different students.
“Regardless of what students are going to do after high school, they must have a strong core of classes in Mathematics, English, Social Studies and Science,” Cox said. “Then, they can use their electives to personalize their education, whether they are bound for the work world, higher education or both.”

New requirements
Georgia’s new graduation rule goes into effect for first-time freshman next school year (2008-2009).
The state sets the minimum requirements for graduation. Local systems can add requirements above and beyond the state requirements.
Under the new requirements, all students must have 23 credits to receive a diploma, which include:
* Four credits in mathematics
* Four credits in English/language arts
* Four credits in science
* Three credits in social studies
* One credit in health/physical education
* Three credits in foreign language ** and/or fine arts and/or career/technical/agricultural education***.
* Four electives

** Any student going to a University System of Georgia college or university must take at least two years of the same foreign language to meet admission requirements.
*** Students wishing to receive industry certification in certain areas under Career/Technical/Agricultural Education programs must follow specific pathways.
For more information, go to http://www.gadoe.org/ci_cta.asp