Initial Approval Given to New High School Graduation Requirements

New rules regarding high school graduation have been given preliminary approval by the State Board of Education. Minimum graduation requirements will rise from 22 credits to 24 credits. And, there will be additional requirements in each of the core areas: mathematics, science, social studies, and communication arts. The requirement in each of those areas has increased by one. Stan Johnson with the State Education Department, says this is not a done deal yet, it must still be given final approval by the Board. A vote is expected this Fall after a period of public comment. The changes would first affect the graduating class of 2010, meaning the students starting the 8th grade this Fall.