Graduation requirements that must be met by high school students have been stiffened by the State Board of Education. The Board has approved a proposal increasing the number of units of credit needed for graduation from 22 to 24. Among those 24 – an additional unit in each of the four core subjects of math, science, social studies, and communication arts. In addition to the core subjects, students will have to take half-unit courses in health and personal finance. Board President Peter Herschend says the change simply reflects today’s educational realities. Those thoughts are echoed by Education Commissioner Kent King, who points out most Missouri students are already enrolled in school systems in which 24 units of credit are required to graduate. The new requirements start with the graduating class of 2010, meaning eighth grade students must take the changes into account as they plan for the ninth grade and beyond.
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DESE News Release