Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Graduation Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Middleton High School proposes requirement that seniors pass five courses to participate in graduation ceremony
Summary
Middleton High School administrators proposed that seniors beginning with the class of 2027 be enrolled in and pass at least five courses each semester to be eligible to participate in graduation ceremonies.
Middleton High School administrators proposed a change to senior-year expectations that would require students in the graduating class of 2027 to be enrolled in and pass a minimum of five courses per semester to be eligible to participate in the graduation ceremony.
Principal (presenter) told the board the requirement is intended to keep seniors “actively engaged in something that will better their opportunities in the future,” and noted the district wants seniors participating in meaningful academic or career-preparation experiences rather than taking the minimum course load. The policy as presented would allow one release-type course (work-based learning, apprenticeship release, or religious release) to count toward the five-course minimum; only one such release course may count, district staff said.
Administrators said the rule is intended to begin with the class of 2027 (current sophomores) because changes to the master schedule make an immediate start this year impractical. For the class of 2026, staff said the district would strongly encourage five-course semesters but would not make it a strict requirement. The policy includes a provision allowing students who seek fewer than five courses to submit a brief written essay explaining how an alternative schedule will support personal growth, career goals or preparedness after high school; parental approval would be required for any exemption.
Staff clarified the policy would govern participation in the graduation ceremony, not a student's right to graduate if they finish graduation requirements by other means. They said exceptions would be reviewed case-by-case for students with special circumstances, such as family financial needs. The board discussed scheduling impacts and noted the policy aims to improve master-schedule predictability so the district can offer more consistent course options throughout the day.
No formal adoption occurred at this meeting; staff requested board feedback and said they will refine language and return with a recommendation. Several trustees expressed support, saying the proposal addresses concerns about seniors taking minimal coursework and helps maintain academic momentum.
