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Committee weighs competency-based graduation rules and diploma labels after 306 updates
Summary
The policy committee discussed changes under the updated 306 rules that emphasize competency demonstration over seat time and the state 20-credit minimum. Members debated whether to keep a single diploma or allow stratified diplomas and agreed to bring the topic to the full board for broader input.
The School Board Policy Committee examined how updated 306 rules reshape graduation requirements, noting the state now emphasizes demonstration of competencies (portfolios, assessments, ELOs) rather than strictly counting seat time.
Committee member Patty and others discussed the state’s 20-credit minimum for a regular high school diploma. Several committee members said a 20-credit minimum should not preclude the district from encouraging or recognizing additional achievement; others warned creating multiple diploma types could create equity concerns or unintentionally encourage students to exit once minimums are reached.
Why it matters: Starting with the next cohort, students may be assessed and awarded credit based on demonstrated competencies. That change affects transcript practices, how credits are distributed and how early graduation is handled.
Key details: The committee noted that early graduation language (IKFA) is folded into the broader IK/IKF policy and that the state rule’s 20-credit minimum is now the floor for a regular diploma. Members discussed options such as a single diploma with transcript-based distinctions, a diploma with distinction, or stratified diplomas, and asked staff to draft explanatory language for the board.
Next steps: Committee members asked staff member Dan to prepare background material on diploma and certificate options, and to present the topic to the full board for feedback before any final policy decisions.
