Committee pauses graduation-requirements update to align policy with state statute and local practice

The policy committee paused action on Policy 2-17 (graduation requirements) and asked staff to revise the draft to align with recent changes in state law and local practice.

Several trustees noted that statutory requirements for graduation changed beginning in the 2022–23 school year and cited a specific statutory provision (referred to in committee discussion as "4.24"). Jeff Wallach and other members said the policy’s authority language appeared to echo an older code text and should be updated so the district’s policy reflects current Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) guidance on multiple pathways to graduation. Jenna recommended the policy should list the statutory minimum components required by PDE because the statute sets minimum content for graduation requirements.

Committee members also discussed the district’s continuing use of a local culminating project even though PDE no longer mandates it. Staff confirmed the culminating project is described in the student handbook and suggested the committee consider whether the district should continue to require it or make it optional as a pathway to meeting state requirements.

The committee did not move the policy to first reading. Members asked staff to bring a revised draft that (1) updates the authority language to reference PDE requirements and statutory changes, and (2) explains how the district’s local culminating project interacts with state pathways. Staff will consult legal counsel and high school administrators before returning the item.