The Importance of the High School Diploma

Receiving your diploma opens doors to:

• Post-high school education
• United States Military
• Employment
• Higher-paying jobs
• A better future

Where do I start?

• Begin to develop the roadmap to graduation as early as possible—ideally in the sixth grade.
• Talk to your child about his/her short-term and long-term academic and career goals.
• Plan carefully and thoughtfully to get your child on the road to success!

Common questions about graduation requirements

Can a student be in band for 4 years and still graduate on the Recommended or Distinguished Program?

Yes!

Can a student be a 4-year athlete and still graduate on the Recommended or Distinguished Program?

Yes!

Can a student be in a coherent sequence of Career & Technology courses (i.e., Agriculture, Automotive Tech., Culinary Arts) and still graduate on the Recommended or Distinguished Program?

Yes!

Other requirements

In addition to fulfilling credit requirements, students must also pass the TAKS exit exams in order to graduate.

Numerous services are available to help students pass TAKS. Please contact your school counselor or academic dean for information.

5 Actions a parent can take to promote student success

• Monitor your student's grades and attendance (through the Parent Connection or by talking with teachers).
• Seek tutoring and acadmic support immediately if your student begins to struggle. Course failure can lead to delayed graduation.
• Review regularly your student's progress on his/her Graduation Plan and have daily conversations about experiences at school.
• Encourage your student to become actively involved in school life (clubs, sports and arts).
• Acknowledge and praise your student's successes, and provide support to strengthen areas of growth.

Begin with the end in mind

• Start early, and start strong.
• Remain informed and involved.
• Seek resources and support

Learn more at the Guidance and Counseling.