Grad requirements will change in 2009

Beginning with the ninth grade class of 2009-2010, high school students will be required to meet a minimum of 21 units of credit in order to meet new graduation requirements, according to state's Department of Public Instruction.

The announcement came earlier this month when the North Carolina State Board of Education unanimously approved a Future-Ready Core Course of Study for students, whether they choose pursue a career or seek further education.

State Board of Education Chair Howard Lee explained, "The Future- Ready Core will ensure that students graduate with the academic foundation they need for success in the global economy. The Core gives students the ability to tailor course concentrations to fit their interests and goals—including opportunities for college-level work—while building a strong academic foundation."

Requirements

Under the Future-Ready Core, four math units, four English units, three social studies units, three science units, one health and physical education unit and six elective units would be required for graduation.

In a further explanation of the required units, three of the four math requirements can be algebra I, geometry and algebra II or integrated math I, II and III. A student's fourth math course would be aligned with their post-high school plans. It was also noted that a student could "opt out" of the math sequence, but would be required to pass algebra I and geometry or integrated math I and II and two other application-based math courses.

The three social studies units listed as required are world history, U.S. history and civics and economics. The three required science units are biology, an earth/environmental science, and a physical science. In terms of the six elective units, two of them must be any combination of arts education, career technical education or second language.

In addition, it is recommended that superintendents assist students develop a four-course concentration "focused on student interests and post-secondary goals. The concentration would provide an opportunity for the student to participate in a rigorous, in-depth and linked study."

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