Oregon modified high school diploma

The Oregon modified high school diploma, also known as the OAR 581-022-1134 Modified Diploma, is a document that is given to students who need special consideration throughout their time in high school.^[1] It was given following a 2007 Oregon law, and after some misuse was termed "diploma lite" by The Oregonian.^[2]

Availability

The diploma is available to students who can prove they have the inability to maintain a passing grade due to learning difficulties and instructional barriers. This includes special education students and students that do not speak English.^[3]

Dropout loophole

In 2009, five Portland-area high schools were found to have used a loophole in the modified diploma program to their students, averaging one modified diploma per eight graduates.^[4] Schools used the modified diploma so they would not have to report a student as having failed to graduate.^[2]

Timeline

The students and parents will be notified of the availability of the modified diploma in the sixth grade. Between the completion of 6th grade and 2 years before the students anticipated completion of high school the parents and student must choose if they wish to pursue the diploma. After the 8th grade the students progress with the modified diploma is reviewed annually by parent, student and school team. A decision to discontinue with the diploma may be made by the parent and school team at any annual review.^[3]

See also

• Oregon Diploma

References

1. ^ http://www.ode.state.or.us/gradelevel/hs/transition/modifieddiplomaoar.pdf
2. ^ ^{a b} http://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2009/05/dumbing_down_the_diploma.html
3. ^ ^{a b} http://www.ode.state.or.us/teachlearn/conferencematerials/sped/2008/thedetails.pdf
4. ^ http://www.oregonlive.com/education/index.ssf/2009/05/4_portland_schools_found_to_ha.html

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