Why Special Needs Students Don't Get Diplomas
Graduation rates for students with disabilities lag significantly behind their peers, but initiatives like California's tailored achievement standards aim to provide equitable paths to diplomas, fostering further education, careers, and independence.
The Fight for Diplomas: Students with Disabilities Deserve Better 🎓
Matthew, a student with autism spectrum disorder, was heartbroken to receive only a certificate of completion instead of a diploma at his high school graduation. His story highlights a nationwide problem: students with disabilities are often denied the same opportunities as their peers.
Graduation Gaps and Real-World Struggles 😔
The national graduation rate for students with disabilities is 64.6%, far below the 83% rate for all students. Even those who do graduate often face challenges in the real world, with lower college graduation rates and lower earnings.
Inconsistent Reporting and Hidden Problems 📊
The official statistics don't tell the whole story. States calculate graduation rates differently and have different requirements for diplomas. Some states don't even count students with disabilities in their graduation rates.
California's New Initiative: A Path to Change ✨
California is taking steps to address this issue with a new initiative that allows students with cognitive disabilities to earn high school diplomas using alternative achievement standards and tailored coursework. Advocates see this as crucial for opening doors to further education, rewarding careers, and greater independence.
VillageED's Vision: Every Student Deserves a Chance 🎓
VillageED is committed to providing every student with cognitive disabilities a path to graduation. We support students with a wide range of disabilities, including:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Intellectual disabilities (e.g., learning disorders)
- Physical disabilities (e.g., muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis)
- Emotional or behavioral difficulties (e.g., Tourette's Syndrome, ADHD)
We believe that all students deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential.