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Graduation Requirements
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1. Credit Requirements (24 Credits Total)
Students must earn a minimum of 24 credits in specific subject areas. Our counselors work with every individual to ensure they stay on track for their goals.
| Subject Area | Required Credits | Specifics |
|---|---|---|
| English | 4.0 | Literature and Composition |
| Mathematics | 3.0 | Algebra 1, Geometry, and a 3rd "Personalized" credit* |
| Science | 3.0 | Including 2.0 Lab Science credits |
| Social Studies | 3.0 | US History, Civics, and Contemporary World Problems |
|
Arts |
2.0 | 1.0 can be a "Personalized Pathway" credit |
| Health & Fitness | 2.0 | 0.5 Health and 1.5 Fitness |
| Career & Tech (CTE) | 1.0 | Occupational Education |
| World Language | 2.0 | Both can be "Personalized Pathway" credits |
| Electives | 4.0 | Courses of the student's choice |
*The 3rd credit of math and science is chosen based on the student's career interests as outlined in their High School and Beyond Plan.
2. Washington State History Requirement
In addition to the 24 credits above, Washington law requires all students to complete a course in Washington State History and Government.
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Timeline: Most students satisfy this requirement in 7th or 8th grade (often titled "Pacific Northwest History").
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Curriculum: The course includes a study of the Washington State Constitution and the "Since Time Immemorial" tribal sovereignty curriculum.
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High School Completion: If a student did not complete this in middle school, they must take it during high school to be eligible for graduation. While it is a requirement, it is typically a non-credit course unless taken as a high school elective.
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Transfer Students: Students who transfer into a Washington high school from out-of-state in the 11th or 12th grade may have this requirement waived by the Principal if they have already completed a state history course in another state.
3. Graduation Pathway Options
Students must demonstrate "readiness" for their next steps by completing at least one graduation pathway. Options include:
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State Assessments: Meeting standard on the Smarter Balanced Assessment (SBA) in ELA and Math.
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Dual Credit Courses: Earning college credit through Running Start or College in the High School.
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ASVAB: Achieving a qualifying score on the military entrance exam.
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CTE Sequence: Completing a 2-credit sequence of CTE courses leading to an industry credential.
4. High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP)
The HSBP is a personalized roadmap that students begin in 7th or 8th grade. It includes career goals, course planning, a resume/activity log, and evidence of receiving financial aid information (FAFSA/WASFA).
Stay on Track
Graduation requirements can feel complex, but you don't have to navigate them alone. We encourage parents and students to meet with the school counselor at least once a year to review progress.
Option A: The “Stand-Alone” Pathways
These pathways are "one-and-done." If you complete one of these, you have met the requirement for both English (ELA) and Math.
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CTE Sequence (Career & Technical Education): Complete 2.0 credits in a specific CTE program area (such as Natural Resources, Business, or Skilled Trades) that leads to an industry certificate or college credit.
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ASVAB (Military Entrance Exam): Earn a score of 31 or higher on the AFQT portion of the ASVAB. Note: Taking this test does not mean you have to join the military.
Option B: The “Academic” Pathway
For these, you must show you are ready for college-level work in both English and Math. You can mix and match different methods for each subject!
| Method | English (ELA) Requirement | Math Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| State Testing (SBA) | Score 2548 or higher | Score 2595 or higher |
| College Exams (SAT/ACT) | SAT: 410 / ACT: 14 | SAT: 430 / ACT: 16 |
| Dual Credit | Pass a Running Start or College in the HS English class | Pass a Running Start or College in the HS Math class |
| AP Courses | Earn a C+ in an AP English course OR score 3+ on the exam | Earn a C+ in an AP Math course OR score 3+ on the exam |
| Transition Courses | Pass a "Bridge to College" English course | Pass a "Bridge to College" Math course |
Option C: The Performance-Based Pathway
This option allows you to prove your skills through a real-world project. Instead of a test, you might complete a portfolio, a community service project, or a presentation that shows you've mastered state standards.
Note: This option must be aligned with your High School and Beyond Plan and follows specific district guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I combine different options? Yes! If you pass the SBA in English but prefer to use your SAT score for Math, that counts as a "Combination" pathway.
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What if I'm not a good test-taker? That is exactly why the CTE Sequence and the Performance-Based Pathway exist. You can show what you know through hands-on work or a sequence of career-focused classes.
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When should I finish my pathway? Most students meet their pathway requirement in 10th or 11th grade, but you have until the end of your senior year to complete it.
Next Steps for Students & Parents
The best way to stay on track is to talk to your school counselor. We can look at your current credits and your goals to find the pathway that is the least stressful and most rewarding for you.