Department of Education
Kevin Huffman, Commissioner

Same Expectations, Same Opportunities

Students with disabilities will participate in the same coursework as their peers and must complete the required 22 credits to earn a regular high school diploma. However, students with disabilities will have some flexibility in how they demonstrate knowledge or skills.

Alternative performance-based assessments may be implemented for students with disabilities who have not earned a year-end course grade of 70 in a class with an end-of-course exam. The alternative assessment allows students to earn additional credit on the end-of-course score if they can otherwise demonstrate the required knowledge and skills.

Students who have qualifying disabilities in math documented in their IEP may achieve the required number of math credits through approved accommodations. These students still must complete Algebra I and Geometry, or its equivalent.

Students who have qualifying disabilities in reading and/or math documented in their IEP may achieve the required science credits through approved accommodations. These students must complete Biology I and two additional lab science courses.

A Transition Certificate will be awarded to students with disabilities who have completed 22 credits and their IEP, and who have solid records of conduct and attendance. The certificate allows a student to continue working toward a regular diploma until the year in which the student turns 22. It is awarded at the end of the fourth high school year.

An IEP Certificate will be awarded to students with disabilities who have completed their IEP and a portfolio, and who have solid records of conduct and attendance.

The Tennessee Diploma Project is an affiliate of Achieve Inc.'s American Diploma Project and adheres to its goals and mission. Read about Achieve and the ADP at www.achieve.org.