Can schools waive certain graduation requirements for students with disabilities?

Parents in California have the right to ask for an exemption from local graduation requirements to allow their child the opportunity to graduate with a diploma under the state standards only. Learn about the state standards and ask your district what waivers are available to allow your child to earn a diploma. (California ed code 56101 allows a waiver to be granted in certain circumstances, such as with the requirement for Algebra 1.) Dr. Sarah Pelangka urges parents to learn what the state standards and their district’s waivers are, and talk to their IEP team. She explains, “Ask about things like Independent PE options, work experience, etc., as alternatives to certain class requirements.”

For more information, check out our article New Pathways to a Diploma for Students with Disabilities.