What kind of diploma can my child get from a non-public school (NPS)?

Non-public schools are certified and regulated by the California Department of Education to issue diplomas and certificates to students. Students attending an NPS can obtain a general education high school diploma, or they can work toward a certificate of completion or an alternate pathway diploma, just as they would at a public high school setting.

Ultimately, you and your child’s IEP team will collaboratively determine the appropriate track for your child, ensuring it's accurately documented in the IEP and communicated during the transition meeting with the NPS team. It's important to recognize that your child’s educational track isn't set in stone; the IEP team can convene to adjust the track if there's sufficient time for the student to fulfill all necessary graduation criteria. Every student with an IEP has until the age of 22 to fulfill graduation requirements, including those for a high school general education diploma.

For more information, see Non-Public School 101.