In order to prepare its students for colleges and careers, the Elk Grove Unified School District has some of the most rigorous graduation requirements in California. The Board of Education believes that students will be better prepared for colleges and careers if they are challenged in high school. The district has increased its graduation requirements several times in the past 15 years, and students have always risen to the challenge.
Whenever the district considers updating its requirements, they are first reviewed by two committees — one comprised of teachers and administrators, and one of parents and business leaders. These committees examine what employers and colleges expect of graduates to ensure that the district’s requirements prepare students with skills they need to be successful in their post secondary education and careers. The committees forward their recommendations to the Board, which makes the final decision.
To graduate, an Elk Grove Unified School District student must earn a minimum of 220 credits in grade 9-12. A minimum of 25 credits must be earned during the semester (18 weeks) preceding graduation in order for students to participate in the graduation ceremony.