High School Student Handbook - South Milwaukee School District

GRADUATION POLICY
In order to graduate students must successfully earn sufficient credits and demonstrate
proficiency. Detailed information is available in the high school’s Course Offering
booklet (available from your Guidance Counselor).
EARLY GRADUATION
Early graduation may be allowed if a student has completed the required credits and
has demonstrated proficiency. Students who graduate early may participate in the June
Graduation ceremony
The following conditions must be met:
1. Completion of application no later than October 1 of the student’s senior year,
unless a different date is established by the building principal.
2. Explain rationale on why you and/or your family are requesting early graduation.
3. Meet with parent/guardian, counselor, and principal.
GRADUATION CEREMONY
Participating in the graduation ceremony is a privilege at South Milwaukee High School
based on the following criteria.
• Students must meet high school graduation requirements or be within one (1) credit
that can be taken during summer school.
• Students must have fewer than twenty (20) unexcused class period absences during
the student’s final year.
• Once a student turns 18 years of age, he or she may not abuse the privilege of
calling in excused absences.
• Student must behave appropriately resulting in no significant discipline issues.
If a student’s privilege to participate in the graduation ceremony is revoked, a student or
parent may appeal the administrative decision. The appeal process must follow these
steps.
1. The student must write a letter of appeal indicating why he or she deserves the
opportunity to participate in the graduation ceremony.
2. A team of teachers, including the senior advisors and guidance counselors will
read the letter of appeal and interview the student to consider justification for
behavior.
3. A final decision will be made by the appeals team on whether or not the student
will be able to participate in the graduation ceremony.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Students are required to attend the high school for four years in grades 9–12 (8
semesters), and must successfully complete all of the established requirements.
Special education students must meet requirements as identified by their Individual
Education Plan (IEP). A student must have attended South Milwaukee High School for
at least one full semester to be eligible for a South Milwaukee High School diploma.
Exceptions may be granted upon recommendation of the principal.
In order to graduate students must successfully earn 26 credits and demonstrate
proficiency in the four core subject areas of English, mathematics, science, and social
studies (see Promotion Policy section).
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