Can students in special ed with a modified curriculum earn a diploma in CA?

I’m trying to figure out if a student in California who takes special education classes with a modified curriculum can still earn a high school diploma. I know it wouldn’t be an a-g diploma, but what are the requirements for a general education diploma in this case? Also, is there any specific education code related to this?

I think it’s possible! As long as the curriculum aligns with grade-level standards and doesn’t significantly change core content, they should be able to get a regular diploma. Have you checked with the school?

@Cameron
Yes, we’re looking into it. The classes use a modified curriculum but still cover grade-level topics.

@Cameron
Sounds like they’d meet the requirements then, especially if they’re meeting the credit and course requirements too.

California has specific requirements for general education diplomas, like 4 years of English, 2 years of math, etc. But I’m not sure about the modified curriculum part.

Campbell said:
California has specific requirements for general education diplomas, like 4 years of English, 2 years of math, etc. But I’m not sure about the modified curriculum part.

Yeah, we’re meeting those course requirements in special ed classes with some modifications.

Campbell said:
California has specific requirements for general education diplomas, like 4 years of English, 2 years of math, etc. But I’m not sure about the modified curriculum part.

That should be fine then. The key is that the core content isn’t completely changed.

Have you looked into Ed Code § 56000? It covers special education guidelines and might have info on curriculum modifications.

Corey said:
Have you looked into Ed Code § 56000? It covers special education guidelines and might have info on curriculum modifications.

Good suggestion! I’ll review that section to see what it says about modifications.

Corey said:
Have you looked into Ed Code § 56000? It covers special education guidelines and might have info on curriculum modifications.

Also, § 51225.3 is about graduation requirements but doesn’t go deep into special ed modifications.

In our district, students in special ed classes with mild modifications can still earn a diploma if they meet course requirements. Have you talked to the IEP team?

Jordan said:
In our district, students in special ed classes with mild modifications can still earn a diploma if they meet course requirements. Have you talked to the IEP team?

Yes, the IEP team is involved. We’re making sure the modifications align with what’s allowed.

Jordan said:
In our district, students in special ed classes with mild modifications can still earn a diploma if they meet course requirements. Have you talked to the IEP team?

Perfect! The IEP is key to ensuring they stay on track for a diploma.

If they’re meeting state standards and their IEP is guiding the modifications, they should qualify for a regular diploma. It’s good to have that documented too!

Reese said:
If they’re meeting state standards and their IEP is guiding the modifications, they should qualify for a regular diploma. It’s good to have that documented too!

Thanks, we’re documenting everything to make sure it’s clear what’s been agreed on.

Reese said:
If they’re meeting state standards and their IEP is guiding the modifications, they should qualify for a regular diploma. It’s good to have that documented too!

Documentation is so helpful, especially if questions come up later.