Report of Regents P-12 Education/Adult Career and Continuing Education Services (ACCES) Joint Meeting Committee to The Board of Regents

Your P-12 Education and ACCES Committees held a joint meeting on September 11, 2017.  All members were present, except for Regents Cottrell and Hakanson, who were excused.

MATTERS NOT REQUIRING BOARD ACTION

Proposal for a New Pathway to a New York State High School Equivalency Diploma – the Committee was presented with a proposal for a new pathway to a NYS High School Equivalency (HSE) Diploma.  There are currently three pathways toward earning a HSE diploma:  TASC™ testing (Test Assessing Secondary Completion); approved 24-College-Credit Program; and National External Diploma Program (NEDP).  The fourth pathway presented today would allow students who have passed any Regents high school examination in Mathematics, English language arts, Social Studies or Science, the opportunity to use passing scores in place of the corresponding TASC™ subtests.  The four pathways to an HSE diploma will provide equitable access points and a diverse means by which New Yorkers can earn HSE credentials.  The ability to use passing Regents examination scores toward earning an HSE diploma will expand the opportunity for high-school students at risk of dropping out as well as students with disabilities to stay engaged with their education and offer an incentive for meeting graduation requirements to those whose circumstances may not allow for completion of high school.  Department staff will develop proposed amendments to regulations for discussion at a future date.