Support: 

• Having an additional option for graduation is welcome and seen as a starting point for alternate pathways to a diploma. This certificate is manageable for districts in that it sets forth the minimum requirements while still permitting expansion of coursework and work experiences based on student need. It also allows flexibility in the design and delivery of activities required to adequately prepare students for the world of work, and at the same time provides a framework to identify appropriate work preparation experiences.

Other Considerations:

• Minimum requirements are insufficient to prepare students with intellectual disabilities who do not qualify for NYSAA due to units of study required for graduation.
•  Need to carefully consider programming for students who will receive this certificate.  Regents exams are not appropriate. How will that affect participation rates?
• Need for teacher and personnel preparation for course work as well as increased documentation and paperwork.  
• Need teachers to provide coordination and/or supervision of work-based learning and job preparation which may violate contract agreements.
• Need administrative and guidance training to change the current strictly academic  focus and/or to develop courses that relate to CDOS standards and career planning.
• Need to develop more employer networks for school-age students and/or CTE courses that are appropriate for students with intellectual disabilities.
• The Certificate will not be recognized as a diploma by employers.
• There are still different opinions about what it is called. Confusion on part of parents with the word " Regents" in the title.

Send in your views now! 

Click for SED Public Comment Form