The Implementation of an Alternate Route to a Diploma in One State

Abstract

Twenty-two states continue to require exit exams, despite ongoing controversy surrounding their use. In all, exit exams affect nearly two thirds of high school students in this country. Many states, however, offer some alternative route or routes to a diploma, by which at least some students may bypass the exam requirement. This study examines the implementation of the alternative route to a diploma adopted by one state. In all, 117 Indiana high school guidance counselors provided information about their schools’ exit exam waiver procedures for students with and without disabilities. Results indicated that although the routes appeared fairly compatible and there is relative consistency across schools, few students who continue to fail the exit exam apply for a waiver.