Differentiated Diplomas

Many states currently offer differentiated high school diplomas in an effort to increase both the rigor and relevance of high school.  A report from The Great Lakes Center for Education Research and Practices published in 2007 noted that 21 states have or were planning to have differentiated diplomas. A Florida Legislature publication from 2011 reported that ten states offer diploma options “designed to prepare high school students for the workforce.”

The proposed value of differentiated diplomas are many.  They include a recognition that there are multiple pathways to economic independence.  These may include acquisition of industry certifications, completion of apprenticeships or military service, and completion of college and university degrees.  Each pathway has different academic requirements associated with it and would seem to suggest a potential for multiple high school diploma options.  In addition, many educators see considerable value in enabling students to pursue their particular passion. Many business and industry representatives also note the misalignment between high school graduation requirements and the needs of the modern workplace. Taken together, individuals in this camp advocate for multiple diplomas or at least the possibility of multiple diploma endorsements.

Other individuals argue for a single high school diploma.  They reason that only with a single high school diploma is it possible to maintain high expectations across diverse student groups (Phillips, 1993; Thurlow & Thompson, 2000; Thurlow, Ysseldyke, & Reid, 1997). However, even proponents of a single diploma concede that endorsements for particular pathways may help in adding rigor and relevance to the high school curriculum.

Arizona currently has two high school diploma options.  These include the standard high school diploma requiring 22 credits for graduation and the Grand Canyon Diploma, a performance-based diploma.  In addition, many Arizona school districts offer multiple diploma options.  All of these diplomas meet the 22 credit State Board minimum requirement, to which addition requirements are added.

The business and education professionals associated with the Arizona Career and College Pathway Committee propose three options for the Board’s consideration.

1. Add endorsements for approved pathways to our current standard Arizona High School Diploma.  These endorsements would be for particular pathways such as music, art, business, etc.


2. Add endorsements to the Grand Canyon Diploma.  These endorsements might be for particular pathways such as art or a broader College and Career Ready Endorsement.


3. Create a new Career and College Ready High School Diploma.