Credit Flexibility-'A New Way to Earn High School Credit'

As part of the Ohio Core Legislation, all Ohio school districts must develop and implement a credit flexibility policy by the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year.  The policy allows students to earn graduation credit through one of the following options:

1.  successfully completing coursework

2.  testing out or showing mastery of course content

3.  pursuing an educational option and/or an individually approved option

4.  any combination of the above options

Credit flexibility provides opportunities for students to customize aspects of their learning around their respective needs and interests while using multiple measures of learning.  Educational options may include online coursework, independent study, internships, service learning, distance learning, educational travel, dual credit from partner universities, and Post Secondary options.

Credit flexibility shifts the focus from the “seat time” associated with classroom instruction to performance and the demonstration of subject area competency.  Students can earn units of high school credit based on an individually approved credit flexibility plan.  The intent of credit flexibility is to meet increased expectations for high school graduation in response to globalization, technology and demographics, and to meet the demand for 21st century skills. 

Please find links below to the following documents:  Credit Flexibility Handbook, the FAQ document and the student application.    

Any questions not addressed in the online documents can be directed to your child’s high school guidance counselor or to Dr. Derek Smith, Secondary Curriculum Director, at derek.smith@lakotaonline.com or 644-1190

For more information on Senate Bill 311 and Ohio’s Credit Flexibility provisions, go to www.ode.state.oh.us and click on “Credit Flexibility” under “Explore” at the bottom of Ohio Department of Education’s home page.