Chapter 9: Getting Older

Graduation/Aging Out

Graduation requirements may vary from school to school and the Pupil Evaluation Team (PET) may make reasonable and appropriate adaptations of and accommodations to the state and local graduation requirements. These should be clearly stated in the IEP.

In some instances, students will remain in school through the school year in which they turn 20. This is often referred to as "Aging Out." At this point, the student may receive a regular education diploma, a certificate of completion or some other form of documentation signifying that the student has completed their public education.

The requirements for graduation or Aging Out can differ from one district to the next, based on local policy. It is important for you and your child to become familiar with local policy to determine what your options might be. It is also important for the entire PET to address this topic as early as possible to determine the anticipated date of graduation and plan accordingly.