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The Department of Public Instruction is redefining the Standard Course of Study into the Essential Standards. The program is called ACRE, the Accountability and Curriculum Reform Effort.

Additionally, it was determined that the Occupational Course of Study (OCS) was not rigorous enough. The OCS is also being aligned with the new Essential Standards. There have been significant changes to the OCS.

In North Carolina, for those entering 9th grade in 2009 or later, there are 2 pathways to a diploma: the Future-Ready Core and the Occupational Course of Study.

For parents contemplating their child’s transition to high school and beyond, it will be helpful to review the new Essential Standards for the Future-Ready Core and the Occupational Course of Study at www.ncpublicschools.org/acre/standards/. The decision about which pathway a student will take is made by the parents. This is not an IEP team decision or the school’s decision. You can find graduation requirements at www.ncpublicschools.org/curriculum/graduation/.

As we approach the end of the school year, many IEP teams are meeting to discuss plans for the next school year and beyond. Prepare yourself for the next IEP meeting by becoming familiar with the curriculum and the diploma pathway that you believe will be an appropriate choice for your child.