Portland Public Schools

Dear PPS Class of 2020 Families,

Earlier this week, the Oregon Department of Education released Graduation Pathways 2020, the guidance for high school seniors, including graduation requirements and information regarding the grading of coursework. We are glad to finally have this guidance from ODE, but we know that there is nothing that can make up for the anxiety and sense of loss students are feeling because of the extended school closure. High school seniors, in particular, are missing traditions and milestone events right now.

This school year has been marked by unprecedented events. Our guidance from the ODE is that we honor the accomplishments of our seniors who have stayed on track by awarding them their diplomas. In addition, we will provide ongoing support to those students who need it, so that they can earn their diplomas by August 30. Here are a few things you should know:

• High school seniors who were on track to graduate when schools closed in March, including having a passing grade (A-D) at that point in any course, will receive second semester passing grades. If these students also have the required 24 credits, they have earned diplomas. Grades earned from the start of the semester through March 13 will be reflected as either Pass or Incomplete. There will be no letter grades awarded for second semester except for some college credit courses. Neither Pass nor Incomplete will impact a student’s grade point average (GPA).
• Students who were not on track to graduate when schools closed in mid-March, will have until August 30 to show they have mastered the required coursework to receive a passing grade and earn the required credits for graduation. These students should reach out to their teachers as soon as possible. Students who earn all necessary credits by completing coursework now through August 30 will be considered 2020 graduates. 
• All Seniors will be notified by April 30 of their current status: either an official graduate or a student who still needs to complete required coursework to earn a diploma.
• For Seniors who have met the graduation requirements, mandatory coursework is over, as of today. Supplementary coursework will still be provided, but students will not be assessed on the work for a letter grade or receive additional credits except in college credit bearing courses such as dual credit, AP or IB.  
• Essential Skills and Personalized Learning Requirements (Career Related Learning Experiences (CRLEs), Extended Application, and Education Plan and Profile) have been suspended for this year and are no longer required.

We have put together a more detailed Q&A chart that you can find by clicking here. School staff will be in touch with students next week, as well. Students, if you have not heard from your teachers please reach out to them; they are trying to connect with you. 

Senior year represents a culmination of years of schooling and the end of senior year is traditionally and rightly celebrated. While the COVID-19 situation has required us to postpone graduation ceremonies, we are committed to collaborating with schools, staff and families to honor the hard work of our Seniors. Please stay tuned as those plans develop in the coming days and weeks. 

Sincerely,

Joe LaFountaine
Regional Superintendent