For the first time, the state will require that all students must demonstrate that they are proficient in certain “essential skills” – skills that are deemed critical for future success – before they are awarded the diploma. Beginning in 2012, students must demonstrate proficiency in the Essential Skills of reading to receive a high school diploma. Students will be required to demonstrate the writing essential skill in 2013 and "apply math" in 2014. The Essential Skills are process skills which enable students to learn content and apply their knowledge across disciplines. These are not new or additional skills; they are embedded in existing content standards, already being taught in Oregon schools.
Students will have multiple options and opportunities to demonstrate their proficiency in the Essential Skills by meeting state standards through:
Students will have multiple options and opportunities to demonstrate their proficiency in the Essential Skills by meeting state standards through:
- The Oregon Statewide Assessments;
- Samples of student work scored by trained teachers; or,
- Additional standardized assessments (such as the SAT and ACT)