The graduation or commencement ceremony is a time to celebrate the honors and achievements of the graduating class.  The Board of Education will establish the date for graduation ceremonies, while the administration will determine the place and program details, including attire.  Academic and other awards and scholarships may be presented along with diplomas. 

Participation in the graduation ceremony and related activities will be predicated on satisfactory completion of all graduation requirements, or as otherwise described in this policy.  Exceptions may be made under extraordinary circumstances with the permission of the Superintendent of Schools.  A student who has earned either a Career Development and Occupational Studies Commencement Credential (CDOS) or Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential (SACC) by the time his/her ninth-grade cohort reaches graduation may, but is not required to, participate in that graduation ceremony and related activities.

If a student who participates in the graduation ceremony by earning a CDOS or SACC only subsequently meets the requirements for either a Regents or local high school diploma, he/she may participate in the graduation ceremony of that graduating class as well.

A student with a disability who participates in graduation ceremonies by earning only a CDOS or SACC is entitled to continue his/her educational program until the end of school year in which the student turns 21 years old, or until he/she earns a Regents or local high school diploma.

The Superintendent may develop regulations to implement this policy, to be adopted by the Board.  The district shall provide annual written notice to all students and their parents/guardians of the requirements of this policy and associated regulations.

Ref:      Education Law §3204(4-b)
            8 NYCRR §§100.5; 100.6