RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Virginia would alter its high school graduation requirements under a bill nearing final approval in the General Assembly.
The Virginian-Pilot reports that Democratic Sen. John Miller's bill would require the Virginia Board of Education to establish new graduation requirements no later than Sept. 1, 2017. It directs the board to create a "Profile of a Virginia Graduate" that identifies the knowledge and skills students need to become "successful contributors" to Virginia's economy.
Miller says that will prevent schools from relying too heavily on tests and better prepare students for their futures.
The measure passed 99-1 in the House Monday after earning unanimous approval in the Senate. The Senate must agree to minor changes made in the House before the bill can be sent to the governor.