Graduation

In New Jersey, students with disabilities graduate with the same diploma as their non-disabled peers.  The specific graduation requirements for each student are determined individually and described in the student’s IEP.

In addition to earning required credits, the student must also meet transition-related IEP goals and objectives before earning a diploma.

Students with disabilities are eligible for special education services through the end of the school year in which they turn 21. Once a student accepts a diploma, the right to special education and related services ends.

A student with a disability can participate in all of the traditional activities of senior year – the prom, senior class trips and graduation ceremonies – without accepting a diploma. The student can receive an official diploma after satisfying the goals, objectives and graduation requirements outlined in his/her IEP, or by June 30th in the school year in which he or she turns 21, whichever comes first.