Early Graduation

Students may be referred for early graduation by a parent, guardian, staff member, administrator, or through self-nomination to the building principal or guidance counselor. Referral forms are available in the counseling office.

The principal or counselor will convene the student’s education team, including the counselor, student, parent(s)/guardian, and potentially teachers, the school psychologist, and the district gifted coordinator, for an evaluation. This evaluation will consider academic performance, achievement based on state standards, completion of Sycamore graduation requirements, and the student’s thoughts on early graduation.

Possible pathways to early graduation include:

• High school credit for approved junior high or earlier classes.
• Participation in district-approved summer enrichment programs.
• Formal independent study coursework with universities.
• Dual credit and Post-Secondary Education Options (PSEOP).

All independent and external coursework must be approved by the student’s education team before participation, with a maximum of six credits from these sources.

The education team will recommend to the principal and parent(s)/guardian regarding early graduation. For students aiming to graduate in less than three years, a Written Acceleration Plan (WAP) will be created and included in the student’s file, outlining the timeline and credits needed.

An annual review of the WAP will occur every spring. By April, before the year of intended early graduation, a written application must be submitted to the student’s counselor.

The evaluation process will conclude within 90 days of receiving the request. The parent(s)/guardian will be notified of the outcome within this period. Appeals can be made to the Superintendent within 30 days of the decision, who will respond within 30 days. The Superintendent’s decision is final, but the student can be re-evaluated at the next opportunity if referred again.