California Alternative Diploma Track

The new pathway provides an opportunity for students with significant cognitive disabilities to earn a high school diploma - previously most students in this student group received a certificate of completion when graduating or turning 22. Students eligible for this pathway can earn a diploma, participate in all graduation-related activities with their class, and continue to receive special education services under the IDEA until age 22.  The new alternative pathway is for students with significant cognitive disabilities. California defines this student group as students who are eligible to take the California Alternative Assessments (CAAs) in statewide testing. Students only need to be eligible to take the CAA to qualify for this pathway and are not required to take statewide testing to be able to earn a high school diploma.