Steps to Graduation

Graduating high school is universally accepted as a critical step to a bright future. Among other things, high school graduates*:

• are more likely to be employed, make higher taxable income, and aid in job generation
• earn a national average of $8,000 more annually compared to high school dropouts

The Renton School District requires 4 components for high school graduation.

Step 1 Complete minimum credit requirements

• High School Graduation Requirements - School Board Procedure 2410P

Step 2 Complete Career and College Readiness Assessments or Course Options

• State and District Graduation Requirements

Step 3 Complete a High School and Beyond Plan

• All students must develop a High School and Beyond Plan showing how they will meet the high school graduation requirements and what they will do following high school. A student’s plan starts in middle school and is revised as he/she moves forward through high school.
• Exact requirements differ by high school. Check with your counselor for details.
• Minimum required elements of the High School and Beyond Plan are:
  • Begins in 7th or 8th grade
  • Identification of career goals based on a career interest and skills inventory or assessment
  • Identification of educational goals
  • A four-year course plan that fulfills graduation requirements and aligns with career and educational goals
  • A resume or activity log by the end of twelfth grade that provides a written compilation of student’s education, any work experience, and any community service

Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: High School and Beyond Plan and Graduation Pathways resources