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Why Kentucky Could Change Its Graduation Requirements, Despite Successes

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Kentucky's new graduation requirements will include a test, administered in the 10th grade, measuring whether students have eighth-grade level math and reading skills.

Kentucky has one of the highest graduation rates in the nation, with nearly 90 percent of seniors receiving their diplomas each year. But according to Commissioner of Education Wayne Lewis, not all of Kentucky's students are graduating prepared. Only 65 percent of 2017 graduates met standards preparing them for college or a career.

Kentucky's graduation standards could change in the fall of 2019. In October, the Kentucky Board of Education approved new requirements that include an exam measuring reading and math competency. Several groups representing educators have expressed concerns. The public now has a chance to give feedback before the changes become final.

Joining Cincinnati Edition to discuss changes to Kentucky's graduation requirements are Kentucky Department of Education Chief Communications Officer Jessica Fletcher; and Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence Executive Director Brigitte Blom Ramsey.

Tune in to Cincinnati Edition Nov. 19 at 1 p.m. to hear this segment.