In order to graduate, students must fulfill the following requirements by the end of eighth grade:
I. Courses
1. Students must pass an average of five out of six classes each quarter (C or above).
2. Students with academic deficits may need to attend summer school classes.
II. Exhibitions
Three satisfactory exhibitions (two if only at The New School for one year).
III. Research Papers
IV. Community Service
Successful completion of ten (10) hours of community service each year. Service may take a wide variety of forms, including but not limited to individual service projects in the student’s community or church, a group service project at school, etc. Hours can be accumulated through different types of service.
V. Portfolio Review
In May, each student will present a portfolio of his or her best work to an advisor and one or more faculty members. Parents and guardians are also invited to attend. The student will explain how the items were developed and completed, describe which Essential Skills were used, and respond to questions. Students prepare for Portfolio Reviews during Essential Time (ET) with their advisors and at home. Students should develop a well-organized, visually appealing portfolio. It is hoped that students will take pride in their portfolios and in displaying their accomplishments.