Early Graduation In Works For Brockton High Students

NOTE: Originally posted Thursday, Oct. 7, 2010
By Lisa E. Crowley
The Brockton Post
BROCKTON—School officials have nearly finalized a new program that would allow Brockton High School seniors to graduate either six months or even nearly a year ahead of other students.
Tuesday night the School Committee unanimously approved the concept of a new early graduation plan, however some details still need to be finalized, including when the program will take effect.
“This recognizes that not everyone learns at the same pace,” said Brockton High School Principal Susan Szachowicz.
However, Szachowicz said an early graduation option will not be suitable for all students, but those who are highly motivated will see it as a way to step into their future sooner.
“This isn’t for a ton of kids, maybe a handful of kids, because they can’t do it with just taking an extra class, they have to meet all Brockton High requirements, but for the motivated student it’s really a great option,” Szachowicz said.
In order to meet graduation requirements, Szachowicz said students would have to take summer courses at the high school or attend classes at area colleges.
Students, Szachowicz said, would have the option of finishing high school after the first semester of senior year or possibly at the end of junior year, depending on how many classes the student can manage in the time frame.
She said the early graduation option was prompted by a current student who happens to be a heavily recruited football player with a fine academic record.
Szachowicz said the student would like to attend spring college football training camps, but as a senior in high school is not eligible.
After talking with the boy’s father, Szachowicz said she and other administrators formed a committee and have been working on the proposal for nearly a year.
Tuesday night the School Committee approved the program in principle, but some changes must be made to the program after member Thomas Minichiello added several comments that need to be included in the draft proposal.
However, Szachowicz said, plans are in the works to offer the option.
“I really like this a lot,” she said. “It’s really in the best interest of the student.”