Windsor May Let Seniors 1 Semester Credit Short Walk At Graduation

WINDSOR, CT — A Windsor senior who finishes the school year one semester credit short of graduating could still walk with classmates under a new district policy being considered.

The student would have to make arrangements to complete the missing credit. The diploma would not be awarded until that work is finished, according to the proposed graduation policy.

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The proposal appeared on the Windsor Board of Education Policy Committee's Aug. 18 meeting agenda. The document does not list an adoption date and remains a draft.

The general rule would limit graduation participation to students who have completed all academic requirements and other obligations set by the school district. The proposal includes several exceptions.

Foreign exchange students could be allowed to participate at the discretion of school administrators after successfully completing the school year.

The Board of Education could also approve exceptions in unusual circumstances if recommended by the administration.

The district would be required to tell students in advance what they need to do to participate. Seniors who may not be eligible, along with their parents or guardians, would have to be notified by certified mail no later than two weeks after the end of the first semester.

The proposal also makes clear that participating in graduation would be considered a privilege rather than a right. Students could lose that privilege for failing to follow conduct rules or cooperate with school employees during senior activities.

Students would also have to follow school standards for graduation attire and behavior. Before the ceremony, they would be required to return school property and pay any outstanding fees.

District officials said the new policy is intended to give students and families clear expectations well before graduation while allowing some flexibility for unusual situations.

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