Students in Hewlett-Woodmere and Lawrence could face significantly different graduation requirements beginning in 2028 as New York state moves forward with a plan to change the role of Regents exams and establish a single state high school diploma.
The state Board of Regents authorized the state Education Department on Sept. 14 to move forward with the next phase of NY Inspires, its multiyear effort to transform graduation requirements. The proposed regulatory changes have not yet received final approval.
The initiative follows years of statewide stakeholder engagement and recommendations from the Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures., which grew out of an effort announced by the Board of Regents in 2019. Board of Regents Chancellor Lester W. Young Jr. and state Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa addressed the panel’s purpose in a November 2023 pamphlet titled “Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Members.”
“Prior to entering into this process, we knew the current system wasn’t working for all students,” the pamphlet read. “The intent of this initiative was never to lower the standards […] it focused on placing all New York State students on a success trajectory by providing them access to the necessary opportunities and supports they need.”
Under the proposed implementation plan, students graduating beginning in January 2028 would transition to one state high school diploma. They would no longer be required to pass a prescribed set of Regents exams to graduate.
Students may choose to take the test, with their achievements potentially recognized through seals or endorsements. There is no change to the current graduation requirements.
The Education Department plans to advance proposed regulatory amendments to the Board of Regents by February 2027.
Hewlett-Woodmere’s Superintendent Dina Anzalone discussed the proposal at the Sept. 16 Board of Education meeting. Anzalone said she believes Regents exams would continue to play a role in measuring student competency, which would comply with federal assessment requirements.
“Will the regents be going away completely,” Anzalone questioned. “No… It’s still a proposed regulatory change that the board of regents has not yet formalized. They will, by June of 2027, and we will know by July 1 if we will move forward with it. “
Lawrence Superintendent Ann Pederson, who has more than three decades of experience in the school district, said “Its definitely an interesting time in education.”
“[Lawrence] looks forward to hearing the fuller proposal in February and we will be working alongside the Nassau BOCES inspire team to be sure we use this new opportunity to best meet the talents and needs of our learners.”
