Graduation is a huge milestone in people’s lives. The hard work, long school days, the homework and the dedication all lead to graduation. For most, it’s in June, but some students choose to graduate early and start their lives outside of high school. Some students choose to graduate early because they already know what they want to do after high school, while others are just simply graduating because they don’t need anymore credits or classes. Whether you’re graduating early or with the rest of the senior class, completing high school is one of the biggest moments in your life!
Kim Napolitano, our lead guidance counselor at Carolina Forest High School, shared her opinion on early graduation
“I think that early graduation for some students is a great idea and appropriate. For students who have planned post-secondary opportunities (military, college, work opportunities), it makes sense to complete their high school requirements and begin the next phase of their life. Some students want to take advantage of special programs or scholarship opportunities, especially if they are pursuing professional careers. I think that as with most things in education, the decision to graduate early is personal and unique to each student. I am glad that we have the opportunity to provide this option for them!”
To plan for early graduation, students should be College and Career Ready (CCR), have a concrete plan, meet the requirements set by the school district, and also complete all the required credits needed to graduate. To meet CCR, students must achieve certain scores on the SAT and ACT. Students need to make sure they have a good grade in their AP classes, make sure to also work with your school counselor to make sure that you have or are signed up for everything you need for early graduation.
Students who graduate early demonstrate exceptional drive, discipline, and a strong commitment to their goals. Senior Cassidy Allen is ready to take on new challenges.
“I chose to graduate early to get a head start on my life after high school and I want to apply to online college and major in something within the criminal justice field,” shared Allen.
The future is unknown and full of wonder and future knowledge and experience. It is important to make right decisions and hold onto personal dreams. Is early graduation right for you?
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