Too few high school graduates demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed for even entry-level jobs or freshman coursework at a college or university. In other words, they are graduating without the tools to succeed after high school.

The lack of preparation costs families and communities.

The Tennessee Diploma Project puts forth changes so students are taught the skills employers and educators say students need to perform well in a job or at the college level.

To redefine what students learn, Tennessee officials considered national and state guidelines to make Tennessee students competitive with peers nationwide while customizing the standards to make sense for Tennessee.

The Tennessee Diploma Project also ensures all students are taught a common set of courses. This ‘Ready Core’ curriculum means all students have access to the education employers and educators say is crucial for the workplace and college.

The Tennessee Diploma Project aims to ensure all Tennessee graduates are qualified to take advantage of opportunities after high school, whether choosing to pursue a career or continue their education.

Learn more about the graduation requirements at www.tennessee.gov/education/gradreq.shtml or www.tn.gov/TDP.