Required Testing for Graduation
Keystone exams are a requirement to meet the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) signed by President Obama in 2015. Pennsylvania uses the Keystone exams as end-of-course assessments in Algebra I, Biology, and Literature to meet these requirements. These exams are also a part of the state's graduation requirements and help schools ensure students meet academic standards. Participation in the Keystone Exams is mandatory, and failure to take them can negatively impact a school district's participation rate under ESSA.
If a student scores Basic or Below Basic on a Keystone Exam, that student can be provided with Keystone remediation for the corresponding exam. Teachers and staff can provide information and activities as a way to help students receive a higher score on the Keystone Exams
Students must follow the requirements of the Pennsylvania Act 158 and Act 55. Students will be required to pass the Keystone exams, meet a required composite score on all Keystone exams, or meet alternative pathway requirements outlined in Act 158.
Additional requirements for graduation from Kennard-Dale High School can be found here.