If you do not pass the New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment (NJGPA), there are clear pathways available to still fulfill the state's high school graduation assessment requirements. Failing the initial attempt does not prevent a student from graduating, as multiple opportunities and alternative methods are provided.
The primary options for students who do not achieve a passing score on the NJGPA include retaking the assessment or pursuing alternative means to demonstrate proficiency.
Pathways to Meet Graduation Requirements
New Jersey offers flexibility for students who need to meet the graduation assessment requirements. Here are the main avenues:
1. Retaking the NJGPA
The most direct approach for students who do not pass the NJGPA is to retake the assessment. Students are typically provided with multiple opportunities to retake the test. This allows them to prepare further, review missed concepts, and improve their scores.
- Opportunity: Students are given specific retake windows throughout the school year.
- Preparation: Schools often provide resources, remediation, and support to help students prepare for retakes.
2. Utilizing Alternative Assessment Options
Beyond retaking the NJGPA, students can explore alternative assessment pathways to demonstrate their proficiency. These alternatives are designed to accommodate different learning styles and allow students to showcase their knowledge through various forms of evidence.
A key alternative mechanism is the Student Portfolio Appeal:
- Student Portfolio Appeal: This involves submitting a collection of student work and evidence, through the school district, to the New Jersey Department of Education. The portfolio must demonstrate that the student has met the state's academic standards in the subject areas assessed by the NJGPA. This pathway is particularly beneficial for students who may struggle with standardized tests but possess strong academic understanding demonstrated through coursework.
- Process: The district compiles and submits the appeal on behalf of the student.
- Content: The portfolio typically includes classroom assignments, projects, and other evidence that showcases a student's mastery of the required academic standards.
Summary of Options
To provide a quick overview, here's a table summarizing the main actions available:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Retake NJGPA | Students can retake the assessment during scheduled testing windows. |
| Student Portfolio Appeal | Students, via their district, submit a portfolio of work to the NJDOE demonstrating academic proficiency. |
These options ensure that students have multiple opportunities to meet the state's graduation requirements, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to assessing student learning. For more detailed information on specific requirements and procedures, it is recommended to consult the official New Jersey Department of Education resources on New Jersey High School Graduation Requirements.
