Legislation passed in 2013 made significant changes to high school graduation requirements, replacing the current three high school graduation plans (Minimum, Recommended, and Distinguished Achievement), with one Foundation program, on top of which students can earn endorsements and a “Distinguished Level of Achievement,” effective with the 2014-15 school year.
For the 2013-14 school year, all ninth-grade students in Texas public schools must enroll in the Recommended High School Program (26 credits) or Distinguished Achievement High School Program (26 credits). With parental and school approval, students can opt out of either program and follow the Minimum program (22 credits).