Early graduation should be the result of a definite planned program, approved in advance by the principal and school counselors. The mere accumulation of credits does not, alone, justify early graduation. The credits must be earned according to a plan which, in the professional judgment of the principal and faculty, meets the student's educational needs as effectively as they would be met at regular graduation time.

In order to graduate early, the student must:

1. Submit a written request to the high school principal at the end of the junior year, signed by the
   student and parents;
2. Have a meeting with the school counselor, his or her parents, and the principal or principal’s
   designee by the end of the junior year;
3. Successfully complete all required credits by the end of the semester in which the student
   graduates; and
4. Make all necessary arrangements with the high school for participation in commencement
   exercises, if desired and feasible.

Upon successful completion of the final semester and agreement to graduate early, the student will agree to forego all school athletics, performances, curricular activities, and extra-curricular activities except:

1. The prom, provided the student is eligible based on the individual school’s expectation for prom
   participation.
2. Any school-sponsored senior activity connected to graduation.

Legal References:

1. TSBE High School Policy 2.103.
2. T.C.A. § 49-6-8303.

Approved as to Legal Form
By Knox County Law Director 8/21/2023
/Gary T. Dupler/Deputy Law Director