Baton Rouge--
Governor Bobby Jindal signed legislation to create a "career diploma" for
high school students who might not otherwise finish school.
In a statement, Jindal called the new diploma, "a pathway for high school students who are currently at risk of
dropping out of school."
Approximately 13,500 students drop out of high school yearly, according to Jindal aides. That number climbs to 16,000 if
middle school students are included.
Louisiana becomes one of the few states in America to offer the diplomat, aimed at preparing students for a career or entry into a
technical school.
It would rollback current rules, which require eighth-graders to pass the LEAP test in order to advance to high school.
Critics contend the measure represents a dangerous lowering of state education standards, but supporters say its main significance is to stop dropouts.
"This legislation gives us an opportunity to reach students that mightotherwise slip through the cracks of our education system. Now, withthese bills, we can cultivate these students' interests and skills andhelp align them with a successful
career path," Jindal said.
