ESSA has created a new option for states to develop an “alternate diploma” for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities and to count students who earn such a diploma as graduates for reporting the adjusted cohort graduation rate (ACGR).
The Advocacy Institute and the National Down Syndrome Congress have developed a document that provides tips for advocates to help in collaborating with states that are developing an alternate diploma. (Most states have indicated if they plan to do this in their ESSA state plans.)