Kentucky Department of Education

Legislation and Resources

• Language Arts - 4 credits (English I, English II, English III, and English IV) to include the content strands of reading, writing, speaking, listening, observing, inquiry, conventions, analysis, and using technology as a communication tool. Language arts shall be taken each year of high school.*

• Mathematics - 3 credits to include Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II  (An integrated, applied, interdisciplinary, or technical or occupational course that prepares a student for a career path based on the student's Individual Learning Plan may be substituted for a traditional Algebra I, Geometry or Algebra II course on an individual student basis if the course meets the content standards in the Kentucky Core Academic Standards (KCAS). Pre-Algebra shall not be counted as one of the three required Mathematics credits for high school graduation but may be counted as an elective.)  Mathematics shall be taken each year of high school.*

• Social Studies - 3 credits to include the content strands of historical perspective, including U.S. History, Geography, Economics, Government and Civics, and Cultures and Societies.

• Science - 3 credits to incorporate lab-based scientific investigation experiences and include the content strands of biological science, physical science, earth and space science, and unifying concepts.

• Health - 1/2 credit to include the content strands of individual well-being, consumer decision, personal wellness, mental wellness, and community services

• Physical Education - 1/2 credit to include the content strands of personal wellness, psychomotor, and lifetime activity

• Visual and Performing Arts - 1 credit in a history and appreciation of visual and performing arts or a performing arts course which incorporates such content (Credit to include the content strands of arts, dance, music, theatre, and visual arts or a standards-based specialized arts course based on the student's Individual Learning Plan.)

• Electives - 7 credits in academic and career interest standards-based learning experiences (to include four (4) standards-based learning experiences in an academic or career interest based on the student's Individual Learning Plan; and Demonstrated performance based competency in technology.)

• Technology - Demonstrated performance-based competency in technology