This statement is to clarify a series of recent media stories about certificate of completion and graduation at Joseph C. Briscoe Academy.
In June 2019, five students graduated from Briscoe with high school diplomas, and one student received a certificate of completion. The state requirements for a diploma are different than what’s required for a certificate of completion. Students who qualify for a certificate of completion are actively enrolled and attending school consistent with their individualized education program. Students who receive a certificate of completion are not considered high school graduates but can participate in commencement ceremonies to receive their certificates.
Because Briscoe is a separate public day school for students with special needs, many students do not follow a traditional, four-year high school track and may attend until they are 21 years old. Therefore, assessing the four-year graduation rate is not the most appropriate measure of school success.
City Schools takes seriously any report from students, parents, staff, and media of improper conduct. While there are often valid and legitimate reasons for changing a grade, our practice is to launch an investigation any time there is an allegation. As such, due to a recent allegation, we have launched an investigation of possible improper grade changing at Briscoe. City Schools will take action if warranted when the investigation is complete.
While we disagree with some of Fox 45’s characterizations, City Schools’ letter to the Briscoe community sent on September 13, 2019 was not intended to disparage Fox 45 or the reporter. The intent was to focus on the admirable accomplishments of some of our most vulnerable students and the dedication of our staff. We stand corrected that the interview was with a former student rather than a current student and that Fox 45 contacted rather than “confronted” that former student in the story.