The bill aims to enhance high school graduation requirements in Alaska by ensuring that all students demonstrate proficiency in essential subject areas before graduating. It establishes legislative intent to confirm that students achieve proficiency in required classes and introduces new definitions for "school district" and "social studies," which now explicitly includes civics, U.S. history, and state history. The bill mandates the development of performance standards for students in grades eight, 10, and 12 in economics, science, and social studies, and requires school districts to administer proficiency confirmation tools to assess students' proficiency in these subjects, as well as language arts and mathematics.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific graduation requirements, including a minimum of 21 to 24 units of credit depending on the program, with defined credits in language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, and health and physical education. It allows for flexibility for students transferring into a district after earning at least 13 credits from another school. The provisions regarding proficiency confirmation and graduation requirements will apply to students graduating on or after January 1, 2030.

Statutes affected:
SB0209A, AM SB 209, introduced 01/16/2026: 14.03.075, 14.30.350