Shamokin Area School District

This is the most traditional route to graduation.

Requirements:

• Achieve a score of Proficient or Advanced on all three Keystone Exams:

  • Algebra I

  • Literature

  • Biology

Best for: Students who are confident test-takers and perform well on standardized exams.

Note: Students can retake the exams or complete a Project-Based Assessment (PBA) if needed.

This option allows a student to graduate without scoring Proficient on all three Keystone Exams.

Requirements:

• Score at least one Proficient or Advanced on any exam, and

• Achieve a combined total score of 4452 or higher across all three exams, and

• No score may be below Basic on any exam

Example:
If a student scores:

• Algebra I: 1500 (Proficient)

• Literature: 1450 (Basic)

• Biology: 1502 (Proficient)
  Their total is 4452, and they meet the requirement.

Best for: Students who are close to proficiency but fall slightly short on one or two tests.

This option focuses on other academic or career-readiness achievements.

Requirements:
Students must pass their required high school courses and show readiness by meeting one of the following:

• Earn a qualifying score on an alternative exam:

  • SAT, PSAT, ACT, ASVAB

• Successfully complete:

  • Dual enrollment college courses

  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams

  • Pre-apprenticeship program

• Earn an industry-recognized credential or certificate (ex: CompTIA, OSHA-10)

Best for: Students with strong career or academic interests who may not test well on Keystones but excel in other ways.

This pathway emphasizes real-world experiences and evidence of postsecondary plans.

Requirements:
Students must complete required courses and provide three pieces of evidence such as:

• Acceptance to a 2- or 4-year college

• Completion of a service-learning project, internship, or co-op

• Letter of employment offer for a full-time job after high school

• Completion of a college prep program (like Upward Bound)

• Career portfolio demonstrating skills and planning

• Recommendation from an educator or community partner

Best for: Students who have built up work experience, volunteer hours, or college plans that show readiness beyond testing.

This path is designed for students enrolled in approved CTE programs (career-focused studies).

Requirements:

• Complete an approved CTE program of study, and

• Either:

  • Earn a passing score on a NOCTI, NIMS, or other industry-based test, or

  • Demonstrate readiness for entry-level employment through a competency task list, certifications, or documented work experience

Best for: Students who are preparing for careers in fields like health sciences, skilled trades, culinary arts, IT, and more.