Diploma Plus

The Diploma Plus Model

Diploma Plus® schools chart a new path to success for young people who have not reached their potential in a traditional secondary school setting. Diploma Plus (DP) combines high expectations for every student, a competency-based and standards-aligned approach, a personalized learning environment, and opportunities to make connections between classroom learning and the world outside the school walls. DP students are placed into and promoted through three distinct Diploma Plus Phases (Foundation, Presentation, and Plus) that allow students to learn content and skills at the appropriate level, regardless of their age or previous credit accumulation. 

The Diploma Plus model is rooted in Four Essentials: a performance-based system, a supportive school culture, a future focus, and effective supports. In partnership, these essentials detail a blueprint for success for Diploma Plus school communities.

A. Performance Based System
Diploma Plus Schools provide curriculum, instruction,and assessment that are focused on knowledge,skills, and understandings.  Students develop meaning at their own pace and are placed, promoted, and graduate according to their demonstrated learning rather than seat time, age, or credit accumulation. The following are the essential elements of the Performance Based System:

1. Rigorous Curriculum
2. Effective Instructional Practices
3. Authentic Assessment
4. Promotion and Graduation Structure

B.  Supportive School Culture
Diploma Plus Schools work intentionally to develop a positive and supportive school culture.  This culture is developed through specific relationship-building activities and deep-rooted school norms that nurture the strengths of diversity and inclusivity.  Diploma Plus Schools build supportive school communities through the following:                        

1. Positive Relationship Building
2. Youth Leadership and Voice
3. Cultural Responsiveness         

C. Future Focus   Â
Diploma Plus Schools intentionally focus on students’ futures through awareness, exposure, and preparation opportunities, and BY by providing transitional experiences for students in all DP Phases.  This involves a multi-year sequence of civic, career and college exploration activities and opportunities that are embedded in advisories, classroom activities, and out-of-school time.  The following experiences and opportunities are provided at all Diploma Plus schools:

1. Post-Secondary Education Preparation
2. Career Preparation
3. Civic Engagement

D. Effective Supports                                                    Â
Diploma Plus Schools have external and internal structures that support programs and help ensure student success. The following supports are in place at all Diploma Plus Schools:

1. Fundamental School Needs
2. Programmatic Autonomy
3. Shared and Effective Leadership
4. Efficient and Strategic Use of Data