TALLAHASSEE, FL — August 22, 2025 — In a sweeping change to graduation policy, the Florida Board of Education has voted to eliminate certificates of completion for students with disabilities, a move that has sparked both concern and calls for clarity across the state’s educational and disability advocacy communities.
Under the newly enacted law, HB 1105, students with disabilities who are unable to meet the requirements for a standard high school diploma will no longer receive a certificate of completion at the end of their K–12 education. This change takes effect immediately, impacting students graduating in the 2025–2026 school year.
⚖️ What’s Changing?
- Previous Policy: Students with disabilities who could not complete standard coursework were awarded certificates of completion, which served as formal recognition of their school attendance and effort.
- New Policy: These certificates will be discontinued. Students who cannot earn a standard diploma will graduate without any formal credential unless they qualify for alternate pathways.
The Florida Department of Education stated the shift is intended to “ensure students receive appropriate support and recognition for their achievements” through more rigorous and meaningful alternatives.
📉 Concerns from Families and Advocates
Amy Van Bergen, former director of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida and mother to a son with disabilities, expressed deep concern:
> “Without that certificate, they are potentially going to lose eligibility to all sorts of opportunities after high school—whether that’s even taking a college placement test or pursuing developmental or vocational programs,” she said.
Advocates warn that the change could:
- Increase barriers to employment for students with disabilities
- Exclude them from graduation ceremonies
- Reduce incentives to complete school
Van Bergen added, “Rather than helping bridge that educational disparity gap, it’s only going to widen it. Why on earth should these students attend school?”
🛠️ Alternate Credentials and Legislative Context
Despite the controversy, the legislative session also introduced new supports:
- Micro-credentials for teachers working with students on the autism spectrum
- Workplace-based credentials for students with disabilities, aimed at improving post-graduation employment prospects
Senate President Ben Albritton emphasized that increasing support for people with disabilities was a central focus of the session.
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⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational and editorial purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or official guidance from the Florida Department of Education. For the most current and authoritative information, readers should consult Florida’s official graduation requirements or the full text of HB 1105.
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