Public Hearing Scheduled to Discuss Kansas High School Graduation Changes

Topeka: Kansas education officials are gearing up for a public hearing next month. They want to talk about getting rid of a new graduation requirement for high school seniors.

The Kansas State Board of Education will meet on Tuesday, February 11, at 1:30 p.m. They’ll gather at 900 Southwest Jackson Street, suite 102. The main focus will be on the FAFSA requirement, which is currently needed for graduation.

Back in May 2024, the board voted 8-2 to change the minimum graduation requirements. They decided that seniors must either fill out a FAFSA form or get a waiver to skip it. This rule was supposed to kick in for students graduating in 2028.

However, after hearing from parents, students, and school administrators, the board is reconsidering this requirement. They’re now looking to drop the FAFSA from the graduation checklist.

Denise Kahler, a spokeswoman for the Kansas Department of Education, mentioned that the board had initially added the FAFSA requirement but is now set to discuss its removal in February.

Completing the FAFSA is important for students who want to access federal aid for college, like grants and loans. This aid helps them pursue higher education after high school.