Oregon Progressives Eliminate High School Graduation Requirements in the Name of Equity

Oregon’s recent decision to extend a Covid-era suspension of a major graduation requirement for high-school seniors was driven by a dubious equity effort that many parents and educators argue is “fraudulent,” unpopular, and a disservice to minority children.

During the pandemic, Oregon temporarily dropped its essential-skills evaluation for its 2020 and 2021 graduating classes. In October, the state board of education unanimously voted to prolong the pause again until the 2027-2028 school year on the grounds that the standards exacerbated racial inequality.

About the Author

Caroline Downey

Caroline Downey is a staff writer for National Review.

Featured Tags

Oregon’s recent decision to extend a Covid-era suspension of a major graduation requirement for high-school seniors was driven by a dubious equity effort that many parents and educators argue is “fraudulent,” unpopular, and a disservice to minority children.

During the pandemic, Oregon temporarily dropped its essential-skills evaluation for its 2020 and 2021 graduating classes. In October, the state board of education unanimously voted to prolong the pause again until the 2027-2028 school year on the grounds that the standards exacerbated racial inequality.