Graduation Requirements

Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, Clear Creek Amana High School will offer three diploma pathways designed to provide students with greater flexibility as they prepare for life after graduation. Whether a student's goal is attending a four-year university, joining the military,  entering the workforce, completing an apprenticeship, or pursuing a technical or community college program, these pathways allow students to choose the option that best aligns with their future plans. 

Three Diploma Pathways:

Standard Diploma

The Standard Diploma will remain our traditional graduation pathway. Students will complete 56 credits, including all required coursework established by the State of Iowa and the district, along with at least 23 elective credits (including one Fine Arts credit). This diploma prepares students for admission to most four-year colleges and universities.

Honors Diploma (New)

The Honors Diploma recognizes students who pursue a more rigorous academic program. Students must earn 60 or more credits, complete at least 10 credits of AP, concurrent enrollment, or other approved post-secondary coursework while earning at least a B average in those courses, and graduate with a minimum 3.0 GPA. This pathway is designed for students seeking additional academic challenges while preparing for college. Seniors who wish to pursue an Honors Diploma should schedule a time to meet with their counselor in September.

Core Diploma (New)

The Core Diploma provides another pathway for students whose postsecondary plans include entering the workforce, beginning an apprenticeship, or attending a community college or trade program after graduation. Students complete all required subject-area coursework while completing a reduced number of elective credits, resulting in a minimum of 45 credits for graduation. Because this pathway does not include the coursework typically expected for direct admission to a four-year college or university, students planning to attend a four-year institution immediately after high school should pursue the Standard or Honors Diploma.

Students interested in pursuing either of the new diploma pathways are encouraged to meet with their school counselor or one of the assistant principals to discuss their academic plan and ensure they are on track to meet all requirements.

Please note that students may not officially declare the Core Diploma until the second semester of their junior year. Students pursuing the Core Diploma must also remain enrolled at Clear Creek Amana High School through at least the first semester of their senior year.

Attached to this message is a more detailed comparison of the graduation requirements for each diploma pathway. We encourage families to review the information together and contact your student's counselor or one of the assistant principals with any questions. If your student is interested in pursuing the Core Diploma, please schedule a meeting with the appropriate school staff member listed below.

We are excited to offer these additional opportunities and believe these pathways will help ensure every student has a graduation plan that supports their individual strengths, interests, and future goals