Graduation Requirements
Preparing Learners for Graduation and Beyond
Payette School District is committed to ensuring every learner graduates prepared for success in college, careers, military service, apprenticeships, and life beyond high school.
Graduation requirements are established by the State of Idaho and may include additional local district expectations. Learners and families are encouraged to work closely with counselors throughout high school to monitor progress toward graduation.
The Idaho State Department of Education currently requires learners to complete a minimum of 46 high school credits, including core academic coursework and additional graduation requirements.
Idaho State Graduation Requirements
Minimum Credits Required: 46 Credits
Core Subject Requirements
| Subject Area | Credits Required |
|---|---|
| Language Arts & Communication | 9 Credits |
| Mathematics | 6 Credits |
| Science | 6 Credits |
| Social Studies | 5 Credits |
| Humanities / Fine Arts / World Language | 2 Credits |
| Health & Wellness | 1 Credit |
| Digital Literacy | 1 Credit |
| Electives | 16+ Credits |
Language Arts
Learners will complete:
- English coursework
- Communication and/or speech requirements
- Reading, writing, speaking, and research experiences
Courses Include:
- English 9
- English 10
- English 11
- English 12
- Speech or Communications course
Mathematics
Learners will complete:
- Algebra I (or equivalent standards)
- Geometry (or equivalent standards)
- Additional mathematics coursework
Mathematics instruction emphasizes problem solving, reasoning, and real-world application.
Science
Science coursework includes opportunities for learners to develop scientific reasoning, inquiry skills, and laboratory experiences.
Science requirements include coursework from multiple science disciplines.
Possible Courses Include:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Earth Science
- Physical Science
- Environmental Science
Humanities/Fine Arts
Learners will complete credits in:
- Fine Arts
- Music
- Theater
- Visual Arts
- Spainsh
- Other approved humanities courses
These experiences support creativity, communication, and cultural understanding.
Health & Wellness
Learners complete health coursework that includes:
- Personal wellness
- Healthy decision-making
- Safety education
- CPR instruction
Digital Literacy
Digital literacy coursework helps learners develop skills related to:
- Technology use
- Digital communication
- Online safety
- Information literacy
- Responsible digital citizenship
Future Readiness Project
The State of Idaho requires learners to complete a Future Readiness Project demonstrating preparation for postsecondary success and future planning.
This project may include:
- Research
- Career exploration
- Presentation components
- Postsecondary planning
Civics Exam
Learners must successfully complete the Idaho Civics Exam graduation requirement.
The Civics Exam measures understanding of:
- U.S. government
- Citizenship
- Civic responsibilities
- American history
Advanced Opportunities
Payette School District also provides learners access to advanced opportunities including:
- Dual Credit
- Career Technical Education pathways
- Concurrent credit opportunities
Payette High School encourages learners to explore advanced coursework aligned to their goals and interests.
Important Reminder
Graduation requirements may change based on updates from the Idaho State Department of Education and local district policies. Families and learners should regularly review graduation progress with school counselors.