New Law Makes It Harder to Graduate High School

High school students must pass physics, chemistry to get a diploma

So long, FCAT. Hello, physics.

Gov. Charlie Crist signed into law Tuesday a bill that would increase graduation requirements for Florida's high school students.

The bill replaces the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, or FCAT, for high school math and science with end-of-course exams. That's a bit of good news for students, who complained about the test since its inception.

But now the not so good news.

The bill also would add geometry, algebra II, biology, chemistry and physics to the list of required courses. Those courses were usually reserved for the nerds of the school. Looks like everyone should invest in a pocket protector now. 

The requirements would be phased in beginning this fall through the 2014-15 school year for entering freshmen.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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