WCS Students Earn Occupational Diplomas

Published May 5, 2016

A group of Williamson County students are among the first in Tennessee to receive an occupational diploma. A ceremony was held May 4 in Franklin to mark the occasion.

“This day is special because we get to celebrate these incredible students for their hard work and accomplishments,” said Student Support Services High School Specialist Maria Griego. “This is the first year that occupational diplomas have been offered in the state as well as in Williamson County so this is an exciting time for us all.”

The occupational diploma is a third diploma option for students with disabilities who have not met the requirements for a high school diploma. Its purpose is to provide students with enhanced employment opportunities by helping them learn work-related life skills.

In order to receive an occupational diploma, students must meet a number of requirements including the completion of two years of paid or non-paid work experience. Students who obtain an occupational diploma may continue to work towards the regular high school diploma through the end of the school year in which they turn 22-years-old.