09/29/2026
Important Update for Families: New York State Graduation Requirements
Dear Cuba-Rushford School Community,
Over the past several weeks, there has been significant discussion regarding New York State's NY Inspires initiative and what it means for students and families. The New York State Education Department (NYSED) recently released additional information to clarify several misconceptions, and I would like to share what these changes mean for our community.
First and foremost, families should know that New York is not lowering graduation standards, eliminating state assessments, or ending Regents Exams. Students will continue to participate in statewide assessments, and schools will continue to be held accountable for student achievement and success.
What Is Changing?
Beginning with students graduating in January 2028 and beyond, New York State will transition to one New York State diploma. While Regents Exams will continue to be administered, passing a prescribed set of Regents Exams will no longer be the only pathway to earning a diploma.
Instead, students will have multiple opportunities to demonstrate their learning, skills, and readiness for college, careers, military service, and other postsecondary opportunities.
What Is Staying the Same?
High academic expectations will remain in place.
Regents Exams will continue to be given.
State assessments will continue.
Students graduating before January 2028 will follow the current graduation requirements.
Schools will continue to focus on strong academic achievement and student success.
Expanding Opportunities for Students
The NY Inspires initiative recognizes that students demonstrate readiness in different ways. Schools across New York State will continue to expand opportunities such as:
Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs
Internships and work-based learning experiences
Advanced coursework
Capstone projects and portfolios
Community engagement and service learning
College and career readiness experiences
These opportunities help students develop the critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive after graduation.
Our Commitment
At Cuba-Rushford, our focus remains unchanged: providing every student with a high-quality education that prepares them for future success. We will continue to work closely with the New York State Education Department and keep families informed as additional guidance becomes available.
As we prepare for these future changes, we remain committed to maintaining high expectations while creating meaningful opportunities for every student to learn, grow, and succeed. Above all, we will continue to keep our vision of "Every Student, Every Day" at the forefront of every decision we make.
Thank you for your continued partnership, trust, and support. Together, we will ensure that every student is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Sincerely,
Carlos Gildemeister
Superintendent of Cuba Rushford
