Are you a high school student in Ohio grappling with the path to graduation and what lies beyond? Completing all the many requirements can be scary, especially since you are trying to be ready for life beyond the classroom. Ohio’s innovative Graduation 'SEALS' could be your roadmap to success, offering diverse opportunities to prove your readiness for college, career, and civic life.

But what exactly are these 'SEALS'? How can they enhance your future prospects, and why are they essential for your graduation? Let’s delve into the comprehensive world of Ohio Graduation 'SEALS', understand the different types available, and explore how you can earn them to not only meet educational requirements but also to prepare for the challenges of life ahead.

Overview of Ohio Graduation "SEALS"

Ohio Graduation "SEALS" are a set of credentials that students can earn to demonstrate their readiness for college, careers, and military service. These "SEALS" validate a student's skills and achievements in various areas, ensuring they are well-prepared for life after high school. Each "SEAL" represents a specific accomplishment, such as proficiency in a particular subject, career readiness, community service, or bilingual skills.

The purpose of Graduation "SEALS" is to provide students with multiple pathways to demonstrate their competencies beyond traditional academic performance. They offer a more comprehensive view of a student's abilities and potential, catering to diverse interests and strengths.

Earning these "SEALS" is crucial for graduation in Ohio, as they are part of the state's updated graduation requirements. Students must earn at least two "SEALS" to qualify for a high school diploma. This system encourages students to engage deeply in their education, explore various fields, and gain valuable experiences that will benefit them in the future.

By achieving these "SEALS," students not only fulfill graduation requirements but also enhance their college applications, improve job prospects, and gain recognition for their hard work and dedication.

Types of Graduation "SEALS" in Ohio

1. OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal: The OhioMeansJobs Readiness Seal certifies that a student has the professional skills needed for workplace success. To earn this seal, students must demonstrate proficiency in 15 professional skills, verified by at least three mentors from school, work, or the community. These skills include work ethic, teamwork, and critical thinking.
2. Industry-Recognized Credential Seal: This seal is awarded to students who earn credentials recognized by Ohio businesses and industries. These credentials validate skills in specific trades or professions. Students can earn this seal by completing approved training programs and passing relevant certification exams. Examples include certifications in IT, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing.
3. College-Ready Seal: The College-Ready Seal is for students who meet established benchmarks on college entrance exams. To earn this seal, students must achieve minimum scores on the SAT (480 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, 530 in Math) or the ACT (18 in English, 22 in Math, 22 in Reading).
4. Military Enlistment Seal: This seal recognizes students who commit to serving in a branch of the U.S. military upon graduation. To earn it, students must provide evidence of enlistment, such as a signed enlistment contract from a military recruiter.
5. Science Seal: The Science Seal is awarded to students who demonstrate a strong understanding of scientific concepts. Requirements include earning a proficient or higher score on Ohio's high school biology end-of-course exam or achieving a passing grade in an Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) science course and corresponding exam.
6. Citizenship Seal: The Citizenship Seal recognizes students' understanding of history, government, and civic engagement. To earn this seal, students must demonstrate proficiency in American History and American Government end-of-course exams or equivalent advanced coursework and exams like AP or IB.
7. Honors Diploma Seal: The Honors Diploma Seal is awarded to students who exceed standard graduation requirements. Criteria include high GPA, high scores on college entrance exams, and completion of advanced coursework. Students must fulfill additional criteria, such as earning specific credits in mathematics, science, social studies, and foreign languages.
8. Seal of Biliteracy: This seal acknowledges proficiency in English and at least one other language. Students must achieve high scores on state-approved English language arts assessments and language proficiency tests, such as AP or IB exams, or pass recognized language proficiency exams.
9. Technology Seal: The Technology Seal is for students who demonstrate advanced technology skills. To earn it, students must complete technology-related coursework and achieve proficiency in state or industry-recognized technology assessments.
10. Community Service Seal: Awarded for dedicated community involvement, the Community Service Seal requires students to complete a specified number of service hours. These hours must be documented and verified by the school or community organizations, demonstrating a commitment to helping others.
11. Fine and Performing Arts Seal: This seal is given to students who excel in the arts. Requirements include active participation in school or community arts programs and demonstrating proficiency through performances, exhibits, or portfolios.
12. Student Engagement Seal: The Student Engagement Seal recognizes involvement in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, or leadership roles. Students must actively participate and show a commitment to these activities, which enhance their school experience and personal development.

Earning these "SEALS" provides students with a well-rounded education, validates diverse skills, and enhances their readiness for future academic, career, and community endeavors.

How to Earn Graduation "SEALS" at Career Prep High School

Students should start by identifying their interests and career goals, which will help determine which seals are most relevant and beneficial. They should then schedule an initial meeting with school counselors to discuss the various seals available and understand the requirements for each.

A personalized plan should be developed, outlining the steps needed to achieve the chosen seals. This plan should include required coursework, exams, and extracurricular activities. Register for the necessary classes, such as technology, science, or language courses, that align with the seal requirements, and engage in relevant activities, such as community service projects, arts programs, or internships, to fulfill the criteria for specific seals.

The required exams or assessments, such as state tests, AP/IB exams, or industry certification exams, should be then taken and passed. Detailed records of all completed requirements will also be kept, including service hours, project work, and exam scores. The last thing you’ll need to do is provide documentation of completed requirements to school counselors for verification and approval.

Role of Schools and Counselors

School counselors play a crucial role in guiding students through the process, offering advice, resources, and encouragement. Counselors track students' progress and ensure they stay on course to meet their goals. Schools also offer resources such as study materials, tutoring, and opportunities for extracurricular involvement. Counselors review and verify the documentation submitted by students to confirm they have met all requirements for the seals.

By following these steps and leveraging the support of Career Prep High School’s counselors, students can successfully earn their Graduation "SEALS" and enhance their readiness for future academic and career opportunities.

At Career Prep High School, we care about the success of our students. We know that traditional high school may not be the best situation for individuals, which is why we strive to provide students with the resources and scheduling so you can complete your high school education. Learn more about our classes and programs by visiting our main page.