Report considers how high school graduation requirements shape children’s futures

A new research brief is raising important questions for California parents about how high school graduation requirements shape their child’s future.

Dr. Kevin J. Fleming, a national education expert, is calling for a shift away from a “one-size-fits-all” approach that pushes all high school students through the same university-prep course sequence, regardless of their goals.

The issue centers on California’s A–G requirements, originally designed for University of California admissions.

A report from the Public Policy Institute of California suggests policymakers should consider whether A–G should become “the statewide standard for all high school coursework.”

Fleming’s research warns that this approach may unintentionally limit students by prioritizing a single pathway — the four-year university degree — even though many students pursue community college, careers, military, technical training or alternative routes after high school.

“Parents already know that one pathway does not fit every student,” Fleming said. “Success looks different for every child, and our education system should reflect that.”

How this could impact your child
Not every successful future starts the same way.

While some students thrive on a university-bound path, others pursue
• Community college.
• Career training or certifications.
• Employment.
• Apprenticeships.
• Military service.
• Entrepreneurship.

However, when A–G becomes a graduation requirement, schools have been shown to have less flexibility in offering courses and experiences that align with non-university options.

The implementation of a statewide A–G mandate in California stands in direct contradiction to the education system’s stated commitment to multiple pathways, which are designed to dismantle longstanding systemic barriers and expand equitable access to meaningful postsecondary and career opportunities.

“Parents are often told this is about expanding access and equitable opportunity,” Fleming explaind. “But in practice, it can narrow the definition of success to one pathway; even though most students take a different route after high school.”

The research highlights unintended consequences if A–G courses become the graduation requirement
Less choice
Students may be required to take courses that don’t align with their strengths, interests, or goals.

Fewer career opportunities
Hands-on classes like career technical education, internships, and real-world learning may be reduced.

Lower engagement
Students are more likely to disengage when school feels disconnected from real-life opportunities.

Missed preparation
Many high-demand careers require skills and certifications, not just college-prep coursework.

At the same time, nearly half of California students are not considered fully prepared under current college/career metrics — raising questions about whether the current approach is working.

All while workforce demands are rapidly changing, with many high-paying careers requiring skills, certifications, or training beyond, or instead of, a traditional university degree.

A call for more flexible pathways
Fleming is not suggesting lowering standards. Instead, he recommends giving students — and families — more options.

His recommendations include
• Keeping strong academic expectations.
• Expanding access to career and technical education.
• Supporting multiple high school graduation requirement options.
• Measuring success based on real-world outcomes — not just course completion.

“The goal isn’t one path for all students,” Fleming said. “A–G is the key that opens one door to the university. But California has many doors. Our students deserve to hold multiple keys.”

What parents can do
Education leaders say this is a critical moment for families to stay informed and involved.

“Parents play a key role in advocating for policies that help their children make decisions about their future,” said Mindy Bingham, CEO of Academic Innovations. “When students see how school connects to real life, they become more motivated, confident, and prepared.”

Parents are encouraged to
• Ask your school or district
Will A–G be required for graduation?

Ask about options
What career pathways, industry certifications, early college credit, or internships are available?

Ask about career planning
Is my child supported in exploring careers, setting goals, and planning next steps?

Advocate for choice
Does my child have flexibility to explore different aptitudes and futures?

Attend board meetings or forums
Ask how policies support all students — not just one pathway

Learn more
Parents and educators can click here to read Dr. Fleming’s full research brief.