Michigan Poised to Implement Tough New Graduation Rules

Michigan’s 7th graders are poised to face a tough new set of course requirements by the time they graduate in 2011.

To earn a diploma under a bill passed by the legislature late last month, high school students will need to earn four credits of mathematics and English, three credits of science and social studies, two credits of foreign language, one credit of physical education and health, and one credit in visual, performing, or applied arts.

Students would also have to complete an online learning assignment, such as an online course for high school credit, or...