Seniors Wait for Final Word in Calif. Exit-Exam Case

Nearly 50,000 students who have not passed California’s high school exit exam remained in a state of uncertainty last week as education officials pressed on with their appeal of a judge’s decision to eliminate the exam as a graduation requirement for the class of 2006.

The case has drawn national attention, as 18 other states require students to pass an exam to earn a diploma, and an additional seven will have such requirements by 2012.

Across California last week, school districts were preparing for two scenarios: First, the test won’t be required, and second, the test might required again by the time graduation ceremonies begin in...