Mississippi students have the opportunity to make their high school diploma more valuable. All 9th graders choose whether they want to work toward a Traditional Diploma, or take additional classes to earn an academic, distinguished academic or career and technical education endorsement.
Each diploma option will prepare students to be successful after graduation, whether that be in the workforce, a career and technical training program or college. Students who earn an academic or distinguished academic diploma endorsement from a public high school will be accepted into any of the state’s public universities.
Students are encouraged to talk with their school counselor to learn more about Mississippi’s Traditional high school diploma and opportunities to earn endorsements.
Mississippi Accreditation Accountability Standards
Traditional Diploma
Traditional Diploma + Career and Technical Education (CTE) or JROTC Endorsement
Traditional Diploma + Academic Endorsement
Traditional Diploma + Distinguished Academic Endorsement
Alternate Diploma
Diploma Endorsement Options Seals
Click on the link above for information regarding seals that the school may use for student diplomas that represent the three different endorsement options.
Mississippi Seal of Biliteracy Options Seals
Participating School Districts Only, click on the link above for specifications and information regarding printing seals that the school may use for the gold and silver levels.
Resources
Mississippi State Board of Education Graduation Policies
Mississippi High School Diploma and Endorsement Options Communication Toolkit for Parents