151 Validating High School Credentials and the Increased Existence of Diploma Mills

Monday, July 11, 2016: 9:45 AM-10:45 AM
Thurgood Marshall Southeast (Marriott Wardman Park)
Session Type: Interest Sessions
Track: Compliance Track
Subcategories: Regulatory Issues
Audience: Intermediate (3-7 years experience)
Credit Type: Credit Hours and Clock Hours
School Type: All Schools
Possessing a high school diploma or its equivalent is a major student aid eligibility requirement. The elimination of the Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) requirement in 2012 and the implementation of standardized graduation tests has created a breading ground for the existence of diploma mills. This session discusses some of the efforts being made by state and federal government officials to combat diplomas mills. What is required of schools to validate high school credentials? Are you in compliance? What are some best practices when determining whether a diploma is valid for the purpose of qualifying for federal student aid? Where does a "home school" fit into the validation discussion?
Moderator:
Nadine Bailey (Ultimate Medical Academy)
Speakers:
JoEllen Soucier ( and Houston Community College System Central College)
Robert Merino (San Jacinto College)
Wayne Kruger (St. Petersburg College Seminole Campus)