Diploma made possible by Act 155

A South Carolina law makes certain students who left school without graduating eligible for that all-important diploma.  Oconee public schools want to locate those who qualify for diplomas under state act 155.  “We have tried to get the word out about this so that eligible students can apply before the December 31 deadline,” said Steve Hanvey, assistant superintendent for operations.  So far of the 100 people who have contacted the school district, 58 of them have received diplomas.  When former students inquire about eligibility, the school district reviews their transcripts and determines if they are eligible.  The law applies to those students who were denied graduation between 1990 and 2014 solely for failing to meet the exit exam requirements.  The test has since been abolished.  For more information, you can contact the district at 886-4400.  District offices will be closed for the holidays after December 18, but applications can be submitted through its website.