If the Regents move forward with a scheduled phase-out of the local high school diploma, graduation rates could go down about 10 points to 66 percent, recent figures show.

The local diploma option ends under current regulations that require all general education students entering ninth grade in 2008 to receive either a Regents diploma (score at least 65 on all five required Regents exams and earn 22 units of credit) or a Regents diploma with Advanced Designation (scoring 65 or above on eight Regents Exams).

Until now, students who score between 55 and 64 on a Regents exam receive a local diploma. Recent graduation figures show that the elimination of the local diploma will significantly impact high-need school districts and New York City graduation rates.

Regent Lester Young said eliminating the local diploma would increase the achievement gap in terms of graduation rates. Chancellor Merryl Tisch argued for the elimination, saying a score of less than 65 on a Regents exam doesn't signify readiness for college or work.

However, several Regents called it "irresponsible" to raise standards without providing adequate resources and support.

NYSUT policy supports maintaining the local diploma or creating other pathways to earn a diploma.

"We've advised the Regents of the need to explore more options for students that allow them to graduate from high school ready for work or college," said NYSUT Vice President Maria Neira.