High School Diploma vs GED

On Track School, a private distance learning program available to students in grades K-12, offers a fully accredited education online. Developed over fifteen years ago as a solution for families who needed flexibility, teacher support, and educational guidance, On Track goes above and beyond in providing services so that all students can achieve educational success while challenging themselves in their personal endeavors. Teachers at On Track, recognized as Learning Coaches, are certified in the subject matter that they teach, hold weekly live sessions and hold GOAL meetings to review progress monthly. One on One Coaching is available for additional support and Instructional Aides assist in remediation addressing gaps in learning as indicated on diagnostic assessments. On Track believes that a team approach to education is the solution to fully support students achieve academic success. Retention as well as graduation rates supports this belief demonstrating that nearly 100% of seniors graduate with a fully accredited high school diploma.

A high school diploma exemplifies the completion of educational standards being met and achieved over the course of an individual’s completion of high school requirements throughout grades 9-12. Earning a high school diploma is much more than the common misconception of a  “sheet” of paper.  Having completed thirteen years of an educational journey represents responsibility and ownership in achieving goals and setting high expectations. It also represents the crossroads between childhood and adulthood. 

National standards can vary from state to state, however generally speaking, most states require students to complete a certain number of units per course to earn a standard diploma based on the Carnegie unit of measurement, a basic credit hour measurement. Competency based models in education have been recognized by accreditation organizations as an alternative to Carnegie units whereby students have the ability to demonstrate proficiency or mastery of content. 

As an alternative to a standard high school diploma, most states offer a High School Equivalency test such as the GED. The GED (General Education Development or Diploma) is administered to students who have not graduated from high school and are at least sixteen years of age. Although the GED tests for proficiency in writing, reading, mathematics, science and social studies, it must be taken in person at a state testing facility with a proctor present. Upon passing all subjects a certificate is issued stating that high school graduation requirements have been met. Colleges and universities as well as trade schools require a high school diploma for entrance and accept students who have passed the GED demonstrating mastery of high school level of knowledge. However, there is a measurable distinction between a diploma and a certificate. 

On Track graduates are well prepared for their future having earned a high school diploma that is more than standard. Students are active participants in their education and take ownership of their graduation requirements upon entering 9th grade by choosing a college or career pathway. Students who earn a high school diploma from an accredited school not only provides college or university acceptance, it represents that the student is supported by a validating system of research based standards and evidence based criteria have been met. The policies, practices, programs and learning conditions ensure that the needs of every learner are being met so that academic success is possible. 

Students that have graduated from On Track School with a high school diploma have made the decision to continue their secondary education enrolling in colleges, universities, medical school, and trade schools. Our graduates have achieved success in the following capacities; community service, military service men and women, medical personnel and doctors, as successful entrepreneurs, professional athletes and aviators. At On Track School we have enrolled highly successful adults who have never completed the requirements to earn their high school diploma and witnessed the sense of accomplishment that a GED could never provide. Imagine not needing yet wanting to earn a high school diploma years later just because you didn’t. Jeff Emig, professional Supercross and Motocross Champion did that at age 50 at an Amateur National held at Loretta Lynn’s Dude Ranch and continues to be an inspirational mentor to our community. 

Earning a high school diploma demonstrates a commitment to establishing a work ethic that will continue to contribute towards success in future endeavors whether it be continuing education or a successful career.  Achieving academic success is more than a piece of paper, it is a journey that lays a solid foundation of commitment that a certificate does not achieve. Although a GED can allow entrance to most colleges, it is not perceived in the same regard as a high school diploma in comparison and does not hold the same weight and has proven to limit future options for students. It is acknowledged that earning a high school diploma takes more determination and perseverance which is something that lasts a lifetime as it solidifies the affirmation of achievement and the groundwork for future success.