A. In order for a student to be eligible for exemption from the final exam, a 12th grade student would be required to meet the following criteria:

The student must have a cumulative (weighted, if applicable) grade of 92.5% or higher at the end of the course.

The exemption would not be available to students who have any unexcused tardies, absences, or documented referrals to the office in that class. Excused absences are permitted.

Parent permission must be obtained.

A. If a student is eligible for the exemption, they still have the option of taking thefinal exam, but cannot reject the grade once the test is complete.

Administration states that this was a misprint and was not supposed to be in the handbook this year but comparing this rule from last year's handbook, the exemption requirements have been revised. With the revisions, there is proof that this could not be just a "misprint," the board knew this policy was still in the handbook. By saying that we will no longer follow this policy, even though it is printed in the handbook, gives students the impression that it is acceptable to break a contract. Since Talbot County Public Schools are not following the handbook, why should the students follow it? If we are not following ALL policies in the handbook, it seems as if the handbook no longer applies. If administration is going to strictly enforce the dress code, cell phone policies and all other rules stated within the handbook, why is this policy not enforced? In addition, the formal exemption papers were handed out the day before administration made the decision to take this rule away. Parents and students both signed these papers.