The District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) mission is to ensure that students reach their full potential through rigorous and joyful learning experiences provided in a nurturing environment. This policy conveys DCPS requirements on high school graduation, including academic requirements and community service requirements; graduation planning; notification of graduation status; commencement activities, including diplomas, participation in graduation exercises, and honors designations; and special considerations, including specialized high school diplomas, high school achievement certificates, children of members in the military, and posthumous diplomas.