Maine Diploma - Educational Interruption (COVID-19)

Maine education statutes (MRS 20-A §257-A, sub-§1-A) make special provisions to a 4th-year secondary school student who is unable to obtain a locally awarded diploma due to a significant interruption of education resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and civil emergency during the student’s secondary school education history.

Please note: The COVID-19 pandemic-related diploma was initially set to automatically expire on September 1, 2023 but has been extended as a result of LD 873 "An Act to Continue the Department of Education Diploma Program Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic". The pandemic-related diploma program is now set to expire on September 1, 2026.

Maine Department of Education Diploma

It is critical when students experience an educational interruption, that everyone involved with the student is committed to keeping them on a pathway toward graduation.

Occasionally, in spite of everyone’s best collaborative efforts and support, and due to circumstances beyond control, educational interruptions become a barrier to meeting local graduation requirements for a student.

A 4th-year secondary student who is unable to obtain a locally awarded diploma due to the significant interruption of education resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and civil emergency may apply for this diploma if they can provide evidence that they have fulfilled the following core state requirements:

English

• Four (4) years or the equivalent in standards achievement 

Social Studies & History

• Two (2) years or the equivalent in standards achievement, including American history, government, civics, and personal finance. 

Mathematics

• Two (2) years of the equivalent in standards achievement 

Science

• Two (2) years or the equivalent in standards achievement, including one year of laboratory study

Fine Arts

• One (1) year or the equivalent in standard achievement 

If you believe you, or a student in your care, is eligible to receive the Maine Department of Education Diploma you will need to complete the following prior to completing the application below. 

• Determine if you are able to meet the diploma requirements in your local school district. 
• If you are unable to meet the diploma requirements as outlined in your school district, have your transcripts reviewed by a school or district employee. Be sure to note the name and contact information of the individual. The school principal or guidance counselor for example would be able to assist. 
• The school or district employee when reviewing transcripts ensure courses completed meet the minimum requirements under 20-A MRS §4722.
• Have a letter drafted on school/district letterhead by the school or district verifying: 
  • you are unable to meet the diploma requirements in your local school district due to the significant interruption of education resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and civil emergency
  • your transcripts demonstrate meeting the requirements under 20-A MRS §4722 for a Maine Department of Education Diploma 
  • you have completed your 4th-year as a secondary school student

Application for a Maine Department of Education Diploma - Educational Interruption Diploma (COVID-19)