The Daily Inter Lake

Beginning with the Class of 2010, all high-school graduates will receive the same standard diplomas - but students who earn additional credits will be recognized by a "merit distinction," the Kalispell school board decided at its regular Tuesday-night board meeting.

A graduation-requirement committee originally proposed a separate, 24-credit merit diploma, which would go into effect in 2010. Students who took six advanced placement or International Baccalaureate classes, two foreign language classes, and extra math, science and social science credits would be eligible for the merit diploma.

The board worried that having a separate diploma for students who went above and beyond the 22-credit graduation minimum gave the impression that one diploma was better than the other. A merit distinction will recognize students' extra work without creating a two-class diploma system.

According to the committee's original proposal, the merit diploma wouldn't be available until the 2010 school year, giving next year's freshman class four years to meet the requirements. Because it's now a merit distinction - an option, not a separate certificate - it can be enacted one year earlier.

Some of this year's ninth-graders will be able to earn the distinction, if they wish.

A separate "career field distinction" will be available in 2009 for students who complete credits related to specific careers.

"That will validate and encourage another group of students," said Callie Langohr, who will serve as Glacier High School's principal next fall.

Board member Bill Sutton was concerned that the Flathead merit distinction has no meaning outside the valley; colleges look at transcripts, not diplomas, and recognize AP and IB classes.

But the distinction will be something students can list on college applications, Langohr said. It will help them compete for the few positions available to incoming students.

"It's so competitive out there," she said. "Our kids are in a tough, tough place."

Also at the meeting:

. The board approved fundraising for athletics by selling advertising space to local businesses.

Some businesses have approached Flathead High School Athletic Director Mark Dennehy about purchasing ads at both high schools. Dennehy made fliers to give to businesses who ask about advertising.

Board member Mary Ruby was the lone dissenter. The district is planning to propose a levy this spring; she worried that taxpayers will not pass the levy if it appears the advertising is supplying the district's financial needs.

. The board approved a bid for a new centralized library system. The current system, in place since 1992, is so old that students don't know how to use it, and maintenance is expensive. The new system, with a base bid of about $44,600, will be in place when school opens in the fall.

. The board approved a one-year 4.225 percent salary increase for tutors for the current school year - the result of negotiations with the Kalispell Tutor Federation.

Reporter Kristi Albertson may be reached at 758-4438 or by e-mail at kalbertson@dailyinterlake.com.