OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Washington state’s high school graduation requirements could soon look a lot different.

The State Board of Education has approved a proposal headed to lawmakers in 2027 that would give students more flexibility in how they meet graduation requirements.

Called FutureReady, the board approved the program’s framework in mid-August, with passing on the proposed legislation at their most recent meeting.

The plan would put greater emphasis on financial education and life skills, along with technology and media literacy. It would also expand career and technical education opportunities.

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal initially proposed adding the year-long program that would combine the existing semester-long civics requirement with another course in financial literacy and postsecondary readiness.

The board is also considering rule changes to strengthen math requirements, expand personalized learning options and create additional pathways toward graduation.

Board officials say the goal is to better prepare students for college, careers and life after high school.

In July, Gov. Bob Ferguson also announced he would be asking the state legislation to create a new requirement for students to make a decision on financial aid requests in order to graduate.

In a press conference at the time, the governor said his proposal requiring graduating seniors to either opt-out or complete FAFSA registration will be requested in the upcoming legislative session.

Adam Rideout Redeker contributed to this report.