Six months from graduation day, students in California's high school Class of 2006 finally know for certain what it takes to graduate.

Students in the Class of 2006 and beyond must pass an exit exam in reading and math to get a diploma.

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell announced Friday that he will not support any "alternative assessments" as a substitute for passing the exam. Instead, he will work to expand continuing education options for students who do not pass the exam but otherwise are on track to graduate.

This is the right stance. The state does a serious disservice by giving diplomas to students who don't have basic reading and writing skills.

O'Connell looked at "alternative assessments" across the nation and found that none guarantees knowledge of the reading and math skills tested in the exit exam. They also undermine the idea of a uniform high school diploma.

Certainly, California has to deal with students who have special issues, such as English learners and special-education students. For example, a student who arrives in California schools in 10th grade not speaking English may need extra time. The same is true for special-education students, particularly those already successfully spending 80 percent of their time in regular instruction.

As O'Connell puts it, "It simply means that their basic education is not complete and they must continue on through our K-12 system, adult education or community colleges to obtain the necessary skills to warrant receipt of a diploma."

O'Connell will present a package of continuing education options to the Legislature. The Class of 2006 - and legislators - should hear O'Connell's words loud and clear: "We will not turn our backs on you," but we will hold you to high standards.

Copyright 2006 -- The Sacramento Bee