District Reminders and Updates~
Credit Reduction
At a recent meeting, the Forest Area School Board approved updates to high school graduation
requirements that will gradually reduce the total number of credits needed to graduate, from 28 to
27 for the Class of 2027, 26 for the Class of 2028, and 25 for the Class of 2029 and beyond. Forest
Area’s previous requirement of 28 credits was the highest among neighboring districts, and these
changes bring the district more in line with regional expectations while also aligning with the
revised school day schedule.
Families should know that these adjustments do not reduce the rigor of a Forest Area education.
Students will continue to complete core coursework in English, math, science, and social studies
and meet all Pennsylvania requirements, including college and career readiness activities, Keystone
Exam expectations and state-approved graduation pathways. The updated structure ensures students
remain well prepared for postsecondary education, training, or the workforce while balancing a
realistic and supportive academic workload.
Class of 2027 = 27 Credits Class of 2028 = 26 Credits Class of 2029 = 25 Credits
School Day Start Time Adjustment
Beginning in the upcoming school year, Forest Area School District will implement a revised daily
schedule, with student arrival time moving from 7:45 a.m. to 8:10 a.m. This adjustment is designed
to better support student readiness for learning while maintaining a full instructional day.
Families can expect additional details regarding transportation schedules and building-specific
routines to be shared prior to the start of the school year. We encourage parents and guardians to
begin planning for this change as we work to ensure a smooth transition for all students.
Starting Fall 2026, the school day start time for students will be 8:10 am.
Changes to School Calendar
Forest Area School District will be transitioning from an hours-based calendar to a days-based
calendar beginning in the upcoming school year. Previously, the district met state requirements
through a minimum number of instructional hours (900 hours for elementary students and 990 hours
for high school students). Moving forward, the district will provide 180 days of instruction for
all students.
This change ensures continued compliance with state requirements while providing greater
consistency and predictability for families when planning around the school year. Additional
details, including the finalized school calendar and key dates, will be shared with families in
advance of the new school year.
In Fall 2026, the Forest Area calendar will have 180 instructional days for all students.
Summer Sports Update
Mandatory varsity golf practice starts August 10
Mandatory volleyball and soccer practices begin August 17
