Local Veteran First in State to Get High School Diploma Under New Law

(KNSI) — A former student at St. Cloud Tech High School has become the first Minnesota veteran to receive a high school diploma under a new state law honoring veterans who never had the chance to finish school because of their service.

The law, which took effect August 1st, requires school districts and charter schools to issue a high school diploma, upon request, to Korean Conflict and Vietnam War veterans who were unable to complete high school. Veterans can request a diploma themselves, and family members can request one on their behalf.

The measure passed both the House and Senate with no votes in opposition. St. Cloud Senator Aric Putnam, Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Veterans, credits DFL Senator Steve Cwodzinski of Eden Prairie, who chairs the Education Policy Committee, and Republican Senator Jordan Rasmusson of Fergus Falls as critical voices in moving the bill into law.

The family has asked to remain anonymous, so no details about the veteran’s service are being shared.

Veterans and families interested in requesting a diploma can contact their local school district. The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and county veteran service officers can help verify discharge paperwork.

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