High school seniors across the valley are facing a harsh reality: Pass a state test or don't graduate.
The High School Proficiency Exam requires seniors to meet a minimum score in math, science, reading and writing.
SAMPLE QUESTIONS FOR THE SCIENCE PORTION
Amonne Brown is a student-athlete at Sierra Vista High School, with over a 2.5 GPA, and one of many at his school that have not yet passed the test.
According to Brown's mother, Shontell Clay, their principal says at least 20 percent of seniors at Sierra Vista High School haven't yet passed the test, and won't be able to walk in the first graduation ceremony.
"They've worked hard, and what is it for if not to graduate high school?" asks Clay.
In the past, students with as high of a GPA as 3.8 haven't passed the test, and missed their ceremony.
The state has already made moves to change the controversial test. The current class of seniors, class of 2016, is the last graduating class that will be required by the state to pass the high school proficiency exam. Starting next year, students will take an end of course exam.
Students who have not yet passed are able to take the test six times. The next available testing date is in June. If students are then able to pass the test, they can graduate in a separate ceremony in August.
District officials wouldn't release numbers on how many students haven't yet passed the test.
