By Associated Press
Frankfort, KY – Kentucky is dropping a state regulation clearing the way for the distinguished Commonwealth Diploma program. State officials say it's become irrelevant to many students' college careers. The program, established about a decade ago as a way to honor high-achieving high school graduates, allowed students to take college-level courses and earn credit by passing a year-end exam. Kentucky Department of Education spokeswoman Lisa Gross says the state board wanted to move in a new direction and start fresh. The new state standards, which are beginning to be implemented, will push all students to become better prepared for college.