Successful implementation of a graduation portfolio system requires support from school/district policies and school structures. A portfolio culture will require a new set of skills for students and teachers. Your school will have to develop a plan to change your system, which includes issues of time, space, personnel, professional development, and in many schools, technology. As you design your graduation portfolio system, review current policies and structures and plan for changes or additional support structures for the development, implementation, and maintenance of your diploma system and School-Wide Diploma Assessment. Careful review and planning can minimize the number of new support structures that are needed.

It is important to consider all aspects of the school as they pertain to teaching and learning for both the students and the adults in the school community. Support services must be provided for students needing additional help with the work required to successfully complete a graduation portfolio. It is also important to remember that parents and school committee members are good sources of support for school initiatives. Develop a good communication plan early in the planning process to keep critical partners and community members informed and involved as the graduation portfolio plan develops and is implemented.

Graduation portfolios will affect many systems within the school. Without identifying necessary school support structures and procuring the necessary fiscal and community support it will be very difficult to implement a graduation portfolio system. Early and ongoing communication with the school committee, parents, and other partners is essential. Every effort should also be made to involve the entire faculty and student support personnel in planning and implementing graduation portfolio assessments.