For decades, high school students in New York State were required to pass the Regents examinations in order to graduate.

Under a proposed New York State Education Department plan, the exams would no longer be a requirement to graduate from high school.

Parents have shown mixed reactions to the plan.

The NYSED says the shift is being made to promote equity in education by removing the emphasis on a single test and giving students multiple ways to demonstrate their knowledge in a specific subject.

The change is also meant to support the needs of students with disabilities and English language learners.

Under the new plan, the Regents will remain an option for students, but it would no longer be a requirement to graduate high school.

The state would also do away with separate Regents and local diplomas.

The plan will be presented to the State Board of Regents in November which will have to approve any changes made to high school graduation requirements.