One state is facing backlash as officials move forward with plans to stop awarding diplomas to special education students who do not complete minimum academic requirements.

The New York Board of Regents is just one step away from eliminating the so-called “IEP diploma,” a certification typically offered to students with disabilities who complete their individualized education program, or IEP, but do not fulfill the requirements for a regular high school diploma.

In its place, New York officials want students to receive a new honor dubbed “skills and achievement commencement credentials.” The reason: they say offering anything with the word “diploma” in it to students who have not completed all of the typically required coursework is misleading.

The move has some parents and student advocates up in arms, however. They argue that changing the distinction’s name could compromise job opportunities for individuals with disabilities since many employers require a diploma, but don’t specify what kind.

If given final approval, the change would take effect for the 2013-2014 school year, reports Newsday. To read more click here.