Picture by David Lehman. Tivy High School Graphic Design Department

Transcription

1 Picture by David Lehman Tivy High School Graphic Design Department

2 Welcome To Tivy High School Dear Students and Parents, Tivy High School has a tradition of offering outstanding academic courses, athletic programs, and extracurricular activities. This tradition of excellence, leads us to seek offerings that prepare our students to successfully reach their post-secondary goals college, work-force, and beyond. The purpose of this course catalog is to provide a brief description of every course offered at Tivy High School so students can make informed choices. We ask that you familiarize yourself with the entire course catalog, including general information and graduation requirements, to ensure that you are aware of all of the opportunities available. Each decision you make now will affect the options you have later. Challenge yourself fully and develop a plan that will prepare you for success after high school. In addition to reviewing all of the information, talk to your parents, teachers, counselors, school administrators, and make plans to attend our Course Fair. Course selections determine how the master schedule is developed. The choices you make are extremely important to the planning of our school year. Effort will be made to schedule you with your course choices, though some conflicts are unavoidable. The faculty and staff at Tivy High School are here to support the success of every student. We encourage you to challenge yourself both in academic selections and in your investment in extracurricular and co-curricular activities. Research shows that students who are involved in one or more extracurricular activities stay engaged and are generally more successful in school. As you progress through your four years at Tivy High School, take advantage of all the opportunities offered, challenge yourself, and know that the staff is here to help you prepare for future success. TFND! Jarrett Jachade Principal 2

3 Contact Information Tivy High School 3250 Loop 534, Kerrville, Texas Jarrett Jachade, Principal Administration Chris Cook, Assistant Principal ext Leah Flores, Assistant Principal ext Stan Whittle, Assistant Principal ext Keely Vanacker, Dean of Curriculum ext Office Support Pilar Gregory, Principal's Secretary ext.3515 Tammy Wren, Assistant Principal s Secretary ext tammy.wren@kerrvilleisd.net Tara Schlunegger, Attendance ext tara.schlunegger@kerrvilleisd.net Bessie Fifer, Receptionist ext bessie.fifer@kerrvilleisd.net Diagnostician Sherri Cox ext sherri.cox@kerrvilleisd.net Counselors Missy Davis (A-E) ext missy.davis@kerrvilleisd.net John Milner (F-Le) ext john.milner@kerrvilleisd.net Kendall Young (Li-Re) Lead Counselor ext kendall.young@kerrvilleisd.net Micaela Perez (Rh-Z) ext micaela.perez@kerrvilleisd.net Counseling Support Lyslee Cook, College and Career Center ext lyslee.cook@kerrvilleisd.net Ashley Van Hoozer, Secretary ext ashley.vanhoozer@kerrvilleisd.net Registrar Carol Griffin ext carol.griffin@kerrvilleisd.net Campus Testing Coordinator Shirley Leifeste ext shirley.leifeste@kerrvilleisd.net Athletic Office David Jones, Athletic Director ext david.jones@kerrvilleisd.net Gail Howard, Secretary ext gail.howard@kerrvilleisd.net Kerrville Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, age or national origin in ins educational programs, activities, or employment as required by Title IX, Section 504 and Title VI. Courses described in the booklet will not be taught if enrollment is insufficient. Course approval is necessary for any course taken outside of Tivy High School. Tivy High School is fully accredited by TEA 3

4 Table of Contents Graduation Requirements Class of Graduation Requirements Class of 2015, 2016, Distinguished Graduation Advanced Measures 7 State Assessments 8 General Information.. 9 Scheduling 9 Award of Credit 10 Alternate Forms of Credit 11 Advanced Coursework Advanced Level Course Agreement 16 Rank and GPA Tivy Career and Technology Pathways Career and Technology Certifications 19 Career and Technology Course Descriptions 20 Agriculture, food and Natural Resources 20 Architecture and Construction 21 Audio/Visual Technology 22 Business Management and Administration 23 Marketing 24 Information Technology 24 Health Science Technology 25 Hospitality and Tourism 25 Human Services 26 Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics 27 Career Preparation 27 Electives 28 AFJROTC 28 Physical Education, Health and Athletics Fine Arts Art 31 Dance 32 Band Orchestra 33 Choir Theatre 35 English Language Arts Electives 39 Social Studies Electives Other Electives 52 Core Course Offerings.. 36 English Language Arts Mathematics Science Social Studies World Languages Special Programs

5 Graduation Requirements Freshman Class of 2018 and beyond. In the summer of 2013, the Texas State Legislature approved HB5 which changed the requirements for graduation in the state of Texas. The State Board of Education rules and polices regarding HB5 have not yet been adopted. Information regarding the Foundations graduation plan and the endorsements will be amended in the latter part of the 2014 spring semester. Foundations English Math Science Social Studies Other: (4) Credits (3) Credits (3) Credits (3) Credits English I Algebra I Biology World History or World Geography Physical Education (1) credit English II Geometry Lab Science US History World Language (2) Credits English III MMA or Algebra II Lab Science Government/ Economics Fine Art (1) Credit English IV or other Endorsements Students must complete an additional math credit (including Algebra II), additional science credit and the required courses and sequences for an endorsement. Current endorsements: Arts and Business and Public Service Science, technol- Multidisciplinary Humanities Industry ogy, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) 5

6 Graduation Requirements Graduation classes of 2015, 2016, 2017 Discipline English Language Arts Mathematics Science Social Studies Recommended High School Program (Includes Advanced Courses) Four credits: English I, II, III, and IV. Four credits: Three of the credits must be Alg. I, Alg. II, and Geometry. The fourth credit may be selected from the following: Mathematical Models with Applications prior to Algebra II The fourth credit may be selected from the following after successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II: Pre-calculus Independent Study in Mathematics Advanced Placement Statistics Advanced Placement Calculus Advanced Quantitative Reasoning Four credits: Three of the credits must consist of a biology credit (Biology, AP Biology), a chemistry credit (Chemistry, AP Chemistry), and a physics credit (Physics, AP Physics). The additional credit may be Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) and must be successfully completed prior to chemistry and physics. The fourth credit may be selected from the following laboratorybased courses: Environmental Systems Advanced Placement Biology Advanced Placement Chemistry Advanced Placement Physics Advanced Placement Environmental Science Anatomy and Physiology of Human Systems Scientific Research and Design Four credits must consist of: World History Studies World Geography Studies U.S. History Studies Since Reconstruction U.S. Government (one-half credit) Economics with Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and its Benefits (one-half credit) **Distinguished Achievement Program Same as RHSP Four credits: Three of the credits must be Alg. I, Alg. II, and Geometry. The fourth credit may be selected from the following: Pre-calculus Independent Study in Mathematics Advanced Placement Statistics Advanced Placement Calculus Advanced Quantitative Reasoning Four credits: Three of the credits must consist of a biology credit (Biology, AP Biology), a chemistry credit (Chemistry, AP Chemistry), and a physics credit (Physics, AP Physics), and an additional approved laboratory-based science course. After successful completion of a biology course, a chemistry course, and a physics course, the fourth credit may be selected from the following: Environmental Systems Advanced Placement Biology Advanced Placement Chemistry Advanced Placement Physics Advanced Placement Environmental Science Anatomy and Physiology of Human Systems Scientific Research and Design Same as RHSP 6

7 Languages Other Than English Physical Education Two levels of same language (Two credits) One credit: The credit may be selected from any combination of the following one-half to one credit courses: Foundations of Personal Fitness Physical Education Team or Individual Sports JROTC Drill Team Dance I Cheerleading Marching Band Athletics I-IV Olympic-level participation and/or competition in approved private program Three levels of same language (Three credits) Same as RHSP Speech One-half credit One-half credit Fine Arts One credit: The credit may be selected from the following courses: Art, Level I, II, III, IV Dance, Level I, II, III, IV Music, Level I, II, III, IV Music Theory Theatre, Level I, II, III, IV One credit: The credit may be selected from the following courses: Art, Level I, II, III, IV Dance, Level I, II, III, IV Music, Level I, II, III, IV Theatre, Level I, II, III, IV Elective Courses Five and one-half credits Four and one-half credits Advanced Measures Not required Required. Please see counselors for more details. Total Credits **The Distinguished program requires students to complete Advanced Measures that do not enter into credit-count considerations. ~In addition to completing the curriculum requirements, all students must meet State of Texas assessment requirements for each graduation plan. Students interested in opting into the minimum high school program need to consult counselor and administrator. Minimum Graduation Plan candidates need special permission from committee members and will only be approved under special circumstances. The committee must submit recommendations to Principal for final determination. Advanced Measures The measures must focus on demonstrated student performance at the college or professional level. Student performance on advanced measures must be assessed through an external review process. A student must achieve any combination of four of the following advanced measures. The student may choose from the following options: 1.) Original research/project: Judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is the focus of the project; or Conducted under the direction of mentor(s) and reported to an appropriate audience, and Related to the required curriculum set forth in 19 TAC 74.1 (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills). Original research/projects may not be used for more than two of the four advanced measures. 2.) Test Data where a student receives: a score of three or above on the College Board advanced placement examination; or a score on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) that qualifies the student for recognition as a commended scholar or higher by the College Board and National Merit Scholarship Corporation; as part of the National Hispanic Recognition Program of the College Board or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship Program of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The PSAT/NMSQT score shall count as only one advanced measure regardless of the number of honors received by the student; or 3.) College academic courses, including those taken for dual credit, and advanced technical credit courses, including locally articulated courses, with a grade of 3.0 or higher. The student will be a DAP candidate until all requirements are verified. NOTE: Math Models with Applications may not serve as a math credit and Integrated Physics and Chemistry may not serve as a science credit on the DAP. 7

8 State Assessment Requirements In addition to meeting specific course requirements, students must meet assessment criteria mandated by Texas Law. Students who began 9th grade prior to Students who began 9th grade prior to the school year must demonstrate mastery on all sections of the Exit-Level Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) in grade eleven. Student who do not demonstrate mastery on one or more sections of the Exit-Level TAKS may take the failed section as often as it is given and may be required to take additional academic courses designed to help them improve assessed skills. Students must pass the Exit Level tests to receive a high school diploma. Students who began 9th grade in and beyond Beginning with students who began 9th grade in and thereafter, students will be assessed with End-Of-Course examinations (EOC) in the following subjects: Algebra I Biology English I English II U.S. History The End-of-Course (EOC) assessments measure academic performance in core high school courses and successful mastery of these assessments are tied to high school graduation requirements. Students who fail to meet the required passing score of Level II or above will be provided intensive accelerated instruction and may be required to take additional academic courses designed to improve assessed skills. Students may retake the failed subject EOC as often as it is given. Students must pass each of the five EOC s to receive a high school diploma. 8

9 General Information The purpose of this handbook is to provide information to students and parents regarding the course offerings at Tivy High School. This guide will assist students, parents, and school personnel in planning educational programs that meet the needs and interests of students. Students who may be undecided about their post-secondary plans are not required to choose between preparation for college and preparation for employment. We strongly suggest that students undecided about their path prepare for both. See your counselor, assistant principal, or the course teacher if you need help with your course selections. For information regarding Texas financial aid programs for college, see your school counselor. Scheduling It is important to have alternate courses in mind through the planning process in the event that the course does not fit into your schedule. Once a student schedule is created, the student is expected to follow that schedule. Schedule change requests for the purpose of selecting different teachers or lunch periods will not be granted. Student desire for courses drive our selection process and a minimum number of students must be enrolled in a course in order for that selection to be finalized. Final course offerings are determined by student interest, staffing considerations, and facility needs which might vary year to year. Students are expected to follow a schedule once it has been formulated. A schedule change request requires a teacher and parent signature. Requests to drop an AP/Dual or Pre-AP level course after the third week of school will be denied until the end of the first semester. All requests to drop an advanced course must receive Department Chair, teacher, parent, Dean of Curriculum, and counselor signature. It is the responsibility of the student and parent to see that graduation requirements are met. Contact a school counselor for questions about courses, registration, state-required assessments, and other graduation requirements. Attendance Requirements Poor attendance adversely affects grades. Students who fail to meet state minimum standards for days in class will lose credit for the course even if a passing grade is earned. State law requires that the students must be in attendance for 90% of the days that the course is in session in order to be eligible to receive course credit(s); therefore, students will not be allowed to drop a course after the first ten days of school. Failure to meet attendance requirements may result in a loss of credit. Refer to the Student Handbook for details. 9

10 Award of Credit (s) A 70 or greater is required to earn credit for a course. For full year courses, the two semester grades will be averaged for one final grade. This grade must equal a 70 or higher for a student to receive full credit for the course. Students will be given credit proportionally for each semester grade that is 70 or above. Students who do not achieve a combined average of 70 or greater for both semesters shall be required to repeat the semester(s) failed. Credit recovery is available for some courses during summer school. For courses completed during summer school credit recovery, a student must earn a 70 or greater for every semester failed, regardless of the combined average. Grade Level Classification Student classification is determined by the number of credits accumulated by the end of the preceding year. Changes in grade-level classification shall be made at the beginning of each fall semester. Promotion standards, as established by the individual Education Plan (IEP) or grade-level classification of students eligible for special education shall be determined by the ARD committee. Grade Classification Standards (Recommended and Distinguished Programs) Freshman (9th grade) 0 6 credits Sophomore (10th grade) credits Junior (11th grade) credits Senior (12th grade) credits Grade Classification Standards (Minimum Program requires special Permission) Freshman (9th grade) 0 5 credits Sophomore (10th grade) credits Junior (11th grade) credits Senior (12th grade) credits Minimum Plan 22 credits Recommended Plan 26 credits Distinguished Plan 26 credits High School Credit in Junior High Student who have successfully completed Algebra 1, Art 1, and Spanish 1, or a designated high school level course at the junior high level may receive credit on their high school transcript. Grades earned in junior high will not count towards a student s GPA. Once credit is awarded, students cannot repeat the course for state credit. Middle school students who take a course for high school credit must take the EOC exam related to the course. A middle school student taking an EOC course cannot be denied promotion on the basis of the EOC performance. 10

11 Alternate Forms of Credit Exams For Acceleration Without Prior Instruction A student may earn a credit for an academic subject in which the student has received no prior instruction if the student scores an 80 percent or above on a criterion-referenced examination for the applicable course. Please see the counseling office for an approval form. Exams for acceleration will not count toward a student s GPA or weighted grade average. There is a fee for each exam. Exams for Remediation Credit by exam is available to students who have failed a course with a grade no lower than a 60 and do not wish to repeat the course. A score of a 70 on the exam is required. See your counselor for an approval form. Exams for remediation will not count toward a student s GPA or weighted grade average. There is a fee for each exam. Correspondence Courses Correspondence course are offered through Texas Tech University or the University of Texas. These courses have assignments are online or mailed directly to the students to be completed at home. Work must be completed online or mailed back to the University to be graded. Tests for correspondence courses are monitored by a counselor at Tivy High School and graded by the Texas Tech or UT professor who is assigned to the course. A passing score of 70% is required to receive credit for the on-line or correspondence courses. CAUTION: To be successful in on-line and correspondence courses students must be self-motivated and have good time management skills. Grades for correspondence and credit by exam courses are given by a professor outside of Kerrville ISD. District policy does not allow KISD to award weighted grade points for these non-traditional forms of high school credit. Grades earned will not factor in GPA. Texas Virtual School Network TxVSN The Texas Virtual School Network offers a variety of courses where both student instruction and testing occurs online. Information is available at Students interested in learning more about course offerings through TxVSN should visit their counselor. Grades earned are not factored in GPA. Early Graduation Students who choose to graduate earlier than their expected graduation date, must complete an Early Graduation Plan. Students must have permission from their parent and the campus principal or designee. Students must complete ALL graduation requirements including Texas state assessments required for their graduation cohort. A student wishing to graduate early will not be allowed to walk if all graduation requirements are not met by the day of graduation. Students who graduate early are not eligible for the distinctions of valedictorian or salutatorian. 11

12 Advanced Coursework Tivy High School offers Pre-AP, AP, and Dual Enrollment courses in various disciplines to challenge and meet the needs of GT and college-bound students. These classes have been vertically aligned to ensure that students graduating from Tivy High School will have the academic foundation and skills necessary to succeed on a college or university campus. Additionally, these courses afford students the opportunity to earn college credit hours. Students registering for Pre-AP, AP, and Dual courses are committing to the rigors of the course; therefore, the student and parents are required to sign a course contract which must be completed and turned in to the counseling office before registration is complete and materials for summer assignments are distributed for those courses requiring summer work. Collection of and testing on summer assignments will constitute a major portion of the course s first six weeks grading. Failure to complete the assignments before the beginning of the course will not be accepted as a reason for dropping the course. Students are cautioned to choose their classes carefully and to pay attention to their overall class load and extra-curricular load. Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP Courses) Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) courses are offered in many content areas. These courses offer an enrichment of the regular curriculum taught through a variety of strategies. These strategies foster higher order thinking, critical thinking and problem solving skills. Pre-AP courses are intended to prepare students for Advanced Placement or Dual courses while covering all the required high school Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Any student may enroll in Pre-AP courses; however, when making the decision to take Pre-AP courses, consider the demands of academic and extracurricular involvement. Teachers, counselors and administrators strongly recommend that students and parents conference with the current teacher before making their final decisions. Students who choose to enroll in one of more of the Pre-AP courses must complete an Advanced Level Course Agreement Form and turn in the completed form as directed y the campus. Students enrolled in Pre-AP courses may have a required summer assignment. Pre-AP courses that are part of the required core subjects are used in calculating grade point averages with additional weighted points. Advanced Placement Courses Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered in many content areas. These courses are extremely rigorous as they are college level courses which follow a college curriculum approved by the College Board. Students taking these courses are expected to take the AP tests offered in the spring. These tests have additional fees paid for by the student. The district may provide a reduced fee for these tests when funding is available. Students coring a 3, 4, or 5 on one or more of these tests may earn three or more hours of college credit. Students should (cont ) 12

13 AP Courses cont....consult specific colleges/universities to verify which AP scores and tests are accepted. Any student may enroll in AP courses; however, when making the decision to take AP courses, consider the demands of academic and extracurricular involvement. Students and parents need to make a commitment to accept the rigor of the course as it is described. Parents should decide how much stress can be tolerated by the student and the strength of the student s time management skills. Students who choose to enroll in one or more of the AP courses must complete an Advanced Level Course Agreement form and turn in the completed form as directed by the campus. Students enrolled in AP courses may have a required summer assignment. AP courses that are part of the required core subjects are used in calculating grade point averages with additional weighted points. Current AP Course Offerings: English Language Arts Math Science English III Calculus Chemistry English IV Statistics Biology Environmental Systems Physics Social Studies World Languages Fine Arts World History Spanish Art Portfolio (Studio Art) U.S. History Music Theory Economics Psychology Academic Dual Credit Courses Dual Credit courses are challenging, rigorous, and allow students to earn college credit while in high school. These courses fulfill high school course requirements, appear on the high school transcript, and are used in calculating grade point averages with additional weighted points. These courses are taught by KISD teachers through the Alamo Colleges, usually through San Antonio College (SAC). Dual Credit courses are free of charge to Tivy High School students. Students must be in 11th or 12th grades and may take no more than two Dual Credit (6 hours) courses per semester. Students must agree to follow the Dual Attendance Policy (p.14) and meet Alamo Colleges entrance requirements. (cont.) 13

14 Dual Courses cont. College Credit is awarded through the Alamo Colleges, not through KISD; therefore, the STU- DENT must request that a college transcript be sent to the college/university that the will attend. Acceptance of credit by Texas state colleges and universities is up to the receiving institution. It is the student s responsibility to contact the college/university in regards to acceptance of these credits. Dual Course Entrance Requirements: Apply to the appropriate college in the Alamo Colleges system Take a qualifying exam; Texas Success Initiative, SAT or ACT. Meet the required entrance scores on the qualifying exams. Submit the required documents by the deadline. Students and parents must sign an advanced level course agreement. See the Campus Testing Coordinator or a counselor for more details. Current Dual Course Offerings: U.S. Government Dual GOVT 2305/2306 English IV Dual ENGL 1301/1302 CTE Course; Business Information Management I Dual ITSW 1301/1304 Attendance and Grade Requirements for Dual Courses: For all Dual credit courses, college credit may not be given for more than four absences per semester. Classes missed for school performances or competitions will not count against the student. Students who accumulate five or more absences may not be allowed to make up time for college credit. Students may be withdrawn from college and may not receive college credit for any dual course. If the student is withdrawn from the course after the college s drop date, a student may receive an F for the college course, rather than a W. Students are expected to maintain passing grades to stay enrolled in a dual course for the second semester. If a student receives a failing grade of 75 or below during the first semester, the student will be withdrawn for ALL dual courses, regardless of the grade in the other class. Students may still receive college and high school credit for the course for the first semester only. Students and parents will need to read the syllabi provided by each dual course teacher for more details. 14

15 Co-Enrollment In an agreement with Schreiner University, college courses are available for students in the 12th grade and at least 16 years old. Students must meet college entrance requirements. Courses are limited to the space available and what will fit into the student s high school schedule. Tuition is free for one 3 hour course per semester. These courses are not affiliated with Tivy High School, do not count towards a student s graduation requirements and the student s GPA. Each day a student does not have a class at Schreiner University, the student is required to attend a student service class at Tivy High School. For days a student is scheduled for to attend class, they will be assigned Off-Campus. State and campus attendance requirements must be met. Student s and parents must sign a co-enrollment agreement in order to be considered for acceptance. Contact a school counselor for more information. Planning for College It is important for students to understand that each year of high school will count towards preparing for college, technical school, or post-secondary options. What activities, classes, volunteer projects, clubs, and extra-curricular programs they choose will also impact not only their personal development, but will also provide a picture of the student to colleges or technical schools. Plan a challenging program of classes to take based on the strengths of the student. It is much better to make respectable grades in a challenging course rather than outstanding grades in easy ones. Keep copies of all academic and extra-curricular awards you receive throughout your high school career. Get involved with academic enrichment programs, summer workshops, paid or volunteer work, clubs, and activities or sports that you enjoy. Colleges and technical schools look for evidence of a well rounded student through the application, essay, transcript, letters of recommendation, and interviews. Sophomores and juniors will take the PSAT to assist them in preparing for the SAT. The PSAT results include a personalized study plan that all sophomores and juniors can access to prepare for the SAT. Juniors are encouraged to sign up and take the SAT in the spring of their junior year. Also, all students should utilize the expertise and services of their school counselor. The counselor can assist with all aspects of the college preparation process through offering personality assessments, career investigation tools, college application guidance, scholarship and financial aid exploration, and more. Juniors and seniors should take advantage of opportunities to visit colleges and universities. This is an excellent way to find out more about the campus life, academic programs, and financial aid. These visits are excused and will not count against test exemptions; one day for Juniors and two for Seniors. They can also provide great insight into the right college fit for the student. 15

16 Advanced Level Course Agreement Pre-Advanced Placement/Advanced Placement/Dual Enrollment courses challenge and enrich motivated students to expand their education beyond the typical high school program. Pre-AP coursework develops advanced skills and content background o prepare student for college-level work in Advanced Placement (AP) or Dual Enrollment courses and on the Advanced Placement exams. Success requires the student s commitment to the expectations of the Advanced Level Course Program(s). Students will be expected to: Analyze, synthesize and manipulate knowledge and skills; think critically Budget time effectively and efficiently, develop successful study skills Commit to a daily academic action plan Attend tutoring regularly if needed; come to school early and/or stay late in order to attend tutoring Engage in technology-assisted research and/or communications; increase advanced content area vocabulary; build portfolios, if applicable Utilize community and industry as resources in research projects, if applicable Sign this agreement supporting the Pre-AP/AP/Dual expectations Honor Code: All students will be expected to do their own work and exhibit academic honesty. Students who choose to break the Honor Code will be subjected to grade and disciplinary consequences and possible expulsion from the advanced level course. Test Participation: Students are expected to take the AP Exams at the end of the year for all enrolled AP courses. Students must pay designated AP exam fees not covered by the district. It is critical that students consult their individual college choices for acceptance of AP and Dual credit. Dual Enrollment students will be required to take cumulative semester exams and must earn a grade of 75 to receive a C in a Dual course. Placement Review: The teacher may recommend that a student be changed into a regular class if that student is encountering great difficulty with the rigorous course content. The teacher will expect a positive attitude about scholarship and assignments. Any student request to drop a course after the third week of school will be denied until the end of the firsts semester. All requests must receive Department Chair, teacher, parent, Dean of Curriculum, and counselor signature. Prior to the third week, parent-teacher-counselor communication is required before withdrawing from the course. Students must also have attended tutoring with the teacher on a regular basis. Success requires support from all stakeholders: students, parents, teachers and counselors Student: I agree to organize my time and effort to successfully complete the rigorous work. I have read the course description (s) and agree to the college preparatory or college level requirements of the class(es). I understand that I may need to regularly attend before and/or after-school tutoring. All work submitted will be original and will exhibit academic integrity and honesty. Parent: I understand the rigorous course requirements and agree to help my son/daughter organize study time in support of class assignments and requirements. I will notify the teacher immediately of any concern I have relating to the advanced course(s). I understand that my son/daughter may need to regularly attend tutoring. Teacher(s): The teacher will conduct the course(s) at a college preparatory pace appropriate to the grade level or at a college level for AP/Dual courses as approved by the College Board, Alamo Colleges system and KISD curricula. Students and parents will be notified in a timely fashion if student work and/or assessments are unsatisfactory. The teacher will be available for tutoring. The course(s) listed below are ones to which the student and parent agree to commit. The student may enroll in ay Pre-AP or AP/Dual courses(s) provided the student and parent agree to the commitment on this form. I agree to commit the time and effort required for the rigorous courses. I understand that I may need to attend tutoring on a regular basis. I agree to follow the academic Honor Code. I have carefully considered the time and academic requirements for both academic and extracurricular activities. Student Signature: Parent Signature: Date: Date: 16

17 Rank and Grade Point Average Tivy High School Grading System Assignments, tests, projects, classroom activities, and other instructional activities shall be designed so that the student s performance indicates the level of mastery of the designated District objectives. The student s mastery level shall be a major factor in determining the grade for a subject or course = A = B = C 69 or below = F When letter grades are transferred in, the following conversion table shall be in effect: A+ = 98 B+ = 88 C+ = 79 D+ = 72 F = 60 A = 95 B = 85 C = 77 D = 71 A- = 92 B- = 82 C- = 75 D- = 70 Class Rank Graduating seniors shall be ranked within the graduating class on the basis of weighted grade averages computed for designated high school courses taken during grades 9 12 on completion of the fifth grading period of the second term of grade 12. Class rank shall be computed by adding semester grades on courses in the categories of English, mathematics, science, social studies, and world languages, as identified by TEA, and then dividing by the number of grades earned (GPA). The weights shall be added before the average is computed. The actual non-weighted grade earned shall be posted on the transcript. Grade weights shall be assigned to grades earned in identified courses for purposes of class ranking in accordance with the following scale: Advanced Placement (AP)/Pre-AP +10 Dual Enrollment +10 Regular 0 Courses Excluded from Class Rank and GPA Grades earned through correspondence, summer school, co-enrollment courses, TxVSN, credit by examination, and middle school will not be included in class rank. Advanced level elective courses are not weighted because they are not used to calculate GPA. Courses awarded to a transfer student by their previous school will be presented to a committee for final determination a committee will evaluate sufficient information regarding the transferred coursework to determine that the curriculum and rigor are aligned with District standards. (cont.) 17

18 Class Rank and GPA Cont. The District committee will determine that applying additional points is appropriate through the audit process. Courses that are modified by the student s ARD committee where the required content of the TEKS are reflected in the IEP shall not earn the same number of grade points as on-level courses. Rank as it Applies for Early Graduates A student s weighted class rank will be determined within the graduation class of the school year in which the student completes all requirements for a diploma, regardless of the number of years the student is enrolled in high school. Early graduates will be eligible for honors recognition, but not for valedictorian or salutatorian distinctions. Grade Point Average (GPA) GPA is the numerical average of all core English, math, science, social studies and world language courses, as identified by TEA, taken during the school year. As with rank, grades earned through correspondence, summer school, credit by examination, TxVSN, and middle school will not be included in the GPA. The GPA will be reported on the final transcript. Valedictorian and Salutatorian To be chosen as valedictorian or salutatorian, a student shall have: 1. The highest grade point average based on identified courses to be valedictorian. 2. The second highest grade point average based on identified courses to be salutatorian. 3. Been continuously enrolled in the District for at least two school years prior to graduation and must be enrolled at the time of graduation. Early graduates will be assigned class rank but will not be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian honors. If a tie remains after calculation of weighted grade average to the fourth decimal point, the students with identical class rank shall share the honor. Transcripts According to the Texas Education Agency, an official copy of a transcript must be sent directly from one institution to another. It cannot be placed in the hands of a student, student s parent, or guardian. Official and unofficial copies of transcripts are available from the Registrar. 18

19 Career and Technology Education As students plan for their futures, they should consider which career pathway or cluster they wish to explore while in high school. Texas Education Agency through the Achieve Texas program recommends the following career clusters for students to pick from as a career path that will lead to post-secondary decisions. Kerrville ISD offers CTE courses in the following clusters: Agriculture, Food and Architecture and Audio/Visual Technology Business Management and Natural Resources Construction and Communication Administration Health Science Hospitality and Tourism Human Services Information Technology Finance Marketing Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Certifications Career and Technology Cluster Hospitality and Tourism Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Architecture and Construction Information Technology Human Services Business Management and Administration/ Finance Course Available Culinary Arts Wildlife Floral Design Construction Tech Computer Maintenance and Computer Technician Cosmetology Business Information Management I and II Certification Offered ServSafe Hunter Safety Floral Design Certification OSHA safety certificate is possible TestOut PC Pro Certification Students are prepared for the A+ certification exam. Cosmetology Microsoft Office Specialist Certifications for Word, PowerPoint, Excel Health Science Health Science Practicum Certified Nurses Aide Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Auto Technology II Automotive Service Excellence 19

20 Career and Technology Course Descriptions AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND NATURAL RESOURCES PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD AND NATURAL RE- SOURCES /2 Grades: 9 11 This is a prerequisite course that enhances the agricultural comprehension of young adults. This course includes agricultural career development, leadership, communications and personal finances. Students are introduced to an overview of soil and plants, animals, and agricultural construction. SMALL ANIMAL MANAGEMENT /2 Prerequisites: Principles of Agriculture Grades: 9 11 Students will focus on working in small animal industry, animal rights and welfare, career opportunity in small animal care. This course is recommended for those that have an interest in the Veterinary Science field. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS IN AGRIBUSINESS /2 Grades: 9 12 This course focuses on leadership, communication, and problem solving as it relates to agribusiness. In this course, students will identify and research current agribusiness issues and examine the effects of urbanization on traditional agriculture. WILDLIFE, FISHERIES AND ECOLOGY MANAGEMENT /2 Prerequisites: Principles of Agriculture Grades: 9 12 Students will examine the importance of wildlife and outdoor recreation with emphasis on using wildlife and natural resources. Students will also examine the management of game and non game wildlife species, fish, and aqua crops and their ecological needs. Hunter Certification Offered LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION /2 Prerequisites: Principles of Agriculture Grades: This course introduces students to common veterinary skills and procedures used on livestock, anatomy of livestock, genetics and reproduction, and diseases that can affect all livestock animals. This course is recommended for those that have an interest in the Veterinary Science field. Animal species to be addressed in this course may include, but are not limited to, beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, goats, and poultry. AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS AND METAL TECHNOLOGIES /2 Prerequisites: Principles of Agriculture Grades: This exploratory course introduces students to agricultural mechanics with emphasis on basic theory and technical skill development. The course develops and understanding of tool operations, electrical wiring, plumbing, carpentry, and metal working techniques. AGRICULTURAL FACILITIES DESIGN AND FABRICATION Prerequisites: Agricultural Mechanics and Metal Technologies Grades: This course prepares students for careers in mechanized agriculture and technical systems. Students will attain knowledge and skills related to agricultural facilities design and fabrication. Students explore career opportunities, entry requirements, and industry expectations. PRINCIPLES AND ELEMENTS OF FLORAL DESIGN (Fine Arts Credit) Grades: Students will learn the basic techniques of floral design. This class is project based with many large and small projects used to evaluate the progress of the student. Students are expected to create projects and hands on activities that involve the techniques required in the floral industry. 20

21 HORTICULTURE SCIENCE /2 Grades: This course will cover topics ranging from plant identification to greenhouse operation. Students will propagate and maintain a variety of plants. This course is designed to develop an understanding of common horticultural management practices as they relate to food and ornamental plant production. LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND TURF GRASS MANAGEMENT /2 Grades: Students will focus on plant identification, selection, care, and maintenance as well as planting, planning and developing a basic landscape. This course focuses on both commercial and residential landscaping. ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION PRINCIPLES OF ARCHITECTURE AND CONSTRUCTION /2 Grades: 9 11 This course provides an overview to the various fields of architecture, interior design, construction science, and construction technology. Achieving proficiency in decision making and problem solving is an essential skill for career planning and lifelong learning. Students use self-knowledge, educational, and career information to set and achieve realistic career and education goals. CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY or 2 Prerequisites: Principles of Architecture Grades: Students acquire knowledge and skills in safety, tool usage, building materials, codes, and framing. The course is organized as a pre-employment shop program for carpentry. Throughout the pre-employment training, the student will be able to use manipulative skills needed for successful completion of jobs in the field of carpentry, apply the related information necessary to assure sound decisions, sound judgment, and proper procedures involved in carpentry, and show desirable attitudes, habits, standards of workmanship, cleanliness, and safety. OSHA certification could be available. ADVANCED CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY Credits: 2 Prerequisites: Construction Technology Grades: In this course, students gain advanced knowledge and skills specific to those needed to enter the work force as carpenters, building maintenance technicians, or supervisors or prepare for a postsecondary degree in construction management, architecture, or engineering. Students build on the knowledge base from Construction Technology and are introduced to exterior and interior finish out skills. INTERIOR DESIGN /2 Prerequisites: Principles of Architecture Grades: This is a technical course that addresses psychological, physiological, and sociological needs of individuals by enhancing the environments in which they live and work. Individuals use knowledge and skills related to interior and exterior environments, construction, and furnishings to make wise consumer decisions, increase productivity, and compete in industry. ADVANCED INTERIOR DESIGN Prerequisites: Interior Design, Geometry (Recommended) Grades: Advanced Interior Design is a technical laboratory course that includes the knowledge of the employability characteristics, principles, processes, technologies,, communication, tools, equipment, and materials related to interior spatial design. 21

22 DESIGN, AUDIO/VISUAL TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATION FASHION DESIGN Grades: This laboratory course focuses on careers in the fashion and textile/apparel industries. Students will be exposed to the apparel production process from design concept to finished product. Course content includes apparel construction, care, and maintenance. ADVANCED FASHION DESIGN Prerequisites: Fashion Design Grades: This course is an extension of Fashion Design for dedicated students. Students will develop an advanced understanding of fashion, with emphasis on design and production. PRINCIPLES OF AUDIO VIDEO AND TECHNOLOGY /2 Grades: 9 10 This course is an introduction to the elements of the video and photo production process, is production tools, their use and aesthetic factors. In addition, this course will focus on using a variety of visual and auditory technology aids for presentations as well as introduce communication techniques. DIGITAL INTERACTIVE MEDIA /2 Grades: 9 12 Students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technologydriven society. GRAPHIC DESIGN AND ILLUSTRATION Prerequisites: Principles of Audio, DIM (Recommended) Grades: This course introduces students to the creative aspect of technology in regards to graphic design and 3D animation. Students will learn and utilize industry software, Adobe Design and Web Premium CS6, to create individual and group projects. Concepts that will be explored range from basic color theory to selecting appropriate storage devices. Students should have a basic knowledge of a computer and operating system prior to enrolling in this course. PRINTING AND IMAGING TECHNOLOGY Prerequisites: Graphic Design and Illustration Grades: Students explore the printing industry with a focus on prepress and desktop publishing. In this course, students will apply information technology applications and combine it with personal information management, , Internet, writing and publishing, presentation, and spreadsheet or database applications for printing and imaging objects. Students will use Adobe Design and Web Premium CS6 AUDIO VIDEO PRODUCTION Prerequisites: Graphic Design and Illustration Grades: Students will develop an understanding of the film industry with a focus on pre-production, production, and postproduction audio and video activities. Student gain the knowledge of industry standard hardware, tools and software including Adobe Premiere Pro CS6. ANIMATION Prerequisites: Graphic Design and Illustration, Printing and Imaging or Audio Video Production Grades: 12 This course integrates text, images and sound to create group and individual multimedia projects utilizing a personal computer. Students will create presentations, stop-motion movies, animated shorts, and a web page using programs such as Microsoft PowerPoint, Movie Maker, Adobe Flash, and Dreamweaver. (cont.) 22