GRADUATION & CAREER PLANNING GUIDE BUSINESS & INDUSTRY FLOUR BLUFF INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Transcription

1 GRADUATION & CAREER PLANNING GUIDE STEM THE OFFICIAL GRADUATION GUIDE FOR FLOUR BLUFF HIGH SCHOOL Flour Bluff High School Grades 9 & 10 ARTSPUBLICSERVICES HUMANITIES MULTIDISCIPLINARY BUSINESS & INDUSTRY FLOUR BLUFF INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Every Student Is Worth My Best

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS COURSE OFFERING INDEX Board and Administrative Team...7 High School Guidance Counselors...8 Mission and Goals...9 Principal s Letter...10 Nondiscrimination Statement/Intent Statement...11 Foundation High School Program - Overview Foundation High School Program - Endorsements Foundation High School Program - Distinguished Level of Achievement STAAR End of Course Exams...27 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Checklists...28 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Glossary...29 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit University Resources...30 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Workforce Resources...31 Grading Guidelines...32 Quick Facts about Grade Point Averages (GPAs) Grade Weighted Courses and UIL Exempt Courses Grade Classification Requirements...38 Credit by Examination Application...39 Texas Virtual School Network University Preparatory High School Program...42 Pre-Advanced Placement and Advanced Placement Coursework...43 Dual Credit Del Mar College West Campus Information...46 Articulated Credit...47 Craft Training Center of the Coastal Bend...48 Dual Credit and Articulated Courses Curriculum for National Honor Society Members...54 SAIL (Gifted and Talented Program) Information Schedule Change Regulations...57 Course Descriptions Local Credit Courses Courses by Endorsement Areas Special Programs Resources for High School and Beyond Financial Aid Websites Texas Grant FBHS Clubs and Organizations Public Notices NOTE: This Graduation and Career Planning Guide is subject to change based on updates and changes to law or policy from TEA and the FBISD Board of Trustees. 1

3 Course Offering Index Accounting Accounting Technician (Dual Credit) Advanced Animal Science Advanced Architectural Design Advanced Automotive Technology (Dual Credit) Advanced Broadcast Journalism...64 Advanced Fashion Design Advanced Mathematical Decision Making...72 Advanced Robotics Advanced Welding Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)...65 Aerobic Activities...89 Aerospace Engineering Air Conditioning/HVAC (Dual Credit) Aircraft Technology (Dual Credit) Algebra I...71 Algebra II...72 American Sign Language...67 Anatomy & Physiology...80, 119 Applied Music (Dual Credit)...99 Aquatic Science...80 Architectural Design (Dual Credit) Art...94 Athletic Trainer...89 Athletics...89 Auto Body (Dual Credit) Automotive Technology (Dual Credit) Avionics Electronics Technology Specialty (Dual Credit) Band Color Guard...98 Band Biology...77 Biotechnology (Dual Credit) Building Maintenance (Dual Credit) Business Information Management...101, 108 Calculus...73 Career Preparation I-II Cheerleading...89 Chemistry Child Care/Early Childhood Administrator (Dual Credit) Child Development/Early Childhood (Dual Credit) Child Development Child Guidance Choir Civil Engineering and Architecture

4 Course Offering Index, cont d College Algebra (Dual Credit)...74 College Preparatory English...62 College Preparatory Mathematics...74 Community Based Instruction V-VIII...87 Computer Aided Drafting (Dual Credit) Computer Network Electronic Technology (Dual Credit) Computer Science Computer Science and Software Engineering Computer Systems Maintenance (Dual Credit) Conversational Spanish for Heritage Speakers...68 Cosmetology (Dual Credit) Creative Writing...64 Culinary Arts (Dual Credit) Deaf Culture (Dual Credit)...67 Deaf Studies/Sign Language Interpreter (Dual Credit) Debate...65 Diesel Engine or Diesel Systems Specialist (Dual Credit) Digital Art & Animation...95, 102 Digital Communications in the 21 st Century Digital Electronics Dollars & Sense Drill Team...89 Earth & Space Science Economics...86 Electronics Elementary Statistical Methods (Dual Credit)...74 Engineering Engineering Design and Development English English as a Second Language...62 Entrepreneurship Environmental Science...81 Environmental Systems...80 Fashion Design Fine Arts Fire Science/Safety (Dual Credit) Foreign Languages Foundations of Personal Fitness...89 Functional Academics Personal Living Skills V-VIII...81 Fundamentals of Music (Dual Credit)...99 Geographic Information Systems Geometry...71 Government

5 Course Offering Index, cont d Health Science Health...91 Human Geography...84 Human Services (Dual Credit) Humanities...65 Independent Studies: Foundations for College Algebra...73 Individual Sports...89 Industrial Machining (Dual Credit) Instructional Practices in Education and Training Integrated Physics and Chemistry...78 Integrated Software Applications (Dual Credit) Interactive Game Technology and Simulation (Dual Credit) Interpersonal Studies Introduction to Clinical Laboratory Science (Dual Credit) Introduction to Engineering Design Introduction to Mobile Application Development (Dual Credit) Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers I (Dual Credit) Introduction to Robotics...102, 126 Introduction to the Interpreting Profession (Dual Credit)...67 Introduction to the Deaf Community (Dual Credit)...67 Journalism Law Enforcement (Dual Credit) Lifetime Fitness and Wellness (Dual Credit) Lifetime Nutrition and Wellness Livestock Production Marching Band...90 Math Models with Applications...71 Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources...72, 106 Mathematics Medical Laboratory Technician (Dual Credit) Medical Terminology Money Matters Music Appreciation (Dual Credit)...99 Music Instrumental Ensemble Networking Technology: CISCO (Dual Credit) Newspaper...64 NJROTC...90 Non-Destructive Testing (Dual Credit) Occupational Preparation I-IV...91 Occupational Safety & Health (Dual Credit) Occupational Therapy (Dual Credit) Office Practice Classes PAL Peer Assistance and Leadership

6 Course Offering Index, cont d Pharmacy Technician (Dual Credit) Phlebotomy Photography (Dual Credit)...99 Photojournalism...65 Physical Education Physical Therapy (Dual Credit) Physics...79 Pipe Drafting Technology (Dual Credit) Pipefitting Practicum in Culinary Arts (Dual Credit) Practicum in Education & Training I-II Practicum in Health Science for Emergency Medical Technician-Basic (Dual Credit) Practicum in Health Science Precision Metal Manufacturing Pre-Calculus...73 Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Principles of Business, Marketing & Finance...108, 114 Principles of Education and Training Principles of Engineering Principles of Health Science Principles of Human Services Principles of Information Technology...102, 111 Principles of Technology...80, 126 Process Technology (Dual Credit) Professional Communications (Speech)...64 Professional Truck Driver (Dual Credit) Programming I (Dual Credit) Psychology Raster Based Geographic Information Systems Reading...64 Recreation & Leisure Research & Technical Writing Retailing and E-tailing Science Scientific Research and Design...81 Small Business Management (Dual Credit) Social Studies Sociology...87 Sound Recording Business (Dual Credit) Spanish Spatial Technology & Remote Sensing Statistical Methods and Probability (Dual Credit)...74 Statistics and Risk Management with Accounting I...74 Statistics

7 Course Offering Index, cont d Strategic Learning for High School Mathematics...73 Surgical Technology (Dual Credit) Technical Drafting (Dual Credit) Technical Theatre Technology Applications Teen Leadership Theatre Arts Theatre Arts Acting I (Dual Credit)...97 Theatre Practicum Rehearsal and Performance (Dual Credit)...97 Theatre Production I...96 US History Visual/Gestural Communication (Dual Credit)...67 Vocational Nurse Education-LVN (Dual Credit) Vocational Experience I-VIII...91 Web Design Welding (Craft Training Center and Dual Credit) World Geography World History Yearbook

8 FLOUR BLUFF INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT Board of Trustees Richard Pittman, President Steve Ellis, Vice-President Shirley Thornton, Secretary Brian Grunberg Michael Morgan Dr. Jim Needham Dan Suckley Administration Joe Kelley, Superintendent Dr. Alicia Needham, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Brian Schuss, Assistant Superintendent for Business Management Cheryl Cannon, Director of Instruction Dr. Linda Barganski, Director of Special Programs Julie Johnson, Director of Special Education James Crenshaw, High School Principal Pam Pailes, Dean of Student Services Dr. Allison Schaum, University Preparatory High School Program Director Tracy Erickson, Curriculum Supervisor Darryl Smith, Academic Intervention & Assessment Supervisor Ron Fisher, Director of Security James Potts, Assistant Principal Bobby Jones, Assistant Principal Brodie Wallace, Assistant Principal Ann Helms, Student Development and Guidance Center Director 7

9 High School Guidance Counselors Allison Gaye Chachere, A-Er Melissa Doyle, Es-Ll Tina Watson, Lo-Ra George (Chip) Johnston, Re-Z Molly Parker, High School Military Connected Counselor Karen Hancock, Special Education Counselor

10 Flour Bluff Independent School District MISSION STATEMENT Flour Bluff Independent School District in partnership with the community has high expectations for all students and is committed to: Building a solid foundation for college, career and lifelong success through academic, extracurricular and special programs. Providing a safe, caring, effective learning environment that promotes healthy, productive life-styles. Developing character that fosters responsible citizenship and leadership. Enhancing our relationship with the community while providing fiscal responsibility. Supporting effective educational innovation. GOALS Flour Bluff Independent School District: Empower students to be creative, independent, analytical thinkers and lifelong learners who exercise a strong work ethic, resulting in exemplary performance. Provide all students, faculty, staff and community members the opportunity to maximize their potential in a safe, healthy, supportive learning environment. Create a culture of excellence to attract and maintain a highly qualified, motivated faculty and staff. Engage parents as active partners in developing well-rounded students who are strong leaders and responsible citizens. Partner with industry and community in a mutually beneficial manner to enhance our students educational experiences and opportunities. Continue to be a good steward of the community s financial resources and explore new opportunities for organizational efficiency and effectiveness. 9

11 Flour Bluff High School 2505 Waldron Road Corpus Christi, Texas January 2015 Dear Students: It is a great pleasure to welcome you to the high school on behalf of the entire staff. You are entering one of the most important phases of your education and with the help of your parents and counselor, you are going to make some decisions that will impact the rest of your life. Inside this guide, you will find valuable information that will guide you in making those decisions. The courses you decide to take now can open or close many doors to you. It is important that you take the time to read and understand the information in this booklet so that you are able to make wise choices. If at any time you need help, a guidance counselor will be available to assist you. This guide includes a list of all of the courses available at the high school, along with a written description of each class. You will also note that there are different graduation plans available. The harder you work and the higher your graduation plan, the more doors will be opened to you as an adult. Please be sure you take the time to plan your schedule carefully, as there will be few schedule changes once everyone has registered for classes and schedules are printed. Just as in college, if there are not enough students to make a class, it will be cancelled for that semester or year. When a class is full, it will be closed. It is important that you make a well-thought-out plan to follow the first time. There are several special programs in which a student can participate while in high school. To be considered for these programs, students must complete an application and meet the deadlines for submission of the application. Please take the time to read about these programs, and contact your counselor if further information is needed. Congratulations for taking this important step in planning your future. We look forward to having you as a student in Best wishes, James Crenshaw Principal 10

12 Assurance of Nondiscrimination Flour Bluff Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, age, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education or access to benefits of educational services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Flour Bluff Independent School District will take steps to assure that limited English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and career and technology education programs. For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator, Dr. Alicia Needham, at 2505 Waldron Road, Corpus Christi, Texas (361) ; Career and Technology Education contact, Dr. Linda Barganski, (361) ; the Section 504 Coordinator, Cheryl Cannon (361) ; or English as a Second Language Program Coordinator, Dr. Linda Barganski, at (361) It is the policy of Flour Bluff Independent School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Es norma de Flour Bluff Independent School District no discriminar por motivos de raza, color, origen national, sexo o impedimento, en sus programas, servicios o activades vocacionales, tal como lo requieren el Titulo VI de la Ley De Deprechos Civiles de 1964, segun enmienda; el Titulo IX de las Enmiendas en la Educacion, de 1973, segun enmienda. Notification to Parents of Teacher Qualifications As a parent of a student at Flour Bluff High School, you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct your child, and Federal law requires the school district to provide you this information in a timely manner, if you request it. Specifically, you have the right to request the following information about each of your child s classroom teachers: Whether the teacher meets the state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grades and subjects he or she teaches Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or provisional status because of special circumstances The teacher s college major, whether the teacher has any advanced degrees, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree Whether paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if so, their qualifications If you would like to receive any of this information, please contact the campus principal at Intent of this Guide The provisions and information set forth in this Graduation and Career Planning Guide are intended to be informational and not contractual in nature. The District hereby reserves and retains the right to amend, alter, change, delete, or modify any of the provisions of this guide at any time, from time to time, in any manner that the Administration or the Board of Trustees of the District deems to be in the best interest of the students of this District. The contents of this guide apply to all students and programs in the District and do not amend, abridge, or replace Board policies or administrative regulations established by the District. 11

13 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Texas High School Diploma Steps Distinguished Level of Achievement 22 Credits for the Foundation High School Program Requirements of 1 Endorsement (including 4 th credit of Math and Science and 2 additional electives) STEM Business & Industry Public Service Arts & Humanities Multi- Disciplinary Studies Be sure to visit your school counselor to learn more about your options. Students may earn more than one endorsement. BR

14 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program Overview Foundation High School Program A new, more flexible graduation program that allows students to pursue their interests will be in place for all students who enter high school, beginning in the school year. The program contains up to four parts: A 22-credit foundation program which is the core of the new Texas high school diploma Five endorsement* options that allow students to focus on a related series of courses A higher performance category called Distinguished Level of Achievement Performance Acknowledgments that note outstanding achievement The Foundation requirements (22 credits) include: English (4 credits) English I English II English III An advanced English course Mathematics (3 credits) Algebra I Geometry An advanced math course Science (3 credits) Biology Integrated Physics & Chemistry or an advanced science course An advanced science course Social Studies (3 credits) World History or World Geography U.S. History U.S. Government (one-half credit) Economics (one-half credit) Languages Other Than English (2 credits) 2 credits in the same language or 2 credits from Computer Science I, II, III Physical Education (1 credit) Fine Arts (1 credit) Electives (5 credits) Speech: Demonstrated proficiency Endorsements Total credits with endorsements 26 Enhancements Additionally, a student may earn the Distinguished Level of Achievement and/or a Performance Acknowledgment for outstanding performance. The Distinguished Level of Achievement must be earned to be admitted to a Texas public university under the Top 10 percent automatic admission law. Distinguished Level of Achievement Foundation Program requirements 4 credits in math including Algebra II 4 credits in science at least 1 endorsement Performance Acknowledgments dual credit course bilingualism and biliteracy PSAT, ACT s Plan, SAT or ACT Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exam earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license *A student entering 9th grade must indicate an endorsement he or she plans to follow. A student may change or add an endorsement at any time. A student may graduate without earning an endorsement if, after his or her sophomore year, the student s parent signs a form permitting the student to omit the endorsement requirement. BR

15 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR FOUNDATION PLAN WITH AN ENDORSEMENT* For specific requirements to the Foundation plan, please refer to the information below and to the graduation chart on the pages that follow. This information is subject to change by the Texas Education Agency or the Texas Legislature. ENGLISH Four credits required. Credits must consist of English I, II, III, and an advanced English course. MATH Three credits required. All students must take Algebra I, Geometry and an advanced Math course. Three math credits must be earned at the high school, regardless of math credits earned prior to entering 9 th grade. The additional credit may be selected from the following courses: Algebra II (Course required for Distinguished and eligible for top 10% automatic admission to an Institute of Higher Education) Mathematical Models with Applications Mathematical Applications in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (intended for students pursuing an Agriculture plan of study) Statistics and Risk Management with Accounting I Advanced Mathematical Decision Making PreCalculus Independent Study in Mathematics (Dual Credit & Non-Dual Credit) Dual Credit or Advanced Placement Calculus Dual Credit or Advanced Placement Statistics Dual Credit College Algebra Certain Career and Technical Education Courses SCIENCE Three credits required. Three of the credits must consist of a Biology credit, Integrated Physics and Chemistry and an advanced Science course. The additional science credit can be selected from: Principles of Technology Chemistry Physics Dual Credit or Advanced Placement Biology Dual Credit or Advanced Placement Chemistry Dual Credit or Advanced Placement Physics Anatomy and Physiology or Dual Credit Anatomy and Physiology Aquatic Science Environmental Systems Advanced Placement Environmental Science Earth and Space Science Advanced Animal Science Certain Career and Technical Education Courses SOCIAL STUDIES Three credits required. Credits must consist of World Geography or World History, United States History, U.S. Government and Economics. 14

16 PHYSICAL EDUCATION One credit required. Education equivalencies may fulfill this requirement, i.e. Marching Band (fall semester), NJROTC, Athletics, Athletic Trainer, Cheerleading (fall semester), Drill Team and certain approved outside physical education activities. Marching Band, NJROTC and Cheerleading will only substitute for up to one credit of P.E. See your counselor for details. Physical Education courses are graded on a Pass/Fail basis for students who entered 9 th grade in and after. FINE ARTS One credit required. Students may choose from Art, Theater Arts, Band, Choir, or Digital Art & Animation. TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS required. Students may take Business Information Management I or II, Business Information Management (Dual Credit), Digital Communications in the 21 st Century, Digital Art and Animation, Computer Science, Pre-Advanced Placement Computer Science, Advanced Placement Computer Science, Computer Science and Software Engineering, Principles of Information Technology, Robotics, Web Design or other computer-based courses as approved by the Flour Bluff Independent School Board for Technology Applications credit. Please find course descriptions for additional course options in the Information Technology section. SPEECH One-half credit required. Professional Communications, Dual Credit Professional Communications, or Communication Applications will fulfill the speech requirement for graduation. FOREIGN LANGUAGE Two credits required in the same language. Choices include Spanish, American Sign Language, or Computer Science Programming if completed by ELECTIVES Three and one-half credits required. These courses should be in the area of interest to the student to further establish their career pathway. ENDORSEMENTS Each student is required to declare an endorsement from the following: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Public Service Business and Industry Arts and Humanities Multi-Disciplinary Studies Each of these endorsements requires one additional math course, one additional science course and two electives in the chosen endorsement field. Students should select courses that will advance their career pathways and support obtaining admission to an institute of higher education or a certificate/license to become employable in the workforce. Flour Bluff High School has courses and partnerships in the community to support several different Career Pathways. Additional courses may be required for students to complete their pathway. The following pages outline several of these Career Pathways. 15

17 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Endorsements Choices Endorsements For the first time, students will be able to earn one or more endorsements as part of their graduation requirements. Endorsements consist of a related series of courses that are grouped together by interest or skill set. They provide students with in-depth knowledge of a subject area. Students must select an endorsement* in the ninth grade. Districts and charters are not required to offer all endorsements. If only one endorsement is offered, it must be multi-disciplinary studies. Students earn an endorsement by completing the curriculum requirements for the endorsement, including 4th credit of math and science and 2 additional elective credits. Students can choose from 5 endorsement areas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses related to STEM Mathematics Science Combination of no more than two of the categories listed above Computer Science Business and Industry (one of the following or a combination of areas) Agriculture Food and Natural Resources Architecture and Construction Arts Hospitality and Tourism Technology and Communications Audio/Video Information Technology Business Management and Administration Finance Manufacturing Transportation or Distribution and Logistics Marketing Technology Applications English electives in public speaking, debate, advanced broadcast journalism, advanced journalism including newspaper and yearbook Public Service (one of the following) Human Services Health Science Education and Training Law Public Safety Government and Public Administration Corrections and Security Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Arts and Humanities (one of the following) 2 levels each in two languages other than English (LOTE) 4 levels in the same LOTE Courses from one or two areas (music, theater, art, dance) in fine arts English electives not included in Business and Industry Social Studies American Sign Language (ASL) Multi-Disciplinary Studies (one of the following) 4 advanced courses from other endorsement areas 4 credits in each foundation subject area, including English IV and chemistry and/or physics 4 credits in Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or dual credit selected from English, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, LOTE or fine arts *Visit your school counselor to learn more about your options. Students may earn more than one endorsement. ENDORSEMENTS BR

18 Flour Bluff High School Endorsement Fields STEM Public Service Business and Arts and Multi- (Science, Technology, Industry Humanities Disciplinary Engineering and Math) All Endorsement Fields All Endorsement Fields All Endorsement Fields All Endorsement Fields All STEM Endorsement require a fourth math and require a fourth math and a require a fourth math require a fourth math Fields require Algebra 2, a fourth science. fourth science. and a fourth science. and a fourth science. Chemistry, and Physics. Career Pathways Career Pathways Career Pathways Career Pathways Career Pathways Project Lead the Way (Engineering) 4 credits Engineering (PLTW) Engineering Design and Development must be final course. Computer Programming 4 credits Comp. Science Robotics STEM Combination - 3 credits from Robotics and one of the prior STEM categories. (Ex: Robotics and Comp. Sci., or Robotics and PLTW) Biotechnology 4 credits in Biotechnology and CTE related courses ending with Del Mar College. Mathematics Specialty 5 credits Math Alg. 1, Geom., Alg. 2 and two higher level Science Specialty 5 credits Science Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and two additional sciences (Not IPC) STEM Combination 3 credits additional from a combination of no more than two of the prior STEM categories. (Ex: two PLTW and one Comp. Sci.; Robotics and Comp. Sci.; Robotics and PLTW) Health Science/EMT 4 credits in Health Science and CTE related courses that include any course that is the third level or higher. Del Mar College is available. Child Development 4 credits in Child Development and related CTE courses that include a course that is the third level or higher. Del Mar College is available. Education 4 credits in Education and CTE related courses that include a course that is the third level or higher. NJROTC 4 credits in NJROTC The following Career Pathways require 4 CTE credits related to the specialization ending with courses at Del Mar College: Cosmetology Law Enforcement Firefighter Occupational Safety and Hazard Inspector Medical Laboratory Tech. Surgical Tecchnology Pharmacy Technology Physical Therapy Human Services (Social Services) Vocational Nurse Education (LVN or transition to RN) Digital Art and Tech. 4 credits in Technology Applications (Digital Art and Animation, Digital Communications, Web Design, and another course to be developed). Journalism 4 credits to include Journalism and 3 additional credits from one area (Yearbook, Newspaper, or Debate). The following Career Pathways require 4 credits ending with Del Mar College or Craft Training Center related to the specialization: Air Conditioning Building Maintenance Aviation Technology Automotive Technology Com. Truck Driver Culinary Arts/ Hospitality Kitchen Supervisor Electronics/Electrical Welding Non-Destructive Testing Process Technology Drafting Finance/Business Man. Game Technology Networking Technology (CISCO) Computer Network Technician Industrial Machining Geographic Info. Systems (GIS) The next three Career Pathways require 4 CTE credits related to the specialization that include a course that is the third level or higher: General Business Career Development Must include Career Dev.II. Fashion Design Must include Advanced Fashion Design. 17 Fine Arts 4 credits in Fine Arts from no more than two categories or disciplines (Art, Band, Theatre Art, or Choir). Art Theatre Arts Band Choir Fine Arts 4 credits in Sound Recording Business (music based) and related Fine Art courses that include a course that is the third level or higher (Del Mar College). Social Studies Specialty 5 credits in Social Studies Foreign Language Specialty 4 credits in Foreign Lang. / LOTE (Ex: 4 credits Spanish or 4 credits ASL) OR 2 levels of one LOTE plus 2 levels of another LOTE English Specialty 4 credits in English Language Arts - does not include English 1 3 (Ex: Creative Writing, Research and Technical Writing, Humanities, Comm. Appl., AP Eng. Lit and Comp., Ind. Studies in English, Literary Genres, and/or English 4) Four credits in each of the four foundation / core subjects (generalist) 4 credits in the four core subjects (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) must include English 4 and Chemistry and/or Physics. Four credits in AP or Dual Credit 4 credits in AP or Dual Credit from ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies, Foreign Language, or Fine Arts. Four Advanced Courses in any combination from any of the endorsement areas. The 4 Advanced Courses must prepare for the workforce or postsecondary education without remediation.

19 Arts and Humanities Endorsement * Additional career pathways may be available. See your counselor for details. Art Specialty * (Students must take a total of four advanced art classes) Band Specialty* 1. Art I 2. Art II (choose one or more) A. Drawing B. Painting C. Electronic Media 3. Art III (choose one or more) A. Graphic Design B. Pre-AP Studio Art 1. Band I 2. Band II 3. Band III 4. Band IV 4. Art IV (choose one or more) A. Graphic Design B. AP 2D Art C. AP 3D Art D. AP Art: Drawing Choir Specialty* 1. Choir 1 2. Choir 2 3. Choir 3 4. Choir 4 English Specialty* Foreign Language Specialty* (may include dual credit courses taken at Delmar or TAMU-CC) Social Studies Specialty* Four English elective credits chosen from: 1. English IV 2. Independent Study in English 3. Creative Writing 4. Research and Technical Writing 5. Humanities I 6. Humanities II 7. Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition 8. Communication Applications 9. School district approved Dual Credit English course 1. Four levels of Spanish 2. Four levels of ASL 3. Two levels of Spanish and two levels of ASL (do not have to start 9 th ) Two social studies electives in addition to the required Social Studies courses Acting Pathway Theatre Production Pathway: Technical Theatre Pathway: Theatre Arts Specialty* 1. Theatre Arts 1 2. Theatre Arts 2 3. Theatre Arts 3 4. Theatre Arts 4 5. Theatre Production I OR 1. Theatre Arts 1 2. Theatre Arts 2 3. Technical Theatre 3 4. Technical Theatre 4 5. Theatre Production I OR 1. Theatre Arts 1 2. Technical Theatre 1 3. Technical Theatre 2 4. Technical Theatre 3 5. Technical Theatre 4 18

20 Business and Industry Endorsement * Additional career pathways may be available. See your counselor for details. Aircraft Technology (Avionics) (start 9 th if student didn t take BIM in JH) Automotive Career Development* Culinary Arts* Commercial Truck Driver Digital Art and Technology* (courses may be taken in any sequence) Electronics Fashion Design Journalism* (students must take three years of the same course i.e. 3 years of yearbook) Non-Destructive Testing (Welding, Pipeline, and Aerospace Inspector) Welding* 1. Business Information Management (recommended) 2. Dollars and Sense/Electronics (recommended) 3. Aircraft Technology (Delmar West Campus) 4. Advanced Aircraft Technology (Delmar West Campus) 1. Dollars and Sense/Electronics (recommended) 2. Automotive Technology (Delmar West Campus) 3. Advanced Automotive Technology (Delmar West Campus) 1. Principles of Human Services 2. Principles of Business, Marketing and Finance 3. Career Development I 4. Career Development II 1. Principles of Human Services 2. Lifetime Nutrition and Wellness 3. Culinary Arts I (Delmar West Campus) 4. Practicum in Culinary Arts (Delmar West Campus) 1. Business Information Management 2. Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance; Dollars and Sense 3. Money Matters; Entrepreneurship 4. DC Driver and Safety Education; DC Driver Education 1. Digital Art and Animation (also counts as a fine art) 2. Digital Communications in the 21 st Century 3. Web Design 4. 4 th Course to be developed 1. Electronics 2. Electrical Technology (Delmar West Campus or Craft Training Center) 3. Adv. Electrical Technology (Delmar West Campus or Craft Training Center) 1. Principles of Human Services 2. Dollars and Sense (recommended) 3. Fashion Design 4. Advanced Fashion Design 1. Journalism 2. Yearbook 1 3. Yearbook 2 4. Yearbook 3 OR 1. Journalism 2. Newspaper 1 3. Newspaper 2 4. Newspaper 3 OR 1. Electronics 2. Non-destructive Testing I (Delmar West Campus) 3. Non-destructive Testing II (Delmar West Campus) 1. Journalism 2. Debate 1 3. Debate 2 4. Debate 3 1. Dollars and Sense (recommended) 2. Welding (Delmar West or Craft Training Center) 3. Advanced Welding (Delmar West Campus or Craft Training Center) 4. Pipefitting or Precision Metal Manufacturing (Delmar West or Craft) 19

21 Multi Disciplinary Endorsement * Additional career pathways may be available. See your counselor for details. AP/Dual Credit Four credits in any combination of AP or Dual Credit courses (See College and Career Planning Guide for a list of available courses) Advanced Courses Four advanced courses, not in a coherent sequence, from any combination of endorsements Four by Four* Four courses in each of the four core areas 20

22 Public Service Endorsement * Additional career pathways may be available. See your counselor for details. Child Development* 1. Principles of Human Services 2. Dollars & Sense/Child Development 3. Child Guidance 4. Additional Public Service Course, which could be taken at Delmar as Dual Credit through the Early Childhood Development Program Cosmetology 1. Principles of Human Services 2. Dollars and Sense (recommended) 3. Cosmetology I (Delmar West Campus) 4. Cosmetology II (Delmar West Campus) Education* (students in this sequence take the Child Development Associate certification test) 1. Principles of Human Services 2. Instructional Practices in Education concurrent with Child Development 3. Practicum in Education I 4. Practicum in Education II Firefighter* (start 9 th if student didn t take BIM in JH) 1. Business Information Management 2. Professional Communications/Medical Terminology (recommended) 3. Firefighter I (Delmar West Campus) 4. Firefighter II (Delmar West Campus) Health Science* /EMT* (enrollment in Anatomy and Physiology for 3 rd or 4 th science is recommended) 1. Medical Terminology (recommended) 2. Principles of Health Science 3. Health Science 4. Practicum in Health Science OR 1. Principles of Health Science 2. Health Science 3. Dual Credit Medical Terminology for EMT Students (Fall, FBHS online) 4. Dual Credit EMT (Spring, Delmar West Campus) Law Enforcement* (start 9 th if student didn t take BIM in JH) NJROTC* 1. Business Information Management 2. Professional Communications/Health (recommended) 3. Law Enforcement I (Delmar West Campus) 4. Law Enforcement II (Delmar West Campus) 1. NJROTC I 2. NJROTC II 3. NJROTC III 4. NJROTC IV 21

23 Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Endorsement * Additional career pathways may be available. See your counselor for details. Four or more credits, in sequence, chosen from: Computer Programming* Mathematics Pathway (may need to start 9 th grade, dependent on when the student took Algebra I) Project Lead the Way* (Engineering)(start 9 th grade because not all PLTW classes may be offered every year) 1. Computer Science 1 2. Computer Science 2 (Pa-AP Computer Science) 3. Computer Science 3 4. One or more of the following, in any order: a. AP Computer Science b. Mobile App Development (Online dual credit through Abilene Christian University) c. Game Programming and Design (Online dual credit through Abilene Christian University) Three math credits, including: 1. Algebra II 2. 2 additional math courses for which Algebra II is a pre-requisite 1. Introduction to Engineering (Required) 2. Two or more of the following: a. Principles of Engineering b. Aerospace Engineering c. Digital Electronics d. Civil Engineering e. Computer Science and Software Engineering 3. Engineering Design and Development (Must be final course) Four or more credits, in sequence, to include: Robotics Science Pathway 1. Electronics 2. Introduction to Robotics 3. Advanced Robotics 4. 1 or more programming courses or dual credit programming courses Four science credits, including 1. Chemistry 2. Physics 3. 2 additional science courses 22

24 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Distinguished Level of Achievement Benefits Choices determine options Most of the very best jobs available now and in the future require education and training beyond a high school diploma. Whether you intend to pursue a high-demand, industry workforce credential from a community or technical college or a traditional four-year degree from a university, the choices made in high school will determine your future options. To best prepare yourself now for the transition to post-high school education or quality workforce training, choosing and taking the right classes is essential. The Distinguished Level of Achievement will ensure the best preparation for your future. Why it matters Benefits The Distinguished Level of Achievement opens a world of educational and employment opportunities for you beyond high school. The Distinguished Level of Achievement will: Credential Technical College Allow you to compete for Top 10% automatic admissions eligibility at any Texas public university; Position you among those first in line for a TEXAS Grant* to help pay for university tuition and fees; and Ensure you are a more competitive applicant at the most selective colleges and universities. What it means The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires more math and more science than the Foundation High School Program. The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires: A total of four credits in math, including Algebra II; A total of four credits in science; and Successful completion of an endorsement in your area of interest. *Must be financially qualified Advantages Opportunity to earn an endorsement in an area of interest More college and university options More financial aid options Better preparation for college-level coursework at community/technical colleges and universities Opportunity for immediate enrollment in classes related to your chosen field of study Strong foundation to successfully complete an industry workforce credential or college degree Texas Education Agency Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Texas Workforce Commission TEXAS THE STATE OF TEXAS ED U CATION AGENC Y BR

25 FOUNDATION PLAN WITH AN ENDORSEMENT DISTINGUISHED LEVEL OF ACHIEVEMENT A student may earn a Distinguished Level of Achievement by successfully completing four math credits, which must include Algebra II, four science credits, and the curriculum requirements for the Foundation Plan with an Endorsement. A student must earn the Distinguished Level of Achievement to be eligible for top 10% automatic college admission. PERFORMANCE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS A student may earn a Performance Acknowledgement for outstanding performance in a dual credit course in bilingualism and biliteracy on an AP test or IB exam on the PSAT, the ACT-Aspire, the SAT, or the ACT or, for earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license. Dual Credit Performance Acknowledgement: A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student's diploma and transcript for outstanding performance in a dual credit course by successfully completing: (1) at least 12 hours of college academic courses, including those taken for dual credit as part of the Texas core curriculum, and advanced technical credit courses, including locally articulated courses, with a grade of the equivalent of 3.0 or higher on a scale of 4.0 or (2) an associate degree while in high school Bilingualism and Biliteracy Performance Acknowledgements: A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student's diploma and transcript by demonstrating proficiency in accordance with local school district grading policy in two or more languages by: (1) completing all English language arts requirements and maintaining a minimum grade point average (GPA) of the equivalent of 80 on a scale of 100; and (2) satisfying one of the following: completion of a minimum of three credits in the same language in a language other than English with a minimum GPA of the equivalent of 80 on a scale of 100; or demonstrated proficiency in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Level IV or higher in a language other than English with a minimum GPA of the equivalent of 80 on a scale of 100; or completion of at least three credits in foundation subject area courses in a 24

26 language other than English with a minimum GPA of 80 on a scale of 100; or demonstrated proficiency in one or more languages other than English through one of the following methods: a score of 3 or higher on a College Board AP exam for a language other than English; or a score of 4 or higher on an IB exam for a higher-level languages other than English course; or performance on a national assessment of language proficiency in a language other than English of at least Intermediate High or its equivalent. In addition to meeting the requirements to earn a performance acknowledgment in bilingualism and biliteracy, an English language learner must also have: (A) participated in and met the exit criteria for a bilingual or English as a second language (ESL) program; and (B) scored at the Advanced High level on the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS). Advanced Placement Test or International Baccalaureate Examination: A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student's diploma and transcript for outstanding performance on a College Board advanced placement test or International Baccalaureate examination by earning: (1) a score of 3 or above on a College Board advanced placement examination (2) a score of 4 or above on an International Baccalaureate examination PSAT, ACT-PLAN, SAT or ACT Examination: A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student's diploma and transcript for outstanding performance on the PSAT, the ACT-Aspire, the SAT, or the ACT by: (1) earning 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 (NHRP) of the College Board or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship Program of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (2) achieving the college readiness benchmark score on at least two of the four subject tests on the ACT-Aspire examination (3) earning a combined critical reading and mathematics score of at least 1250 on the SAT ; or (4) earning a composite score on the ACT examination of 28 (excluding the writing subscore) 25

27 Nationally or Internationally Recognized Business or Industry Certification: A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student's diploma and transcript for earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license with: (1) performance on an examination or series of examinations sufficient to obtain a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or (2) performance on an examination sufficient to obtain a government-required credential to practice a profession Nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification shall be defined as an industry validated credential that complies with knowledge and skills standards promulgated by a nationally or internationally recognized business, industry, professional, or government entity representing a particular profession or occupation that is issued by or endorsed by: a national or international business, industry, or professional organization a state agency or other government entity or a state-based industry association Certifications or licensures for performance acknowledgements shall: be age appropriate for high school students represent a student's substantial course of study and/or end-of-program knowledge and skills include an industry recognized examination or series of examinations, an industry validated skill test, or demonstrated proficiency through documented, supervised field experience and represent substantial knowledge and multiple skills needed for successful entry into a high-skill occupation 26

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29 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program Checklists 8 th Grade Review choices offered under the Foundation High School Program and the Endorsements to decide on your future academic path. Select the endorsement that best fits your area of personal interest and the major you plan to study in college. Recognize that most college entrance requirements include rigorous advanced courses including Algebra II, higher-level science courses and languages other than English. 9 th /10 th Grade Monitor high school credits; be sure to meet all local and state requirements by the end of the senior year. Take dual enrollment or Advanced Placement courses if possible to earn college credit while still in high school. Keep list of awards, honors and extracurricular activities for scholarship and college applications. Research colleges or universities you are interested in attending. Check admission and application requirements and timelines. 11 th /12 th Grade Explore interests and take advantage of Career Day opportunities. Attend college nights hosted by your high school. Talk with school representatives about the types of financial aid available. Take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test in your sophomore year for practice. In your junior year, take the PSAT for eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. Students who take the PSAT or ACT s PLAN tend to score higher on the SAT or ACT than those who do not. Take dual enrollment or Advanced Placement courses if possible to earn college credit while you are still in high school. Check with your counselor s office to learn about available scholarships. Be sure to apply early and for as many scholarships as possible. Do not limit yourself to local scholarships. Consider taking SAT/ACT preparation classes. Sign up and take the ACT and/or SAT test, preferably in your junior year but no later than the fall of your senior year. Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early in the spring of your senior year. Apply to college during the fall of your senior year. If you plan to pursue technical training or enter the workforce after graduation, see the Information - Workforce Resources page or visit Texas Reality Check at BR

30 Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program Glossary Foundation High School Program The basic 22-credit graduation program for Texas public school students. Endorsements Areas of specialized study. The areas are: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Business and Industry Arts and Humanities Public Service Multidisciplinary Studies A district or charter that offers only one endorsement must offer Multidisciplinary Studies. Distinguished Level of Achievement A high level of academic achievement earned by going beyond the Foundation High School Program. It requires a total of 26 course credits, including Algebra II, a fourth science credit and an endorsement. A student must earn this designation to be eligible for Top 10 percent automatic admission to a Texas public university. Performance Acknowledgments Students may earn an additional acknowledgment on their diploma because of outstanding performance in areas such as dual credit courses and bilingualism and biliteracy; on Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, PSAT, ACT s Plan, the SAT or ACT exams; or by earning a nationally- or internationally-recognized business or industry certification. Course Credit A unit of measure awarded for successful completion of a course. Completion of a one semester course typically earns one-half credit for a student. Industry Workforce Credential A state, nationally, or internationally-recognized credential that aligns with the knowledge and skills standards identified by an association or government entity representing a particular profession or occupation and valued by business or industry. Examples include a credential for certified nurse aid (CNA) or the automotive service excellence (ASE) certification in the automotive industry. STAAR State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) is the state-mandated test given annually to students in grades 3-8 and in five high school courses. EOC STAAR end-of-course exams are state mandated tests given during the final weeks of a course. In addition to meeting graduation course requirements, students are required to pass five end-of-course exams to earn a diploma from a Texas public high school. Those five exams are given when a student takes English I and II, Biology, Algebra I and U.S. History courses. BR