Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy

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2 Veterans Tribute Career and Technical Academy Preparing Everyday Heroes Tammy Cullum Boffelli, Principal Sheryl Colgan, Assistant Principal 2531 Vegas Drive Las Vegas Nevada TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL INFORMATION Non-Discrimination Disclosure Introduction... 2 Attendance Requirement... 2 Code of Honor Equipment, Hardware, Software, Network.. 3 Infinite Campus Standard Student Attire ACADEMIC INFORMATION Academic Standard. 4 Academic Warning/Probation Course Challenge... 5 Duplicate Course Work Matriculation Prerequisites Schedule Change Policy VTCTA Class Load Senior Course Load Requirements.. 7 Required HS Student Class Load Course Fees Academic Letter Activity Cords... 8 Adjusted Diploma Advanced Placement Program... 8 GRADUATION INFORMATION Four Year Academic Plan Nevada HS Proficiency Exams Valedictorian and Salutatorian st Century Course of Study Standard Diploma Advanced Diploma Advanced Honors Diploma Concurrent Credit Options External Credit Options COLLEGE PLANNING CCSD Guidance and Counseling. 16 College Readiness Assessments CTE College Credit Post Graduation Planning Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship. 18 ATHLETICS INFORMATION Magnet School Athletes. 18 Physical Education II Waiver Credit NCAA Initial Eligibility Requirements CCSD Athletic Eligibility COURSE OFFERRINGS Electives English Department Health/Physical Education Math Department Program Courses Science Department Social Studies Department Spanish Department

3 General Information NON-DISCRIMINATION DISCLOSURE The Clark County School District does not knowingly discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, or participation in its programs and activities and provide equal access to the Boy Scouts of America and other designated youth groups. INTRODUCTION Courses that a student selects this spring are the courses that the student will be required to attend next year. The student is advised to choose courses carefully. No schedule change requests will be granted other than those governed by the policy statement printed below. In order to effectively register for courses for next year, read and follow these simple guidelines: Read this entire course registration guide and the course descriptions before you register. Be certain that prerequisites for selected courses have been met. Discuss your course selections with your parents, teachers, and counselor before registration. Many courses require teacher recommendation, approval, and signature. Choose courses that will challenge you and give you the best preparation for your future education and employment. Complete the appropriate registration worksheet provided for you in this registration guide. The student who successfully completes summer school may change courses upon returning to school in the fall. Understand that you will be expected to remain in year-long courses for the entire school year. Exceptions ( i.e., graduation requirement fulfillment, misplacement) will be handled through the regular schedule change procedure. ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT Pursuant to Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) , students between the ages of 7 and 18 years of age must enroll and attend school for the entire time the school is in session. Students who have been absent must provide notice from the parent/guardian to the school explaining the reason for the absence within three (3) school days after their return from the absence. The limitation of absences for secondary students with a block schedule is seven (7) total absences per semester. When a student is absent from school without a valid excuse, did not secure prior permission for the absence or did not make up the class work for an excused absence, the absence is unexcused. In addition, failure to provide an excuse within three (3) school days will result in an unexcused absence. In accordance with NRS, an unexcused absence is deemed a truancy. Absences in excess of 7 days may result in a loss of credit. CODE OF HONOR Nevada Department of Education There is a clear expectation that all students will perform academic tasks with honor and integrity, with the support of parents, staff, faculty, administration, and the community. The learning process requires students to think, process, organize, and create their own ideas. Throughout this process, students gain knowledge, self-respect, and ownership in the work that they do. These qualities provide a solid foundation for life skills, impacting people positively throughout their lives. Cheating and plagiarism violate the fundamental learning process and compromise personal integrity and one s honor. Students demonstrate academic honesty and integrity by not cheating, plagiarizing, or using information unethically in any way. What is cheating? Cheating or academic dishonesty can take many forms, but always involves the improper taking of information from and/or giving of information to another student, individual, or other source. Examples of cheating can include, but are not limited to: Taking or copying answers on an examination or any other assignment from another student or other source Giving answers on an examination or any other assignment to another student Copying assignments that are turned in as original work 2

4 General Information Collaborating on exams, assignments, papers, and/or projects without specific teacher permission Allowing others to do the research or writing for an assigned paper Using unauthorized electronic devices Falsifying data or lab results, including changing grades electronically What is plagiarism? Plagiarism is a common form of cheating or academic dishonesty in the school setting. It is representing another person s works or ideas as your own without giving credit to the proper source and submitting it for any purpose. Examples of plagiarism can include, but are not limited to: Submitting someone else s work, such as published sources in part or whole, as your own without giving credit to the source Turning in purchased papers or papers from the Internet written by someone else Representing another person s artistic or scholarly works such as musical compositions, computer programs, photographs, drawings, or paintings as your own Helping others plagiarize by giving them your work All stakeholders have a responsibility in maintaining academic honesty. Educators must provide the tools and teach the concepts that afford students the knowledge to understand the characteristics of cheating and plagiarism. Parents must support their students in making good decisions relative to completing course work assignments and taking exams. Students must produce work that is theirs alone, recognizing the importance of thinking for themselves and learning independently, when that is the nature of the assignment. Adhering to the Code of Honor for the purposes of academic honesty promotes an essential skill that goes beyond the school environment. Honesty and integrity are useful and valuable traits impacting one s life. Questions or concerns regarding the consequences associated with a violation of the Code of Honor may be directed towards your child s school administration and/or the school district. EQUIPMENT, HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, NETWORK, AND INTERNET TECHNOLOGY Students are expected to use equipment, hardware, software, network, Internet, and other technology at Veterans Tribute CTA in an appropriate and responsible manner. Actions by students which result in damage, defamation, alteration, or interference of any of the above, violation of copyrights, or accessing inappropriate material will result in disciplinary action. Disciplinary action may include a required parent conference (RPC), suspension, referral to zoned school, or to a behavior program, expulsion, and/or monetary reimbursement to correct or repair the problem. Law enforcement agencies may be contracted based on the severity of the violation. The use of computer network technology resources shall be consistent with all Clark County School District policies and regulations including, but not limited to, CCSD Regulations 3990 and Prior to receiving access to the District s network resources, students, parents, and educators must submit a completed Network Access Form to the appropriate administrator. INFINITE CAMPUS Infinite Campus is a web based system used by the school to allow parents/guardians to more effectively monitor the progress of your child. This system provides detailed, real-time information, including: Demographics, Schedules, Assignments, Assessment Scores, Calendar, Grades, Attendance, Graduation Progress, Academic Planner, To Do List, Reports, District and School Notices in secure and confidential fashion. Once a parent and/or student receive their Infinite Campus login and password, then information may be accessed at clicking on the Infinite Campus icon at the top of the webpage. STANDARD STUDENT ATTIRE Standard Student Attire requirements for Veterans Tribute Career & Technical Academy will be: Pants/shorts in basic colors of tan, navy, black and white (no blue jean material allowed) No Denim pants allowed Shirts Polo/button down in basic/optional colors, solid only (no pattern, no words), with collars only, long or short-sleeved, with or without school logo Sweatshirts in basic/optional colors, solid only (no pattern, no words) with or without school logo, no hoods Sweaters in basic/optional colors, solid only (no pattern, no words) with or without school logo, worn over approved shirts (Girls) Skirts or skorts in basic solid colors only (no blue jean material allowed) 3

5 General Information (Girls) Jumpers/dresses in basic solid colors only (no blue jean material allowed) (Girls) Tights/Leggings worn under approved clothing, must be in basic solid colors only (no pattern, no words) Ties in basic/optional solid colors only ALL STUDENTS - The basic colors of tan, navy, and white will be required at all Standard Student Attire schools. Additionally, VTCTA will have black, yellow, royal-blue and Tar-Heel blue as the optional colors for shirts/blouses, sweaters, and sweatshirts. Brand logos are not permitted! 1. Require the wearing of shoes with soles. House slippers and shoes with wheels are not permitted. 2. All clothing must be sufficient to conceal any and all undergarments. No skin will show between bottom of shirt/blouse and top of pants or skirts at any time. All sleeveless shirts must have straps at least three inches wide. Prohibited tops include, but are not limited to, crop tops, tank tops, strapless, low-cut clothing, clothing with slits, or tops and outfits that provide minimum coverage. VTCTA T-shirts may not be cut at the neck or sleeves or shortened. Require that all shorts, skorts, skirts, and jumpers/dresses must be at fingertip length. 3. Sagging is strictly prohibited. Jeans, pants, and trousers are not to have rips or tears that expose undergarments and/or are located mid-thigh or higher. 4. Headgear (hats, hoods, caps, bandanas, hair grooming aids, etc.) is not permitted on campus except for designated school approved uniforms, special events, authorized athletic practices, documented medical conditions, bona fide religious reasons, or CCSD/school sanctioned activities. 5. Slogans or advertising on clothing, jewelry, buttons, and/or accessories which by their controversial, discriminatory, profane, and/or obscene nature disrupt the educational setting are prohibited. 6. Any clothing, jewelry, buttons, and/or accessories that promote illegal or violent conduct, or affiliation with groups that promote illegal or violent conduct such as, but not limited to, the unlawful use of weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or drug paraphernalia, or clothing that contains threats are prohibited. 7. Spiked or studded clothing, jewelry, and/or accessories are prohibited. 8. Outerwear such as coats, mittens, scarves and non SSA approved outwear must be removed upon entering the classrooms/buildings. Administrators, teachers and staff may use their discretion to what is appropriate based on the temperature in the facility. 9. Facial piercings are not allowed and hair color must be a natural color; no blue, green, purple, etc. The school administration shall have the right to designate which types of dress, fashion, fads, or appearance disrupt or detract from the educational program and may be a potential safety hazard. ACADEMIC INFORMATION ACADEMIC STANDARDS Students must demonstrate consistent progress, both academically and behaviorally in all classes. Students must maintain a minimum grade of C and an S" or better in all classes. Students not maintaining a grade of C or better in all classes at the conclusion of each 9-week quarter will be placed on ACADEMIC WARNING or depending on the severity of grades ACADEMIC PROBATION. The student s counselor will schedule a meeting with the student to develop a written improvement plan. Students who fail to improve and or students who earn an F at the end of the first semester will be placed on ACADEMIC PROBATION. Failure to meet a 2.0 in each class by the end of the academic year may result in withdrawal from Veteran s Tribute Career & Technical Academy and referral to their zoned school. While at VTCTA, grades and citizenship earned are subject to the same eligibility rules for sports and other extra-curricular programs and will become part of the student s permanent record. Please refer to the Veterans Tribute CTA Course Catalog for NAC Regulation #4 (NRS ). ACADEMIC WARNING/PROBATION Students will be placed on warning/probationary status when one or more of the following conditions exist: Quarter 1 - Students earn 1 or more F s or their cumulative GPA drops below 2.0. ACADEMIC WARNING* Semester 1- Students earn 1 or more F s or their cumulative GPA drops below 2.0. ACADEMIC PROBATION* 4

6 General Information Quarter 3 Students earn 1 or more F s or their cumulative GPA drops below 2.0 for the 1 st time. ACADEMIC WARNING* Quarter 4 Any student on 3 rd quarter Academic Warning or Probation will be placed on NON RETURN STATUS. o Students who fail to successfully improve the probationary status because they fail one course in a semester will be required to repeat the course externally during the summer earning a C or better in order to return to VTCTA the next academic year. o It is strongly suggested that parents utilize CCSD summer school to repeat courses. Students must register for summer school with their counselor by mid-may. Failed classes cannot be repeated during the regular school day. o Students who fail to pass the required courses may be returned to their zoned school. Quarter 3 - Students must return a copy of their probationary contract signed by both the student and parent and provide proof of successful completion of summer school/external credit to the Registrar no later than mid-august in order to return to VTCTA. Failure to do so will result in the student s schedule/registration material being withheld and the student must return to his/her zoned school. The administration reserves the right to allow probationary students to return to VTCTA as space is available for their current career and technical program. Probationary students are unable to apply for a career and technical program change until their status improves. *Academic Warning results after 1 st and 3 rd quarter. *Academic Probation results in the failure to earn semester credit in 1 or more classes. COURSE CHALLENGE Placement in some courses is based on the student s ability level, teacher recommendations, and other indicators. Students are encouraged to challenge recommendations which they feel do not meet their academic needs. The student and parents/guardians should carefully consider all prerequisites for each course. The counselor will assist the student with assessing any information which may be helpful in making an informed decision. Please note that a student who successfully challenges a course must remain in the challenged course for the entire school year regardless of progress. Students will not be permitted to select courses below their ability level. Students are encouraged to enroll in courses which are academically fulfilling. DUPLICATE COURSE WORK REPEATING COURSES Students may repeat courses, however, additional credit will not be granted; the higher grade will be recorded in the course history and the lower grade replaced with a repeated course notation. MATRICULATION Grade classification for high school students is determined by years in school, not on credit earned. Students are classified to the next grade level at the end of each school year. PREREQUISITES Prerequisites are listed in the Department Course Offerings section of the catalog to help the student and parents/guardians make the best educational decisions possible. The student must have completed course prerequisites to enroll or request permission from his/her counselor to challenge a course. Both semesters of a prerequisite course must be successfully completed. SCHEDULE CHANGE POLICY Advanced planning and guidance are provided for each student prior to registration. Schedule changes will not be made after registration. The student will be expected to remain in year-long courses for the entire school year. Schedule changes will not be granted to accommodate a change in the student s lunch period or to request a specific instructor. In keeping with the State of Nevada Department of Education Guidelines, no student may change a course and receive credit after the third week of the semester. Requests for schedule changes are considered only during the first three (3) weeks of the semester and are granted only for the following reasons: 5

7 General Information Minimum competency preparation for the Nevada Proficiency Exam fulfilled (Class of 2016 only) Graduation requirement fulfillment Misplacement in an academic area according to grades and/or ability or prerequisite Successful completion of summer school course work The administration may, due to increased/decreased enrollment and staff changes, balance course sections by transferring students from one class and/or teacher to another section. This process is called leveling. Every effort will be made to ensure a smooth transition for students who are transferred. VETERANS TRIBUTE CLASS LOAD 9 th Grade 10 th Grade 11 th Grade 12 th Grade English Math Science PE I Spanish Personal Leadership Program Class Freshman Studies English Math Science Social Studies PE II (or elective, if credit fulfilled) Spanish Program Class Health Ed/Intro to 911 English Math Science Social Studies Spanish/Elective Program Class Program Class Elective English Math Science Social Studies Program Class Program Class Elective Elective * $ Course Fee ELECTIVE COURSE OFFERINGS GRADE 9 GRADE 10 GRADE 11 GRADE 12 Journalism Foundations* Journalism II* Principles of Leadership* Publications I* School Related Work Exp (Student Store/Cafeteria) Video Production I Video Production II* Journalism Foundations Principles of Leadership* Video Production I Advanced Spanish Literacy H* AP Human Geography* $ AP Psychology* $ AP Spanish Language and Culture* $ Applied Office Practice Intermediate Spanish Literacy H* Journalism Foundations* Journalism II* Personal Wellness & Fitness I $ Principles of Leadership* Publications I* Publications II* School Rel Work Exp (Stu Store/Café) Spanish III H* Spanish IV H* Student Tutor Video Production I Video Production II* Video Production III* Advanced Spanish Literacy H* AP Human Geography* $ AP Psychology* $ AP Spanish Language and Culture* $ Applied Office Practice Intermediate Spanish Literacy H* Journalism II* Lifetime Sports & Recreation $ Personal Wellness & Fitness I $ Personal Wellness & Fitness II $ Principles of Leadership* Publications I* Publications II* School Rel Work Exp (Stu Store/Café) Spanish III H* Spanish IV H* Student Tutor Video Production I Video Production II* Video Production III* 6

8 General Information SENIOR COURSE LOAD REQUIREMENTS Seniors are required to take 8 classes unless one of the following criteria is met. Reduced Schedule Opportunity Seniors may request a reduced course load for the following off campus experiences: Program related work experience Employment College Course Community Service Experience Internship Other opportunities require principal s approval Criteria for Reduced Schedule Seniors may request a reduced course load after meeting the following criteria: Senior Open Period Agreement signed form giving parental permission Passed all portions of the NHSPE (Class of 2016) No recorded suspensions No outstanding school fines Attendance in good standing Student must provide his/her own transportation to off-campus location Completed VTCTA recommended 75 hours of community service by the end of junior year Have earned required credits for VTCTA program sequence courses through junior year On track to graduate Fall Semester * All 12 th graders have a minimum of 6 classes: 1. English 2. Mathematics 3. U.S. Government 4. Science and/or Elective 5. Program Class 6. Program Class REQUIRED HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT CLASS LOAD The State of Nevada, NAC , requires all high school students be enrolled as follows: Ninth, tenth, and eleventh grade students must be enrolled in six classes or the equivalent of six periods per day, Twelfth grade students must be enrolled in at least four classes or the equivalent of four periods per day. [Seniors must take at least two classes per day on the block schedule.] Please Note: Although Concurrent Courses, Distance Education, Dual Credit, External Courses, and Work Experience are considered equivalent coursework, students must receive prior approval of the counselor and administration. COURSE FEES Spring Semester * All 12 th graders have a minimum of 6 classes: 1. English 2. Mathematics 3. U.S. Government 4. Science and/or Elective 5. Program Class 6. Program Class Students not eligible will attend all 8 classes and may be required to complete the following: Tutoring or additional preparation for NHSPE Credit retrieval program Course fees are charged for courses where the student will complete special projects to be taken home or for reasons specific to the course. Course fees cover the actual cost of projects or other course specific items. A family s difficulty in purchasing the required items for the student and/or paying the course fees will not prevent a student s enrollment in any course. Should alternatives to the immediate payment of course fees become necessary, the counselor or the respective course instructor should be notified to assist the school and the parents/guardians in working together to resolve the problem. 7

9 VTCTA COURSE FEE LIST ACADEMIC LETTER 8 General Information An Academic Letter may be earned at any time when a student has completed a minimum of three semesters at VTCTA and has earned an unweighted GPA of 3.5 or above (sophomore standing or above). Bars are awarded for repeat qualifiers. ACTIVITY CORDS The senior student who has participated in Veterans Tribute CTA organizations may be eligible to receive a graduation cord recognizing his/her service to the school and the community. The criterion for awarding the activity cord is determined by each organization with subsequent administrative approval. ADJUSTED DIPLOMA (SPECIAL PROGRAMS) An Individual Education Plan (IEP) for each special program student must be developed and reviewed annually. The IEP committee will determine the appropriate course of study leading to the program completion. It is recommended that this decision be made at the 9 th grade level with parental approval and be reviewed annually at an IEP meeting. A special education student may earn an adjusted high school diploma upon completion of required areas of study as prescribed by the IEP Committee. Students receiving an adjusted diploma as prescribed by IEP requirements can also participate in graduation ceremonies. ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAMS The fees below are in addition to the $25 program fee all VTCTA students pay. Program fees pay for but are not limited to: field trip tickets, field trip transportation, field trip lunches, program notebooks, student ID cards, lanyards, practical experience materials, lab supplies, and PSAT testing for all juniors. NOTE: Students may not participate in extra-curricular events, including field trips and internships, until program fees have been paid. See your school counselor if you have a financial hardship. Course Fee What the fee covers. Material fees may fluctuate by vendor. ALL Advanced Placement (AP) Courses Emergency Telecommunication I & II Emergency Medical Technician Basic & EMT Lab $91 AP Exam. The AP exam cost is determined by the College Board. In AP Chemistry, students may be required to pay additional fees for lab materials. In AP Literature and Language courses, students may be required purchase outside reading materials on their own. $150-$200 Cost of personal headset for 911 simulation lab and additional uniform requirements; NAED ETC Certification in Emergency Telecommunication II $350-$400 Cost of additional EMT uniform requirements, workbook, consumable lab materials, National Registry EMT Exam, internship requirements Law Enforcement II and III $150-$300 Cost of additional uniform requirements Law Enforcement Ad Studies Volunteer Patrol Service Rep PE, Fitness and Physical Training Courses School Related Work Experience Student Store/Cafeteria workers $150-$300 Cost of additional uniform requirements $20 Physical exercise uniform $60 Health Card Required The Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a cooperative educational endeavor with the College Board in Princeton, New Jersey, for academically talented sophomores, juniors and seniors. Through this program, sophomores, juniors and seniors in high school take courses that have been developed with college-level material and expectations. Since the curriculum goes into more depth than the regular level courses, there is a greater opportunity for individual progress and achievement. Students with a strong GPA are encouraged to enroll. The AP examinations are given each May. All examinations consist of an essay or problem-solving section and a series of multiple-choice questions. At the completion of the course, each student is expected to take this examination at an

10 General Information approximate cost of $91.00 per exam. Advanced Placement exams are developed by the Educational Testing Service. The College Board grades the exams and scores are given on the following basis: Five - Extremely well qualified Four - Well qualified Three - Qualified Two - Possibly qualified One - No In many cases, universities may award three college credits for a score of three, six credits for a score of four, and nine credits for a score of five. The student should refer to the college catalog for the policy of the college she/he is planning to attend. Awarding of college credit(s) is at the discretion of each university. A score of one or two may enhance the student s opportunity for a scholarship and for university admission. Areas in which AP courses may be offered at Veterans Tribute CTA are as listed: AP Biology AP Calculus AB AP Chemistry AP English Language & Composition AP English Literature & Composition AP Human Geography AP Psychology AP Spanish Language and Culture GRADUATION INFORMATION AP Statistics AP U.S. Government and Politics AP U.S. History AP World History FOUR YEAR ACADEMIC PLAN An online four year Academic Plan will be implemented with all freshmen students and updated each year thereafter. This plan sets forth specific educational goals that students intend to achieve before graduation. The Academic Plan which includes a four year high school course of study, will be used as a guide to manage the student s educational development and course selection in alignment with an identified course of study. Revising the Academic Plan annually will assist students in preparation for graduation and post-secondary goals. The plan includes students and parents: Working in consultation with a school counselor to develop the academic plan Parent review and approval Reviewing the plan yearly and revising as needed HONORS RECOGNITION The graduating senior whose unweighted GPA or GPA with Bonus Points, after seven semesters, falls between 3.5 and 3.79 will be recognized as an Honors graduate. Algebra I, Geometry, and Spanish I taken in the 8 th grade are computed in the GPA. HIGH HONORS RECOGNITION The graduating senior whose unweighted GPA or GPA with Bonus Points, after seven semesters, is 3.8 or higher will be recognized as a High Honors graduate. Algebra I, Geometry and Spanish I taken in 8 th grade are computed in the GPA of 3.8 and above. HONORS MEDALLION The Veterans Tribute CTA Honors Medallion is awarded at graduation to the senior who completes a rigorous four-year academic program. The student who pursues the Honors Medallion will enroll in the same classes as the Advanced Honors Diploma student. To earn the Honors Medallion, in addition to the regular graduation requirements, the student must complete eleven credits or twenty-two 9

11 General Information semester credits of AP or Honors course work with an A or B each semester, each course. This award will be based on the student s course work taken from 8 th grade equivalent courses through the 3 rd quarter of the senior year. NEVADA HIGH SCHOOL PROFICIENCY EXAMINATION (NHSPE) CLASS OF 2016 To receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students in the Class of 2016 must pass the Nevada High School Proficiency Examination in addition to meeting course requirements. Students must pass reading, writing, math, and science. The Class of 2016 also must take the college and career readiness assessment - the ACT. For the Classes of 2017 and 2018 to receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students must complete the End of Course Exams and take the college and career readiness assessment - the ACT, in addition to meeting course requirements. AB288 in the 2013 Legislature eliminated the Certificate of Attendance. Students must meet all of the graduation requirements to receive a diploma and participate in graduation ceremonies. VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN Valedictorian status is awarded to the student(s) earning the highest grade point average in the graduating class. Salutatorian status is awarded to the student(s) earning the second highest grade point average in the class. Candidates for the valedictorian/salutatorian designations will be identified at the end of the fall semester of their senior year. The final ranking will be based on any and all completed high school credit granting courses, including those courses which receive Bonus Points. 10

12 General Information st CENTURY COURSE OF STUDY EXPECTATIONS The Clark County School District expects all students to meet the requirements of the 21st Century Course of Study. In addition to the three years of mathematics and two years of science necessary to graduate with a high school standard diploma, students will be scheduled into a fourth year of mathematics, which will include Algebra II, and a third year of science, which will include Biology. Although the graduation requirements for a standard diploma will not change, the school district expects its students to be competitive in higher education and the workforce, and to be prepared to take full advantage of what the world has to offer beyond high school. The Clark County School District believes that all students must be prepared for the following post-secondary opportunities: University/Four-Year College Community/Two-Year College Trade/Technical School Workforce 21 ST CENTURY COURSE OF STUDY EXPECTATIONS AREAS OF STUDY UNITS ENGLISH 4 MATHEMATICS (Includes Algebra II) 4 SCIENCE (Includes Biology) 3 WORLD HISTORY or GEOGRAPHY 1 U.S. HISTORY 1 U.S. GOVERNMENT 1 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2 HEALTH USE OF COMPUTERS ELECTIVES (Includes one Arts/Humanities or Career & Technical Education Course) ½ ½ 5½ TOTAL 22½ The 21 st Century Course of Study provides the following for students: Opens Doors to Post-Secondary Education and Workforce Opportunities Meets Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) University Admissions o Grade Point Average (GPA) and Core Curriculum Requirements are: 3.00 GPA (unweighted or with Bonus Points) in the core curriculum Approved NSHE Core Curriculum (4 English, 3 Math including Algebra II, 3 Natural Science, 3 Social Science & History = 13 units) Prepares Students for the Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship o GPA and Core Curriculum Requirements are: 3.25 cumulative GPA (unweighted or with Bonus Points) and the core curriculum Approved NSHE Core Curriculum (4 English, 4 Math including Algebra II, 3 Natural Science, 3 Social Science & History = 14 units) 11

13 General Information STANDARD DIPLOMA The following subjects are needed to meet graduation requirements: STANDARD DIPLOMA REQUIRED/ELECTIVE AREAS OF STUDY UNITS ENGLISH 4 *MATHEMATICS 3 SCIENCE 2 WORLD HISTORY or GEOGRAPHY 1 U.S. HISTORY 1 U.S. GOVERNMENT 1 **PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2 HEALTH ½ ***USE OF COMPUTERS ½ ELECTIVES 7½ TOTAL 22½ *Mathematics course units must include at least Algebra I or Algebra I H or above. **A maximum of ONE credit for Physical Education II will be granted if a student participates outside of the school day in interscholastic athletics or on a drill team, marching band, dance group, or cheerleading squad. ***Satisfactory completion of a semester computer literacy course offered in grades 6, 7, or 8 will meet the requirement for the use of computers. To receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students in the Classes of 2015 and 2016 must pass the Nevada High School Proficiency Examination in addition to meeting course requirements. Students must pass reading, writing, math, and science. The Class of 2016 also must take the college and career readiness assessment - the ACT. For the Classes of 2017 and 2018 to receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students must complete the End of Course Exams take the college and career readiness assessment - the ACT, in addition to meeting course requirements. AB288 in the 2013 Legislature eliminated the Certificate of Attendance. Students must meet all of the graduation requirements to receive a diploma and participate in graduation ceremonies. Students receiving an adjusted diploma as prescribed by IEP requirements can also participate in graduation ceremonies. 12

14 General Information ADVANCED DIPLOMA The following subjects are needed to meet the Advanced Diploma requirements: ADVANCED DIPLOMA REQUIRED/ELECTIVE AREAS OF STUDY UNITS ENGLISH 4 *MATHEMATICS 4 SCIENCE 3 WORLD HISTORY or GEOGRAPHY 1 U.S. HISTORY 1 U.S. GOVERNMENT 1 **PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2 HEALTH ***USE OF COMPUTERS ARTS / HUMANITIES or CAREER AND TECH ED ELECTIVE ELECTIVES 6 TOTAL (unweighted GPA 3.25) 24 ½ ½ 1 *Mathematics course units must include at least Algebra I or Algebra I H or above. ** A maximum of ONE credit for Physical Education II will be granted if a student participates outside of the school day in interscholastic athletics or on a drill team, marching band, dance group, or cheerleading squad. *** Satisfactory completion of a semester computer literacy course offered in grades 6, 7, or 8 will meet the requirement for the use of computers. To receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students in the Classes of 2015 and 2016 must pass the Nevada High School Proficiency Examination in addition to meeting course requirements. Students must pass reading, writing, math, and science. The Class of 2016 also must take the college and career readiness assessment the ACT. For the Classes of 2017 and 2018 to receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students must complete the End of Course exams, take the college and career readiness assessment the ACT, in addition to meeting course requirements. AB288 in the 2013 Legislature eliminated the Certificate of Attendance. Students must meet all of the graduation requirements to receive a diploma and participate in graduation ceremonies. Students receiving an adjusted diploma as prescribed by IEP requirements can also participate in graduation ceremonies. 13

15 General Information ADVANCED HONORS DIPLOMA The following subjects are required to meet the Advanced Diploma requirements: Students planning to apply to universities with competitive admission requirements may pursue the CCSD Advanced Honors Diploma. The Advanced Honors Diploma requires additional rigorous coursework beyond those required for the Advanced Diploma. Students will be required to fulfill the 24.0 credit Advanced Diploma requirements (including 4-years of mathematics, 3-years of science and an additional Arts/Humanities or Career and Technical Education course) and must complete the Honors, International Baccalaureate (IB), or Advanced Placement (AP) courses required of the Honors Course Program. Students must achieve a minimum of a 3.25 unweighted GPA and a minimum of 3.85 GPA with Bonus Points. Required/Elective Areas of Study ADVANCED HONORS DIPLOMA Advanced Diploma Units To receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students in the Classes of 2015 and 2016 must pass the Nevada High School Proficiency Examination in addition to meeting course requirements. Students must pass reading, writing, math, and science. The Class of 2016 also must take a college and career readiness assessment the ACT. For the Classes of 2017 and 2018 to receive a diploma from a Nevada high school, students must complete the End of Course exams, take the college and career readiness assessment the ACT in addition to meeting course requirements. Honors Courses with Bonus Points Students will earn Bonus Points for successful completion of Honors, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses will be added as follows: Honors.025 Advanced Placement (AP).050 International Baccalaureate (IB).050 The GPA Cap with Bonus Points for the Honors Program for students will be added as follows: The GPA with Bonus Points for the Honors Program is no more than twenty-eight semesters (14 classes) of Honors/AP/IB courses. The highest possible GPA under this system is Honors Course Program Units ENGLISH 4 3 MATHEMATICS 4 2 SCIENCE 3 2 SOCIAL STUDIES (must earn all 3 credits) World History or Geography U.S. History U.S. Government PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2 HEALTH USE OF COMPUTERS ARTS/HUMANITIES or CAREER TECH ED ELECTIVE 3 2 ELECTIVES 6 3* TOTAL (unweighted GPA = 3.25, GPA with Bonus Points = 3.85) * Must include one Honors Foreign Language Course. First year foreign language classes will not receive Honors credit. Student must achieve a minimum 3.25 unweighted GPA and a minimum of 3.85 GPA with Bonus Points. ½ ½ 1

16 General Information Students will receive Bonus Points of.050 for four semesters (2 classes) of AP and/or IB courses and will also receive Bonus Points of.025 for twenty-four semesters (12 classes) of Honors courses. Students who choose to enroll in only Honors level courses will receive Bonus Points of.025 for twenty-eight semesters (14 classes) of Honors courses. Advantages of the Honors Course Offerings Most competitive colleges and universities consider not only students grades, but also their academic background evidenced by courses listed on the transcript, letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors, and SAT I or ACT scores. Enrollment in the Honors Program will assist students in their preparation for college entrance exams. The GPA with Bonus Points is used when determining ranking in class. Students may take Honors courses even if they have not chosen to complete the requirements for the Advanced Honors or Advanced Diploma. CONCURRENT CREDIT OPTIONS Students may earn credits beyond the regular school day by enrolling in any of the approved concurrent programs. There is no limit to the number of concurrent credits a student may earn. See your counselor for more information on the following concurrent programs: Nevada Learning Academy - For specific information, including fees, call (702) or visit Adult Education - For specific information on this program, call (702) , extension 317 or visit Sunset High Schools/Programs - Call (702) for more information or visit Summer School - Students may earn credit during the summer. Registration information is available in the counseling office in the spring. Additional information is available at EXTERNAL CREDIT OPTIONS Students currently enrolled in a Clark County high school may earn a maximum of six external credits toward graduation. External credits are credits earned beyond the regular school day. No external credit will be granted without prior approval and completion of the appropriate application. See your counselor for prior approval and applications for the following External Credit options: 15

17 General Information Community Service Credit Credit By Exam Dual Credit Educational Travel Credit A maximum of one credit may be earned for students who complete 120 hours of volunteer service with an approved community agency. One-half credit may be earned for 60 hours of service; court mandated hours do not count for Community Service credit. Students may earn credit by obtaining a score of 70% or better on an examination for a course they have not taken previously or are not enrolled in currently. For a complete list of credit by exam course offerings and fees, see the NVLA website at Credit by Exam cannot count toward Honors credit. High school credit can be earned for approved college or university courses not offered at the student's school of enrollment. A three credit college/university course equals one-half unit of high school credit. A maximum of one credit may be granted to students who keep a journal while traveling for 42 consecutive days or 1/2 credit for 21 consecutive days. Students must submit their completed journals for evaluation to determine credit. Enrichment Program Credit Students may receive credit for academically accelerated courses taken at accredited institutions. Music Equivalent Credit Online Courses A maximum of one credit may be granted to students participating in a music program not offered by the Clark County School District. Credit granting is monitored by the CCSD Department of Fine Arts. Specific application forms must be submitted along with a fee. Call for more information. Credits may be earned for courses completed by mail or online from approved institutions. The cost of courses varies. Students must conform to the procedures set by the credit granting institution. COLLEGE PLANNING CCSD GUIDANCE & COUNSELING WEBSITE The Guidance and Counseling website which can be found at is designed to provide students and parents with information on counseling services provided by the school district. It also serves as a support reference for preparing students for their future educational decisions. Information on diploma requirements, scholarship opportunities and postsecondary opportunities are just a few of examples of what is available on the website. COLLEGE READINESS ASSESSMENTS All Clark County School District students will take the PSAT at no cost (pending final budget allocations) during the sophomore year to provide data that will assist in determining the student s potential success in Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Taking the PSAT in the sophomore year also prepares the student for the SAT. The PSAT taken as a junior (at the cost of the student) is used to identify National Merit Scholarship Semi-finalists. Beginning in , all Juniors will take the ACT with Writing exam in the Spring. The College and Career Readiness Assessment (ACT) is a requirement for graduation for the Class of 2015 and beyond. Juniors will take the ACT in spring of their junior year at no coast. Students planning to attend college may also prepare for the ACT entrance exam by taking the PLAN test during his/her sophomore year. It is recommended that students take ACT and/or SAT in the spring of their junior year, as most four-year colleges/universities require either test for admission. In addition, some colleges/universities require a minimum score on the ACT and/or SAT to determine placement in freshman English and math courses. Finally, some universities determine scholarship eligibility on ACT and/or SAT results. 16

18 General Information Note: It may be necessary to retake the ACT and/or SAT to increase the student s score. This may enable a student to avoid placement in a remedial math and/or English college course. Remedial courses at Nevada System of Higher Education Institutions provide no college credit and are not paid for by the Millennium Scholarship program. CTE COLLEGE CREDIT CTE College Credit provides an opportunity for secondary students who complete state-approved programs in career and technical education (CTE) to earn postsecondary credit at no cost to the student. CTE College Credit is articulated credit, the high school coursework aligns to postsecondary courses and the teacher of record is a high school CTE teacher. To qualify for the CTE College Credit, students must: (1) Earn a 3.0 grade point average in their CTE course sequence; (2) pass the state end-of-program technical content assessment; (3) pass the state Workplace Readiness assessment for employability skills. Students who complete a CTE program of study according to the criteria are eligible to earn the CTE College Credit within three years of graduating from high school and upon admission to the postsecondary institution. The amount of credit is dependent upon the state standards for each high school CTE program and how the standards align to the college courses for a certificate or degree in a related career pathway. POST GRADUATION PLANNING Military Information Military recruiters are available to help the student make decisions, review contracts, determine eligibility, and assist in job training. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test is available for interested students. This test helps to define a student s abilities and aptitude for future careers. Community College System Information Community colleges, sometimes called junior colleges, offer two-year programs which lead to an Associate of Arts degree and/or a Certificate of Achievement. A high school diploma or its equivalent is recommended for admission. College/University Information Minimum graduation requirements may not necessarily qualify a student for admission to the college of his/her choice. For information concerning specific admission requirements, the student may consult a school counselor and/or reference materials located in the library in the College and Career Center. College Financial Aid There are four basic types of financial aid available to help defray the costs of a college education. 1. Scholarships are monetary awards the student earns and does not have to repay. The student s high school course selection (including AP and Honors courses), GPA, financial need, and college entrance examination scores (ACT, SAT), extracurricular and volunteer activities weigh heavily in determining recipients. 2. Grants are monetary awards based solely on financial need. Need is determined from information supplied on a family financial aid form. Grants need not be repaid. 3. Work-study is employment on or near campus on a part-time basis. Often the university or college makes an effort to place the student in a job related to his/her major. 4. Student loans are low-interest monies granted on the basis of need. A loan must be repaid. A senior should go online to to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA should be filled out immediately after January 1 of the student s senior year. Families can plan for expected college expenses prior to their senior year by clicking on the fafsa4caster link. 17

19 General Information GOVERNOR GUINN MILLENNIUM SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM The State of Nevada's Governor Guinn Millennium Scholarship Program provides financial support to Nevada's high school graduates who attend an eligible Nevada community college, state college, or university. You may receive up to a maximum award of $10,000 for undergraduate coursework during the six years following your high school graduation. There is no application form to complete. If you meet all Millennium Scholarship requirements upon high school graduation, the District will submit your name in mid-july to the Office of the State Treasurer. You will receive an award notification early August. A factsheet on policy guidelines and requirements for eligibility can be obtained by calling or at Please note that this information is subject to any changes in state law, policies adopted by the NSHE Board of Regents, availability of funding, and any related matters hereto. ATHLETICS INFORMATION MAGNET SCHOOL ATHLETES NAC Pupil who is approved to attend magnet school that offers sanctioned sport. (NRS ) 1. A pupil who does not reside within the zone of attendance of a magnet school that is located within a school, and who obtains a waiver to attend the program of the magnet school, is eligible to participate in any sanctioned sport at the school. 2. To establish eligibility pursuant to subsection 1, the pupil must: (a) Comply with the requirements of the magnet school for filing an application; (b) Comply with the requirements to participate in the program of the magnet school; (c) Enroll in the courses required for pupils participating in the program of the magnet school; and (d) Maintain eligibility to complete the program of the magnet school. 3. During the period in which the pupil is enrolled in the magnet school, the pupil may participate only in a sanctioned sport that is offered by the school in which the magnet school is located. 4. A pupil who is approved to enroll in a magnet school and fails to comply with the requirements of subsection 2, or who does not complete the program of the magnet school, becomes immediately ineligible to participate in a sanctioned sport at the school in which the magnet school is located for 180 school days. 5. A pupil who is accepted into the program of a magnet school and who, after acceptance into the program, chooses to return to his school of residence, becomes ineligible for the remainder of the school year in which the transfer occurs and for an additional 180 school days in any sanctioned sport in which his name appeared on a roster of the association during the period he attended the magnet school. NAC Pupil who attends magnet school that does not offer sanctioned sport. (NRS ) A pupil who attends a magnet school that does not offer a sanctioned sport, including, without limitation, the Advanced Technologies Academy, the Las Vegas Academy, the Southern Nevada Vocational and Technical Center, and Veterans Tribute CTA remains eligible at his school of residence for the purpose of participating in any sanctioned sport that is not offered at the magnet school. PHYSICAL EDUCATION II WAIVER CREDIT A maximum of ONE Physical Education II Waiver credit may be earned toward graduation. Students are required to participate in and complete one of the school-sponsored activities listed below. Baseball Varsity, Junior Varsity Basketball Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Bowling Cheerleaders Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Cross Country Varsity Flag Football Varsity, Junior Varsity Football Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Golf Varsity Marching Band/Flags/Mascots Soccer Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Softball Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Swimming Varsity Tennis Varsity Track Varsity Volleyball Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Wrestling Varsity, Junior Varsity Team Managers are not eligible for the P.E. II Waiver; however, they may be eligible for Community Service credit. 18

20 General Information NCAA INITIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS In order to participate in collegiate athletics, students must register with the NCAA at This should be initiated in the student s junior year. NCAA Division I and Division II require 16 core courses. See the charts below. NCAA Division I will require 10 core courses to be completed prior to the seventh semester (seven of the 10 must be a combination of English, math or natural or physical science that meet the distribution requirements below). These 10 courses become "locked in" at the start of the seventh semester and cannot be retaken for grade improvement. Division I GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2016, is Division II requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or ACT sum score of 68 and a core GPA of 2.0. Beginning August 1, 2018, Division II core GPA to be eligible for competition is Be sure to look at your high school s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website ( Only courses that appear on your school's List of NCAA Courses will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Beginning August 1, 2016, it will be possible for a Division I college-bound student-athlete to still receive athletics aid and the ability to practice with the team if he or she fails to meet the 10 course requirement, but would not be able to compete. Required Courses* Division I Division II English 4 3 Mathematics (Algebra I or higher) 3 2 Science (minimum 1 lab science) 2 2 Additional In Above 1 3 Social Studies 2 2 Additional Core Courses** 4 4 *Remedial, special education, compensatory or related courses do not qualify for initial eligibility. **From any core area, foreign language, comparative religion or philosophy. CLARK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY Initial Eligibility General Requirements: 1. Must be enrolled in grades Must reside in the school of enrollment s attendance zone. 3. Must be enrolled in a minimum of two units of credit consisting of at least four classes per semester and regularly attend school. 4. Must have passed a minimum of two units of credit the immediate preceding semester with a minimum grade point average of 2.0. A student may earn a maximum of one unit of external credit (summer school, correspondence, etc.) to improve previous semester deficiency. 5. Transfer students are automatically presumed ineligible. Rebuttal of presumption of ineligibility guidelines are contained in Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) regulations (NAC ). 6. Secondary Magnet School students who enroll for less than a three (3) year program or enroll in individual classes are ineligible for athletics at the Magnet School for 180 school days. Students who drop from the Magnet program will become automatically ineligible for athletics at the Magnet School for 180 school days. If a student chooses to return to his/her school of residence, he/she would be ineligible for the remainder of that school year and for 180 school days in any sport in which his/her name appeared on a NIAA roster during his/her attendance at the Magnet School. 7. Secondary Open Enrollment students who are selected to attend an Open Enrollment school are eligible to participate in athletics. Students who change schools will become automatically ineligible for the remainder of the current school year and for 180 school days in any sport his/her name appeared on an NIAA roster during his/her attendance at the Open Enrollment school. 8. Career Technical Academy/Charter School/Home-Schooled students are eligible to participate in athletics in the school that is located in the attendance zone of the residence of the parent or legal guardian. 19