Liberty High School Course Catalog

Transcription

1 Liberty High School Course Catalog

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction.3 Discrimination Policy..4 Schedule Change Policy..4 Challenging a Course..4 Placement Criteria... 4 Pre-Requisites..4 Class Fees 5 Standardized Testing Program... 5 Graduation Requirements 5 College Readiness Assessments..6 Matriculation..6 Required High School Student Class Load 6 Duplicate Course Work repeating Courses.6 21 st Century Course of Study.7 Standard Diploma Requirements 8 Advanced Diploma Requirements..9 Advanced Honors Diploma...10 Code of Honor...11 NCAA Eligibility Requirements...12 Physical Education II Waiver 13 CCSD Athletic Eligibility.13 CCSD Guidance & Counseling Website..14 Military Information.14 Community College System Information.14 College/University Information 14 Governor Guinn Millennium Scholar 12 External Credit Options.15 Concurrent Credits 16 CTE College Credit..15 Four Year Academic Plan..17 College Prep Program 17 College Financial Aid 17 Classical Studies Program...18 Individualized Programs 18 Occupational and Magnet Schools...18 Honors Classes...19 Advanced Placement Classes (AP) 19 Graduation and Awards.20 Valedictorian and Salutatorian...20 Academic Letter.20 Scholar Athlete...20 Liberty Classical Scholars Certificate 20 Graduation Ceremony Recognition...20 Department Course Offerings 21 Career/Technical Education (CTE) 22 Visual Arts. 28 Classical Studies Department 32 English Department...34 Foreign Language Department..38 Health/Physical Education Department.41 Individualized Programs Department 44 Mathematics Department...46 Performing Arts Department..50 Science Department...56 Social Studies Department.59 Registration Forms/Electives.63 2

3 INTRODUCTION The courses that will be offered at Liberty High School for the upcoming school year are courses that have been selected by students during spring pre-registration. Generally, the courses listed in this registration guide will only be offered in the curriculum for the next school year if 25 or more students pre-register for a course. Parents have until May 1, 2015, to contact counselors regarding any course selection concerns. If during final registration too few students actually enroll in a course, it usually will be canceled and those students will be rescheduled into an alternate elective course. Some courses such as band or chorus may be repeated for credit. Students will be scheduled into classes selected during pre-registration unless those classes are filled or canceled. COURSES THAT STUDENTS SELECT THIS SPRING ARE THE COURSES THEY WILL BE REQUIRED TO ATTEND NEXT YEAR. Liberty High School students will be computer registered based on the spring registration process. NO SCHEDULE CHANGE REQUESTS WILL BE GRANTED OTHER THAN THOSE GOVERNED BY THE POLICY STATEMENTS LISTED UNDER SCHEDULE CHANGE POLICY. Choose your classes according to your graduation plan and career interests. Challenge yourself and choose wisely. In order to effectively register for classes for next year, read and follow these guidelines. READ this entire course registration guide and the course descriptions before you register. Look at your previous grades, performance and teacher recommendation and/or pretest for each course and use them as a guideline for selecting classes. Be certain that prerequisites for courses have been met. DISCUSS your course selection with your parents, teachers, and your counselor before registration. Many courses require a teacher recommendation. CHOOSE courses that will both challenge and give you the best preparation for your future education and employment. COMPLETE the appropriate registration worksheet provided for you in this course registration guide as accurately as possible. List your required classes first; then list your electives. It is necessary that you list the alternative choices. In the event some of your electives are filled, you will be assigned your alternative choice(s) in the order listed. If you fail to do so, then your counselor will make the selections for you. Students planning to attend summer school will be pre-registered based on the next logical course sequence according to their spring schedule. Students who successfully complete summer school may change courses upon returning to school in the fall. UNDERSTAND you will be expected to remain in year-long courses for the entire school year. Exceptions (graduation requirements or summer school completion) will be handled through the regular schedule change procedure. Seniors must apply for a reduced class load (shortened day) during pre-registration. Students with reduced class loads will be required to take 4 classes. Reduced class loads will not be approved after the school year begins. ** Repeat Courses- Credit Retrieval offerings may be limited based on seat availability 3

4 Discrimination Policy 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 American and other designated youth groups. SCHEDULE CHANGE POLICY Since much advance planning and guidance are provided for each student prior to registration, schedule changes will not be made after registration. Class changes will not be granted to accommodate a change in a student s lunch period, if a student is failing, or to request a specific instructor. Once elective choices are made, elective changes will NOT be granted. Due to the State of Nevada Department of Education Guidelines, no student may change a class and receive credit after the third week of the semester. Students who drop a class after the three week period will receive an F in that class. Requests for schedule changes are considered only during the first three weeks of the semester and are granted only for the following specific educational reasons: Minimum competency preparation for the Nevada Proficiency Exam Graduation requirement fulfillment Misplacement due to previous grade or lack of recommendation by teacher 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. Every effort will be made to ensure a smooth transition for students. CHALLENGING A COURSE Students have the right to challenge a course for which they do not meet a course s recommended achievement range. A parent conference will be held with the counselor and student regarding the agreement to challenge a class. All courses above the student s performance range may be selected with written permission on the registration form. Students must meet the prerequisite class completion before challenging a course. Students must remain in challenged courses for the entire year. PLACEMENT CRITERIA Students are assessed by teacher made tests, department pre-tests, standardized test scores and previous performance in classes to determine eligibility or recommendations for a future class. Students should consider their future goals and career path when considering placement in a particular class. PRE-REQUISITES Prerequisites are listed in the Course Catalog to help students and parents make the best educational decisions possible. Students must meet these prerequisites to enroll in a course or request permission to challenge the course. Both semesters of a prerequisite course must be successfully completed. 4

5 CLASS FEES Elective class "fees" are charged for select elective classes where students complete special projects some of which are to be taken home. These class fees cover the actual cost for these projects. A family s difficulty purchasing all of the desired/necessary items for the student and/or paying these fees will not prevent a student s enrollment in any class. If the times are such that alternatives to immediate payment of fees must be considered, the counselor or the respective elective teacher(s) should be contacted so the school and parent/guardian may work together to resolve the problem. STANDARDIZED TESTING PROGRAM All students at Liberty High School participate in the required district-wide testing program. Class of 2016 must still pass all four NHSPE exams (Math, English, Science and Writing). In addition, all juniors must take the career and college readiness ACT test. Class of 2017 must take the NHSPE Science exam. They are not required to pass the exam in order to graduate. Classes of 2017 and 2018 will be taking End-of-Course exams in Algebra I, Geometry, English 9 and English 10. A passing grade is not required for graduation. Class of 2019 and beyond will all be required to take end-of-course exams in Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, English 9 and 10, as well as Science. A passing score is required for graduation. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Counselors make every effort to aid students in planning their high school programs and projecting these programs toward long-term goals; however, the ultimate responsibility for each student s individual program still must rest with the student and parent/guardian. When selecting courses, students are encouraged to consider both graduation and post high school education and vocational entrance requirements. 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. College Readiness Assessments 5

6 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) course. Taking the PSAT in the sophomore year also prepares the student for the SAT. The PSAT taken as a junior (at the cost to 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 the Spring of their junior year at no cost. 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 the 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 college/universities require a minimum score on the ACT and/or SAT to determine placement in freshman English and math course. Finally, some universities determine scholarship eligibility on ACT and/or SAT results. 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. 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. 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 eight classes or the equivalent of four periods per day if on the block schedule.. 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. Duplicate Course Work Repeating Courses Students may repeat courses, 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. 6

7 21 st CENTURY COURSE OF STUDY EXPECTATIONS The Clark County School District expects all students to meet the requirements of the 21 st 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 (2011) 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 (weighted or unweighted) 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 (weighted or unweighted) and the core curriculum Approved NSHE Core Curriculum (4 English, 4 Math including Algebra II, 3 Natural Science, 3 Social Science & History = 14 units) 7

8 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 (2011) 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. **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. 8

9 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 (2011) 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 *Mathematics course units must include at least Algebra I or Algebra I H. ** 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. ½ ½ 1 9

10 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 0f 3.85 GPA with Bonus Points. ADVANCED HONORS DIPLOMA Advanced Diploma Honors Course Program Required/Elective Areas of Study Units Units ENGLISH 4 3 MATHEMATICS 4 2 SCIENCE 3 2 SOCIAL STUDIES (must earn all 3 credits) World History or Geography (2011) 3 2 U.S. History U.S. Government PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2 HEALTH USE OF COMPUTERS ½ ARTS/HUMANITIES or CAREER TECH ED ELECTIVE 1 ELECTIVES 6 3* TOTAL * 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 3.85 weighted GPA. 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. 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 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 10 ½

11 (14 classes) of Honors courses. The highest possible GPA under this system is 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 weighted GPA 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 Honors Diploma. 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 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. NCAA Initial Eligibility Requirements 11

12 In order to participate in collegiate athletics, students must register with the NCAA Clearinghouse 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 course 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 (Alg 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. 12

13 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 Marching Band/Flags/Mascots Basketball Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Soccer Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Bowling Softball Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Cheerleaders Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Swimming Varsity Cross Country Varsity Tennis Varsity Flag Football Varsity, Junior Varsity Track Varsity Football Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Volleyball Varsity, Junior Varsity, B-Team Golf Varsity Wrestling Varsity, Junior Varsity Team Managers are not eligible for the P.E. II Waiver; however, they may be eligible for Community Service credit. 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 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 a previous semester deficiency. 5. Transfer students are automatically presumed ineligible. Rebuttal of presumption of ineligibility guidelines are contained in Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association 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. Maintenance of Eligibility 1. Must maintain passing grades in all subjects during the current athletic season. 2. Must regularly attend school. Must be in school in order to participate in practice or games on any given day. 3. Must maintain positive citizenship. Students on RPC or suspension are not eligible to participate. Serious and/or chronic behavior infractions may result in suspension of athletic participation for up to one year, at the discretion of the principal. Additional specific eligibility guidelines are contained in Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association regulations (NAC ) and Clark County School District regulation

14 CCSD Guidance & Counseling Website The Guidance and Counseling Web site 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 regarding post secondary planning. Starting with elementary school, parents and students are able to review a checklist of activities on How to Support your Child s Education. These activities will assist with school success and will also prepare your children for college, apprenticeships, trade and technical schools, military opportunities, or to go directly to work. For details visit: under Tips for Parents click on Support your Child s Education. Military Information Counselors can advise students on military careers; military recruiters are also available to help students make decisions, write contracts, determine eligibility, and guarantee job training. ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is available for interested students. This test helps define abilities and aptitude for future careers. Community College System Information Community college, sometimes called junior college, offers 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 students for admission to the college of their choice. For information concerning specific admission requirements, students may consult school counselors and reference materials located in the library. 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 plan to 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. Policy guidelines and requirements for eligibility can be obtained by call 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. 14

15 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: Community Service Credit Correspondence Courses Credit By Exam Dual Credit Educational Travel Credit Enrichment Program Credit Music Equivalent Credit Online Courses 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. Credits may be earned for courses completed by mail or online from approved institutions. Fees vary from $100 to $120 per half credit plus books. Students must conform to the procedures set by the credit granting institution. Students may earn credit by earning a score of 70% or better on an examination for a course they have not taken previously or are not enrolled in currently. A fee of $40 is required for a semester credit, and the exam must be taken within 2 months of application. Seniors must complete exams by the end of the third nine weeks. 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. Students may receive credit for academically accelerated courses taken at accredited institutions. 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 online from approved institutions. The cost of courses vary. Students must conform to the procedures set by the credit granting institution. 15

16 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: Academy of Individualized Study (AIS) - For specific information, including fees, call (702) extension 325 or visit the website at: 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 Virtual High School Distance Education - To preview courses available, visit the web site at: call the office at , or see your high school counselor. Summer School - Students may earn a maximum of two credits per summer. Classes are offered at various high schools during the summer. A fee is required, and students must provide their own transportation. Registration information is available in the counseling office in the spring. Additional information is available at CTE College Credit CTE College Credit provides an opportunity for secondary students who complete the 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: Earn a 3.0 grade point average in their CTE sequence; Pass the state end-of-program technical content assessment; 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. 16

17 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 Signing the academic plan Reviewing the plan yearly and revising when necessary The academic plan will be used as a guide to manage the student s educational development and course selection in alignment with an identified course of study. The plan is easily accessible through the CCSD website at for regular review and revision as necessary. Regular examination throughout high school will assist students in preparation for adulthood in the 21 st century. College Prep Program The Liberty High School counseling staff strongly recommends the following as a minimum college preparatory program: a. 4 credits in English to include English I, English II, Composition and Literature. b. 4 credits of mathematics to include Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. c. 3 credits of lab science to include Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. d. 3 credits in social studies to include World History, U.S. History, and U.S. Government. e. 2 to 3 credits in the same foreign language. f. Computer Literacy. College Financial Aid There are four basic types of financial aid available to help defray the costs of 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), grade point average, financial need, and college entrance examination scores (ACT, SAT) weigh heavily in determining recipients. 2. Grants are monetary awards based solely on need. Need is determined from information on the 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. This is a very general outline on financial aid. For information on specific scholarships or programs, please contact a school counselor. Liberty High School will host an annual Fall Financial Aid Night for students and parents/guardians. During this meeting detailed FAFSA information will be explained and local colleges will be in attendance. Scholarship bulletins and other workshops are advertised to assist parents and students in completing applications needed for college, financial aid and scholarships. In addition, there will be weekly scholarship club meetings throughout the school year for students interested in taking part and/or receiving help with the application process. 17

18 Classical Studies Program Liberty High School is a comprehensive high school in which the educational program focuses on Classical Studies and the Arts as a foundation for all subjects. All courses highlight an understanding and appreciation for antiquity and the classics, and show use of facts, memorization, vocabulary, recitation, problem solving and thinking skills, speech, and writing. INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAMS (SPECIAL EDUCATION) An Individual Education Plan (IEP) for each individualized (special education) student must be developed and reviewed annually. The appropriate course of study leading to the program completion will be determined by the IEP committee. It is recommended that this decision be made at the 9 th grade level with parent/guardian approval and be reviewed annually at an IEP meeting. A. An individualized program student may earn a regular high school diploma (Option 1): 1. Upon completion of a minimum of 22 ½ units in regular and/or special education courses including the required areas of study. 2. Upon successful completion of the Nevada Proficiency Examination in reading, writing, math, and science (if applicable). B. An individualized program student may earn a special education high school diploma (Option 2): 1. Upon completion of 22 ½ units in special education and/or regular courses. 2. The IEP committee may exempt the student from passage of the Nevada Proficiency Examination or from required areas of study and prescribe an appropriate curriculum. OCCUPATIONAL EDUCATION AND MAGNET SCHOOLS Liberty High School students may opt to enroll in special programs offered by the magnet schools in the Clark County School District. The following is a list of these programs and magnet schools: Academy of Tourism and Travel at Valley High School Academy of Advanced Technologies Academy of Aerospace and Aviation At Rancho High School Academy of Communications at Desert Pines Academy of Finance (AOF) at Clark High Academy of Medicine and Allied Health At Rancho High School Academy of Information Technology at Desert Pines Academy for Mathematics, Science, and Applied Technology (A.M.S.A.T.) at Clark High School Teacher Education Academy at Clark High School (T.E.A.C.H.) Community College High School Nevada Vocational Career Centers and Technical Centers Las Vegas Academy of International Studies, Performing Art & Visual Arts Leadership & Law Preparatory Academy at Canyon Springs High School 18

19 HONORS CLASSES Honors classes are classified as accelerated courses designed for students who plan to apply to colleges or universities with admission requirements that are competitive. Each Honors course successfully completed (up to a total of 14 courses or 28 semesters) receives a weighted factor of.025 points added to the semester grade point average. Correspondence work, fifth-year academic, and special approved programs, such as the Early Studies Program and credit by exam, will not be accepted for Honors credit. The Honors GPA will be based on an accumulation of course work for which the student receives high school credit. ADVANCED PLACEMENT CLASSES (AP) Advanced Placement courses are college-level courses taught as part of the high school curriculum. In the spring of each school year, a cumulative exam is administered for each AP course. AP exams are graded on a scale of 1 (minimum) to 5 (maximum). The cost for each exam (approximately $90) is paid by the student. All students are expected to take the exams. Students with financial difficulties are welcome to see the AP coordinator regarding fees. University credit is generally granted for test scores of 3 and above. Advanced Placement Tests are developed by the Educational Testing Service and administered by the College Board. AP courses, receive a weighted factor of.050 per semester for up to four semesters of AP courses. Based upon a student's AP test scores, he/she may earn as many as 18 semester hours of college/university credit. This represents a significant financial savings to the parents/guardians of the student. Areas in which AP courses are offered at Liberty High School are listed below: Biology Calculus Chemistry English Language and Composition English Literature Latin Spanish Language Statistics Studio Art: 2-D Design Studio Art: 3-D Design Studio Art: Drawing U.S. Government U.S. History World History 19

20 GRADUATION & AWARDS 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. Liberty High School Awards ACADEMIC LETTER Academic Letters are awarded to the student receiving all "A" grades for both semester grading periods during one calendar school year. For each subsequent year, the student meeting the Academic Letter requirement will receive a bar to attach to his/her Academic Letter. An Academic Letter reception for qualifying students will be hosted by Liberty High School in the fall of each school year. SCHOLAR ATHLETE The student participating in interscholastic varsity athletics at Liberty High School while simultaneously earning a minimum 3.5 GPA will receive a Scholar Athlete Letter patch. LIBERTY CLASSICAL SCHOLARS CERTIFICATE This special certificate is awarded by Liberty High School to students who meet the following criteria: 1. Satisfy high school graduation requirements. 2. Complete a minimum of eight credits of Honors or Advanced Placement classes. 3. Maintain a 3.25 weighted grade point average through the third quarter of their senior year. 4. Complete at least ½ credit of Intro to Classical Studies; one credit of Latin I and two additional Classical Studies credits with grade B or better. GRADUATION CEREMONY RECOGNITION 1. Liberty High School Honor Criteria A. "Liberty High School High Honors" or above GPA (weighted) B. "Liberty High School Honors"- 3.5 GPA GPA (weighted) C. Seventh semester transcripts will be used to determine recognitions with the following stipulations: (1) Valedictorian status could be denied if a determination is made prior to graduation that the student will not qualify based upon the eighth semester grade. (2) Eighth semester Honors/AP coursework will be counted in qualifying for the Honors Diploma. 2. Graduation attire A. Graduates will wear red or blue gowns. B. All graduates receiving a Clark County School District Honors Diploma will wear white gowns. 3. Special Recognition. A. Liberty High School High Honors (3.8 or above GPA) graduates will wear a gold cord. B. Liberty High School Honors ( GPA) graduates will wear a white cord. C. Liberty High School Advanced Diploma graduates will wear a red/white/blue cord. D. Valedictorians/Salutatorians will receive special "Honors Medallions". E. Classical Scholars will receive a special Classical Scholars Medallion. 20

21 LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT COURSE OFFERINGS Career and Technical Education & Visual Arts Classical Studies English Foreign Language Health/Physical Education & AFJ ROTC Individualized Programs Mathematics Performing Arts Science Social Studies 21

22 CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION All classes are one-year courses unless stated otherwise. No changes will be made at the semester. Grade Business & Marketing Hospitality/ Tourism Health/Safety Information /Media Technology 9 TH Princ of Business Culinary I Bus Software Applications Graphic Design I Photo I Theater Tech I Video Production I Web Design I 10 TH Princ of Business Culinary Forensic Bus Software Applications I/II Science I/II Graphic Design I/II Photo I/II Theater Tech I/II Video Production I/II 11 TH Princ of Business Culinary I/II/III Forensic Science I/II Web Design I/II Bus Software Applications Graphic Design I/II/III Photo I/II/III Theater Tech I/II/III Video Production I/II/III Web Design I/II/III Other Work Experience (Café) Work Experience (Café) Applied Office Practice. Student Aide Work Experience (Café) 12 TH Princ of Business Culinary Arts II/III Forensic Science I/II Bus Software Applications Graphic Design II/III/Adv Study Photo I/II/III/ Adv Study Theater Tech I/II/III/Adv Study Video Production II/III/Adv Study Web Design III/Adv Study Applied Office Practice Student Aide Work Experience (Café) Applied Office Practice Grade: This course provides on-the-job training experience in the following areas: administrative offices, attendance office, school bank, library, audio/visual office, and graphic arts. A completed application/contract is required (available from a school counselor). Two credits may be earned in this program with a maximum of one credit earned in any one office area. Fifty percent of the final grade in this course is based on the student s attendance. Students are required to have a 2.5 GPA and 7 or fewer absences to be eligible. This class is repeatable. Business Software Applications Grade: 9-12 This one-year course is an introduction to various aspects of computer technology. Students receive instruction in proper keyboarding techniques, word processing, spreadsheet, database, multimedia, and desktop publishing. This course fulfills either the one-half required computer credit and one-half elective credit or one of the elective credits required for high school graduation. Culinary Arts I (First course in CTE Culinary Arts Program of Study ) Grade: 9-12 This one-year course provides students with an introduction to the principles, chemistry, and techniques of food preparation. The classroom is patterned after industry with emphasis on the standards of food service occupations. ProStart curricula are an integral part of this course. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the elective credits required for high school graduation. There is a fee of $40 per year. 22