MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL COURSE SELECTION GUIDE

Transcription

1 MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL COURSE SELECTION GUIDE Principal: Phil Eaton Address: Highway 105 West Montgomery, TX Hours: 7:20am - 2:35pm Grades: 9-12 Main Campus Phone: (936) Fax: (936) th Grade Campus Phone: (936) Fax: (936) IT S GREAT TO BE A BEAR!

2 22825 Highway 105 West Montgomery, Texas Phone: 936/ Fax: 936/ Dear Montgomery High School Students and Parents, We have had a great first semester and anticipate another phenomenal school year at Montgomery High School! Although it s only January, it s time to start selecting courses for the school year. This is an extremely important time in your student s high school career. The course selection guide is a tremendous tool for your use in preparing for your son s or daughter s next school year. The purpose of the Montgomery High School Course Selection Guide is to assist students and parents in the planning of a high school course of study tailored to individual student needs, interests, and aspirations. After an introductory section on graduation requirements, graduation programs and testing requirements, the course selection guide provides information on academic placement, a brief description of prerequisites, and costs and content of the high school courses offered by Montgomery High School. These descriptions should be studied in selecting courses for next year; however, printed descriptions cannot replace the value of talking about courses and planning with teachers, counselors, and administrators. Students and parents with questions regarding courses and how they fit in their overall plan are encouraged to consult with members of the faculty. The past few years have been an extraordinary time of change in public education, and the school spirit and pride at MHS remains strong. The future of Montgomery High School depends on the unity and strength of our underclassmen. As you prepare to build your schedule for next year, I encourage you to challenge yourself both in your academic course work and in your investment in extracurricular activities. Take an advanced course in your favorite subject area. Get involved. Students who are connected to school by participating in extracurricular activities stay engaged in their classes and are generally more successful in school. If you are not sure how to get involved or feel you need more information, ask one of your classmates or any staff member. The MHS faculty and staff will help you with a plan to make your experience at MHS the best it can be. As you make your selections, please keep in mind that the hiring of certified staff and the building of the master schedule is based on your child's choices. Due to these two facts, when your son/daughter receives the courses, he/she chooses or his/her alternates, no schedule changes will be made. Please understand that we will do everything possible to provide your son/daughter the courses he/she wants, but it is a year-long commitment. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to stop by and visit with me. Sincerely, Phil Eaton Principal Please visit our campus website to review the on-line version of the course catalog and the counseling office webpage for updates concerning registration and other pertinent information. 1

3 MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL Highway 105 West Montgomery, Texas Phone: 936/ Fax: 936/ Parents and Students, The material in this course guide is intended to provide you and your son/daughter with essential information concerning Texas graduation requirements, as well as Montgomery High School curriculum and course descriptions. It provides academic policies and procedures for the school year. If you plan to attend college after graduation, you should research and consider the requirements outlined by the institution you plan to attend when selecting courses. Legislation passed in the 2001 Legislative Session requires all ninth grade students entering high school in and thereafter to complete the Recommended High School Program (RHSP) or Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP). Students may only complete the Minimum High School Program (MHSP) after the student s parent, counselor and administrator agree that the student should enroll in and complete courses in the minimum program. To be eligible for the MHSP, the student must meet at least one of the following criteria: Be at least 16 years old, and Have completed two credits required for graduation in each subject of the foundation curriculum, and Have failed to be promoted to grade 10 one or more times as determined by the school district. Passed by the 83 rd Texas Legislature, House Bill 5 (HB5) revises the graduation program for students entering Grade 9 in the school year and all subsequent years. The new law replaces the current three high school graduation plans (Minimum, Recommended, and Distinguished Achievement) with one Foundation program, on top of which students can earn endorsements and a Distinguished Level of Achievement. HB5 makes earning an endorsement on top of the Foundation plan the default high school graduation plan for students, requiring that students entering grade 9 specify in writing which endorsement they intend to earn. Students can choose to graduate under the Foundation program alone (with no endorsement) only upon written permission of their parents and only after the sophomore year. In addition to the comprehensive information in this booklet, the counselors at Montgomery High School will make every effort to provide students and parents with additional information concerning graduation requirements, career choices, post-secondary education, universities, technical schools, military service and financial aid. Parent orientations and workshops are provided in the fall for college admissions and in the spring for financial aid, high school graduation requirements and registration. Research information, computer technology and assistance are also available through the Montgomery High School College and Career Center. It is ultimately the responsibility of the student with the assistance of his/her parents to become familiar with the graduation programs, select the program that best meets his/her post-secondary goals and meet those related requirements. We are pleased to assist you and your son/daughter with questions or concerns during the high school years. You may contact the Counseling Center at and the College & Career Center at Montgomery High School Counselors: Mark Strauss - Freshmen A-L Dana Ellis - Freshmen M-Z Curt Campbell - Grades A-Da Daniele Jordan - Grades De-Ke Leah Erickson - Grades Ki-Rh Paulette Kirby - Grades Ri-Z Fran Gore - College & Career It is the policy of Montgomery ISD to not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in providing educational services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Montgomery ISD will take steps to ensure that the lack of English Language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs. For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator, Bobby Morris, at Walden Road, Montgomery TX 77356, , and/or the Section 504 Coordinator, Kim Howze, at 700 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, Montgomery, TX 77356,

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS MHS GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS... 4 MHS GRADUATION PROGRAMS ENTERED 9 TH GRADE PRIOR TO 2014/ MHS GRADUATION PROGRAMS ENTERED 9 TH GRADE IN 2014/2015 AND AFTER... 6 TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR MHS GRADUATION (STAAR)... 8 GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION... 8 COURSE REGISTRATION... 8 CLASS SCHEDULE CHANGES... 9 HOW TO HANDLE A TEACHER CONCERN... 9 HOW TO HANDLE A SCHEDULE CONCERN... 9 LOST SCHEDULE ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSE INFO AND CRITERIA DUAL CREDIT COURSES DC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS DC VS. AP ELIGIBILITY FOR INTERSCHOLASTIC COMPETITION AWARD OF CREDIT CREDIT BY EXAMINATION CBE FOR ACCELERATION CBE FOR VERIFICATION CBE FOR RETRIEVAL CORRESPONDENCE CLEP SUMMER SCHOOL JUNIOR HIGH TEXAS VIRTUAL SCHOOL NETWORK CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS GRADE POINT SYSTEM STUDENTS THAT ENTERED MHS IN 2012/2013 AND BEFORE GRADE POINT SYSTEM 9 TH GRADERS THAT ENTERED MHS IN 2013/2014 AND BEYOND GRADES GRADE EQUIVALENT AND CONVERSION SCALE COURSES EXEMPTED FROM NO PASS/NO PLAY ACADEMIC LETTER CLASS RANKING FOR SENIORS PASS/ FAIL COURSES HONOR GRADUATES EARLY GRADUATION AWARDING OF DIPLOMA POSTHUMOUSLY TEXAS PUBLIC UNIVERSITY/ COLLEGE AUTOMATIC ADMISSION COLLEGE ADMISSION ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS (HB3826) CERTIFICATE AWARD (SB 673) COLLEGE ENROLLMENT/FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIPS TOWARD EXCELLENCE, ACCESS & SUCCESS STUDENT EDUCATION BENEFITS PROGRAM SPECIAL PROGRAMS ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES GIFTED & TALENTED AND ADVANCED ACADEMIC SERVICES SPECIAL EDUCATION NCAA FRESHMAN ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS NCAA DIVISION I SLIDING SCALE COURSE DESCRIPTIONS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS MATHEMATICS SCIENCE SOCIAL STUDIES PHYSICAL EDUCATION FOREIGN LANGUAGE FINE ARTS LOCAL CREDIT COURSES CAREER & TECHNICAL COURSES SPECIAL EDUCATION LIFESKILLS GLOSSARY OF TERMS COURSE INDEX

5 MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS In the 8th grade, each student is required to make a six-year plan when completing his/her registration forms. The six-year plan serves as a guide for the student s college/career preparation and to help students and parents in annual course selection. The sixyear plan should continue to serve as a reference document until graduation. Parents and students should be committed to designing and following a six-year plan that matches the individual student s college/career goals and leads to graduation. To receive a Texas high school diploma, you must complete all the necessary coursework for graduation and pass all parts of your required state assessment (TAKS or STAAR). A student entering the 9 th grade in 2011 or later, take 5 End-of-Course exams for his/her state assessments. If the student passes all required state assessments the first time taken, he/she will have fulfilled his/her testing requirements for graduation. However, if a student does not pass one or more tests, he/she will have several opportunities to retake those tests. Legislation passed in the 2001 Legislative Session requires a student who entered 9 th grade in the school year and thereafter to enroll in all courses necessary to complete the curriculum requirements for either the RHSP or DAP. A student may only complete the MHSP after the student s parent(s), counselor and/or administrator agree that the student be placed in the minimum program. Passed by the 83 rd Texas Legislature, House Bill 5 (HB5) revises the graduation program for students entering Grade 9 in the school year and all subsequent years. The new law replaces the current three high school graduation plans (Minimum, Recommended, and Distinguished Achievement) with the Foundation Program, the Foundation Program with an Endorsement and the Distinguished Level of Achievement. HB5 states that the Foundation Plan with an Endorsement is the default high school graduation plan for all students. This plan requires that a student entering grade 9 specify in writing which endorsement he/she will earn. The appropriate State of Texas seal designating which program was completed will be attached to the student s Academic Achievement Record (AAR). The seal will not appear on the student s high school diploma. High school courses taken in junior high will earn credit toward the 26 credits required for graduation. At Montgomery High School (MHS), in order to walk across the stage and participate in graduation exercises, a student must successfully complete all graduation requirements and state-mandated testing. NOTE: Completing the graduation testing requirement is just one of the things needed to receive your diploma. Consult your school counselor for information about other graduation requirements. 4

6 MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION PROGRAMS FOR A STUDENT WHO ENTERED 9 TH GRADE PRIOR TO Legislation passed in the 2001 Legislative Session requires a STUDENT WHO ENTERED 9 TH GRADE PRIOR TO THE SCHOOL YEAR AND BEFOREHAND to enroll in all courses necessary to complete the curriculum requirements for either the RHSP or DAP. A student may only complete the MHSP after the student s parent(s), counselor and/or administrator agree that the student be placed in the minimum program. SUBJECT MINIMUM PROGRAM RECOMMENDED PROGRAM DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAM ENGLISH 4 Credits: English I, II, III, IV ** 4 Credits: English I, II, III, IV 4 Credits: English I, II, III, IV MATHEMATICS SCIENCE SOCIAL STUDIES ACADEMIC ELECTIVE HEALTH PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS 3 Credits: Algebra I Geometry Math Models or Algebra II 2 Credits: IPC/Biology 3 Credits: World Geography or World History U.S. History U.S. Government/Economics 1 Credit: An additional Science or Social Studies course 1/2 Credit: Health (District Requirement) 1/2 Credit: Professional Communications 1 Credit: Technology application (District Requirement) 4 Credits: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Math Elective 4 Credits: Biology/Chemistry/Physics Science Elective 4 Credits: World Geography World History U.S. History U.S. Government/Economics 1/2 Credit: Health (District Requirement) 1/2 Credit: Professional Communications 1 Credit: Technology application (District Requirement) 4 Credits: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Math Elective 4 Credits: Biology/Chemistry/Physics Science Elective (Cannot include IPC or Prin. of Tech.) 4 Credits: World Geography World History U.S. History U.S. Government/Economics 1/2 Credit: Health (District Requirement) 1/2 Credit: Professional Communications 1 Credit: Technology application (District Requirement) PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1 Credit: Physical Education * 1 Credit: Physical Education * 1 Credit: Physical Education * FINE ARTS 1 Credit: Fine Arts 1 Credit: Fine Arts 1 Credit: Fine Arts FOREIGN LANGUAGE 2 Credits: Foreign Language (Same Language) 3 Credits: Foreign Language (Same Language) ELECTIVES 9 Credits: Electives 4 Credits: Electives 3 Credits: Electives 4 Advanced Measures TOTAL CREDITS Requires parent waiver ** Minimum High School Program ONLY - The fourth credit of English may be English IV, Practical Writing, or concurrent enrollment in a college English course. * Students may earn no more than 4 credits of P.E. towards state graduation requirements. May substitute marching band, cheerleading, drill team, athletics, and JROTC. Students must complete all course requirements listed along with completing three years of the same foreign language. The student also must achieve any four of the advanced measures. NOTE: Under the Distinguished Achievement Program, this leaves 3 credits in electives. ADVANCED MEASURES: TEST DATA: Score three or above on an AP exam from the College Board; score four or above on an International Baccalaureate exam; PSAT score must qualify student for recognition as a Commended Scholar or higher by the National Merit Scholarship Corp., as part of the National Hispanic Scholar and the Achievement Scholarship Program. The PSAT score may count as only one advance measure. COLLEGE COURSES: A grade point of 3.0 or higher on courses that count for college credit, including tech prep programs. ORIGINAL RESEARCH/PROJECT: Judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is the focus of the project; or conducted under the direction of mentor(s) and reported to an appropriate audience; or related to the required curriculum set forth in the TEKS. May not be used for more than two of the four advanced measures. Includes Science Fair project, see guidelines. 5

7 MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION PROGRAMS FOR A STUDENT WHO ENTERED 9 TH GRADE IN AND AFTER Passed by the 83 rd Texas Legislature, House Bill 5 (HB5) revises the graduation program for a STUDENT ENTERING GRADE 9 IN THE SCHOOL YEAR AND ALL SUBSEQUENT YEARS. The new law replaces the current three high school graduation plans (Minimum, Recommended, and Distinguished Achievement) with the Foundation Program, the Foundation Program with an Endorsement and the Distinguished Level of Achievement. HB5 states that the Foundation Plan with an Endorsement is the default high school graduation plan for all students. This plan requires that a student entering grade 9 specify in writing which endorsement he/she will earn. DISCIPLINE FOUNDATION HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM ENGLISH 4 Credits: English I, II, III, An additional English course MATHEMATICS 3 Credits: Algebra I, Geometry, An additional math course SCIENCE 3 Credits: Biology, IPC or an advanced science course, An additional science course SOCIAL STUDIES 3 Credits: World Geography or World History, U.S. History, U.S. Government/Economics HEALTH.5 Elective Credit * PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATIONS.5 Elective Credit * TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS 1 Elective Credit * PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1 Credit: Physical Education or state approved alternative (athletics, marching band, etc.) FINE ARTS 1 Credit: Fine Arts FOREIGN LANGUAGE 2 Credits: Foreign Language (Same Language) ELECTIVES 3 Credits: Electives TOTAL = 22 FOUNDATION HSP 1 WITHOUT AN ENDORSEMENT + 2 Credits: Elective Credits (Committee Approval Is Required) TOTAL CREDITS WITHOUT ENDORSEMENT = 24 FOUNDATION HSP + 4 CREDITS - A STUDENT MAY EARN AN ENDORSEMENT BY SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETING: WITH AN ENDORSEMENT Four credits in mathematics 2 (The 5 Endorsements are Four credits in science listed in detail below) Two additional elective credits Includes courses directly related to: STEM science, including environmental science engineering technology, including computer science advanced math Includes courses directly related to: finance welding database management marketing logistics BUSINESS & INDUSTRY information technology graphic design automotive technology communications architecture agricultural science accounting construction HVAC Includes courses directly related to: health sciences and medical occupation military service in the armed forces (to include the Coast PUBLIC SERVICES education and training Guard and National Guard) culinary arts and hospitality law enforcement Includes courses directly related to: political science English literature ARTS & HUMANITIES world languages history cultural studies fine arts Allows a student to select courses from the curriculum of each endorsement area and earn credits in a variety MULTIDISCIPLINARY STUDIES of advanced courses from multiple content areas sufficient to complete the distinguished level of achievement. TOTAL CREDITS WITH ENDORSEMENTS = 26 DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT four credits in math, including credit in Algebra II 3 (Eligible for College Automatic four credits in science Admissions) completion of curriculum requirements for at least one endorsement TOTAL CREDITS WITH ENDORSEMENTS = 26 A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student s diploma and transcript 1. For outstanding performance: PERFORMANCE in a dual credit course in bilingualism and biliteracy ACKNOWLEDGEMENT on an AP test or IB exam on the PSAT, the ACT-Plan, the SAT, or the ACT 2. For earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license *Montgomery Independent School District Requirement 6

8 MONTGOMERY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION PROGRAMS FOR A STUDENT WHO ENTERED 9 TH GRADE IN AND AFTER - CONT. The following steps and sample 6-year plan are intended to guide STUDENTS THAT ENTERED GRADE 9 IN THE SCHOOL YEAR AND ALL SUBSEQUENT YEARS in completing their 6-year plan Think about what career interests you and choose the post high school options which best fit your goals. You can choose from a variety of options and you can choose more than one option. Options include: 2-Year College, Technical Training, 4-Year College, Military, Employment, or Other Select the endorsement(s) that support your post high school goal. You can choose from the following options: STEM, Business & Industry, Arts & Humanities, Public Service, or Multidisciplinary Studies Each pathway to graduation includes the Foundation Plan with an Endorsement for a total of 26 credits. The Distinguished plan requires students to complete the Foundation Plan with an endorsement including credit in Algebra II. Fill in the courses for each of the years of school listed on the bottom half of the graduation plan. Remember to include all required courses, and include the courses which support your career goals. Review the plan with your parents. Ask your counselor if you have any questions. You and your parents will need to sign the plan before submitting it to the school. What if I don t know what career I want? What options are within each category? What are the credit requirements? Where can I find a list of all available courses? What if my post high school plans changes? You can use Career Cruising, an online career exploration tool to help you discover and explore career and college options. Career Cruising will help you match your talents and abilities with high school and college plans. Please see the table on PAGE 7 for a complete list of course categories for each of the endorsements. The Foundation Plan with Endorsement includes 4 English, 3 math (includes Algebra I & Geometry), 3 science (includes Biology), 3 social studies, 1 physical education, 1 fine art, 2 of the same foreign language and 5 electives (to include any additional courses required by the school district). The additional 4 credits will be determined by your endorsement area. In the MHS Course Selection Guide. The CSG is available in the Counseling Center and on the MHS website. That s okay! Plans can be adjusted. Any changes in plans will need to be approved by the counselor and your parents. 7

9 TESTING REQUIREMENTS FOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION STATE OF TEXAS ASSESSMENTS OF ACADEMIC READINESS (STAAR), CLASS OF 2015 AND BEYOND In fulfillment of the requirements of House Bill 3 passed by the 81st Texas Legislature and incorporated into Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 39, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) developed the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR). STAAR is a more rigorous assessment program that provides the foundation for a new accountability system for Texas public education. STAAR replaced the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) in spring The STAAR program at grades 3 8 assesses the same subjects and grades that were assessed on TAKS. At high school, however, grade-specific assessments were replaced with end-of-course (EOC) assessments. House Bill 5, passed by the 82nd Texas Legislature, lowered the end-of-course requirements from 15 assessments to 5: Algebra I, Biology, English I, English II, and U.S. History. The STAAR EOC assessments test a high school student s mastery of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for a given course, and determine college and career readiness. A student who enrolled in 9 th grade in or after are required to take STAAR EOC assessments. If a student is enrolled in grade 8 or below and is taking a course for which there is a STAAR EOC assessment, that student will be required to take the applicable STAAR EOC assessment. End-Of-Course Assessment STAAR EOC PERFORMANCE STANDARDS (SUBJECT TO CHANGE) Phase-in 1 Maintained for 2014/15 (1.0 SD below final standard) Phase-in 2 Implemented 2015/16 (0.7 SD below final standard) Phase-in 3 Implemented 2018/19 (0.3 SD below final standard) Final Standard Implemented 2021/22 Level 2 Level 2 Level 2 Level 2 Satisfactory English I * English II * Algebra I Biology U.S. History * English I and II are shown in at 0.5, 0.35, 0.15 standard Deviations (SD). GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION Level 3 Advanced A student is classified according to the number of credits earned at the beginning of the school year. A student beginning the school year as a freshman WILL NOT be reclassified at midterm; however, a repeat sophomore or junior who earns the required number of credits by the spring semester WILL BE RECLASSIFIED. A fourth year junior will be reclassified to senior status immediately upon earning the required 18 credits. Credits Earned Classification ½ and 4 th year in high school Senior ½ and 3 rd year in high school Junior 6 12 ½ and 2 nd year in high school Sophomore 0 5 ½ Freshman COURSE REGISTRATION During the spring, students register for the next school year and are given the opportunity to indicate their choice of courses. Schedules are then prepared based on each student s course requests and alternate course requests. Schedules are picked up prior to the beginning of the school year. Students in 9 th and 10 th grade are required to register for eight classes and remain on the MHS campus for eight periods. Students in 11 th grade are required to register and remain on the MHS campus for eight periods unless they are enrolled in the career preparation program. Students in 12 th grade attending college classes, enrolled in dual credit classes, or participating in the career preparation program must register for a minimum of three consecutive periods on the MHS campus. All other students in 12 th grade must register for a minimum of six consecutive periods on the MHS campus. Fifth-year seniors will be permitted to attend only those classes needed to meet graduation requirements provided that the courses can be scheduled during consecutive periods. 8

10 SPRING REGISTRATION PROCEDURES & TIMELINE Registration orientation is conducted for each grade level and an evening meeting for the parents of incoming 9 th grade students (includes advisement and distribution of handbook and course selection forms). January: Registration for each grade level (students return completed course selection forms). Friday prior to Spring Break: LAST DAY TO APPLY FOR CHANGES TO COURSE SELECTIONS FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR. CLASS SCHEDULE CHANGES Principals select and hire teachers and create the master schedule based on the courses requested by students. After selecting required courses, students should choose electives and alternates carefully. Those decisions are binding. Schedules are determined by course selections; therefore, schedule changes will only be made if: Senior not enrolled in a class REQUIRED for graduation Student scheduled for a class for which he/she already has credit Student is scheduled into a class for which the student does not have prerequisite Student not enrolled in an application/audition course for which they were approved Counselor s scheduling error Balancing of class sizes Student needs to add a course to be a full time student/has an incomplete schedule Student is cut from any extracurricular program (WITHIN THE CUT DEADLINE) ARD/504 Committee decision Students may request a schedule change from an advanced/ap class(s) under the following two conditions: 1) A grade of 74 or below for the 1 st six weeks 2) At the conclusion of the 1 st semester Both of the above scenarios require parent/guardian permission and the availability of an on-level equivalent course. Check course descriptions for further clarification on which courses do not qualify for schedule changes. Grade points are awarded for courses at semester. If a student moves at the end of the 1 st six weeks grading period, the grade transfers to the level class and to a level grade. If a student moves at the end of the semester, the semester grade will receive the advanced grade points. Students have until the Friday after Spring Break to apply for changes to their course selections. The following requests will not be approved: Requests for a teacher change Requests for a lunch change Requests for an elective change Requests to drop a course after the drop deadline Requests to add a course after the add deadline Requests to drop an advanced course after the drop deadline Requests for a period change HOW TO HANDLE A SCHEDULE CONCERN Please note that if your schedule reflects those courses and alternates requested on your course selection form, YOU HAVE NO SCHEDULE CONCERNS. Procedures to request a schedule change: Students must complete and turn in the Schedule Concern-Error Notification Form, which is available in the Counseling Center, no later than 5 days after the first day of class. Until your concern is addressed, YOU MUST FOLLOW YOUR CURRENT SCHEDULE. No student is to leave a class for a schedule concern unless sent for by a counselor. Requests that are NOT turned in by the deadline stated on the form will not be honored! HOW TO HANDLE A TEACHER CONCERN Students or parents who have a concern should first contact the appropriate staff member. The most direct route to resolving a concern is to confer directly with the person involved, whether it is a teacher, coach, or sponsor, etc. If the outcome of that discussion is not satisfactory, they should request a conference with the Dean of Academics. Please note that the previous steps cannot be scheduled on the same day in order to ensure that adequate time is available for the Dean of Academics to obtain relative information from the student, teacher-in-question and the appropriate department chairperson. If not satisfied at that level, they can request a conference with the principal or designee. 9

11 LOST SCHEDULE? Students will receive their official schedule on the first day of each semester. Students must present this official schedule to each instructor the first time they enter each class. There will be a $1.00 fee for each replacement schedule, which may be obtained in the Counseling Center. ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COURSES The Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a program of college-level courses and exams for secondary students provided on the high school campus. The Advanced Placement Program is administered by the College Board and is a national program. For students who are willing and able to apply themselves to college-level studies while in high school, the program enriches both the secondary and post-secondary educational experience. It also provides the means for colleges to grant credit, placement or both to students who have attained a high level of mastery on an AP Exam. Upon completion of an AP course, a student may elect to take the AP Exam. The cost is approximately $91. Colleges may award credit based on the score of the AP Exam. Approximately 2,200 colleges receive these grades and use them as the basis for granting credit and/or placement to entering students whose scores meet their requirements. Financial aid is available to help with exam costs. MHS offers Advanced Placement courses in: Biology French Language Statistics Calculus AB Macroeconomics Studio Art 2D Design Chemistry Microeconomics US Government & Politics Computer Science Music Theory US Government & Politics: Comparative English Language & Composition Physics 1 US History English Literature & Composition Physics 2 World History Environmental Science Psychology European History Spanish Language ADVANCED COURSE & ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CRITERIA The MHS advanced and Advanced Placement courses offer special opportunities for motivated students to pursue academic work that challenges their interests and abilities. These courses offer an environment designed to encourage higher level academic achievement. The student must have mastered the most recent state assessments taken to be eligible for these classes. An Advanced/AP Student/Parent Contract must be submitted along with course registration form. Successful students are task-oriented, proficient readers, able to prioritize their time and have parental support. A grade of 65 or above in an advanced/ap class meets UIL eligibility standards. However, a grade of is not considered a passing grade in regard to satisfactory progress. Students may exit an advanced/ap course with parent approval and teacher grade verification at the end of the 1 st six weeks of the first semester if they have an average below 75 or they may exit at the end of the first semester. If there is no level course for students to exit to, then the student must remain in the class. When a student transfers from an advanced/ap course, the grades for that student will transfer to the course in which the student enters. If a student moves at the end of the 1 st six weeks grading period, the grade transfers to the level class and to a level grade. If a student moves at the end of the semester, the semester grade will receive the advanced grade points. COURSES FOR WHICH THERE IS NO EQUIVALENT LEVEL COURSE AND, THEREFORE, NO EXIT INCLUDE: ACADEC I-IV AP European History AP Physics 2 AP Biology Advanced French III Pre-Calculus AP Calculus AB AP French Language AP Psychology AP Chemistry AP Macroeconomics AP Spanish Language AP Computer Science AP Microeconomics AP Statistics Advanced Debate II, III, & IV AP Music Theory AP Studio Art 2D Design AP Environmental Science AP Physics 1 AP US Government & Politics: Comparative DUAL CREDIT (DC) COURSES Dual Credit allows a student to earn high school credit while completing a college course. Dual credit is part of the Lone Star College System s (LSCS) exceptional admissions program, designed specifically for high school juniors and seniors ready for college-level instruction. Students who demonstrate college readiness on a placement exam can earn college and high school credits simultaneously by attending classes at their high school or a Lone Star College. Many of the classes are transferable to public colleges or universities in Texas, and some are accepted by out-of-state and private colleges. 10

12 DUAL CREDIT (DC) COURSES CONT. MHS offers Academic Dual Credit Courses in: Algebra 1314 English 2332/2333 Pre-Calculus 2412 Speech 1315 Art Appreciation 1301 Finite Math 1324 Psychology 2301 Speech 1321 Art History 1303/1304 Macroeconomics 2302 Sociology 1301 Statistics 1342 Calculus 2413 Microeconomics 2302 Spanish 2311/2312 US Government 2305 English 1301/1302 Music 1306 Speech 1311 US History 1301/1302 Workforce Dual Credit is designed to allow high school students to enroll in LSCS credit workforce programs and receive high school credit for career and technical classes. Students who participate in these classes/programs will graduate with career skills and in many cases, a certification approving them for employment in their industry. Please check with your local college campus to see whether or not you can take advantage of this opportunity. Auto Mechanics 1405/1410 EMT 1305 Machining 1338/1352 Welding 1421/1428 Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) HVAC 1401/1407 Phlebotomy Dual credit courses are college level academic or technical courses taken by high school students for which they receive high school credit and college credit concurrently. Typically, courses are open to students in grades (including summer of the sophomore to junior year) who are in good academic standing. The MISD Board of Trustees shall approve courses for which high school credit shall be granted. Specific requirements will be provided by the high school dual credit coordinator. Grades are awarded in the same manner as awarded to college students who take the same course. MHS students successfully completing a dual credit course will receive weighted GPA points. A college or university awards credit for a dual credit course immediately after a successful completion of the course. Dual credit courses may require high school students to pay regular or reduced tuition and fees, or the college may elect to waive these costs. Dual credit courses may be offered in one of the following ways: The course may be taught on the college campus by a college instructor. The course may be taught on a high school campus by a college instructor. The course may be taught on a high school campus by a qualified high school teacher, or the course delivered by a qualified instructor from another ISD via distance learning capabilities. Online refers to a course that is delivered 100% via web-based instruction. Hybrid refers to a course that has a substantial portion of the course delivered web-based while some learning outcomes require hands-on experience done in face-to-face instruction. DUAL CREDIT ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: The student has a current admissions application on file with LSCS. Students must attend orientation with LSCS. The student has an exceptional admission form with approvals from their high school administrator, college designee and parent/guardian. The student has taken an approved assessment: COMPASS or ACCUPLACER or ASSET or TSI (reading, writing, and/or math relevant to the courses being taken) or Exempt scores based on ACT, SAT, or THEA. For dual credit students who do not have exemption scores in all sections of the SAT and/or ACT, additional assessment will be required. Students shall notify the dual credit coordinator if there is a change in their status at the college/university. Credit shall not be awarded without the official presentation of the college transcript or grade report to the dual credit coordinator within five school days of the grades being posted. Dual credit classes are exempt from UIL regulations for grades. Transportation is the responsibility of the parent and student. The district is not liable for injury occurring once the student leaves campus. In order for a dual credit course to count as an Advanced Measure on the DAP, the student must earn a B or better in the course. If a student earns a D or below, the student will be dropped from the program and may no longer take dual credit courses. There is no guarantee of credits being transferred to other colleges or universities. Students can take a maximum of 6 credit hours each semester and may qualify to take 9 hours of credit per semester with approval of both the MHS & Lone Star dual credit coordinators. The student may be eligible to enroll in workforce education dual credit courses in the eleventh and/or twelfth grade if the student achieves the workforce admissions standards. *Concurrent Credit Juniors or seniors who meet entrance requirements of a college/university and who have approval from the MHS dual credit coordinator may take other classes at a college or university that will count for college credit but not for high school credit. 11

13 DUAL CREDIT VS. ADVANCED PLACEMENT Knowing the differences between Advanced Placement and Dual Credit courses will assist you in planning for both high school and college courses. ADVANCED PLACEMENT VS. DUAL CREDIT CHART Advanced Placement (AP) Dual Credit (DC) Description Credit The AP Program allows students to take college-level courses and exams, and to earn college credit or placement while still in high school. Students seeking credit through their AP Exam scores should note that individual colleges and universities, not the College Board, the AP Program or the high school, grant course credit and placement. Dual Credit allows high school students to earn both high school and college credit by completing courses at their high school and/or college campus. Credit is awarded when the student passes the course. Students must pass a DC course with a C or higher to remain in the dual credit program. Taught by college instructors and/or high school Teachers/Instructors Taught by specially trained high school teachers. teachers who serve as adjunct professors. Accepted at public college and universities in Texas. College/University Accepted throughout the nation. See individual college Check with individual college for your intended major s Acceptance for their policy. academic requirements. Dual Credit courses can be taught on the high school or Location AP courses are taught on the high school campus. college campus. Must be currently attending high school and classified as a junior or senior. Open to any student who meets the AP criteria in the Must have a college placement score on the Eligibility course catalog. E-Compass, THEA, Accuplacer, SAT, ACT, or STAAR scores Parent/guardian and counselor approval. Approximately $91 per test. Payment to high school The approximate cost is $100 per 3 credit hour course. Cost prior to March. Payment to LSCS upon registration. Textbooks Provided by the school. Student is responsible for textbooks. Impact on High AP courses are weighted in the MHS GPA. Dual Credit courses are weighted in the MHS GPA. School GPA ELIGIBILITY FOR INTERSCHOLASTIC COMPETITION Students in grades 7 through 12 may participate in extracurricular activities on-campus or off-campus at the beginning of the school year only if they have earned the cumulative number of credits in state-approved courses as indicated below, with the exception of special education students whose status is defined by the ARD committee and their own IEP's. 1) Beginning in Grade 7 and continuing through Grades 8 and 9: must have been promoted from previous grade, not placed. 2) Beginning in Grade 10 or the second year of high school (Grades 9 through 12): must have earned five (5) state credits. 3) Beginning in the third year of high school: must have earned ten (10) state credits or must have earned five (5) state credits during the preceding 12 months. 4) Beginning in the fourth year of high school: must have earned 15 state credits or must have earned five (5) state credits during the preceding 12 months. Credits earned in summer school or in correspondence may be used to determine eligibility. A student who receives at the end of a grading period a grade below 70 (grade below 65 in an advanced placement, or an honors or a dual credit course in English/ Language Arts, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, or a foreign language) in any academic class may not participate in extra-curricular activities for at least three school weeks. The student becomes ineligible seven (7) days after the last day of the six-weeks grading period. For example, if the six-week grading period ends at 2:35 p.m. on Friday, October 4, the suspension would take effect at 2:35 p.m. on Friday, October 11. A student regains eligibility seven calendar days after the three school week evaluation period, if the student is passing all courses on the last class day of the three school week period. The student's work is evaluated from the first class day of the new grading period to the end of the three school week evaluation period. If the student has at least a minimum grade of 70 on a scale of for work done since the end of the previous grading period, the student may regain eligibility 28 seven calendar days later at the time the regular school day ends. Parents and students are encouraged to consult the coach/sponsor if there is a question. Note: Schools taking breaks of one week or more are reminded that those weeks do not count as part of this period. All students are eligible during this time. 12

14 ELIGIBILITY FOR INTERSCHOLASTIC COMPETITION CONT. Students who assist the sponsor or coach, such as student managers, must meet all academic eligibility requirements even though they do not participate in the performance or contest. Students must also be in attendance at least one-half day prior to competition or practice to be eligible for either practice or activity. Lastly, a student receiving a course grade of I (Incomplete, pending completion of required work) is considered ineligible until the I is replaced with a passing grade for that grading period. AWARD OF CREDIT In addition to course offerings provided at MHS, the district provides other options for earning high school credits. Credits earned through credit by examination, correspondence, CLEP, summer school, junior high and virtual school are not included in the GPA and are not used for ranking purposes nor do they replace grades earned during the regular school year on the Academic Achievement Record. The following information should be helpful to students and parents who wish to consider these options. CREDIT BY EXAMINATION (CBE) Registration Deadlines & Testing Schedule for June 16 TH and 17 th, Registration Deadline is May 5, 2015 July 21 st and 22 nd, 2015 Registration Deadline is June 9, 2015 November 17 th and 18 th, 2015 Registration Deadline is October 6, 2015 March 22 nd and 23 rd, 2016 Registration Deadline is February 9, 2016 Students seeking original credit for a course in which they have had no prior instruction may take the appropriate exams (Texas Tech or University of Texas) according to the schedule listed above. Students also have the option to take Advanced Placement (AP) exams or College Level Examination Program (CLEP) without prior instruction and receive credit for the class if the student scores: 1. Eighty percent (80%) or above on the criterion-referenced exam for acceleration for the course 2. A three (3) or higher on an AP exam, or 3. A scaled score of sixty (60) or higher on a CLEP exam If credit is granted, the examination score will be entered on the student s transcript and the student is not required to take an end-of-course assessment instrument for that subject. Students may not attempt more than two times to receive credit for a particular subject on the basis of an examination for credit in that subject. CBE FOR ACCELERATION A student will be permitted to take an exam to earn credit for an academic course or subject area for which the student has had no prior instruction, i.e., for advancement, or to accelerate to the next grade level. The exams offered by the district are approved by the district s board of trustees, and state law requires the use of certain exams, such as College Board Advanced Placement (AP) and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests, when applicable. The dates on which exams are scheduled are published in course selection guides, parent/student handbooks and on the district s website. During each testing window provided by the district, a student may attempt a specific exam only once. There is no fee for examinations for acceleration. Performance Criteria for Acceleration: To receive credit for the course, the student must score an 80 percent or higher on the district s designated criterion-referenced test covering the requirements in Chapters 74 and 75 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) and district objectives of the course. Granting and Recording Credit: Test scores will be posted to the AAR and credit will be awarded for grades of 90 or higher. No advanced course designations will be given. CBE grades will not be computed in the GPA and/or used for ranking purposes. CBE FOR VERIFICATION Eligible students have the opportunity to earn credit in courses for which they have had prior instruction through CBE. See the counselor for specific information about courses and requirements. The high school CBE for verification program is for students who participated in home schooling, attended a non-accredited school or had a non-traditional academic background. Performance Criteria for Verification: To receive credit for the course, the student must score a 70 percent or higher on the district s designated criterion-referenced test covering the requirements in Chapters 74 and 75 of the TAC and district objectives of the course. Granting and Recording Credit: Test scores will be posted to the AAR and credit will be awarded for grades of 70 or higher. No advanced course designations will be given. CBE grades will not be computed in the GPA and/or used for ranking purposes. 13

15 CBE FOR RETRIEVAL A student who has previously taken a course or subject but did not receive credit or a final grade for that subject may, in circumstances determined by the principal or attendance committee, be permitted to earn credit by passing an exam approved by the district s board of trustees on the essential knowledge and skills defined for that course or subject. Prior instruction may include, for example, incomplete coursework due to a failed course or excessive absences, homeschooling, or coursework by a student transferring from a non-accredited school. The opportunity to take an examination to earn credit for a course or to be awarded a final grade in a subject after the student has had prior instruction is sometimes referred to as credit recovery. The school counselor or principal would determine if the student could take an exam for this purpose. If approval is granted, the student must score at least 70 on the exam to receive credit for the course or subject. The attendance review committee may also offer a student with excessive absences an opportunity to earn credit for a course by passing an exam. For further information, see the school counselor and policy EHDB(LOCAL). Performance Criteria for Retrieval: To receive credit for the course, the student must score a 70 percent or higher on the district s designated criterion-referenced test covering the requirements in Chapters 74 and 75 of the TAC and district objectives of the course. Granting and Recording Credit: Test scores will be posted to the AAR and credit will be awarded for grades of 70 or higher. No advanced course designations will be given. CBE grades will not be computed in the GPA and/or used for ranking purposes. CORRESPONDENCE State-required credits for graduation may be earned through correspondence courses. Courses must be taken from the University of Texas Extension Division or the Extension Division of Texas Tech University. The student is responsible for fees and books required for correspondence courses. Correspondence Courses for Initial Credit: A student may take a maximum of four (4) semesters (2 credits) through correspondence. Information for correspondence courses is available through the Counseling Center. Correspondence Courses for Retrieval of Credit: Information for correspondence courses for retrieval of credit is available through the Counseling Center. Correspondence grades must be received by May 1 st if the grades are necessary for graduation. Students will not be allowed to use these grades for purposes of participating in the graduation exercise after this date. Grades earned in this manner are not included in the GPA and not used for ranking purposes nor do they replace grades earned during the school year on the AAR. CLEP (COLLEGE LEVEL EXAMINATION PROGRAM) CLEP offers 33 exams in five subject areas, covering material taught in courses that you may generally take in your first two years of college. By passing a CLEP exam, you can earn 3 to 12 college credits. Exams cost $80. These rigorous exams allow students of a wide range of ages and backgrounds to demonstrate their mastery of college-level material in introductory subjects to earn college credit. For additional information, visit SUMMER SCHOOL Summer school courses may be used for initial credit, remediation or retrieval of credit depending on the offering institution. Courses offered should be comparable to the same courses taught during the regular school semester(s) in content and achievement standards. Grades earned in this manner are not included in the GPA and not used for ranking purposes, nor do they replace grades earned during the regular school year on the AAR. Students should see their assigned counselor for additional information. JUNIOR HIGH High school courses taken in junior high school will earn credit toward the 26 credits required for graduation. However, it is strongly suggested that students complete four (4) math credits while on the MHS campus for college readiness. Grades earned in junior high are not included in the GPA and not used for ranking purposes nor do they replace grades earned during the regular school year on the AAR. 14