Academic Honors Diploma Application

Academic Honors Diploma Application Academic Honors will be printed on the Diploma and Transcript For: (Print student s name) The Diploma with Academic Honors recognizes the student who has gone beyond the minimal academic requirements or has distinguished himself academically through additional course work. The Academic Honors Diploma is recommended for college preparatory students; with this in mind, the following criteria have been established and are in addition to the general diploma criteria: (See the MDHSA Diploma Guide and the MDHSA Annual Summary Form and Transcript for general diploma requirements). If a student has not exactly met the criteria for Academic Honors, but has demonstrated academic excellence, the parent may write a letter defending the request and it will be considered. However, be advised, that a requirement will not be entirely waived; there must be some coursework that takes its place. For Academic Honors consideration, all requirements below must be met / fulfilled AND CHECKED (unless otherwise noted) by the end of the senior year. Honors Application AND required attachments are due with the Diploma Request Form and should not be submitted separately. Students applying for Academic Honors must use letter grades or percentages. Pass/Fail grades will not be accepted. English Requirements ALL REQUIRED The student who desires an Academic Honors diploma will demonstrate that his reading selections have challenged him in some way. With that in mind, the student should have had an extensive reading list, with selections from more than three of the following categories, in his portfolio for each evaluation: FICTION NON-FICTION BIBLE ESSAYS POETRY MAGAZINE ARTICLES CLASSICS TECHNICAL Reading selections for the honors diploma should include a majority of high school or college level selections. The student has had instruction in literary analysis. This includes learning terms such as: SIMILE METAPHOR PLOT FORESHADOWING DOING RHYME, RHYTHM, AND METER IN POETRY Much of this information is found in literature texts or programs, or other materials. The student has completed at least one research paper that is a minimum of five pages. The report should include: (See English textbooks for examples of research papers.) o THREE NON-ENCYCLOPEDIC RESOURCES (may include interviews) o COVER PAGE OUTLINE FOOTNOTES OR ENDNOTES BIBLIOGRAPHY Do not send the research paper to MDHSA. The evaluator should verify that the research paper for the Honors Diploma is well written and meets the above guidelines. The student has completed at least two years of foreign language study in a single language. Application continued on the next page. SIGNATURES REQUIRED

Academic Honors Application Continued for: (Student s Name) Science Requirement MARK THE COURSES TAKEN; LAB COMPONENT REQUIRED The student has studied: (mark courses taken) Biology and Chemistry OR Biology and Physics One science course (from above) was accompanied by a lab and a lab report. (See science texts, Internet for resources for lab reports). Indicate Course (from above) that include Lab Mathematics Requirement INDICATE THE TRACK; MARK THE COURSES TAKEN Two tracks are given to satisfy the criteria of the Academic Honors program. Please Note: Keys To (Algebra, Geometry, etc.) may not be used in pursuit of an Academic Honors diploma. Courses MUST be a college prep level high school course. Choose one of the following tracks, and mark the courses taken: Track 1 - Enriched Math Program AT LEAST 3 UNITS OF MATH FROM THE FOLLOWING: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Trigonometry Pre-calculus Calculus Other college-preparatory course (list) Track 2 - Math with an Enriched Language Arts Program CHECK ALL THAT APPLY: At least 3 units of Math that must include: One unit in Algebra and one unit in Geometry AND One unit of Consumer/Business Math or Accounting. 2 units of Algebra and Geometry integrated; PLUS 5 English units OR 4 Social Studies units, OR 3 units of the same foreign language. REQUIRED ATTACHMENTS: A recommendation written by the Evaluator or other person who has worked with the student in an academic setting explaining why s/he is recommending the student for this honor. A parent may not write an academic honors recommendation. One sample (one-page) of the student s writing, either from the current year s work, or written specifically for the honors program application. We certify that the all information given above and attached is not exaggerated, but is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge. (Signatures required below). Evaluator Student OR Date Supervisor Office Use only: All items checked Recommendation: Received Approved 2 Yrs Foreign Language Courses: Extra Required Only Writing sample: well written, grammatically correct, few if no spelling errors, legible Requirements met: English Math Science APPROVED BY: REASON FOR DENIAL:

Diploma with Distinction Application for Leadership or Service With Distinction will be printed on the Diploma and Transcript For: (Print student s name) The Diploma with Distinction in Leadership or Service is presented to the student who has demonstrated excellence or eminence of character, reputation, compassion, service (including community service) or performance in extra-curricular or leadership activities. Throughout his service, the student will have proven possession of exceptional standards and diligence of effort All requirements for an MDHSA Standard Diploma must be met in order to be eligible for a Diploma with Distinction. Anyone may recommend an MDHSA diploma candidate for the leadership/service honor, including a parent for a student who has taken on significant responsibilities at home, or a student s basketball coach, pastor, employer, etc. The person making the recommendation shall submit a letter explaining why the student qualifies for this honor. All requirements must be completed BEFORE submitting the Diploma Request Form. Attachments are due at the time of Application Mark the Distinction for which the student is applying: Service Leadership Briefly describe the student s achievements: Recommendation Attached (Recommendation MAY be from a parent; see above.) We certify that the all information given above and attached is not exaggerated, but is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge. (Signatures required below). Evaluator Student Date Supervisor APPROVED BY: (MDHSA SIGNATURE)

Diploma with Distinction in Academic Achievement Application With Distinction will be printed on the Diploma and Transcript For: (Print student s name) The Diploma with Distinction in an Academic Achievement is presented to the student who has a passion for and excels in a specific academic field, and pursues it beyond the classroom but who would not necessarily qualify for an Academic Honors diploma. o For example a student may receive Distinction in: Debate - having participated in and placed high in competitions; English / Writing - having extensively written novels or poetry (published or unpublished); Math - placed high in math competitions or other events; Botany, Archaeology, Astronomy, History and other such topics - exceeding the classroom experience by working with a professional in that field or doing extensive research on a specific historical era (i.e. Civil War, etc.). Examples may include students who participate as historical re-enactors; those who have done extensive and complete science laboratory research and reports (published or unpublished) outside of the normal textbook / lesson plans, either independently or under the guidance and supervision of a professional in a specific scientific field, and other high-level experiences and work in their selected academic area. While it is expected that an AA student will have above average grades, the Academic Achievement Distinction is NOT awarded to the student SIMPLY for receiving above-average or perfect grades in a subject area, or to the student whose learning path is SIMPLY within a normal or reasonable realm of expected high school coursework. A parent MAY NOT provide a recommendation. NOTE: A student may NOT receive an Academic Achievement Distinction AND an Academic Honors Diploma All requirements for an MDHSA Standard Diploma must be met in order to be eligible for a Diploma with Distinction. All requirements must be completed BEFORE submitting the Diploma Request Form. Attachments are due at the time of Application. Academic Specialty: (list subject / topic) Briefly describe the student's achievements in the specific academic area in which the student has excelled: Recommendation Attached --- Recommendation must be given by an evaluator or other individual / professional who has interaction with the student in the specified academic area. We certify that the all information given above and attached is not exaggerated, but is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge. (Signatures required below). Evaluator Date Student Supervisor APPROVED BY: (MDHSA SIGNATURE)

Diploma for Performance in the Fine Arts Application Performance in Fine Arts will be printed on the Diploma and Transcript For: (Print student s name) The Diploma for Performance in the Fine Arts is awarded to the student who has completed, in addition to the requirements for a general diploma, the following requirements in Theater Arts, Performing Arts, or Fine Arts. An Evaluator, a music instructor, drama coach, dance instructor, or other person who is able to attest to the student s knowledge, understanding and pursuit of excellence in that area may make a recommendation. A parent may not make a recommendation for a Fine Arts diploma. Please mark the items below for the type of Fine Arts diploma that is being applied for. All items in the selected group must be completed BEFORE submitting the Diploma Request Form. Attachments are due at the time of Application. If you believe your student qualifies for the this honor, but does not exactly fit the criteria listed on the application, write a letter defending your position and it will be considered. Theater Arts A minimum of three units of theater or drama in addition to the general diploma requirements in English is required. These units should include study of theater history, influential writers, and famous performers and directors as well as other related topics. This course work has been included on the MDHSA Annual Summary Form and Transcript as it was completed. Participation in various aspects of production such as sets, lighting, costume, sound, and/or stage management. The student has been active in at least two productions. Attached is a recommendation from an instructor or other knowledgeable person who is able to attest to the student s pursuit of knowledge, understanding and pursuit of excellence in the theater arts. A parent may not make a recommendation. Fine Arts Three units of studio work in at least two media of the student s choice such as drawing, painting, ceramics, or fiber arts. This should include study of both two-dimensional and three-dimensional properties. One Credit of art history/humanities in addition to the minimum English and History requirements. Participation in at least one art show or gallery display, or other exhibit. Attached is a recommendation from an instructor or other knowledgeable person who is able to attest to the student s pursuit of knowledge, understanding and pursuit of excellence in the fine arts. A parent may not make a recommendation. Application continued on the next page. SIGNATURES REQUIRED

Performance in Fine Arts Application Continued for: (Student s Name) Performing Arts: Music A minimum of three units of music study in piano, voice or another instrument is required. Music theory must be studied either separately or incorporated into instrumental or voice instruction. A music checklist found in the MDHSA Diploma Guide should be used to identify the concepts required. This checklist covers concepts that many colleges require of students entering their music programs. One half unit of either sight singing or sight-reading must be included in the above units. If this was incorporated into instrumental or voice instruction, a statement to that effect from the instructor will satisfy the requirement. Competency with at least one instrument or in vocal performance. Proof of participation in at least two recitals or performances, preferably one as a soloist. Attached is a recommendation from an instructor or other knowledgeable person who is able to attest to the student s pursuit of knowledge, understanding and pursuit of excellence in music. A parent may not make a recommendation. Performing Arts: Dance (may be gymnastics or other activity, with prior approval by MDHSA) A minimum of three units of dance is required. These are in addition to the physical education requirement on the MDHSA Annual Summary Form and Transcript. Participation in at least two recitals or performances. Attached is a recommendation from an instructor or other knowledgeable person who is able to attest to the student s pursuit of knowledge, understanding and pursuit of excellence in dance. A parent may not make a recommendation. We certify that the all information given above and attached is not exaggerated, but is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge. (Signatures required below). Evaluator Student Date Supervisor APPROVED BY: (MDHSA SIGNATURE)

Vocational Honors Application Vocational Honors will be printed on the Diploma and Transcript For: (print student s name) The Diploma with Vocational Honors recognizes the student who has completed courses and credits targeting a specific trade or technical vocation. All requirements must be completed BEFORE submitting the Diploma Request Form. Attachments are due at the time of Application. Core courses studied should be relevant to the field of study. Courses at a Vocational-Technical School may be counted toward the required credits for the Vocational Diploma. Some trades must be done in conjunction with a vocational technical school or other professional institution or professional (i.e. nursing assistant, EMT, veterinary studies, etc.) Any exceptions to the courses or requirements must be requested in writing to MDHSA before applying for the honor. If a student has not exactly met the criteria for Vocational Honors, but has demonstrated vocational excellence, the parent may write a letter defending the request and it will be considered. However, be advised, that a requirement will not be entirely waived; there must be some coursework that takes its place. If your student is interested in majoring in an option not listed below, email diploma@pa.net to request permission to substitute a different vocational option for one listed below. A student may earn only ONE Vocational Distinction. Vocational Honors options include: Mechanical electrical; drafting; robotics; auto / diesel mechanics; engine repair Industrial carpentry; woodworking; plumbing; construction; auto body repair; masonry; metalwork Agricultural farming (any); veterinary studies; equine studies; gardening/ landscaping Computer Science programming; repair; graphic design; web design; networking Business bookkeeping / accounting; marketing; administrative Health & Human Services nursing assistant; EMT; therapy Home Economics & Nutrition culinary arts; sewing; quilting; nutrition; all-encompassing home-economics Ecology & Conservation - MARK THE TECHNICAL VOCATION AND TRADE FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING FOR DISTINCTION: Mechanical: Industrial: Agricultural: Computer Science: Business: Health & Human Services: Home Economics and Nutrition: Ecology and Conservation: Complete at least 3 credits pertaining to the vocational field. Credits may be earned by any approved method, as outlined in the MDHSA Diploma Guide. Credits must be listed on the MDHSA Annual Summary Form and Transcript. At least one credit must include instruction time and/or internship, which is derived from at least one of the following: (check all that apply from both Professional Instruction and Internship categories) PROFESSIONAL INSTRUCTION: *Note instructor may not be a parent unless the parent is a professional in the chosen field (farming, etc.) For Home Economics, the parent may be the instructor. Mentor Employer Club leader (scouts, 4-H) Vo-tech teacher or instructor Field professional Parent (see note above) INTERNSHIP Volunteering Apprenticeship Internship Employment Involvement in a club Involvement in a Vo-tech school or course Application continued on the next page. SIGNATURES REQUIRED

Vocational Honors Application Continued for: (Student s Name) Utilize / demonstrate knowledge of vocational tools, programs, instruments, or methods for chosen vocational field (Programs and/or tools, instruments, and techniques learned, etc. For example: CPR training; Wordpress or other computer programs not previously learned; specialized tools, equipment, or appliance, etc.) Completion of a project Project time should be at least ¼ of a credit (30 hours). The hours on the project may include learning, practicing, doing, studying, and competing the project. Projects may be done in a group setting (i.e. clubs, businesses, etc.) provided there is sufficient evidence that the student completed the minimum required hours on the project. The project may be done at home, at school, or for an employer or other organization. Project must be completed at the time the Vocational Honors application is submitted. Project ideas: Installing a sink or commode, building a kitchen cabinet, repainting a vehicle or old tractor, over hauling an engine, repairing a small appliance, breeding / showing a animal in 4-H, assisting a veterinarian in surgery, designing a website, quilt making, assembling or writing a cookbook, participating in any state, regional, or national event where your project is shown, or other project of your choice in your area of trade. Some trades do not lend themselves to a project, such as a nursing assistant. In that case, the student should compile a notebook/album of experiences, journaling, etc. List project here and provide a picture or other visual evidence to the Evaluator: ENCLOSURES: Enclose at least a one-page summary of your learning during the course of the vocational study. The summary may be any writing that was done as a result of the vocational study (i.e. technical report or research paper) or any other writing describing knowledge acquired in the field. In the writing, list tools, techniques, or knowledge learned. The writing MAY be part of the minimum10 pages needed for a Standard diploma. Enclose a written recommendation from someone who has expertise in that area and who has worked with the student in that field, such as an employer, leader, or a vocational teacher. A parent may not write the recommendation UNLESS it is in the area of Home Economics OR the parent is a professional in that field (farming, etc.). We certify that the all information given above and attached is not exaggerated, but is true and accurate to the best of our knowledge. (Signatures required below). Evaluator Date Student Supervisor APPROVED BY: (MDHSA SIGNATURE)