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FORMAT OF THE PROGRAM OF STUDIES BOOKLET
Course descriptions are grouped by departments. Each course description beginning with the course title, is followed by a paragraph outlining the content of the course. Charts diagramming the curriculum will also be found. These charts show sequential groupings or recommend programs within a subject area and are from left to right as the student progresses through high school. All courses are equivalent to one unit of credit unless noted.
STEPS IN PROGRAM PLANNING
Each year with the help of their parents, teachers, and counselors, students plan their high school program for the year ahead. The steps in this process are outlined below:
Step 1: January/February – Eighth graders are informed about the process of scheduling by their counselors during a class period. Parents of 8th graders are invited to attend an evening program to receive information about 9th grade expectations and course selection.
Step 2: February/March – Eighth graders meet individually with their counselor to plan 9th grade courses and general goals for high school.
Step 3: April - Teacher recommendation for science and math are given to counselors. These recommendations are based upon past achievement, test data, estimates of interest and motivation. The course recommended by the teacher will be used to plan a student's schedule.
Step 4: - May – Course verification forms will be sent home to each student and parent. These are courses a student has requested for the following year. Parent and student signatures are required on the form. This form needs to be returned by the date assigned in the letter.
Step 5: The administration develops a plan based on student requests about course offerings and number of sections required. In general, courses with fewer than 12 students will not be offered. Students who are enrolled in a course that will not be offered due to low enrollment will be notified and may then make alternative selections. Based on this information, the master schedule for the school is designed.
PROGRAM CHANGES
Throughout program planning, the school has stressed the importance of making wise and sound decisions regarding course selections. If choices are made wisely, there is little need for change. If any changes are necessary, they will be made at the following times.
a.when verification forms are received in May
b.after final grades are reported in June (teachers may elect to change their recommendation)
Any course selection changes after July 1 must be processed through the Schedule Change Committee. Once school is in session, students will not be allowed to initiate course changes until the 9th week of the first quarter. Students will need to pick up the form to drop a course from the Counseling Center and follow the procedure listed. No changes will be allowed after the first quarter and after 5 weeks for a semester class
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