High School Academic Guide

Transcription

1 High School Academic Guide Shelby County Schools

2 FOREWORD This publication is designed as a guide for parents, students, counselors, teachers and administrators to assist in planning high school courses and graduation. Included you will find course requirements, graduation requirements, and other course information. Careful steps should be taken in planning the student s high school courses. Students and parents should review progress yearly to ensure graduation requirements are met and to adjust should the student s goals change.

3 Table of Contents Diploma Options Diploma Options Available Beginning with Class of Diploma Options for Class of 2016 Cohort... 1 Alabama High School Diploma (Effective with Class of 2017)... 2 Alabama High School Diploma (Essentials Pathway)... 3 Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement Class of 2016 Cohort... 4 Alabama High School Diploma for Class of 2016 Cohort... 5 Additional Academic Information Valedictorian and Salutatorian Selection... 6 Grade Point Average Calculation... 6 Grading Plan... 7 Graduation Credits... 7 Guidelines for Students Transferring Into Shelby County Schools... 8 High School Gifted Education Program Middle School Offerings for High School Credit Acceleration/Credit Advancement Summer Reading Dual Enrollment and Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit Advanced Placement Program Guidelines Advanced Placement Program---Program Agreement Virtual Shelby County Credit Recovery and Summer School Academics First (Extracurricular Activity Eligibility Guidelines) Non-Traditional Athletic Students...21 NCAA Regulations/Clearinghouse Course Listings/Descriptions Course Listings/Descriptions English/Language Arts English as a Second Language (ESL) Speech/Debate Mathematics Science Social Studies Foreign Language Fine Arts (Arts Education) Band/Choir/Music Theory Drama Physical Education and Other Electives a

4 Course Listings/Descriptions (continued) Driver Education Freshman Forum 61 Health Computer Science Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit Substitute Courses for Students on the Essentials Pathway Career and Technical Education Career and Technical Education CTE Course Offerings Work-Based Learning Approved CTE Diploma Course Options Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Cluster AgriBusiness Program AgriConstruction Program General Agriscience Program Plant Systems Program Architecture and Construction Cluster Building Construction Program Carpentry Program Drafting Design Program Plumbing Program Welding Program Business Management and Administration Cluster Electives for BMA Cluster Education and Training Cluster Teaching and Training Program Finance Cluster Government and Public Administration Cluster Army JROTC Program Naval JROTC Program Health Science Cluster Hospitality and Tourism Cluster Lodging Program Recreation, Travel, and Tourism Program Restaurant and Food and Beverage Services (Culinary Arts) Program Human Services Cluster (Family and Consumer Sciences/Cosmetology) Early Childhood Development and Services Program Family Studies and Community Services Program Fashion Program Food, Wellness, and Dietetics Program Interior Design/Real Estate Program Electives for Human Services Cluster Personal Care Services Program (Cosmetology Program) b

5 Career and Technical Education (continued) Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security Cluster Emergency and Fire Management Services Program Law Enforcement Program Legal Services Program Manufacturing Cluster Electronics (Robotics and Automated Manufacturing) Program Marketing, Sales and Service Cluster STEM Cluster (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Engineering PLTW (Project Lead The Way) Program Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Cluster Automotive Services Program Collision Repair Program Career and Technical Education Programs Offered at the Shelby County College and Career Automotive Services Building Construction Collision Repair Cosmetology Culinary Health Science Horticulture/Plant Systems Plumbing Public Service Academy Robotics and Automated Manufacturing Welding Fees... i c

6 DIPLOMA OPTIONS AVAILABLE BEGINNING WITH CLASS OF 2017 Effective for students beginning ninth grade in the school year, the state of Alabama will provide one diploma option. The Alabama High School Diploma allows a local board of education to establish requirements for receipt of diplomas and endorsements, but any diploma or endorsement shall include the requirements of the Alabama High School Diploma. The Alabama courses of study shall be followed in determining minimum required content in each discipline. Shelby County Schools Endorsement Requirements The following coursework is required to receive the Shelby County Advanced Endorsement: Minimum of Algebra II/Trigonometry Chemistry Foreign Language - two years of the same foreign language One half credit of an approved fine arts Minimum of two AP courses with one in a core content or the equivalent (dual enrollment, dual credit, or IB) DIPLOMA OPTIONS FOR CLASS OF 2016 COHORT Diploma Types Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement with Distinction Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement with Honors Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement with Merit Standard Alabama High School Diploma Standard Alabama High School Diploma with Career Technical Endorsement Standard Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Career Technical Endorsement Endorsement Requirements Advanced Academic Endorsement Must take Algebra II with Trigonometry and two foreign language courses Advanced Academic Endorsement with Distinction (Students Taking 4 AP Courses) Advanced Academic Endorsement with Honors (Students Taking 3 AP Courses) Advanced Academic Endorsement with Merit (Students Taking 2 AP Courses) Career Technical Endorsement All coursework and pass three career tech courses Advanced Career Technical Endorsement All coursework, including courses in the Advanced Academic Endorsement in addition to three career tech courses If a student does not pass all required courses necessary for graduation, they may not participate in the commencement exercises. 1

7 ALABAMA HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (Alabama Administrative Code (8) and (8)(a)) COURSE REQUIREMENTS Four credits to include: Clarified Feb., 2014 Credits English 9 1 English Language Arts English 10 1 English 11 1 English 12 1 Equivalent/substitute options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/sde approved courses English Language Arts Total Credits 4 Mathematics Science Three credits to include: Credits Algebra I or its equivalent/substitute 1 Geometry or its equivalent/substitute 1 Algebra II w/trigonometry or Algebra II, or its equivalent/substitute 1 Equivalent/substitute options may include: Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/sde approved courses. One credit from: Alabama Course of Study for Mathematics or equivalent/substitute courses from Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/sde approved courses. 1 Two credits to include: Mathematics Total Credits 4 Credits Biology 1 A physical science (Chemistry, Physics, Physical Science) 1 Equivalent/substitute options may include: Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/sde approved courses. Two credits from: Alabama Course of Study for Science or equivalent/substitute courses from Career and Technical Education/Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/sde approved courses 2 Science Total Credits 4 Four credits to include: Credits World History 1 United States History I 1 Social Studies United States History II 1 United States Government 0.5 Economics 0.5 Equivalent /substitute options may include: Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/postsecondary courses/sde approved courses Social Studies Total Credits 4 Physical Education* Lifelong Individualized Fitness Education (LIFE) or one JROTC Credit 1 Health Education 0.5 Career Preparedness 1 Career and Technical Education and/or Foreign Language and/or Arts Education 3 Electives 2.5 Total Credits 24 *Students must receive one full year of the LIFE Physical Education curriculum. Waivers are offered through one year of JROTC or two years of marching band. Students are granted credit when they pass the end of course test for the LIFE Physical Education course administered by a certified physical education teacher. 2

8 Alabama High School Diploma (Essentials Pathway) English Language Arts 4 credits *English Essentials 9 or **AAS English 9 *English Essentials 10 or **AAS English 10 *English Essentials 11 or **AAS English 11 *English Essentials 12 or **AAS English 12 Social Studies 4 credits *World History for Living or **AAS Social Studies 9 *U.S. History for Living 10 or **AAS Social Studies 10 *U.S. History for Living 11 or **AAS Social Studies 11 *½ Economics for Living / ½ U.S. Government for Living or **AAS Social Studies 12 Mathematics 4 credits *Algebraic Essentials A or **AAS Mathematics 9 *Algebraic Essentials B or **AAS Mathematics 10 *Geometry Essentials A or **AAS Mathematics 11 *Geometry Essentials B (Students taking Algebraic Concepts in Grade 9 are not required to take Geometry B) or **AAS Mathematics 12 Science 4 credits *Essentials: Physical Science or **AAS Science 9 *Essentials: Biology or **AAS Science 10 *Essentials: Earth & Space Science or **AAS Science 11 *Essentials: Environmental Science or **AAS Science 12 *Essentials: Human Anatomy and Physiology Physical Education 1 credit PE LIFE or Adapted Physical Education or JROTC Health Education.5 credit **AAS Pre-Vocational, AAS Vocational, AAS Community Based Instruction, and/or AAS Elective Course Career Preparedness 1 credit Essentials Career Preparation (Career and Academic Planning, Computer Applications and Financial Literacy) or **AAS Life Skills CTE and/or Foreign Language and/or Arts Education 3 credits *Two CTE courses and Workforce Essentials or **AAS Life Skills Electives 2.5 credits *Students earning core credit through the Essentials/Life Skills courses are required to take Cooperative Education Seminar/Work-Based Experience or **AAS Pre-Vocational, AAS Vocational, AAS Community Based Instruction, and/or AAS Elective Course. Total Credits 24 credits *This course sequence is for students with disabilities earning core credit through the Essentials/Life Skills courses. Students pursuing an Alabama High School Diploma through this pathway must participate in Community-Based Work Training or have documentation of previous work experience in addition to the course requirements described above. **This course sequence is for students with significant cognitive disabilities earning core credit through Alternate Achievement Standards (AAS) courses. ***General Education students are not eligible to take Life Skills courses, or earn a diploma on the Essentials Pathway. If a student does not pass all required courses necessary for graduation, they may not participate in the commencement exercises. 3

9 Alabama High School Diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement Minimum Credits 24 Carnegie Units Class of 2016 Cohort Algebra I and foreign language may be taken in the eighth grade so that students may accelerate their math and foreign language courses of study. However, students will not be granted a Carnegie unit for these courses. Students will be required to take four math courses and two foreign language courses in grades nine through twelve. English* 4 Credits 1 English 9 1 English 10 1 English 11 1 English 12 Social Studies* 4 Credits 1 World History 1 U.S. History to U.S. History from 1877 ½ U.S. Government ½ Economics Mathematics* 4 Credits 1 Algebra I 1 Geometry 1 Algebra II with Trigonometry 1 of the following or 2 if Algebra I taken in 8 th grade: Analytical Math Mathematical Investigations Pre-Calculus Calculus Statistics Discrete Math Science* 4 Credits 1 Biology 1 Physical Science or Chemistry 2 of the following: Chemistry Physics Anatomy (Any AP science course) Physical Education** 1 Credit Foreign Language 2 Credits in the Same Language Health ½ Credit Fine Arts (Arts Education) ½ Credit Computer Applications*** ½ Credit Electives 3 ½ Credits Total Credits 24 Credits *Course selection must be at general level or above. Neither embedded credit nor applied academic course credit will satisfy the core curriculum requirements for a diploma with Advanced Academic Endorsement. Students are encouraged to take the most demanding courses offered. **Students must receive one full year of the LIFE Physical Education curriculum. Waivers are offered through 1 year of JROTC and 2 years of marching band. Students are granted credit when they pass the end of course test for the LIFE Physical Education course administered by a certified physical education teacher. ***Students who have not taken BTA/Computer Applications will take the year long Career Preparedness course (one credit). All students must enroll in four (4) core academic subjects each year. Shelby County Approved 5/13 4

10 Alabama High School Diploma Minimum Credits 24 Carnegie Units Class of 2016 Cohort This diploma represents the minimum requirements set forth by the Alabama State Board of Education. Students have the option to pursue higher-level courses. Algebra I may be taken in the eighth grade so that students may accelerate their math course of study. However, students will not be granted a Carnegie unit for this course and will be required to take four math courses in grades nine through twelve. English 4 Credits 1 English 9 1 English 10 1 English 11 1 English 12 Social Studies 4 Credits 1 World History 1 U.S. History to U.S. History from 1877 ½ Economics ½ U.S. Government Mathematics 4 Credits 1 Algebra I (or equivalent Algebra IA/Algebra IB) 1 Geometry 2 Additional Math Courses (see math section) *11 th graders must complete Algebra II or Algebra II/Trig + 1 Additional Math Course Science 4 Credits 1 Biology 1 Physical Science 2 Science Electives (see science section) Physical Education** 1 Credit Fine Arts (Arts Education) ½ Credit Health ½ Credit Computer Applications*** ½ Credit Electives 5 ½ Credits Total Credits 24 Credits **Students must receive one full year of the LIFE Physical Education curriculum. Waivers are offered through one year of JROTC and two years of marching band. Students are granted credit when they pass the end of course test for the LIFE Physical Education course administered by a certified physical education teacher. ***Students who have not taken BTA/Computer Applications will take the year long Career Preparedness course (1 credit). All students must enroll in four (4) core academic subjects each year. 5

11 Valedictorian and Salutatorian for Students Entering Grades 9-12 The Shelby County School district encourages all students to attempt the most challenging coursework available. The following criteria are used in the selection of the Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and Honors Graduates: Valedictorian - The student at each Shelby County high school who satisfies the requirements for the Advanced Endorsement and who attains the highest cumulative grade point average in his/her graduating class. Students transferring into a Shelby County school during their senior year are not eligible for valedictorian designation. Salutatorian - The student with the next highest cumulative grade point average who satisfies the requirements for the Advanced Endorsement. Honors Graduates - Students who satisfy the requirements for an Alabama High School Diploma or Advanced Endorsement and who also attain a cumulative grade point average of 4.0, or are in the top 5% of the graduating class. Class rank is determined by ranking each student s overall weighted grade point average within the graduating class. Final senior class ranking is calculated at the end of the first semester of the senior year. Valedictorian and Salutatorian determination will be announced after the posting of first semester grades. Grade Point Average Calculation The grade point average (GPA) is computed using the following table: Regular Courses Honors Courses Dual Credit Courses AP Courses A = 4.0 A = 4.5 A = 4.5 A = 5.0 B = 3.0 B = 3.5 B = 3.5 B = 4.0 C = 2.0 C = 2.5 C = 2.5 C = 3.0 D = 1.0 D = 1.5 D = 1.5 D = 2.0 F = 0.0 F = 0.0 F = 0.0 F = 0.0 6

12 Grading Plan Because students grades should reflect academic achievement in the classroom, classroom teachers will measure academic achievement in a variety of ways over the course of a given grading period. To foster a consistent, equitable method of classroom assessment, Shelby County high school teachers will implement the following categorical grading plan: GOLD Grades = Major tests and work products / projects will comprise 60% of a student s grade; SILVER Grades = Quizzes and secondary assignments will comprise 30% of a student s grade; BRONZE Grades = Homework and minor classwork will comprise 10% of a student s grade. Graduation Credits Rather than being promoted, high school students progress as credits are accumulated. Grade classifications are determined by the number of credits earned: Sophomore = at least six (6) earned credits; Junior = at least twelve (12) earned credits; Senior = at least eighteen (18) earned credits; Twenty-four (24) credits are required for graduation (see page two). 7

13 Guidelines for Students Transferring Into Shelby County Schools Students who transfer to a Shelby County high school from another school must meet the Alabama graduation requirements to receive a diploma from the State of Alabama. Students transferring from another state for their senior year who cannot meet Alabama s graduation requirements because of time restraints may earn a diploma from the school previously attended if so permitted by that school. 1. Transfer students coming in with Honors, AP/IB, or DE/DC courses: Students receive the weight indicated on the transcript for Honors/AP/IB/DE/DC courses. The transcript is not changed. Credit awarded cannot exceed 1.0 for AP/IB and.5 for Honors. Beginning with the school year, Dual Credit courses will receive an additional.5 GPA weight. Dual Enrollment credit weight cannot exceed.5 per three hour course. Weighted credit of 1.0 will be given for AP/IB courses even if former school did not award additional quality point. If former school did not award additional quality points for Honors courses, no additional quality points will be awarded by Shelby County Schools. 2. Transfers from Non-Accredited Schools (to include home/church/virtual schools)*: The evaluation of any student entering a Shelby County high school from a non-accredited institution shall begin with a thorough review of all available standardized test data. In the absence of a transcript from an accredited school, such data provides an objective snapshot of the student s abilities and achievement. Standardized test data that may be considered include the following: ACT and any of its products, SAT, and any other nationally-normed standardized instrument that may be deemed appropriate; Elective credits (defined as any credits earned in non-core courses) will be accepted without any validation beyond the transcript; Credits earned in core courses shall be validated in the following way(s): Any student whose standardized test results demonstrate benchmark-level proficiency in a given core area will be awarded credit for courses completed in that subject area. For example, if a student has scored a 19 on the English subtest of the ACT, his or her English credits earned at the non-accredited school will be deemed valid; 8

14 In the absence of satisfactory standardized test data, students will be required to earn a passing score on targeted exams to demonstrate proficiency in various core academic areas. For example, if a student coming from a non-accredited school has most recently completed Geometry, he or she would be asked to take a cumulative exam provided by the school in which the student wishes to enroll; Whenever possible, the most advanced courses completed in each core academic area will be used to validate the credits earned in the respective natural prerequisites. For example, if a student earns a passing score on a Chemistry exam, then his or her Physical Science credit would also be considered valid without an additional exam because both are physical sciences. When courses in the same academic area are qualitatively different based on standards associated with the subject, additional exams shall be required to validate credits. For example, if a student earns a passing score on a Chemistry exam, his or her credit for that course will be accepted. However, a Biology exam will be required to validate the credit earned for that course because the two courses focus on separate standards. While Chemistry was taken more recently, the additional exam is necessary because the two courses are qualitatively different; one is a physical science while the other is a life science. This may be true of other courses regardless of the grade level taught. 3. Courses Required for Graduation: There are courses required for graduation in Alabama such as PE LIFE, Career Preparedness, and two years of U.S. History. Students who transfer and have not had these courses must take these courses in order to graduate. *Shelby County Schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. This is the only accreditation organization recognized by the Alabama State Board of Education. Transfer credits from other schools will be accepted from other regionally accredited associations as verified in AdvancED without further validation. However, the procedures for awarding credit to students coming to a Shelby County high school from a non-accredited school or home school will follow the Alabama Administrative Code (7)(j) (7)(L). 9

15 High School Gifted Education Program The Shelby County School System s High School Gifted Education Program provides indirect services for 9 th -12 th grade students identified (according to the Alabama State Department of Education guidelines Gifted) for gifted education placement. The goals are as follows: To maintain each student s gifted identity. To meet students academic needs through: o Advanced core curriculum classes provided by qualified regular or gifted educators o Counseling services for college and career preparation College and career counseling is available through the high school guidance department. All students enrolled in gifted education courses at the middle school will remain on the gifted education rolls at the high school level. Any students who have been placed in gifted education, but have chosen not to receive services in middle school, may be re-enrolled. Middle School Offerings for High School Credit Effective with the school year, 8 th grade students completing Algebra I or Spanish I with a final grade of 70 or above (a minimum of 60 each semester) will receive high school credit. While middle schools currently use yearly averages, high schools use semester averages. Therefore, a student s transcript will be recalculated to reflect a semester grade. Semester grades are a simple average of the two grading periods within a given term. Acceleration/Credit Advancement Currently, high school students may pursue the following summer offerings in order to accelerate their acquisition of required credits: Government / Economics, Health, Career Preparedness, and Driver s Education. Other options for credit acceleration may be approved and offered at a later date. 10

16 Summer Reading Understanding that reading is absolutely foundational to all educational endeavors and pursuits, our system fully endorses and encourages the practice of assigned summer reading for high school students. Each school will exercise a certain degree of autonomy in formulating its summer reading plan; however, certain essential features will be true of every school s approach: Students at each grade level will be offered a common list of works from which they will choose one or more texts (depending on local requirements). The element of choice and the ability to self-select from a prescribed list should enable students to find an appropriate text which appeals to them. English teachers will discuss the book choices with their students before summer break in order to help students make informed choices as to which works they will read. Every effort will be made to include engaging texts which possess instructional value and literary merit. When students return to school in August, they should expect that their English teachers will use summer reading to foster student discussion, diagnostic writing, and connections to informational texts. In an increasingly graphic, image-driven culture, we believe summer reading provides fertile, common ground from which to begin the academic year and contributes to the ongoing development of the whole child. (NOTE: All AP courses are exempt and separate from the summer reading guidelines outlined above. AP teachers will communicate summer work requirements to their students prior to summer break.) 11

17 Dual Enrollment and Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit The Alabama State Board of Education has authorized the establishment of dual enrollment programs between public colleges and universities and local boards of education. The following dual enrollment options may be offered: Dual enrollment (DE) is available to students who would like to earn college credit. DE students may take college courses and will receive college credit hours for all coursework. DE students courses and grades will not be reflected on the high school transcript. Dual enrollment/dual credit (DE/DC) is available to students who would like to earn both high school and college credits for the same course. DE/DC credit courses will be added to the high school transcript and will be calculated into the GPA. Shelby County Schools currently have a dual enrollment/dual credit agreement with the following schools: Jefferson State Community College University of Montevallo University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham Central Alabama Community College Wallace Community College DE/DC students will receive one-half Carnegie Unit for successful completion of a three semester hour college course. DE/DC coursework, assessment, and grading are consistent with college level instruction. Students participating in DE/DC courses are required to follow college procedures and complete required college forms and applications. Students participating in DE/DC courses are required to adhere to Shelby County Board of Education s Student Code of Conduct and Attendance. Students interested in participating in DE or DE/DC must meet the criteria, and the student and his/her parent/guardian must sign the form on the next page. 12

18 Shelby County Schools Dual Enrollment Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit Requirements Dual Enrollment (DE) courses are taken for college credit. Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit courses (DE/DC) are taken for high school and college credit. A student is eligible for Dual Enrollment or Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit in the Shelby County School System, if the student meets the following criteria: 1. The student must meet the entrance requirements and prerequisites for admission established by the post-secondary school. 2. The student must have and must maintain a cumulative high school GPA of The student must have written approval of the superintendent, high school principal, high school counselor, and the student s parent/guardian. 4. Post-secondary English 101 and 102 taken during the academic year is equivalent to English 12 high school credit (DE/DC). Only courses completed during the calendar school year will receive high school credit. Students must meet the requirements for admission to these courses: Jeff State: ACT English subscore of 20 UA: Pass the UA Early College Gateway Course (UA EC200) UM: ACT English subscore of Post-secondary Pre-Calculus course taken during the academic year is equivalent to high school Pre- Calculus (DE/DC). Only courses completed during the calendar school year will receive high school credit. Students must meet the requirements for admission to these courses: Jeff State: Math 112 and 113 ACT Math subscore of 24 or higher or approved placement test score UA: Math 112 and 113 Pass the UA Early College Gateway Course and also have an approved math placement test score or ACT Math subscore of 24 or higher UM: Math 144 and 149 ACT Math subscore of Students planning to take courses through UA s Early College Program for dual credit must pass the UA Early College Gateway course (UA EC200) prior to the beginning of the academic school year. 7. Any approved Dual Enrollment/Dual Credit course taken on or after August 2016, whether core or elective, will receive an additional.5 quality point adjustment and will be calculated into high school cumulative GPA. 8. Three credit hours at the postsecondary level shall equal a.5 credit at the high school level. 9. Payment of the current rate of tuition and fees per credit hour, books, transportation, and equipment will be the responsibility of the student. Signatures: (Parent/Guardian) Date: (Student) Date: 13

19 Advanced Placement Program Guidelines The Advanced Placement Program is an academic program of college-level courses and examinations for high school students. Students enrolled in AP courses take the College Board AP Exam and have an opportunity to earn college credit and/or advanced standing in college based on their scores on the AP exam. All students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses are required to take the AP Exam. Students enrolled in AP Art must complete an AP Art portfolio in lieu of exam. The curriculum of an AP course is challenging and goes into greater depth with the academic material than regular courses. AP courses require students to use analytical thinking, reading, writing, and problem solving skills. AP courses are taught using college level materials and teaching strategies. Students must meet the following criteria to enroll in AP courses: 1. The student must complete all prerequisite courses. 2. The student must meet all application requirements. 3. The student must have the recommendation of the subject area teacher of the course. 4. The student should have an above-average GPA with B s or better in core academic subjects and A/B in the area of the AP subject. 5. The student should be highly motivated with good study habits and above-average writing skills. 6. The student must have the consent of the parent/guardian. 7. The student must take the AP exam at the end of the year. 8. The student is required to sign a contract. The following AP courses are offered in Shelby County: AP Biology AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Chemistry AP Computer Science Principles AP Economics: Macroeconomics AP English Language and Composition AP English Literature and Composition AP Environmental Science AP European History AP French Language AP Government and Politics: United States AP Latin Vergil AP Music Theory AP Physics I: Algebra Based AP Physics C: Mechanics AP Psychology AP Spanish AP Statistics AP Studio Art: Drawing AP Studio Art: 2D Design AP Studio Art: 3D Design AP United States History AP World History The AP courses scheduled depend upon the demand at each high school. If a student is interested in an AP course not offered, the student needs to contact his/her local high school counselor. Honors courses are offered at each high school to provide students with the academic skills and habits of mind needed to be successful in challenging Advanced Placement courses. 14

20 Advanced Placement Program --- Program Agreement The Advanced Placement Program is an academic program of college-level courses and examinations for high school students. Students enrolled in AP courses take the College Board AP Exam and have an opportunity to earn college credit and/or advanced standing in college based on their scores on the AP Exam. The curriculum of an AP course is challenging and goes into greater depth with the academic material than regular courses. AP courses require students to use analytical thinking, reading, writing, and problem solving skills. AP courses are taught using college level materials and teaching strategies. These demanding courses require more effort, time and skills than Honors or regular level classes and are recommended for highly motivated students. We are delighted that you are considering enrolling in an AP course. However, we want all parents and students to completely understand the rigor of the course and the commitment required by the student. For this reason, we require that the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) read and sign this agreement. Unlike most high school curriculums that are separated by semesters, learning AP course material is an ongoing process culminating in the AP Exam. *Students who sign this agreement are committing to remain in an AP class for the entire year (or semester for AP Economics or Government) and take the AP Exam. Requirements: Students must meet the following criteria to enroll in an AP course: a) complete all prerequisite courses; b) meet all of the application requirements; c) have the recommendation of subject area teacher of the course; d) have recommended score on PSAT/ACT Plan/ACT Aspire; e) have above average GPA, with B s or better in core academic subjects and an A/B in the area of the AP subject; f) be highly motivated with good study habits and above-average writing skills; g) have consent of the parent/guardian; h) must take the AP exam at the end of the year; and i) sign AP Program Agreement. For many AP classes, AP students will be expected to complete required summer reading or review before the course begins. Students may request to exit an AP class (with signed permission of the principal) during the first 10 days or at mid-term if failing. Students may not enter an AP class after the first 10 days. Grading: For students enrolled in an AP course, the GPA is weighted: A = 5 points D = 2 points B = 4 points F = 0 points C = 3 points The grading policies for each AP course are given to the students the first week of school. Homework: The daily homework will be required. Students are often assigned reading or long-term projects that require them to plan their time so that they are not overwhelmed by deadlines. Developing self-discipline in the area of time management is a goal of all AP classes. 15

21 Late Work: Students who elect to take AP courses are expected to do the work required on time; there should be no late work for AP courses. Honor Code: The nature of AP work often requires that students complete graded assignments outside of class. Students are expected to complete their own work (assignments and homework included) without the assistance of others unless the instructor specifically allows collaboration. Sharing work with another student or using another student s work as his/her own may result in removal from that AP course. Violation of the school Honor Code may also be grounds for removal from any AP course as well as disciplinary action. Parent/Teacher/Student Expectations: AP classes are college-level courses and the students are expected to be responsible for their behavior, assignments and any conflict resolution. Parents are welcome to conference with AP teachers, but students are expected to use this opportunity to develop the independence needed in the college setting they will shortly experience. The goal of all AP classes is to give students the opportunity to develop the academic and personal skills needed for success in high school and college. Parents need to encourage their children to plan their schedules wisely so that they do not take an over-load of AP courses during any one year. Absences: AP students will often be involved in academic and extra-curricular field trips and school business activities. However, too many absences of any type are detrimental to successful performance in AP classes where the pace of the class is faster in order to prepare students for the AP exams in early May. Parents and students are asked to be selective in their requests for absences and should consider the following: Any class work missed must be made up to the teacher s specifications and timeline. Field trips and school business activities can be separated into those required by the curriculum and non-essential activities. Students must take responsibility for their choices. Parents should encourage their children to be balanced in their activities and academics and not become overly committed. Exam Policy for Advanced Placement Courses: Students are required to take the AP exam or complete the AP Portfolio in May for each AP course for which they are enrolled or completed in the first semester The College Board s AP exam schedule will be made available at the beginning of the school year; the AP exam schedule is also on the school system s website. It is the student s responsibility to plan his/her schedule to avoid conflicts. Consequences for failure to take an AP Exam: If the student does not take the College Board AP exam in May, the student will not receive weighted credit for the AP course and the student still needs to take a final exam for the course. If the student does not take a final exam, the student will receive a test grade of F to be averaged into the last nine weeks course grade. In the rare instance that the student s reason for not taking the AP exam is allowed by the College Board, the student may take an alternate AP exam for AP credit. The exam must be ordered the same week as the original exam and administered on the specific dates and times set by the College Board for late testing. 16

22 Please give this form with the signatures to your school counselor. AP Program Agreement: My child and I have read the agreement and my child would like to enroll in an AP course. We understand the level work required and the policies explained on the previous pages and are prepared to fulfill these requirements. Student Name (print): Student Signature: Parent/Guardian Signature: Date: Grade Level: School Year: Please list the AP courses registered for: Students who plan to register for more than 3 AP courses in one year need the principal s signature also. Principal s Signature: 17

23 Virtual Shelby County Beginning in the fall of 2016, high school students in Shelby County Schools may apply to participate in select virtual courses. Students who participate will be enrolled in one or more courses online while completing the remainder of their courses at their base school. Should a student choose to pursue full-time virtual courses, his/her request will be considered on an individual basis. For students to be successful in the virtual realm, they must be independent learners, highly motivated, and extremely organized. With that in mind, Shelby County Schools has set the following requirements for students to be eligible. To be eligible, the student must read complex text independently at or above grade level (to be determined by a nationally recognized reading assessment); demonstrate general and specific academic competency in the following ways: o a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, o at least a B average in the most recent course taken in the target subject area (for example, if a student wishes to take Geometry as a virtual course, he or she must have earned at least a B in Algebra I) have fewer than five unexcused absences during the previous academic year; be on track to graduate with his or her graduating class; have access to adequate technology to facilitate ongoing participation. This includes the following minimum requirements: o reliable computer with up-to-date operating system o consistent access to the Internet o current web browser o functional account o various plug-ins and downloads that may be deemed necessary provide his or her own transportation when necessary; demonstrate school-appropriate behavior and maturity; Once enrolled in these courses, students are expected to login and work daily on virtual course content; successfully complete coursework at an acceptable pace; monitor their own learning and seek help when necessary; communicate regularly with teachers; be aware of an meet all established deadlines; report to a designated site for all course exams and mandatory assessments; adhere to the Shelby County Code of Conduct; complete virtual work and assignments off campus. Students who exhibit academic, behavioral, or attendance issues may be withdrawn from virtual courses and will be expected to complete those courses at their base school. 18

24 Credit Recovery and Summer School Credit Recovery Credit Recovery during the academic school year is intended for seniors and select freshmen. Sophomores, juniors, and most freshmen are expected to attend summer school for failed courses. Beginning with freshmen during the school year, a maximum of one (1) credit per subject area and four (4) total credits may be earned through credit recovery during a student s academic career. Summer School A blended model featuring both direct instruction and use of an online learning platform will be utilized. The credit recovery model used throughout the school year will not be used for summer school. Two terms will be available for students. Each term will be four (4) hours a day for two (2) weeks. In order to make up a lost credit, students will be required to attend the entire term. Absences are not allowed. The school administrator responsible for summer school should be contacted about cost. No distinction between credit recovery and full course will be made. Students from other schools may attend a Shelby County Summer School session provided there is space and provided the student lives in Shelby County. Courses taken during summer school will not count as one of the four (4) credits that may be earned during school-year credit recovery. 19

25 Academics First (Extracurricular Activity Eligibility Guidelines) The Shelby County Board of Education recognizes the value of extracurricular activities as they relate to the total education of the students; however, the students' pursuit of their academics must be first and foremost and take priority over participation in extracurricular activities. The following guidelines shall apply to determine eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities: 1. The term "extracurricular activities" as used in this policy refers to athletic activities that are recognized and sanctioned by the Alabama High School Athletic Association as well as other activities sanctioned by the Shelby County Board of Education, which are not related to a student s academic requirements or success in the course. Extracurricular activities include but are not limited to activities offered by the school through math, science, band, choral music, athletic events (pre-game, half-time or other breaks), club conventions, parades, amusement park trips, competitions, tours, and performances not required for the student s academic success in a course. 2. It is not the intent of this policy to classify as an extracurricular activity any activities which are ancillary to a credited classroom course if such activity is required for satisfactory course completion and grading of that course. (For example, a district choir competition or a science class field trip.) 3. The Superintendent and/or his designee has the authority to determine on a case-by-case basis whether or not certain activities not specifically mentioned above qualify as extracurricular activities and whether or not a student has met the eligibility requirements to participate in extracurricular activities as outlined herein. 4. The standards established herein are minimum standards for participation in extracurricular activities. Any group or organization may establish additional academic standards for participation; however, such standards must be submitted in writing to the Superintendent and/or his designee for approval. 5. In order for students in grades 10 through 12 to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities during an academic school year, the students must for the immediately preceding school year have maintained a passing grade in each of at least six Carnegie unit credit courses and a composite numerical average of 70 for all of the Carnegie unit credit courses. 6. For grades 10 through 12, of the courses used to determine eligibility, students must have at least 4 credits for the four core curriculum courses (English, Science, Social Studies and Math). A student may be exempt from the core curriculum requirements if the student is otherwise on track with the Shelby County Board of Education graduation requirements in the core curriculum courses. 7. In order for students in grades 8 and 9 to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities during an academic year, the student must for the immediately preceding year have a passing grade in at least five subjects with a composite grade average of 70 or higher in the five courses. Students promoted to the seventh grade for the first time are eligible. 8. Physical education and other related courses may only count as one of the subjects used to determine eligibility. 9. Up to two Carnegie units and the accompanying cumulative grades earned during summer school may be used in computing the credits needed for eligibility. 20

26 Academics First (continued) 10. At the end of each grading period, the head coach and/or sponsor of each extracurricular activity will check the current grades of all students participating in extracurricular activities. If a student fails to maintain a passing grade in all of his/her current courses during the preceding grading period, the student will be placed on probation from extracurricular activities. 11. When a student is placed on probation from extracurricular activities, the head coach and/or sponsor of the extracurricular activity will notify the principal. The principal and his/her designee will then meet with the student (and the student's parent/guardian if deemed necessary) to implement a mandated academic remediation program to address the academic performance of the student. 12. When a student is on probation from extracurricular activities, the principal may also mandate modifications in the student's participation in extracurricular activities if the principal feels that the modification is necessary to insure the student's ability to increase his/her academic performance during the probation period. 13. If, at the end of any subsequent grading period, the student makes another failing grade in the same subject, the student must show evidence of satisfactory participation in the remediation program in order to maintain participation in all extracurricular activities. A student who fails to show evidence of satisfactory participation in the mandated remediation program will automatically be suspended for all extracurricular activities. 14. Mandatory academic remediation will last for a minimum of one grading period. 15. The Community Education Program will make available its resources to assist with remedial plans. Ref: Alabama Administrative Code (17) Approved by the Shelby County Board of Education on 8/21/97, Revised on 10/15/98, in accordance with the State Board of Education's Policy Non-Traditional Athletic Students The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) allows non-traditional students to participate in interscholastic contests and practices at the public school that serves the area in which the student s parent or legal guardian resides. Non-traditional students are subject to enrollment and eligibility requirements as determined by Shelby County Schools and the AHSAA. These will be reviewed annually to ensure compliance. For additional information, interested students should contact the school administration at the middle or high school in the zone of residence. 21

27 NCAA Division I Initial-Eligibility Requirements Core Courses o o NCAA Division I requires 16 core courses. See the charts below for the breakdown of this 16 core-course requirement. For students enrolling on or after August 1, 2016, NCAA Division I will require ten core courses to be completed prior to the seventh semester. Seven of the ten must be a combination of English, math, or natural/ physical science. Once you begin your seventh semester, you may not repeat or replace any of those ten courses to improve your core-course GPA. o 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 ten course requirement, but would not be able to compete. Test Scores o o o o Division I uses a sliding scale to match test scores and core grade-point averages (GPA). The sliding scale for those requirements is shown on Page No. 2 of this sheet. The SAT score used for NCAA purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used. The ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and science. When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility code of 9999 to ensure all SAT and ACT scores are reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility from the testing agency. Test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used. Grade-Point Average o Be sure to look at your high school s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility 's website ( Only courses that appear on your school's List of NCAA Courses will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Use the list as a guide. o Division I students enrolling full time before August 1, 2016, should use Sliding Scale A to determine eligibility to receive athletics aid, practice, and competition during the first year. o Division I core GPA required to receive athletics aid and practice on or after August 1, 2016, is between and (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on the Sliding Scale on Page No. 2 of this sheet). o Division I core GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2016, is (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on the Sliding Scale on Page No. 2 of this sheet). o Remember, the core GPA is calculated using the best 16 NCAA core courses only. DIVISION I 16 Core Courses 4 years of English 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher) years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high 2 school) year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical 1 science 2 years of social science 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy) 22