House Bill 5 and High School Graduation Requirements
House Bill 5 Work to transition and implement the requirements of House Bill 5 is under way. The bill gives the SBOE decision-making authority on a number of issues and the SBOE has not yet had the opportunity to receive a briefing and begin planning next steps. There will be opportunities for districts to provide input and feedback once the SBOE begins the rulemaking process. The Commissioner must adopt a transition plan to implement the bill and replace the MHSP, RHSP, and DAP with the foundation program beginning with the 2014-2015 school year.
HB 5 - Foundation High School Program English Language Arts Mathematics Science Social Studies Four credits English I English II English III Advanced English Course (TBD by SBOE) Three credits Algebra I Geometry Advanced Mathematics Course (TBD by SBOE) Three credits Biology IPC or Advanced Science Course (TBD by SBOE) Advanced Science Course (TBD by SBOE) Three credits U.S. History U.S. Government (one-half credit) Economics (one-half credit) World Geography or World History or Combined World History/World Geography
HB 5 - Foundation High School Program Physical Education Languages Other Than English Fine Arts Electives One credit Two credits in the same language Computer programming language (other exceptions) One credit Five credits
HB 5 - Endorsements A student may earn an endorsement by successfully completing: curriculum requirements for the endorsement (TBD by SBOE) four credits in mathematics four credits in science two additional elective credits
HB 5 - Endorsements STEM Includes courses directly related to: science, including environmental science technology, including computer science engineering advanced math Business and Industry Includes courses directly related to: database management architecture information technology construction communications welding accounting logistics finance automotive technology marketing agricultural science graphic design HVAC
HB 5 - Endorsements Public services Includes courses directly related to: health sciences and occupations education and training law enforcement culinary arts and hospitality Arts and Humanities Multidisciplinary Studies Includes courses directly related to: political science English literature 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 of advanced courses from multiple content areas sufficient to complete the distinguished level of achievement
HB 5 - Endorsements Each school district must make available to high school students courses that allow a student to complete the curriculum requirements for at least one endorsement. A school district that offers only one endorsement curriculum must offer the multidisciplinary studies endorsement curriculum.
HB 5 - Distinguished Level of Achievement A student may earn a distinguished level of achievement by successfully completing: four credits in mathematics, which must include Algebra II four credits in science the remaining curriculum requirements the curriculum requirements for at least one endorsement
HB 5 Performance Acknowledgment A student may earn a performance acknowledgment (requirements TBD by SBOE): for outstanding performance in a dual credit course in bilingualism and biliteracy on an AP test or IB exam on the PSAT, the ACT-Plan, the SAT, or the ACT for earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license
Class of 2020
Performance Acknowledgements Distinguished Level of Achievement Endorsements Foundation High School Program
for students entering high school in 2014 and thereafter
English Language Arts 4 credits Math 4 credits Science 4 credits Social Studies 3 credits (4 credits recommended) Physical Education 1 credit Languages Other Than English (LOTE) 2 credits (same language) Fine Art 1 credit Speech ½ credit Electives 6½ credits (dependent upon endorsement)
Grade 9 English 1 Algebra 1 Biology STAAR/EOC Exams Grade 10 Grade 11 English 2 US History
A student earns a credit (1.0) when he/she successfully completes a year-long course. Passing requires a minimum of a 70 and being in attendance 90% of the time. A student earns a.5 credit by successfully completing a semester-long course. Students must earn a particular number of credits to be promoted from one grade to the next. 6 credits = Sophomore (Grade 10) 13 credits = Junior (Grade 11) 19 credits = Senior (Grade 12)
Pre-AP Algebra I* Art I* Communication Applications (.5)* Spanish I* Health (.5) Lifetime Nutrition & Wellness *Required for high school graduation Algebra I, one high school fine art (i.e. Art I), two years of the same world language (i.e. Spanish), Communication Applications
9 th Grade 10 th Grade 11 th Grade 8 th Grade Math Regular or PreAP Algebra I Regular or PreAP Geometry Regular or PreAP Algebra II PreAP Algebra I (high school credit) PreAP Geometry PreAP Algebra II PreAP PreCalculus A student may not receive credit for the same course twice. If a student is in PreAP Algebra I, he/she will sign up for PreAP Geometry. 12 th Grade Regular or PreAP PreCalculus AP Calculus or AP Statistics
Athletics class (by sport) Athletic Trainer (all start by assisting Football) Band, Color Guard, or Drill Team - provides 1.0 fine art credit AND.5 PE credit (fall only) (Note - completing two years of one of these activities will provide your full PE credit; can earn a maximum of 1.0 PE credit through these activities.) Cheerleading I provides 1.0 PE credit the first year Dance I - provides 1.0 Fine Art credit and 1.0 PE credit (Aerobic Fitness) (Note: Athletes who take Dance cannot be awarded additional PE credit.) PE class
Baseball (B) Basketball (B,G) Cross Country (B,G) Diving (B,G) Football Golf (B,G) Soccer (B,G) Softball (G) Swimming (B,G) Tennis (B,G) Track (B,G) Volleyball (G) Wrestling
Aerobic Fitness (.5-1) Individual/Team Sports (.5-1) Outdoor Education (.5) Foundations of Personal Fitness/Strength & Tone (.5-1)
Spanish I Spanish II or PreAP Spanish II (must have successfully completed Spanish I) Spanish I/Spanish II for Spanish Speakers (requires an oral and written fluency test) French I German I ASL I (not accepted at every college as meeting admission requirements)
Art I Band I (includes Color Guard/Winter Guard) Choir I Dance I or Drill Team I (Drill Team is by audition.) Digital Art and Animation (Grades 10-12 only) Floral Design (Grades 10-12 only) AP Music Theory (Must read and write basic music notation and have basic skills in voice or instrument; to be taken concurrently with Band, Choir, or Orchestra) Orchestra I Theatre I Technical Theatre I (requires Theatre I as a pre-requisite or director approval)
19.5 CORE credits (including required electives) 6.5 elective credits geared towards your ENDORSEMENT Total: 26 credits for graduation! 7 classes per year X 4 years = opportunity for 28 credits
A coherent sequence of electives in a specific area of interest. These electives may be taken through an academy or through a specified Career Pathway. There are FIVE endorsements: Arts and Humanities Business and Industry Multidisciplinary Studies Public Services STEM
An endorsement can be changed as long as there is still time to complete a new endorsement.
Students who choose an Arts and Humanities endorsement will need to take a coherent sequence of credits in a specific area of interest: Additional Social Studies Fine Arts Additional World Languages
Courses available to 9 th graders are highlighted in yellow.
Students who choose a Business & Industry endorsement will need to take a coherent sequence of credits in a specific area of interest: Agricultural, Food, & Natural Resources Architecture & Construction Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications Business Management and Administration, Finance, & Marketing Hospitality & Tourism Information Technology, Technology Application, & Business Information Management Transportation, Distribution, & Logistics
Courses available to 9 th graders are highlighted in yellow.
Complete four credits from each core area (English, math, science, and social studies). Must include English 4 and Physics and/or Chemistry. Complete four AP or dual credit (college) credits from the following departments: English, math, science, social studies, LOTE, and/or fine arts. Complete four advanced courses from within one endorsement or among multiple endorsements (*Denotes advanced applicable CTE courses.)
Courses available to 9 th graders are highlighted in yellow.
Students who choose a Public Service endorsement will need to take a coherent sequence of credits in a specific area of interest: Education and Training Health Science Human Services Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security
Courses available to 9 th graders are highlighted in yellow.
Students who choose a STEM endorsement will need to take a coherent sequence of credits in a specific area of interest and Algebra 2, Chemistry, and Physics. Options may include: STEM/Engineering Additional Science Additional Math Computer Science
Courses available to 9 th graders are highlighted in yellow.
Academy of Aeronautics & Aviation Sciences (AAAS) = Business & Industry Endorsement Academy of Biomedical Sciences (ABS) = Public Service Endorsement Academy of Business Management & Entrepreneurship (BME) = Business & Industry Endorsement Collegiate Academy = Multidisciplinary Endorsement Cosmetology Academy = Public Service Endorsement Culinary Arts & Hospitality Academy = Business & Industry Endorsement Academy of Media Arts & Technology (AMAT) = Business & Industry Endorsement Academy of Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math (STEM) = STEM Endorsement
Performance Acknowledgements Distinguished Level of Achievement Endorsements Foundation High School Program
Must meet all Foundation High School Program requirements Must meet all the requirements for an Endorsement Math - one of the advanced mathematics courses must include Algebra 2 Examples of math sequences: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra 2, PreCalculus Algebra I, Geometry, Algebraic Reasoning, Algebra 2
Students in the top 10%* of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission to any public university in Texas. To be eligible for this automatic admission, students entering high school in 2014-15 and thereafter must complete the Distinguished Level of Achievement. UT Austin top 7% currently
Students may earn performance acknowledgments for outstanding performance in the following areas: Dual credit courses Bilingualism and bi-literacy AP testing ACT Plan, PSAT, SAT, or ACT Earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license * See NISD Course Selection Guide for more detailed information.
College admissions Colleges look for students who have completed rigorous coursework (PreAP, AP, Dual Credit). While in high school, students will have the opportunity to earn college credit through AP courses and Dual Credit college courses. Students with higher level courses are generally more prepared for college level work and more likely than their peers to complete a college degree on time.
Students can earn college credits early through AP courses if they make qualifying scores on the AP exams in May (in high school). Highest score possible is a 5. Typically, students need to make a 3, 4, or 5 to receive any college credit. Credit awarded varies depending on the college/university and may also depend on the student s major. Are you taking at least ONE PreAP or AP course next year?
Arts AP Art History AP Music Theory AP Studio Art: 2-D Design AP Studio Art: 3-D Design AP Studio Art: Drawing English AP English Language & Composition (English 3) AP English Literature & Composition (English 4) History and Social Science AP European History AP Human Geography AP Macroeconomics AP Psychology AP US Govt. & Politics AP World History Math & Computer Science AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Computer Science Principles AP Computer Science A AP Statistics Science AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Environmental Science AP Physics C: Mechanics AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based World Language & Cultures AP French Language and Culture AP German Language and Culture AP Spanish Language and Culture
Consider Your academic strengths Teacher, parent, and/or counselor input Reviewing past grades and test performances Personal goals Extra-curricular activities Most importantly your motivation, effort, & attitude!
Class Ranking will include grades earned in courses under the following headings: English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Languages other than English. The Grade Point Average (GPA) used to determine class rank only is calculated on a weighted scale. Advanced Placement (AP) = up to 7 points PreAP/Dual Credit = up to 6 points Regular = up to 5 points
9 th Grade Courses on the PGP will serve as your 9 th grade course requests!
Each secondary student has his/her own Naviance (a.k.a. Family Connections) account. Through Naviance, our students have the opportunity to research colleges and careers, track their community service, build a resume, and take personality and career assessments.
As a student enters high school, he/she will continue to use Naviance/Family Connections to: Indicate colleges he/she is thinking about or applying to Request transcripts Request teacher and staff letter of recommendations Track college applications/view deadlines Utilize the personalized TestPrep course for SAT and/or ACT
We invite you to partner with us as your child begins to plan for his/her future and the path he/she will take to get there. -NISD Counselors
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDENTS ENTERING GRADE 9 IN THE 2014-2015 SCHOOL YEAR AND THEREAFTER. Revisions to the High School Course Selection Guide for Students Entering Grade 9 in the 2014-15 School Year and Thereafter are subject to change due to updates from the Texas Legislative session. Updates will be added as received. Discipline Distinguished Achievement Foundation with Endorsement English Language Arts Mathematics Science Social Studies Physical Education Language Other Than English Four credits: English I English II English III Advanced English credit Four credits: Algebra I Geometry Algebra II Advanced math credit Four credits: Biology IPC, Physics, or Chemistry Advanced science credit Advanced science credit Three credits World History or World Geography or combined W. History/W. Geography U.S. History U.S. Government (.5 credit) Economics (.5 credit) One Credit Two credits in the same language, Computer programming languages (other exceptions) Fine Arts One Credit One Credit Speech.5 credit.5 credit Elective 6.5 Credits 6.5 Credits Endorsement Arts and Humanities Four credits: English I English II English III Advanced English credit Four credits: Algebra I Geometry Advanced math credit Advanced math credit Four credits: Biology IPC, Physics, or Chemistry Advanced science credit Advanced science credit Three credits World History or World Geography or combined W. History/W. Geography U.S. History U.S. Government (.5 credit) Economics (.5 credit) One Credit Two credits in the same language, Computer programming languages (other exceptions) At least one of the following At least one of the following endorsements is required endorsements is required Includes courses directly related to World Language, English Literature, History, Fine Arts Business and Industry Endorsement Public Services Endorsement STEM Endorsement Refer to Guide to Endorsements Includes credits directly related to Agriculture, food, and natural resources, architecture and construction, arts, Audio visual, Business and Management, hospitality and tourism, Information Technology, Marketing Refer to Guide to Endorsements Includes credits directly related to Education and Training, Human Services, and Health Sciences Refer to Guide to Endorsements Includes credits directly related to Science, Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, Advanced Math Refer to Guide to Endorsements Multidisciplinary Endorsement Allows a student to select credits from the curriculum of each endorsement area and earn credits in a variety of advanced courses from multiple content areas sufficient to complete the distinguished level of achievement. Refer to Guide to Endorsements Total Credits 26 Credits 26 Credits 5
Option 1: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics The STEM endorsement can be earned by completing Algebra II, Chemistry and Physics and one of the following five options: Complete four or more credits from the following list, one must be an advanced course: Concepts of Engineering and Technology (STEM AC only) Engineering Design and Presentation Engineering Design and Problem Solving (STEM AC only)* Scientific Research and Design: Engineering Research and Design (STEM AC only)* Robotics and Automation (STEM AC only) Scientific Research and Design: Pharmacology Scientific Research and Design: Aerospace (STEM AC only)* Engineering Design and Development (STEM AC only)* Career Preparation I, II in a related field* (3) Option 3: Complete two credits from the following list: Pre Calculus AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC AP Statistics AP Computer Science* Dual Credit 3 college credit hours equals ½ high school credit. Courses available to 9th grade students * Denotes advanced CTE courses. All courses are one credit unless otherwise denoted in ( ). Endorsement Guide Option 2: Complete two courses from the following list: AP Biology AP Physics I AP Physics C Mechanics AP Physics C Electricity AP Chemistry Environmental Systems AP Environmental Science Anatomy and Physiology of Human Systems* Earth and Space Science Forensic Science* Scientific Research and Design: Pharmacology* Engineering Design and Problem Solving (STEM AC only)* Dual Credit 3 college credit hours equals ½ high school credit. Option 4: Complete four credits in Computer Science from the following list: PAP Computer Science AP Computer Science* Digital Forensics (.5) Independent Study in Technology Applications* Mobile Application (.5) Option 5: Complete three additional credits in a coherent sequence from no more than two options above. Note: Detailed courses, endorsements, and information subject to change based on legislative decisions and interpretations. Option 1: Complete five credits from the following list: World Geography World History US History Government (.5) Economics (.5) European History Human Geography Psychology (.5) Sociology (.5) Advanced Placement Psychology Advanced Studies and Research Methods Option 3: Complete four credits in the same language other than English from the following list: Spanish French German Option 1: Arts and Humanities The Arts and Humanities endorsement can be earned by completing one of the following four options: Option 2: Complete a coherent sequence of four credits from one or two disciplines in the Fine Arts department: Art Theatre Arts Music Dance Option 4: Complete two credits from one language other than English and two credits from a different language other than English to total four credits from the following list: Spanish French German American Sign Language Chinese If a student is transferring from a different district, other languages will be considered. Multidisciplinary Studies The Multidisciplinary endorsement can be earned by completing one of the following three options: Complete four credits from each of the following departments: English Mathematics Science Social Studies Must include English IV, and Physics and/or Chemistry. Option 3: Option 2: Complete four advanced placement or dual credit credits from the following departments: English Mathematics Science Social Studies Languages other than English Fine Arts Complete four advanced courses from within one endorsement or among multiple endorsements. (* Denotes advanced applicable courses.)
Option 1: Endorsement Guide Business and Industry The Business and Industry endorsement can be earned by completing a coherent sequence of four or more credits Agricultural, Food, and Natural Resources: Principles of Agriculture Food & Natural Resources Horticultural Science Principles and Elements of Floral Design Landscape Design & Turf Grass Management* Wildlife, Fisheries & Eco. (.5) Architecture and Construction: Principles of Architecture & Construction Architectural Design Advanced Architecture Design * Small Animal Management (.5) Livestock Production (.5) Equine Science (.5) Veterinary Medical Applications* Agricultural Mechanics & Metal Technologies Agricultural Facilities Design & Fabrication* Interior Design Agricultural Mechanics & Metal Technologies Agricultural Facilities Design & Fabrication* Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications: Principles of Arts, AV & Animation (AMAT only) Communications (AMAT Graphic Design & Illustration (AMAT Only) only) Audio/Video Production Commercial Photography (AMAT only) (AMAT only)* Advanced Audio/Video Production (AMAT only)* (2) Professional Standards In Agribusiness Agribusiness Management & Marketing* Problems & Solutions: Advanced Agriculture Mechanics* Problems & Solutions: Advanced Agriculture Mechanics* Video Game Design (AMAT Only)* BNHS Video Announcement Digital and Interactive Media (AMAT) * Business Management and Administration, Finance, and Marketing: Principles of Business, Marketing, & Finance (.5) Business Law* (.5) Business Information Management I, II* Business Management (BME only)* (2) Global Business (.5) Banking & Financial Services (.5) Accounting I, II* Financial Mathematics* Advertising & Sales Promotion (.5) Sports & Entertainment Marketing* (.5) Fashion Marketing* (.5) Entrepreneurship (BME only)* Hospitality and Tourism: (Culinary Academy only) Principles of Hospitality Restaurant Management (.5) & Tourism Culinary Arts *(2) Hotel Management (.5) Hospitality Services* (2) Practicum in Culinary*(3) Practicum in Hospitality* (3) Information Technology, Technology Application, and Business Information Management: Digital & Interactive Media Computer Programming Web Technologies Digital Arts and Animation Business Information Management I, II* Career Preparation: Career Preparation I in related field* (3) Career Preparation II in related field* (3) Option 2: The Business and Industry endorsement can be earned by completing a coherent sequence of four English elective credits listed below. Creative & Imaginative Writing I, II (.5) Literacy Genre - Intro. to Mythology(.5) Literacy Genre - Heroes of Mythology (.5) Communications Applications (.5) SAT/ACT Preparatory (state credit) (.5) Public Speaking (.5) Journalism Photojournalism Public Service The Public Service endorsement can be earned by completing a coherent sequence of four or more credits. Two of the courses must be in the same career cluster, at least one course should be an advanced course, and additional course(s) to create a four credit coherent sequence. Education and Training: Principles of Education & Training (.5) Instructional Practices In Education & Training* (2) Health Science: Principles of Health Science Medical Terminology (.5) Health Science Practicum and Health Science: EMT* (2) Anatomy and Physiology* Human Services: Principles of Human Services (.5) Child Development (.5) Interpersonal Studies Counseling and Mental Health* Introduction to Cosmetology (Cosmetology only) (.5) Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security: Forensic Science* Independent Study in Speech Reading I Reading Applications and Study Skills Practical Writing Oral Interpretation I, II, III Debate I, II, III Advanced Journalism: Newspaper Production I, II, III Advanced Journalism: Yearbook Production I, II, III Northwest ISD PO Box 77070 Fort Worth TX 76177 817.215.0000 817.215.0170 Fax www.nisdtx.org Updated January 28, 2015 Practicum In Education & Training* (2) Principles of Biomedical Science (ABS only) Human Body Systems (ABS only) Medical Interventions (ABS only)* Biomedical Innovation (ABS only)* Shampooing and Conditioning (Cosmetology only) Cosmetology I (Cosmetology only)* (3) Cosmetology II (Cosmetology only)* (3) Career Preparation: Career Preparation I in related field* (3) Career Preparation II in related field* (3) Note: Detailed courses, endorsements, and information subject to change based on legislative decisions and interpretations.
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Information for Planning Your High School Years & Beyond including information about the new Foundation High School Program Overview Benefits Choices Checklists Resources Glossary
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program - Overview Distinguished Level of Achievement - Benefits Texas High School Diploma - Steps Endorsements - Choices Graduation Program - Checklists Information - University Information - Workforce Graduation Program - Glossary
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program Overview Foundation High School Program A new, more flexible graduation program that allows students to pursue their interests will be in place for all students who enter high school, beginning in the 2014-2015 school year. The program contains up to four parts: A 22-credit foundation program which is the core of the new Texas high school diploma Five endorsement* options that allow students to focus on a related series of courses A higher performance category called Distinguished Level of Achievement Performance Acknowledgments that note outstanding achievement The Foundation requirements (22 credits) include: English (4 credits) English I English II English III An advanced English course Mathematics (3 credits) Algebra I Geometry An advanced math course Science (3 credits) Biology Integrated Physics & Chemistry or an advanced science course An advanced science course Social Studies (3 credits) World History or World Geography U.S. Government (one-half credit) Languages Other Than English (2 credits) U.S. History Economics (one-half credit) 2 credits in the same language or 2 credits from Computer Science I, II, III Physical Education (1 credit) Fine Arts (1 credit) Electives (5 credits) Speech: Demonstrated proficiency Endorsements Total credits with endorsements 26 Enhancements Additionally, a student may earn the Distinguished Level of Achievement and/or a Performance Acknowledgment for outstanding performance. The Distinguished Level of Achievement must be earned to be admitted to a Texas public university under the Top 10 percent automatic admission law. Distinguished Level of Achievement Foundation Program requirements 4 credits in math including Algebra II 4 credits in science at least 1 endorsement Performance Acknowledgments dual credit course bilingualism and biliteracy PSAT, ACT s Plan, SAT or ACT Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exam earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license *A student entering 9th grade must indicate an endorsement he or she plans to follow. A student may change or add an endorsement at any time. A student may graduate without earning an endorsement if, after his or her sophomore year, the student s parent signs a form permitting the student to omit the endorsement requirement. BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Distinguished Level of Achievement Benefits Choices determine options Most of the very best jobs available now and in the future require education and training beyond a high school diploma. Whether you intend to pursue a high-demand, industry workforce credential from a community or technical college or a traditional four-year degree from a university, the choices made in high school will determine your future options. To best prepare yourself now for the transition to post-high school education or quality workforce training, choosing and taking the right classes is essential. The Distinguished Level of Achievement will ensure the best preparation for your future. Why it matters Benefits The Distinguished Level of Achievement opens a world of educational and employment opportunities for you beyond high school. The Distinguished Level of Achievement will: Credential Technical College Allow you to compete for Top 10% automatic admissions eligibility at any Texas public university; Position you among those first in line for a TEXAS Grant* to help pay for university tuition and fees; and Ensure you are a more competitive applicant at the most selective colleges and universities. What it means The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires more math and more science than the Foundation High School Program. The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires: A total of four credits in math, including Algebra II; A total of four credits in science; and Successful completion of an endorsement in your area of interest. *Must be financially qualified Advantages Opportunity to earn an endorsement in an area of interest More college and university options More financial aid options Better preparation for college-level coursework at community/technical colleges and universities Opportunity for immediate enrollment in classes related to your chosen field of study Strong foundation to successfully complete an industry workforce credential or college degree Texas Education Agency www.tea.state.tx.us Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board www.thecb.state.tx.us Texas Workforce Commission www.twc.state.tx.us TEXAS THE STATE OF TEXAS ED U CATION AGENC Y BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Texas High School Diploma Steps Distinguished Level of Achievement 26 Credits Algebra II Required Eligible for Top 10% Automatic Admissions to Texas Public Universities 22 Credits for the Foundation High School Program Requirements of 1 Endorsement (including 4 th credit of Math and Science and 2 additional electives) STEM Business & Industry Public Service Arts & Humanities Multi- Disciplinary Studies Be sure to visit your school counselor to learn more about your options. Students may earn more than one endorsement. Texas Education Agency Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board Texas Workforce Commission BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Endorsements Choices Endorsements For the first time, students will be able to earn one or more endorsements as part of their graduation requirements. Endorsements consist of a related series of courses that are grouped together by interest or skill set. They provide students with in-depth knowledge of a subject area. Students must select an endorsement* in the ninth grade. Districts and charters are not required to offer all endorsements. If only one endorsement is offered, it must be multi-disciplinary studies. Students earn an endorsement by completing the curriculum requirements for the endorsement, including 4th credit of math and science and 2 additional elective credits. Students can choose from 5 endorsement areas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses related to STEM Mathematics Science Combination of no more than two of the categories listed above Computer Science Business and Industry (one of the following or a combination of areas) Agriculture Food and Natural Resources Architecture and Construction Arts Hospitality and Tourism Technology and Communications Audio/Video Information Technology Business Management and Administration Finance Manufacturing Transportation or Distribution and Logistics Marketing Technology Applications English electives in public speaking, debate, advanced broadcast journalism, advanced journalism including newspaper and yearbook Public Service (one of the following) Human Services Health Science Education and Training Law Public Safety Government and Public Administration Corrections and Security Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) Arts and Humanities (one of the following) 2 levels each in two languages other than English (LOTE) 4 levels in the same LOTE Courses from one or two areas (music, theater, art, dance) in fine arts English electives not included in Business and Industry Social Studies American Sign Language (ASL) Multi-Disciplinary Studies (one of the following) 4 advanced courses from other endorsement areas 4 credits in each foundation subject area, including English IV and chemistry and/or physics 4 credits in Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or dual credit selected from English, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, LOTE or fine arts *Visit your school counselor to learn more about your options. Students may earn more than one endorsement. ENDORSEMENTS BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program Checklists 8 th Grade Review choices offered under the Foundation High School Program and the Endorsements to decide on your future academic path. Select the endorsement that best fits your area of personal interest and the major you plan to study in college. Recognize that most college entrance requirements include rigorous advanced courses including Algebra II, higher-level science courses and languages other than English. 9 th /10 th Grade Monitor high school credits; be sure to meet all local and state requirements by the end of the senior year. Take dual enrollment or Advanced Placement courses if possible to earn college credit while still in high school. Keep list of awards, honors and extracurricular activities for scholarship and college applications. Research colleges or universities you are interested in attending. Check admission and application requirements and timelines. 11 th /12 th Grade Explore interests and take advantage of Career Day opportunities. Attend college nights hosted by your high school. Talk with school representatives about the types of financial aid available. Take the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test in your sophomore year for practice. In your junior year, take the PSAT for eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. Students who take the PSAT or ACT s PLAN tend to score higher on the SAT or ACT than those who do not. Take dual enrollment or Advanced Placement courses if possible to earn college credit while you are still in high school. Check with your counselor s office to learn about available scholarships. Be sure to apply early and for as many scholarships as possible. Do not limit yourself to local scholarships. Consider taking SAT/ACT preparation classes. Sign up and take the ACT and/or SAT test, preferably in your junior year but no later than the fall of your senior year. Fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early in the spring of your senior year. Apply to college during the fall of your senior year. If you plan to pursue technical training or enter the workforce after graduation, see the Information - Workforce Resources page or visit Texas Reality Check at www.texasrealitycheck.com/. BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Information University Resources Resources House Bill 5 www.tea.state.tx.us/graduation-requirements/hb5.aspx In 2013, the Texas Legislature passed House Bill 5 creating a new graduation plan for Texas students the Foundation High School Program. This webpage provides an array of information including: A side-by-side comparison of the Foundation High School Program and the previous graduation plans (PDF) A Foundation High School Program Frequently Asked Questions (PDF) Approved Foundation High School Program Rules Detailed information about the state s graduation plan (PDF) Compare College TX www.comparecollegetx.com Compare College TX is an interactive, mobile-friendly web tool designed to help students and parents learn more about Texas public universities and community/ technical colleges. Did you know... credit eligible students can earn college credit while still in high school by taking Advanced Placement courses and earning high scores on the AP tests or by enrolling in and passing dual credit courses? earnings over their lifetime, high school graduates with a bachelor's degree earn 84 percent more* than a high school graduate? students ranked in the Top 10 percent of their graduating class from an accredited public or private Texas high school are eligible for automatic admission to any Texas public university if they have completed the Distinguished Level of Achievement? tuition the highest ranking graduate at each Texas public high school receives a certificate from the Texas Education Agency that can be used as a scholarship to cover tuition costs at any Texas public college or university? *Center on Education and the Workforce, The College Payoff: Education, *Occupations, Lifetime Earnings, August 2011. Georgetown University BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Information Workforce Resources Career If you are considering going straight into the workforce or into a technical training program following graduation, you still need to complete your high school education and earn a high school diploma. While in high school, you will want to: Look at the five endorsements offered under the Foundation High School Program. Determine your area of interest. Complete your selected endorsement along with the required foundation program to earn your high school diploma. Learn about available jobs, and any required post-high school or technical training. Explore new career opportunities. Research wage and occupation information, required levels of education and training requirements. Discover your interests and abilities; use labor market resources at www.texasrealitycheck.com/ and at www.texasworkforce.org/customers/jsemp/career-exploration-trends.html. Research which jobs are among the fastest and most in-demand in Texas at www.texascaresonline.com/hotshots/hotshotslists.asp. Community College & Career Schools Find training and certifications for specific occupations or skills through community colleges or career schools and colleges at www.texasworkforce.org/svcs/propschools/career-schools-colleges.html. Did you know... training many of the high-demand jobs 1 will require some postsecondary education? tuition students attending community colleges or trade schools may also be eligible for state or federal financial aid? 2 credential that Texas public school students can earn a Performance Acknowledgement with their diploma by earning a nationally- or internationally-recognized credential for a specific professional occupation, such as certified nurses aid certification (CAN) or computer tech certification (CTC) while in high school? earnings over their lifetime, high school graduates with a workforce certificate from a community or technical college earn 20 percent more 3 than those with only a high school diploma? 1 Texas Workforce Commission 2 Get the facts at www.collegeforalltexans.com or studentaid.ed.gov 3 Center on Education and the Workforce, Certificates: Gateway to Gainful Employment and College Degrees, 3 June 2012. Georgetown University BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit Graduation Program Glossary Foundation High School Program The basic 22-credit graduation program for Texas public school students. Endorsements Areas of specialized study. The areas are: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Business and Industry Arts and Humanities Public Service Multidisciplinary Studies A district or charter that offers only one endorsement must offer Multidisciplinary Studies. Distinguished Level of Achievement A high level of academic achievement earned by going beyond the Foundation High School Program. It requires a total of 26 course credits, including Algebra II, a fourth science credit and an endorsement. A student must earn this designation to be eligible for Top 10 percent automatic admission to a Texas public university. Performance Acknowledgments Students may earn an additional acknowledgment on their diploma because of outstanding performance in areas such as dual credit courses and bilingualism and biliteracy; on Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, PSAT, ACT s Plan, the SAT or ACT exams; or by earning a nationally- or internationally-recognized business or industry certification. Course Credit A unit of measure awarded for successful completion of a course. Completion of a one semester course typically earns one-half credit for a student. Industry Workforce Credential A state, nationally, or internationally-recognized credential that aligns with the knowledge and skills standards identified by an association or government entity representing a particular profession or occupation and valued by business or industry. Examples include a credential for certified nurse aid (CNA) or the automotive service excellence (ASE) certification in the automotive industry. STAAR State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) is the state-mandated test given annually to students in grades 3-8 and in five high school courses. EOC STAAR end-of-course exams are state mandated tests given during the final weeks of a course. In addition to meeting graduation course requirements, students are required to pass five end-of-course exams to earn a diploma from a Texas public high school. Those five exams are given when a student takes English I and II, Biology, Algebra I and U.S. History courses. BR14-130-02
Texas Education Agency Graduation Toolkit My Notes My Graduation Date BR14-130-02
1701 N. Congress Avenue Austin, Texas 78701-1494 512 463-9734 www.tea.state.tx.us Produced by the Texas Education Agency in cooperation with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Texas Workforce Commission BR14-130-02