Course Credit Information
Most students take five academic subjects (four for students not taking a world language) per year. Most full semester courses in grades 9-12 earn 4 credits and most one quarter courses earn 2 credits. There are a few courses which are the full year and therefore worth 8 credits. Only credits earned during grades 9-12 count toward graduation. To graduate, students must earn a total of 96 credits. Among these credits, students need to earn the following in each department:
English
16 credits (including at least one literature class in both 11th and 12th grade)
Social Studies
12 credits (4 of which must meet the U.S. History requirement)
Mathematics
8 credits
Science
8 credits in laboratory courses
Physical Education
2 credits (taken in 10th grade)
Health Education
2 credits (taken in 9th grade)
Competency Determination
Ensuring that every student graduates prepared for their next steps—whether in college, career, or civic life—is a core commitment of Amherst Regional Public Schools (ARPS). This proposal outlines the process for certifying competency determinations (CD) for ARPS students, beginning with the graduating class of 2025, in alignment with Massachusetts General Law and DESE requirements. The CD is designed to verify that students have attained essential academic skills and knowledge necessary for post-secondary success.
At ARPS, we recognize the importance of maintaining high academic standards while also providing equitable access to educational opportunities for all students. Meeting competency determination requirements reflects our district’s dedication to academic excellence while recognizing diverse learning needs and pathways to success.
To uphold this commitment, ARPS follows the requirements set forth by Massachusetts General Laws and the educational standards established by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). All students graduating must fulfill both local graduation requirements and the competency determination requirements established by the Amherst-Pelham Regional School Committee.
See full detailed document here...
Participation in the Graduation Ceremony
To receive a diploma, a student must complete all of the requirements for graduation by the last scheduled day of classes for seniors (usually one week prior to the graduation ceremony). Students who are within four credits of meeting graduation requirements may participate in the graduation ceremony, but will not receive their diploma until the credits have been completed. Students who have met all of the credit and enrollment requirements but have not passed all of the required MCAS tests may participate in the graduation ceremony but will receive a certificate of attainment rather than a diploma.