FAQs:

1. If the GL information night comes after the due date for the elective sheets, is there an opportunity to change my mind regarding elective choices once we hear more about what is offered?

Yes! The elective sheet that is collected by your counselor is just used to guide the conversation during the meeting with the GL counselor (and have the you come prepared with some idea of what you might like to take). You have the option of telling the counselor that you would like to switch out some of you choices when you meet that first week of February.

2. How do teachers decide on recommendations?

Many courses at the high school have prerequisites. Teachers follow these guidelines when making determinations. If you have any questions about your recommendation, please contact that teacher directly.

3. How will I find out about my recommendations?

Recommendations will be posted on the Parent Portal in PowerSchool after January 24th.

4. What do I do if I was hoping for a different recommendation?

Please contact the teacher directly. Recommendations can be changed before the end of the year if prerequisites are met.

5. Is it possible for a recommendation to change?

Yes, it is possible, if the prerequisites are met.

6. When is my appointment for meeting with the GL counselor?

An email was sent home with the day and time of your appointment (parents are invited to attend but are not required to be there). The appointment will fall on one of the days that the GL counselors are at CMS: Early February.

7. Can I change my appointment?

No. Due to the large size of the class, there are no other available appointment times. Your parents are invited with you, but they are not required to be there. A document will be given to you immediately following the appointment with a list of all your requests for next year. If you have any questions after the meeting, you can reach out to your counselor or the counselor you met with.

8. Will I be meeting with my actual GL counselor?

Not necessarily. We do our best to place students with the counselor they will likely have, but the tight schedule does not always allow for this. All of the GL counselors are very knowledgeable and will be happy to answer any questions you have.

9. What should I expect for the appointment with the GL counselor?

The appointment is brief -- about 15 - 20 minutes long. The counselor will go over the recommendations made by the teacher and ask you what your desired electives are. The counselor can also answer any questions you may have about the HS. The counselor is not able to change any recommendations. Approved changes to a recommendation will be adjusted at a later date.

10. What if my parent(s) can't make it to my appointment?

That's okay! You will be provided a list of the courses you have selected before the end of your appointment, and another copy of this will also be sent home. If you have any questions regarding the process or courses selected, please feel free to contact your counselor at CMS.

11. What if I'm going to private school? Do I still have to do course selection?

Yes! We require that ALL students participate in course selection. This way something is in place should anything change about your high school plans.

12. Who should I contact with questions regarding the course selection process?

Please feel free to reach out to your counselor with any questions you may have. She will be able to answer your questions or direct you to the appropriate parties.

13. If I change my mind, can I change the course selection for freshman year after the meeting with a high school counselor?

Yes, you have until February 28th to make any course selection changes. After this date, a master schedule comprised of all current 8-11th student requests is created and sections are established-no changes will be honored.

14. How do I prepare for the course selection meeting?

-Attend the Eighth Grade Scheduling Night

-Obtain and review the GL Program of Studies (found here!)

-Discuss course selection options for next year with your parent(s)

- Have a discussion with teachers to share thoughts, interests and suggestions on course selection and academic level placement

- Write down your questions for the high school counselor