Student Programs
Each student will develop a four-year plan for the courses to be taken during his/her high school career. The plan should take into consideration graduation requirements and the student’s post-high school plans. Individual college and university entrance requirements should be considered as well as requirements for entrance into specific careers. Students are expected to make progress toward graduation.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION FROM ST. CHARLES HIGH SCHOOLS
Courses
Credits
Information
English
4.0
Students must be enrolled in an English course each semester.
Mathematics
3.0
All students are required to earn three credits in mathematics: one must be Algebra I and one must include geometric content.
Science
2.0
Two years of science. One credit must be in Biology or completion of the ICB I-II sequence.
Beginning with the Class of 2028, two years of laboratory science, one of which must by Biology or Integrated Chemistry and Biology II (ICB II).
Modern American History/US History
1.0
Can also be met through American Studies.
Geographic Foundations
1.0
Contemporary World Issues, World History and Geography, AP Human Geography, or AP World History all meet this requirement
Civics/Government
0.5
Can also be met through American Agenda. Passing scores on the IL and U.S. Constitution exams are required.
Economics or Consumer Education
0.5
All students are required to fulfill a consumer education requirement. Students can enroll in a one-semester Economics course, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, American Agenda, or an approved consumer education course (Co-op Work Training I, INCubatoredu)
Health
0.5
Physical Education & Electives
10.5
Students must participate in physical education during each semester they are enrolled in school unless:
▪ The student is enrolled in health education (for the first time).
▪ The student is enrolled in driver education (for the first time).
▪ The student receives an exemption.
Note: Those seeking physical education exemptions should refer to School Board Policy 7:260.
Students may, however, elect to stay in physical education in lieu of an eligible exemption.
At least two of the required elective credits must include any of the following subject areas: art, music, drama, world language, business education, family and consumer science, or technology education.
TOTAL CREDITS
23.0
It is important to emphasize that the graduation requirements represent the minimum program of studies for St. Charles High School students. Entrance requirements to particular colleges and universities may be considerably more stringent.
SAT Requirement: Students are required to take the school-based SAT sponsored by ISBE.
FAFSA Requirement: Students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid or submit the ISBE FAFSA Waiver Form to opt out of this requirement.
RECOMMENDED ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN ILLINOIS
*These requirements mirror most universities in the United States
English
4.0
Emphasis on written and oral communications and literature.
Mathematics
4.0
Including geometry, algebra, advanced algebra, trigonometry, or fundamentals of computer programming.
Science
3.0
Emphasis on laboratory sciences.
Social Studies
3.0
Emphasis on history and government.
Electives
2.0
Four semesters in foreign languages, art or music, or other academic courses.
See your school counselor for details on specific course requirements and an explanation as to how electives may be used to fulfill some requirements. You are encouraged to contact individual colleges and universities for their most current information.
DRIVER EDUCATION REQUIREMENT
Students must have earned a passing grade in at least 8 courses from their previous two semesters in order to be eligible for driver education. Students are placed in driver education according to their date of birth.
HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSES
Pursuant to Board policy 6:315, a middle school student who passes a District 303 high school level course taught at a District 303 middle school will receive high school credit and GPA calculation for the course. This course will be included on the student’s high school transcript and may qualify for NCAA core credit. Please visit http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/core-courses for more information.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
The Special Education Department provides support for students with identified disabilities. Through the evaluation process, the appropriate level of service for the student is determined. The appropriate supports and services are outlined in the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Placement in Special Education courses is made only through the recommendation of the IEP team.