GFHS
Course DEscRiption Guide
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
This guide was prepared to help you understand the requirements for graduation, select courses, and map out your graduation plan. The graduation worksheet in this guide can be utilized by students and their families to track progress toward graduation. Students are advised to read and discuss this material with their families.
THE SCHEDULING PROCESS
In February, school counselors conduct classroom presentations to assist students in requesting courses for the following year. Course requests are based on graduation requirements, student interest, and successful completion of current courses. From March through June, school counselors meet with students individually for annual progress meetings. During these meetings, student progress toward graduation, course selections, and future goals are reviewed.
Consider your course requests carefully. Select courses to meet graduation requirements and remember that you have numerous opportunities to prepare for college and explore careers during high school. Improve your skills by taking courses in computer literacy, art, music, technology, or business in addition to core academic courses.
Note: Be advised that courses are offered pending sufficient enrollment and the availability of staff.Per New York State Education Department requirements, students must earn a minimum of 22 course credits to graduate. It is required that students in grades 9-12 are scheduled for a minimum of 6.5 credits each year.
Colleges are concerned with the strength of a student’s academic record. Students are encouraged to take challenging courses and develop a well-rounded program.
A strong senior year schedule can support your chances for college admission or your prospects for future employment. Students are expected to maintain enrollment in a rigorous program each year.
Student-athletes considering NCAA Division I or II athletic participation at college should note that not all GFHS courses are approved for NCAA eligibility. Participation in NCAA Division I or II athletics programs in college requires high school students to fulfill certain academic requirements. Interested students should visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website at www.eligibilitycenter.org for more information about the NCAA registration and approval process.
SCHEDULE CHANGE REQUEST INFORMATION
ALL STUDENTS MUST BE SCHEDULED FOR A MINIMUM OF 6.5 CREDITS EACH YEAR
During summer, school counselors work to resolve schedule conflicts. They will contact students whose courses are in conflict in order to make new selections, as allowed by the school’s master schedule. All requests for changes in course selection must be communicated before schedules are released in August.
Once released, schedules are considered final. There will be a limited two week window to add or drop courses each semester.
If a student changes a level of a course (i.e. honors to Regents or AP to Regents), the grades earned in the original course will transfer to the new course.
Please note, the following requests will not be accommodated:
Teacher changes
A different time of day for certain classes
To share classes, lunch, or study halls with specific students
ACCREDITATION
The Glens Falls High School is accredited by the New York State Education Department. All departments within the high school adhere closely to the respective syllabi promoted by the State Education Department.
THE MISSION OF THE GLENS FALLS CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
GFSD educates, supports, and inspires all students as they learn to become productive and engaged members of their community.
