FAQ

I want to make sure I’m ready for college. How do I decide what classes to take? The best advice… Challenge yourself to take the toughest classes in which you can be successful. You’ll be better prepared for success in college and many colleges consider the difficulty of an applicant’s high school curriculum in making admission decisions.

But, how do I decide which courses will be most challenging for me? You’ll notice that a number of courses are required— for instance, certain courses in math, science, language arts, and social studies— and that each class has several options or levels, with some offering an accelerated format or a more in-depth approach for students who excel in that area of study. For some courses, especially upper-level ones, you may be able to take Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Students who take these college-level courses and do well on AP exams may earn college credit or skip required entry-level classes in college. Talk to your parents, your teachers, and your counselor about which option best suits your academic strengths and prepares you for the courses you’ll take in college.

When do my grades start “counting” for my college applications? It’s important for you to know that 9th grade is not a “practice year” when it comes to grades. In other words, your freshman grades count just as much as the grades you earn as a junior or senior, and college admissions officers will see all of those grades on your high school transcript. All high school grades are factored into your GPA and Cumulative GPA.

I can see my grades will be important from the very beginning. How can I make sure I’ll do well in my classes? Seek guidance from your counselor about how to get the most out of high school. Your teachers, your counselor, and your family will all be behind you and encouraging you to do your best work from the first day, but a lot of your success in high school depends on you!

What are some things I can do at home? Be organized, and keep up with homework assignments and projects. Study class lecture notes to review what was taught in class, even when you do not have assigned homework in a subject. Begin studying for a test several days ahead, so you have time to review the material and retain it. Check your Google Classroom and emails daily.

What is Academic Opportunity (AO)? Academic opportunities is similar to a home room. You are assigned to a specific teacher that you report to everyday. It is a study hall period. You can also go to one of your teachers to receive additional help. All activities during AO must be academically based.

If I am not doing well in a course, what should I do? The first step is to speak with your classroom teacher and set up a time during AO, before or after school for extra help from your teacher. You also may sign up for peer tutoring sessions. If you need additional suggestions, schedule an appointment with your school counselor.

If I am failing a class, can I drop it mid-semester? No. Dropping a class mid-semester is not an option.

How do I make up a course if I fail? Courses can be made up during Winter Credit Recovery or Summer Credit Recovery. See your counselor for more information.

If a student fails a course and retakes the course, is the first failed grade cancelled out? No. Once a student earns a semester grade, it will never be removed from the academic record (transcript). Required courses must be retaken if failed. Both semester grades will be a part of the academic record and the high school grade percent average.

Does high school award grades for “effort”? No. High school students do not earn effort grades. Semester grades reflect your academic achievement in the class.

Are Beginning Kinesiology and Health required courses? Do I have to take them in 9th grade? Yes, Beginning Kinesiology (formerly, PE) and Health are required for graduation. It is encouraged that you take Beginning Kinesiology in your 9th grade year, but this is not required. Additionally, it is encouraged that you take Health in your 10th grade year. You may take Health over the summer or virtually during a different year if that is needed.

When will I have an opportunity to take elective courses that interest me? What electives can I take? Once you fulfill the requirements for Health and PE— either during the school year, or in summer school— you will have more flexibility in your schedule. Elective courses are available in academic areas, fine arts, technical education, and PE/fitness. Many students consider possible careers and select elective courses accordingly.

How important is it to be involved in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sports, and volunteer projects? School leaders recommend that all students participate in one or more extracurricular activity while in high school. Students who are involved in activities feel more connected to the school. Also, colleges and scholarship committees frequently request information on extracurricular participation and demonstrated leadership while in high school.