Demonstrating proficiency in six core areas by applying skills and knowledge at a rigorous level. The six areas are English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, the arts, and technology
Completing with success one of the four following performance-based diploma assessments: Graduation Portfolio, Student Exhibition, Senior Project, and/or Capstone Product.
Completing with success a minimum of 20 courses, including four years of English, four years of mathematics, three years of science, and 3 years of history or social studies (More spefiic requirements are outlined below based on the anticipated year of graduation)
Participation in statewide assessments
Developing an Individual Learning Plan (ILP) that assists in the students' development of career, academic, and social goals
Meet all course/credit requirements as outlined in the PHS Program of Studies
Demonstrate proficiency in the applied learning skills as evidenced through two (2) performance-based measures: Comprehensive Course Assessments and a culminating Student Exhibition or Capstone Product
Create and utilize an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP)
Graduation ceremonies are held as a student recognition program for students who are eligible for a diploma. Participation in graduation exercises is a privilege extended to students who have upheld ethical standards, both in school and in the community, who maintain a positive image of Portsmouth High School, and who satisfactorily meet the requirements set forth by the School Committee to receive a diploma..
Graduating students must participate in all mandatory graduation rehearsals.
Portsmouth School District "Graduation Policy" (IFK)
English.................................................... 4 credits
Must be enrolled in at least one English course per year
Mathematics..................................... 4 credits
Must be enrolled in at least one Mathematics course per year
Social Studies.................................... 3 credits
Includes the successful completion of a US History course
Includes the successful completion of a Modern World History course
Science................................................ 3 credits
Includes the successful completion of at least two lab sciences
Technology.................................. 0.5 credit
Physical/Health Education...... 2 credits
Must be enrolled in at least one HPE course per year
Fine/Visual Arts......................... 0.5 credit
Electives.............................................. 6 credits
ALL Portsmouth High School Students:
Must have an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP)
Must demonstrate proficiency in financial literacy as defined by the Rhode Island Department of Education before graduating. This experience can include a school-approved financial literacy course or program.
Must complete the state assessments prescribed by the Rhode Island Department of Education if they are enrolled at Portsmouth High School during the grade that is tested.
Must successfully complete an approved Proficiency Based Graduation Requirement (PBGR). Students may satisfy this requirement by completing either a Student Exhibition project or an embedded Career and Technical Education (CTE) Capstone project
English.................................................... 4 credits
Must be enrolled in at least one English course per year
Mathematics..................................... 4 credits
Must be enrolled in at least one Mathematics course per year including: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and an "Advanced Math Course" as defined by RIDE
Social Studies.................................... 3 credits
Includes the successful completion of a US History course
Includes the successful completion of a Modern World History course
Science................................................ 3 credits
Includes the successful completion of at least two lab sciences
Technology.................................. 0.5 credit
Physical/Health Education...... 2 credits
Must be enrolled in at least one HPE course per year
Fine/Visual Arts......................... 0.5 credit
Modern World Language ........................ 2 credits
Must successfully complete at least two years of the same modern world language
Additional Electives.............................................. 4 credits
Includes the successful completion of at least one credit of College Prep level work
ALL Portsmouth High School Students:
Must complete an Individualized Learning Plan (ILP)
Must demonstrate proficiency in financial literacy as defined by the Rhode Island Department of Education before graduating. This experience can include a school-approved financial literacy course or program.
Must demonstrate proficiency in civics as defined by the Rhode Island Department of Education before graduating. This experience can include a school-approved civics course or program.
Must demonstrate proficiency in computer science as defined by the Rhode Island Department of Education before graduating. This experience can include a school-approved computer science course or program.
Must complete the state assessments prescribed by the Rhode Island Department of Education if they are enrolled at Portsmouth High School during the grade that is tested.
Must complete a resume
Must have access to FAFSA financial aid information
Must successfully complete an approved Proficiency Based Graduation Requirement (PBGR). Students may satisfy this requirement by completing either a Student Exhibition project or an embedded Career and Technical Education (CTE) Capstone project
Are Encouraged to earn a Rhode Island “Diploma Plus” credential
Students are expected to take final exams during the regularly scheduled exam period. In the event that a final exam needs to be made-up, a time will be scheduled that fits within the classroom teacher’s availability. Requests to take exams at an alternate time must be submitted in writing to the principal at least three weeks prior to the scheduled exam date. This lead time ensures that approved requests can be coordinated with classroom teachers, department chairs, and/or associated school counselors. Requests to take exams at an alternate time must be signed by a parent and contain a detailed reason for the request. Upon administrative approval, an arrangement is to be made between the student and the associated teacher(s). Once the arrangement is made it must be properly recorded with building administration.
Requests to take exams before the exam schedule begins must submit the waiver form available in the guidance office for principal review. Only in extreme cases will requests for early exams be approved. Upon the principal’s approval, arrangements will be made between teachers and the student. The arrangement must be properly recorded with the principal prior to taking the exam. Failure to fulfill final exam responsibilities during the prescribed time will result in a zero on the exam.
Seniors that carry a full year, course average of 89.5 or above will be exempted from taking the final exam in that class with the understanding that said student has already demonstrated subject area mastery.
Students in grades 9, 10, and 11 are required to take the PSAT and the SAT, respectively during the school day. The eleventh grade SAT test fulfills the Federal school accountability mandate. These assessments will be administered during the school day, free of charge to students. Grade 11 students are also required to participate in the State mandated Next Generation Science Assessment (NGSA). The NGSA is also admnistered during the school day free of charge to students.