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This page will answer questions commonly asked by students and parents about academies:
Do academies limit student’s choices?
No. Students can still take any course or elective, just as before. The purpose of academies is to organize the school into five smaller learning communities and enable students to develop an area of focus, based on personal interests. The academy structure ensures that more students can graduate high school with enhanced career and college ready skills.
How many classes does a student need to take to be in an academy?
When a student enrolls in an academy class and declares primary interest in that theme, this student is part of their academy. However, students must complete 3 or more courses for 4 or more credits to earn academy recognition at graduation.
What is the difference between an academy and an endorsement?
Most endorsements offered at WHS are naturally housed in an academy by the theme. There are several other "Global Endorsements" that can be earned in any academy. Link: RRISD Endorsements Defined
Can a student change their academy?
Yes. However, this is typically done once a year, annually during spring registration.
Can students complete any 4 credits in an academy for recognition in that academy?
No. Students should plan to take 4 credits within a program of study pathway in that academy. The skill building sequence of courses is a way for students to focus interest in that program.
Consult the CTE/ academy specialist for specifics or exceptions.
Can students be in multiple academies?
Many students can complete several program of study pathways before graduation and can be recognized for each one. However, students are asked to identify just one primary academy for their small learning community placement. A final transcript check before graduation will determine other programs for possible recognition.
Can a student graduate from high school if they don’t complete a program of study pathway in the academies?
Yes! There are circumstances where students are unable to take the recommended academy electives in a program pathway. This does not affect graduation overall, however endorsements (starting with the class of 2018) may have unintended consequences. Consult your school counselor for further explanation.
Do International Baccalaureate (IB) students need to select an academy?
Yes. All Westwood HS students will select an academy (with endorsement) by the end of 8th grade. Pre-IB and IB students should select an academy by the theme that is closest to their interests. Many IB students are still able to complete many of the courses in a program of study pathway and can earn recognition in any academy.
Will the academy recognition be posted on the student’s high school transcript?
Beginning with the class of 2018, endorsements and performance acknowledgements will be included on diplomas and transcripts. The name of the academy, however, will not be included.
To contact Lucy Sanchez, Career Technical Education/Academy Specialist at Westwood High School:
(512) 464-4191
Located in the school's main office #D1101
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