Social Studies

Welcome to the State College High School Social Studies Program!

The Secondary Social Studies Program provides the student with the skills and knowledge to be an actively engaged citizen in a global society. The courses offered in grades nine through twelve meet the state requirements for graduation. The twelfth grade offerings are the capstone of the program, enabling students to select areas of study that are of personal interest and value to their post-high school plans. The State College Area School District requires students to earn four social studies credits by the end of their senior year in order to graduate. Educational guidelines for the state of Pennsylvania require that students take one world history and one United States history course.

Coordinator

Jessica James

Email: jns21@scasd.org

Phone: 814-231-1011 x 6512

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What course level is best for my child?

• Teacher recommendations are helpful in making course selections.  These recommendations are based on student-demonstrated skills in previous classes.  If your child is coming from a non-SCASD school and a recommendation is not available, talk with your child to determine what course level they are most interested in.  Students who are most successful in advanced or Advance Placement (AP) courses have strong organizational and time management skills.  Our college preparatory courses are designed to prepare students for collegiate-level skills and are outlined in the course offerings.

Question 2: My child is not a senior and is interested in taking a senior elective course.  Is this possible?

• Seniors are given priority when registering for senior course options.  When room is available in a course, juniors are given the opportunity to take selected courses.  If you are interested in taking a senior course, please talk with your current social studies teacher about the options that are available to you.

Eleventh Grade 

Clubs and Activities

We do not have clubs and activities that are directly affiliated with our social studies courses.  Below are clubs that may interest you if you have a strong interest in social studies.

Speech and Debate Club

Best Buddies

Diversity Club

Model United Nations

Mock Trial

Key Club

Interact Community Service Club

Student Government (representatives from all grade levels)

Student Senate (organized by grade level)