Levels of Instruction

Somers High School in Connecticut offers a diverse range of course offerings designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and prepare them for future academic and career endeavors. Here's an overview of various levels of instruction at SHS:

1. Academic/College Preparatory: The academic/college preparatory level of instruction in a high school program of studies emphasizes rigorous coursework designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, preparing students for success in postsecondary education.

2. Honors: The honors level of instruction in a high school program of studies offers advanced, accelerated coursework that challenges students to engage in deeper analysis, independent learning, and higher-level critical thinking to prepare for academic excellence in college and beyond.

3. Advanced Placement (AP): Somers High School provides Advanced Placement courses, allowing students to engage in college-level material and potentially earn college credits by performing well on the corresponding AP exams.

4. UCONN Early College Experience (ECE): Students have the opportunity to enroll in UCONN ECE courses, providing a chance to earn college credits while still in high school. 

5. Connecticut State College High School Partnership Program (HSP): Somers High School offers dual-enrollment opportunities in career-specific courses aligned to manufacturing and engineering, providing a chance to earn college credits and career experience. 

Course Level and GPA Calculation

The Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated using a 100-point weighted scale, and this weighted GPA is utilized for determining class rank. On the official transcript, the actual numerical average for each course taken by the student is recorded. Additionally, the cumulative weighted grade average and class rank are included. Courses are assigned weighted factors as follows:

• Academic and College Preparatory courses carry a 1.0 weighted factor.

• Honors level courses carry a 1.1 weighted factor.

• Advanced Placement (AP) and UCONN ECE level courses carry a 1.2 weighted factor.

To calculate the weighted GPA, the student's numerical average on the 100-point scale is multiplied by the designated weighted factor based on the course level.