Daily Schedule
What are the school hours?
At FSHS, we follow a 7-period schedule, though not every class meets every day. You will have 7 periods on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, 3 periods on Wednesdays, and 4 periods on Thursdays.
The school day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on most days, with an early dismissal at 1:40 p.m. on Wednesdays.
What is a zero-hour class?
Zero Hour is an optional class period offered before the regular school day begins. Classes run from 7:00–7:55 a.m., prior to the traditional 8:00 a.m. start time. A limited number of courses are available during Zero Hour.
Students may choose to enroll in Zero Hour to earn additional credits or to begin their school day earlier, allowing them to leave campus at the end of 6th period. Participation is optional and based on student interest and course availability.
Course Selection
What is the difference between Advanced and Regular classes?
Advanced classes cover the same core content as regular (on-level) classes, but they explore topics in greater depth, move at a faster pace, and often require additional or more rigorous coursework.
There are no prerequisites or application requirements to enroll in an advanced class. However, students are encouraged to consult with their current teacher to determine whether an advanced class is the best fit based on their academic strengths, learning style, and workload.
What are Advanced Placement (AP) classes?
Advanced Placement (AP) is a program developed by the College Board that offers high school students the opportunity to experience college-level coursework while still in high school and potentially earn college credit before graduation.
AP courses are more rigorous than typical high school classes and require students to take an AP exam at the end of the school year. College credit is awarded based on exam performance and the policies of the college or university.
For additional details about AP courses and exams, visit the College Board website: College Board AP Classes.
Do I need to take a world language (Spanish, French, German)?
A world language is not required for high school graduation. However, some colleges (though not all) require two years of the same world language for admission.
In addition, earning the Seal of Biliteracy can count toward the Secondary Asset requirement.
How do I know which math class I am supposed to be in?
USD 497 follows a sequential math pathway. To determine the appropriate math class, please refer to the math flowchart or visit with your current math teacher.
If I fail a class, do I have to take it again?
To meet state and local graduation requirements, some courses must be repeated if a student does not pass them the first time. These required courses include English, Health, Government, Modern World History, and United States History.
Can I take a PE class more than one time and still earn credit?
Yes, many students enjoy having an activity break during the day and choose PE as an elective. Students may take the same PE class more than once and earn credit each time.
Enrollment Questions
When is enrollment due?
Students should submit their course selection in Xello by Friday, February 20, 2026. Students do not have to turn in paper enrollment forms or planners.
When can we start enrolling?
Enrollment begins on February 9, 2026. Your choices in Xello will not be official until you submit them. Once they are submitted, you can't go back and change them.
Where do we find the course catalog?
You can view full coursebook here: Course Description Book.
We attended a private school last year. How do we enroll?
Welcome to USD 497! You will need to register as a new student at the USD 497 Enrollment Center: Register for School.
Once you’ve completed registration, our school registrar will contact you to help facilitate your enrollment at FSHS.
School Contact Questions
What is the best way to contact my student's counselor?
Email is the best way to reach our school counselors. Don’t hesitate to get in touch—we are here to help! Contact information can be found here.
Can I contact my school counselor during the summer?
School counselors work on a 10-month contract, similar to teachers, so their availability is limited during summer break. Counselors return to school a week before the school year starts, providing ample time to address any questions or concerns before classes begin.
Parental Involvement
How can I check my student's grades in PowerSchool?
You can view your student’s grades through the PowerSchool Parent Portal. For information on setting up an account or getting help, visit: PowerSchool Parent Portal.
The school does not send out paper report cards. How can I get a copy of my child's grades?
High school grades are recorded on a student’s transcript each semester. FSHS uses Parchment to process all transcript requests.
To get a personal copy of your student’s grades:
Visit the Transcript Requests website.
Choose to have the transcript sent to yourself.
Within a day or two, you will receive a digital copy via email.
If you have questions, please contact your school counselor or school registrar.
Other FAQ
What is the average student/teacher ratio in the classroom?
Class sizes typically range from 24 to 32 students, depending on the course. (Different ratios may apply for classes like choir, band, PE, and other specialized courses.)
Is transportation done through First Student?
Yes. For more information about bus routes, schedules, and policies, visit: USD 497 Transportation.
What are dual credit courses?
Dual credit courses allow juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credit for the same class.
Athletics Questions
For the most accurate and up-to-date information about FSHS athletics, please visit the FSHS Athletics Website.