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 that takes place before the regular school day begins. Zero Hour runs from 7:00 a.m. to 7:55 a.m., prior to the traditional 8:00 a.m. start time.

Unless there is an extenuating circumstance, freshmen do not take Zero Hour classes.

Course Selection

What is the difference between Advanced and Regular classes?

Advanced classes cover the same core material as on-level classes, but they move at a faster pace, explore topics in greater depth, and often require additional or more rigorous work.

There are no prerequisites or applications required to enroll in an Advanced class. However, it is recommended that students and families consult the student’s current teacher to determine whether an Advanced class is the best fit.

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 take college-level courses while still in high school and potentially earn college credit before graduation.

AP courses are more rigorous than standard high school classes and require students to take an AP exam at the end of the course to earn college credit.

Freshmen may enroll in AP Human Geography. For more information about AP courses, visit the College Board AP 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.

Should I take Spanish II if I had some Spanish in middle school?

If you have previously taken Spanish in middle school, Spanish II may be an appropriate option. However, placement can vary by student. If you are unsure which class is the best fit, please talk with your current teacher or school counselor for guidance.

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.

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.

Should I take Health over the summer?

Some students choose to take the required Health class during the summer to open up more elective options during the school year. Lawrence Virtual School (LVS) offers summer Health courses, but registration typically opens in April or May.

Information about summer enrollment will be shared with middle schools when it becomes available.

Enrollment Questions

When is enrollment due?

High school counselors will visit middle schools to collect course requests and confirm class selections on the following dates:

If you miss your scheduled date, please turn in your course requests to your middle school counselor.

Where do we find the course catalog?

The full course descriptions are linked in this freshmen enrollment website under the Courses & Requirements tab. Course descriptions are also on the Xello page students see when they select their classes.

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! Counselor contact information can be found under the School Contacts tab on this website.

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:

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.