Teacher: Mr. Shepherd
Room: 327
Contact Information: bishepherd@greenville.sc.k12.us
(864) 355-3500 ext.3534
Academic Seminar is a specialized instructional period designed for high school students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This is NOT a study hall. Instead, Academic Seminar provides:
Explicit instruction in executive functioning and academic skills
Support for grade-level coursework aligned to state standards and IEP goals
Individualized teacher support and progress monitoring
Opportunities to work toward specific IEP goals in areas such as organization, time management, task initiation, study skills, behavior management, transition readiness, and self-advocacy
A safe, structured environment where students develop independence while receiving specialized instruction and accommodations outlined in their IEPs
The core purpose of Academic Seminar is to develop independent learners who can manage their academic responsibilities, advocate for their needs, and prepare for life after high school—while ensuring each student receives the targeted instruction and support required by their IEP.
Students are responsible for bringing their planner and notebook to class each day. All other materials will be available in the classroom.
Required Materials:
Student notebook or journal (for reflection and note-taking practice)
Planner or calendar (digital or paper)
Binder with dividers (for organizing materials and portfolio)
Writing utensils and highlighters
A = 90–100%
B = 80–89%
C = 70–79%
D = 60–69%
F = 59% and below
Assessment Type
Gradebook
Weight
Assignments/Tasks Included
Formative
40%
Daily Work Completion: Completion of assigned tasks, engagement in independent work, and follow-through on assignments
Participation in Conferencing: Engagement in class discussions, active participation in lessons, and contribution during individual conferences
Learning Platform Progress: Completion and accuracy in Edgenuity, CommonLit, WIN, and other assigned platforms
Summative
60%
Major Assessments: Culminating evidence of learning including projects and tests
Please note: Grades will be updated in the Gradebook weekly by Tuesday at 5:00 PM
EXPECTATIONS:
Students must submit work that reflects their own thinking and effort
Copying answers, using unauthorized help, or turning in someone else’s work will result in reteaching, redo opportunities, and family contact
Students are expected to make up missed instruction and assignments after absences
Students must submit work by the extended time deadline
Technology is used for learning, research, assignments, school communication, and progress monitoring
Students should remain on assigned sites and platforms
Personal technology use that interrupts learning may result in redirection or temporary loss of access during class
MagicSchool AI
This year, students will use MagicSchool AI, a generative AI platform designed specifically for education. As tools like ChatGPT and Gemini become standard in the professional world, utilizing MagicSchool prepares students for the future workforce by teaching safe and responsible technology use.
Students will use these tools for real-time feedback and dynamic problem-solving. To ensure appropriate use, teachers retain access to all student chats. MagicSchool strictly protects privacy and does not collect or utilize student data. All AI software, including MagicSchool, complies with GCS Board Policy and Administrative Rule IA.
This course may utilize generative AI tools, such as MagicSchool and Google Gemini, to supplement traditional instruction. Greenville County Schools prioritizes the ethical use of these technologies for brainstorming and self-guided learning.
Critical Thinking First: AI must not replace original thought or coursework.
Academic Integrity: Using AI to complete and submit assignments as original work constitutes plagiarism.
Required Citation: If teacher-approved, all AI use must be properly cited.
Content Awareness: Students must remain vigilant regarding potential biases and inaccuracies in AI-generated content.
Policy Compliance: All AI programs align with GCS Board Policy and Administrative Rule IA.
New Update Course Requirements
Teachers are encouraged to share the requirements for upcoming pathway courses with students in their classes
The new course requirements will be posted:
in the corresponding curriculum maps
on the public facing curriculum maps
on the public facing GCS counseling website
on the public facing GCS Academics website
New course requirements will be used to guide IGP conversations beginning Fall 2026.
New course requirements will be used to enroll students in courses that begin in Fall 2027.
Other content area course requirements will be reviewed during the 2026-27 school year.
Ram Recovery (EOC and Math Strategies Academic Support)
Students are required to remain current with all assigned coursework. Any student with overdue assignments documented in Backpack will be assigned to Ram Recovery to complete outstanding coursework. Before assigning a student to Ram Recovery, the teacher shall implement the school's established make-up work policy, when applicable, for absences.
What it is:
A quiet, structured lunch-period session in Room H233B to complete overdue work without losing instructional class time.
What it is NOT:
Ram Recovery is not a detention, nor is it for test makeups or extra credit.
Policy Highlights:
Students will still be able to get their lunch. Once completed work is verified for effort, you may return to the cafeteria. Attendance is mandatory once assigned; unexcused skips follow the school discipline continuum.
For the full Hillcrest High School Ram Recovery policy and guidelines, please click here.