WWHS Mission Statement
West Warwick High School is committed to provide rigorous instruction to foster creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration and cultural awareness in order for students to become ethical, productive and responsible citizens in a global technological society.
WWHS Core Beliefs: WWHS is committed to the following beliefs about learning:
All students can reach their full potential with a rigorous and diversified curriculum.
All students will embody personal qualities that enhance our school and community.
All students will develop critical thinking skills to enhance their ability to problem solve.
All students are intellectually engaged within the school community on a daily basis.
All students will possess 21st Century skills in order to become lifelong learners.
WWHS Graduation Expectations for Student Learning:Upon graduation it is expected that all WWHS students will:
Academic
read actively and critically by demonstrating accuracy, fluency, comprehension and confidence.
use multiple sources of information in diverse formats to make informed decisions and promote critical problem solving skills.
communicate and collaborate effectively through speaking, listening and writing.
creatively express and engage themselves in the arts.
Social and Civic
initiate the process of developing a plan for a post-secondary education/career pathway.
demonstrate appropriate personal, interpersonal and professional skills needed to succeed in a global society.
demonstrate the habits necessary to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
recognize and respect the diverse nature and culture of the school population and community.
make a positive impact by participating in school and community activities/functions.
West Warwick High School: Pathway to Graduation
The Rhode Island High School Diploma System was designed to ensure that all students successfully complete a rigorous diploma program. Embedded in the program are multiple, authentic opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential to post-secondary success in the workplace or college.
To graduate from West Warwick High School, all students, unless otherwise exempt for documented, pre-approved reasons, must meet the requirements set forth by the West Warwick School Committee, which are aligned to the rules and regulations set forth by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE).
Digital Portfolio, Individual Learning Plan (ILP), Pathway & Comprehensive Course Assessments
Attainment of 23 credits, including four years of English, four years of mathematics, three years of science, and three years of history or social studies
Participate in Comprehensive Course Assessments (CCA) exams across discipline areas
Completion of one performance-based graduation requirement in accordance with state guidelines. At WWHS, this is a successful demonstration of proficiency on a Graduation Portfolio done in tandem with supplemental coursework
At each grade level complete an ILP which assists students development of academic, personal and social goals
Credit Requirements: Students will need to successfully complete the credits in the designated content areas:
Note: Beginning with the Class of 2024, students will need to demonstrate proficiency in Financial Literacy through the successful completion of a qualifying course or competency as determined by the standards set by RIDE. Courses or competencies meeting this requirement are found in the Mathematics and Business Departments.
Department and/or Discipline
English
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science
Physical Education/ Health & CPR
Fine Arts (Music, Art, or Drama)
Business or Industrial Technology
Electives
Number of Credits for Students Solely Enrolled at WWHS
4.0 Credits
4.0 Credits of mathematics or 3.0 mathematics credits and 1.0 mathematics-related credit
3.0 Credits to include at least 1 credit of US History
3.0 Credits
2.0 Credits
0.5 Credits
0.5 Credits
6.0 Credits
Number of Credits for Students Enrolled in Warwick Career and Technical Center
4.0 Credits
4.0 Credits of Mathematics, including 2.0 credits embedded in WCTC courses.
2.0 Credits to include 2 credits of U.S. History
3.0 Credits
2.0 Credits
0.5 Credits
0.5 Credits
9.0 Credits in vocational education with .5 credits in WWHS electives
Note: Students will be required to demonstrate proficiency in English Language Arts, mathematics, science, US history/civics, the Fine Arts and Technology according to the state standards as outlined by the RI Department of Education. Students will be able to meet the English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, US History/Civics, and Technology proficiencies within the present credit requirements. Students will need to take additional musical, visual or drama art courses to meet the art proficiencies solely through courses at WWHS.
RIDE has defined “Credit”as the successful demonstration of competencies in a connected series of lessons and learning experiences that:
a. Establish and achieve expectations defined by recognized content standards that is supported by a high-quality curriculum, as required by the BEP and state statute,
b. Provide students with opportunities to learn and practice skills; and,
c. Include assessments of student knowledge and skills adequate to determine proficiency at the level of academic rigor required by relevant content standards.
The awarding of credit is earned by demonstrating competency as established by applicable standards. The awarding of credit is not bound by seat time or instructional minute requirements.
Graduation Portfolio Presentation
All students will present their Graduation Portfolio to a review panel. The review panel will consist of 2 to 4 members of the high school staff. The graduation portfolio rubric will be used to assess student portfolios. A portfolio presentation must achieve a minimum rating of proficient.
Comprehensive Course Assessments
Summative assessments designed to ascertain what students know and are able to do relative to a course of study. At least fifty percent of this assessment must be performance-based and evaluate a student’s application of the knowledge and skills learned in the course.
All students at WWHS will participate in the performance assessment portion of the Comprehensive Course Assessment.
Guidance counselors and the Principal (or his/her designee) will use the Comprehensive Course Assessments to help determine a student's proficiency level.
Comprehensive Course Assessments will not be the sole or the primary assessment to establish a student's proficiency level to the adopted state or national standards as determined by RIDE.
Individual Learning Plan (ILP)
A planning and monitoring tool that helps to customize and direct students’ goals and development in three domains: academic, career, and personal/social.
Transition Process for Students Entering or Exiting the System
The issue of transfer students in and out of the West Warwick Public Schools will be handled on a case-by-case basis with the guidance counselor and the Principal (or his/her designee).
The issue of assessing a student's proficiency level when they transfer into or exit West Warwick High School will be based on any and all data available.
The student, their legal guardian, the guidance counselor and the Principal (or his/her designee) will determine a pathway towards graduation or an exit transition plan for the student regarding an appropriate plan of action in the best interest of the student.
Progress Monitoring of Proficiency Based Graduation Requirements
Quarterly Report Cards, progress reports, course grades and graduation portfolio progress reports are accessible through the parent portal.Individual Learning Plan (ILP) progress can be accessed through the Pathway portal.
All students will receive progress-monitoring benchmarks on a yearly basis giving feedback regarding their progression towards meeting their WWHS Diploma System requirements.
Intervention plans will be created as needed for students not meeting their PBGR benchmarks. This plan will be communicated to the student's legal guardian via electronic or written communication.
Awarding Credit for Opportunities outside the WWPS
Courses must meet the approval of the school principal prior to WWHS accepting credit for the course and/or having the course listed on the WWHS transcript. Approval will be based on but not limited to the accreditation of the provider and the determination as to whether the proposed course’s curriculum meets current state or national standards.
WWHS Diploma Designations
As determined by the Council for Secondary and Elementary Education WWHS students will be eligible for designations for achievement in Literacy and Numeracy by meeting Council established benchmarks of proficiency.
WWHS students may earn additional designations through the completion of RIDE recognized program of study.
Local WWPS pathway designations will be established annually through the WWHS program of studies.
Faculty Appeals Process
Faculty members at WWHS must participate in a variety of activities to ensure a comprehensive Proficiency Based Graduation Requirements system. Faculty members can appeal any decisions concerning task development and comprehensive course assessments (regarding issues of fairness and bias, alignment and validation).
Student Appeals Process
Any student who believes he/she has been has been improperly denied a diploma may utilize the school’s appeal procedure through the administrative steps hereby outlined:
The WWHS principal or designee is the first step if a student wishes to challenge a decision regarding graduation. A student (or his/her parent or legal guardian) may submit a request to the principal as to why the student should be permitted to graduate. The principal shall inform the student/guardian in writing of its decision regarding this appeal, along with an explanation for such decision within ten (10) days of receipt of this written request.
Students/guardians who do not accept the WWHS Principal's decision may then appeal to the Secondary Director . Such a request must be in writing and must include cause as to why the Principal's decision should be changed. The Principal shall inform the student/parent/guardian in writing of his/her decision regarding this appeal, along with an explanation for such decision within ten (10) days of receipt of this written appeal.
Students/guardians who do not accept the Secondary Director's decision may then appeal to the Superintendent or designee. Such a request must be in writing and must include cause as to why the Secondary Director's decision should be changed. The Superintendent shall inform the student/ parent/guardian in writing of his/her decision regarding this appeal, along with an explanation for such decision within ten (10) days of receipt of this written appeal.
Students/guardians who do not accept the Superintendent’s decision may then appeal to the Chairperson of the West Warwick School Committee. Such a request must be in writing and must include cause as to why the Superintendent’s decision should be changed. The School Committee, upon receipt of such a letter, will schedule a hearing to review the request. It shall be the responsibility of the student/guardian to show cause for amending the Superintendent’s decision. The School Committee Chairperson shall respond in writing to the student/parent/guardian within ten (10) days of this hearing.
Students/guardians who do not accept the School Committee’s decision may then appeal to the Commissioner of Education at the Rhode Island Department of Education.
Policy Adopted:
8/07/2007
Revision Date:
2/08/2023
NOTE: This policy will expire with the Class of 2027.
West Warwick Public Schools Graduation Requirements
Class of 2028 & Beyond
The R.I. Council on Elementary and Secondary Education approved Readiness-Based Graduation Requirements for all Rhode Island students beginning with the graduating class of 2028. The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) regulations ensure all students have access to course offerings with high-quality curriculum and instruction as essential components of a rigorous education that prepares every student for success in college and their career.
To graduate from West Warwick Public Schools, all students, unless otherwise exempt for documented, pre-approved reasons, must meet the requirements set forth by the West Warwick School Committee, which are aligned to the rules and regulations set forth by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE).
Students graduating from the West Warwick Public Schools will be required to complete the following:
Attainment of 23 credits, as outlined in the table below
Successful demonstration of proficiency on a Graduation Portfolio done in tandem with coursework, work based learning experiences, and social/ civic experiences.
At each grade level 6 through 12 complete an ILP which assists students development of academic, personal and social goals.
Complete a resume prior to high school graduation.
Participate in RI state assessment testing.
The WWPS will be required to provide the following to each student prior to graduation:
Each graduating senior shall be encouraged to complete one of the following: A U.S. Department of Education a free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) or the free application for state student aid.
WWPS will provide each graduating senior with information on postsecondary opportunities including, but not limited to, college, career, apprenticeship, and the military.
Department and/or Discipline
English
Mathematics
Social Studies*
Science
World Language*
Computer Science
Financial Literacy
Physical Education/ Health & CPR
Fine Arts (Music, Art, or Drama)
Electives
Total
Class 2028 & Beyond
4.0 Credits
4.0 Credits to include Algebra, I Algebra II, Geometry
3.0 Credits to include at least 1 credit of US History
3.0 Credits to include 2.0 Lab Sciences
2.0 Credits
0.5 Credits
0.5 Credits
2.0 Credits
.5 Credits
3.5 Credits
23 Credits
Class 2028 & CTE Pathway & Beyond
4.0 Credits
3.0 Credits to include Algebra, I Algebra II, Geometry
3.0 Credits to include at least 1 credit of US History
3.0 Credits to include 2.0 Lab Sciences
2.0 Credits
0.5 Credits
0.5 Credits
2.0 Credits
.5 Credits
4.5 Credits
23 Credits
World Language: 2 progressive years of one language.
Students may earn credits for the World Language requirement by attaining a proficient score on an approved language assessment ((E.g., STAMP, AAPPL, ASLPI, AP World Language, OPI and WPT, etc.)
Social Studies:In the Secondary grades students must complete 1 Proficiency Based Project in Civics
Readiness-Based Graduation Requirement Definitions/ Descriptions
RIDE Credit Definition
A successful demonstration of competencies in a connected series of lessons and learning experiences that:
Establish and achieve expectations defined by recognized content standards that are supported by a high-quality curriculum, as required by the BEP and state statute,
Provide students with opportunities to learn and practice skills; and,
Include assessments of student knowledge and skills adequate to determine proficiency at the level of academic rigor required by relevant content standards.
The awarding of credit is earned by demonstrating competency as established by applicable standards. The awarding of credit is not bound by seat time or instructional minute requirements.
Flex Credits
An academic credit that is designed to increase real-world relevant learning for students by providing standards-aligned instruction that incorporates at minimum two subject areas into credit connected student learning experience. Flex credits shall be used to promote student engagement and shall not compromise rigor and applicable academic standards.
Flex credit courses shall be approved by the building principal and published in the program of studies.
Middle School Credits
Credits earned at the middle school level may be utilized to meet readiness based graduation requirements.
Courses being utilized must be aligned to appropriate high school standards.
Credits earned at the middle level must be indicated on the high school transcript.
Awarding Credit for Opportunities outside the WWPS
Students may meet credit requirements inclusive of the fourteen content-area credit requirements, through credits earned within the ACN, state-approved career and technical programs, expanded learning opportunities, dual enrollment, concurrent enrollment, on-line learning, experiential learning opportunities, and other non-traditional academic and career-readiness learning experiences.
Courses must meet the approval of the school principal prior to WWHS accepting credit for the course and/or having the course listed on the WWHS transcript. Approval will be based on but not limited to the accreditation of the provider and the determination as to whether the proposed course’s curriculum meets current state or national standards.
Readiness Pathway
Establishes an informed parental/guardian consent process to provide flexibility for unique student circumstances to complete alternate course work in place of one or more college and career readiness credit requirements. Students, through a process which ensures the informed consent of their parent/guardian, may enroll in a RIDE-Approved Readiness Pathway in place of one or more required credits for graduation. Readiness Pathways (either single credits, or credit sequences) will focus on developing the academic and technical skills needed for a successful transition to employment and shall be aligned to the student’s Individualized Learning Plan. RIDE annually determines and publishes courses allowed for a readiness pathway.
Readiness Pathway Guidance
Students must complete requirements in Financial Literacy, Computer Science and Civics.
Department and/or Discipline
English
Math
Science
Social Studies
World Language
Additional College Prep Credit
Credit Requirement
4 Credits
4 Credits Including Algebra, I Algebra II, Geometry
3 Credits including 2.0 Lab Science Credits
3 Credits Including 1 credit in US History
2 Credits progressing in the same language
1 Credit
Readiness Pathway Allowed
No
Yes – A student may enroll in a RIDE-Approved Readiness Pathway in place of Algebra II. Students will still be required to complete 4 credits of math during their high school experience.
Yes – A student may substitute one or both lab science credits for non-lab science. Students will still be required to complete 3 credits of science.
No
Yes – A student may enroll in a RIDE-Approved Readiness pathway in place of one or both required World Language credits
Yes – A student may enroll in a RIDE-Approved Readiness pathway in place of the required additional college preparatory unit.
Modified Proficiency
Students who achieve modified proficiency standards applied to credit requirements for students determined to be eligible for the alternate assessment under federal law, state rules and regulations, and as noted in the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP), may be awarded a diploma for graduation purposes.
Personalized Learning Environments
Secondary schools in the WWPS will provide structures by which every student is partnered with a responsible adult, in addition to a school counselor, who is knowledgeable about that student’s academic, career, and social/personal goals.
The school based structures including but not limited to advisory will ensure a collective responsibility for each student.
Graduation Portfolio Presentation
All students will present their Graduation Portfolio to a review panel. The review panel will consist of 2 to 4 members of the high school staff. The graduation portfolio rubric will be used to assess student portfolios. A portfolio presentation must achieve a minimum rating of proficient.
Diploma Plus Credentials
Learning experiences that are validated through credentials recognized in school accountability and include, but are not limited to, dual and concurrent enrollment credit, industry recognized credentials as established by CTE program standards, and a qualifying score of three or higher on an Advanced Placement exam.
Individual Learning Plan (ILP)
The ILP shall document the student’s academic and applied learning interests and learning supports that culminate in graduation, Council designation and preparation for post-secondary success. The ILP shall document additional educational opportunities to help students reach their goals. The ILP shall coordinate each student’s Individual Educational Program, Section 504 Plan, Personal Literacy Plan, intervention plans, Multilingual learner services, and other plans as applicable.
The ILP process shall provide regular and ongoing opportunities for students to review and revisit their goals with the guidance of responsible adults, including parents or legal guardians. In order to ensure the use of the ILP in coordinating appropriate supports, access to credits, and additional learning opportunities necessary to support students in meeting their goals, ILP reviews must occur not less than twice in each school year and during key transition periods including middle to high school and high school to post-secondary placement.
Full and Effective Notice of Readiness Based Graduation Requirements
The WWPS shall provide full and effective annual notice of the state and local graduation requirements to administrators, teachers, students, families, and members of the community no later than October 1 in the year in which said students enter the ninth grade. Graduation requirements will be published in the secondary school handbooks, the high school program of study and the district and school websites.
The WWPS shall provide annual notification to parents/guardians regarding their child’s progress toward graduation requirements, college and career readiness benchmarks, council designation requirements, and CTE programs, if applicable, as a part of their end of year report card.
Student progress towards meeting the requirements of the readiness based graduation requirements will also be provided through quarterly report cards, progress reports, course grades, graduation portfolio progress reports and the ILP. This information is documented in the district's student information system and ILP system.
In the event that a student is in jeopardy of not earning a diploma or graduating college and career ready, the WWPS will send notification of the student's academic status. The opportunity to meet and discuss the student’s academic program, support, and planned interventions will be provided by school personnel.
The WWPS will maintain a record of all communications relating to student progress toward meeting readiness based graduation requirements.
Intervention & Support for Readiness Based Graduation Requirements
The WWPS shall utilize a research-based early warning system to identify students at risk for academic failure and dropout.
Identification of students at risk shall occur no later than the sixth-grade year (or at the time of enrollment for students enrolling into the LEA after the sixth-grade year).
The WWPS shall communicate regularly with the families of students identified through the early warning system, including providing them with information about the support provided to and progress being made by the student.
The WWPS shall be responsible for providing additional academic and instructional support and research-based interventions for all students not on track to graduate ready for college and career success and meet the diploma requirements.
Students failing to reach the required level of proficiency shall be provided a support plan, including the types and duration of academic and educational supports and academic performance targets necessary for earning a diploma.
Parents shall be provided an annual update on the progress of their children towards academic performance targets necessary for earning a diploma and graduating ready for college and career success.
Support plans shall be documented in the ILP and may address academic weaknesses in academic performance and/or performance-based diploma assessments. Other academic and instructional support shall also be documented in the student’s ILP.
WWHS Diploma Designations
As determined by the Council for Secondary and Elementary Education WWHS students will be eligible for designations for achievement in Literacy and Numeracy by meeting Council established benchmarks of proficiency.
WWHS students may earn additional designations through the completion of RIDE recognized program of study. Required to earn a diploma plus credential that is recognized and valued by Rhode Island’s postsecondary education institutions, and employers to earn a diploma endorsement.
Student Appeals Process
Any student who believes he/she has been has been improperly denied a diploma may
utilize the school’s appeal procedure through the administrative steps hereby outlined:
The WWHS principal or designee is the first step if a student wishes to challenge a decision regarding graduation. A student (or his/her parent or legal guardian) may submit a request to the principal as to why the student should be permitted to graduate. The principal shall inform the student/guardian in writing of its decision regarding this appeal, along with an explanation for such decision within ten (10) days of receipt of this written request.
Students/guardians who do not accept the WWHS Principal's decision may then appeal to the Secondary Director . Such a request must be in writing and must include cause as to why the Principal's decision should be changed. The Principal shall inform the student/parent/guardian in writing of his/her decision regarding this appeal, along with an explanation for such decision within ten (10) days of receipt of this written appeal.
Students/guardians who do not accept the Secondary Director's decision may then appeal to the Superintendent or designee. Such a request must be in writing and must include cause as to why the Secondary Director's decision should be changed. The Superintendent shall inform the student/ parent/guardian in writing of his/her decision regarding this appeal, along with an explanation for such decision within ten (10) days of receipt of this written appeal.
Students/guardians who do not accept the Superintendent’s decision may then appeal to the Chairperson of the West Warwick School Committee. Such a request must be in writing and must include cause as to why the Superintendent’s decision should be changed. The School Committee, upon receipt of such a letter, will schedule a hearing to review the request. It shall be the responsibility of the student/guardian to show cause for amending the Superintendent’s decision. The School Committee Chairperson shall respond in writing to the student/parent/guardian within ten (10) days of this hearing.
Students/guardians who do not accept the School Committee’s decision may then appeal to the Commissioner of Education at the Rhode Island Department of Education.
Policy Adopted:
8/07/2007
Revision Dates:
2/08/2023
2/08/2024