Course Catalog 2019-2020 - SPLENDORA HIGH SCHOOL - Splendora ISD
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
SPLENDORA HIGH SCHOOL
Course Catalog
2019-2020
THE WILDCAT WAY! Parents and Students, Splendora High School (SHS) has many exciting opportunities available for the 2019-2020 school year. We have developed this guide for you to use as a tool for planning your school year as well as your high school experience. In this catalog you will find information regarding graduation requirements, credits, course selection, registration, and much more. As you are planning your upcoming school year, please review the course descriptions and the courses required for your endorsement pathway. Understanding that graduation requirements can be complicated, we have tried to make course selection and future planning as simplified as possible. However, we realize that you will have additional questions as you make these important decisions. Counselors are available to you to answer these questions as they arise, and a counselor will meet with you individually during the course selection process. As you make your course selections, please keep in mind that the hiring of certified staff and the development of the master schedule is based on course selections. We will do everything that we can to ensure that students are provided with the courses that meet both graduation requirements and elective choices. Selection of courses is a commitment. Schedule changes will be limited after course selections have been made and endorsement pathways scheduled. Students at Splendora High School have the opportunity to explore many areas as a part of post- secondary readiness. By following the Wildcat Way, students can earn a high school diploma, become core complete, earn an associate’s degree, take dual credit classes, and/or enroll in career and technology courses that offer state and national certifications. Please take the time to explore all the possibilities and opportunities available to you. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your counselor or administrator. Sincerely, SHS Administrative Team Page 2
Table of Contents
Graduation Requirements .......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Endorsements .................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Graduation Plans – Terms Defined
Foundation High School Plan (FHSP) ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Foundation with Endorsement .................................................................................................................................................. 7
Distinguished Level of Achievement ........................................................................................................................................ 7
Performance Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................................. 7
High School Information
Semester Grading System .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Course Load ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Grading Scale for High School Courses................................................................................................................................. 10
Classification Policy...................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Letter Grades(for transfer students) .................................................................................................................................... 10
Letter Grade/Numeric Grade Conversion Chart .............................................................................................................. 10
Substitute Assessments for EOC graduation requirements ........................................................................................ 11
GPA and Class Rank
Weighted Grades, GPA, Rank .................................................................................................................................................... 12
Standard GPA Assignment (Chart A)..................................................................................................................................... 12
AP/DC Grade Assignment (Chart B)...................................................................................................................................... 13
Courses used for GPA .................................................................................................................................................................. 14
Valedictorian ................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Salutatorian ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
State of Texas Top 10% Admission ....................................................................................................................................... 15
Additional Credit Opportunities
Credit by Exam ............................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Performance Criteria for Acceleration ................................................................................................................................. 16
Granting and Recording Credit..................................................................................................................................... 16
Performance Criteria for Recovery........................................................................................................................................ 16
Granting and Recording Credit..................................................................................................................................... 16
Correspondence Courses ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
Summer School .............................................................................................................................................................................. 17
The Texas Virtual School Network ........................................................................................................................................ 17
Credits earned in Junior High................................................................................................................................................... 17
Registration, Scheduling and Schedule Changes ......................................................................................................... 18
Exempt Courses for UIL Eligibility
Honors courses recognized by SISD as exempt for UIL eligibility ............................................................................ 19
National Honor Society
Scholarship Criterion................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Leadership and Service Criteria .............................................................................................................................................. 21
Character Criterion....................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Determination of Selection ....................................................................................................................................................... 21
Requirements for NCAA Division I and II Institutions ............................................................................................. 22
Early College Program
Core Curriculum – Sample Course Load by Grade Level .............................................................................................. 23
Associate’s Degree – Sample Course Load by Grade Level .......................................................................................... 23
Dual Credit – 0-41 hours ............................................................................................................................................................ 24
Transferring College Credits to Another University ....................................................................................................... 24
GPA and Class Rank ...................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Chart B – DC/AP Conversion Chart........................................................................................................................................ 24
Page 3
TSI Requirements What is the TSI? ............................................................................................................................................................................. 25 TSI and Students Traveling to Lone Star College Kingwood ....................................................................................... 25 Endorsement Sequences and Course Descriptions.................................................................................................... 26 Arts & Humanities (Dance, Band, Art, Theater Arts, Choir) ........................................................................................ 27 Arts & Humanities (Languages Other Than English – Spanish or Computer Science) ..................................... 30 Arts & Humanities (History)..................................................................................................................................................... 32 Business & Industry (Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources/Welding) ......................................................... 33 Business & Industry (Animal Science) ................................................................................................................................. 35 Business & Industry (Architecture and Construction) .................................................................................................. 38 Business & Industry (Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications) ....................................................................... 41 Business & Industry (Business Management, Banking and Finance ....................................................................... 43 Business & Industry (Business Marketing and Finance) .............................................................................................. 45 Business & Industry (Hospitality and Tourism - Culinary) ......................................................................................... 48 Business & Industry (Manufacturing) .................................................................................................................................. 50 Public Service (Human Service – Cosmetology)............................................................................................................... 53 Public Service (Human Service – Education and Training) ......................................................................................... 55 Public Service (Health Science) ............................................................................................................................................... 57 Public Service (JROTC)................................................................................................................................................................ 59 Public Service (Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security) .................................................................................. 61 Multidisciplinary ........................................................................................................................................................................... 63 STEM (Math or Science) ............................................................................................................................................................. 64 Course Descriptions .................................................................................................................................................................... 66 English/Language Arts ............................................................................................................................................................... 67 Mathematics .................................................................................................................................................................................... 69 Science ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 71 Social Studies .................................................................................................................................................................................. 73 Physical Education and Athletics............................................................................................................................................ 75 Career and Technology Electives............................................................................................................................................ 76 Other Electives for State Credit ............................................................................................................................................... 77 Local Electives ................................................................................................................................................................................ 78 Course Descriptions for Dual Credit Courses .................................................................................................................... 80 Page 4
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Most of our students graduating in 2017 and beyond will graduate under the requirements defined by House Bill 5
(HB 5). This legislative change gives students the opportunity to explore and prepare for post-secondary education
and/or career readiness. HB 5 outlines the Foundation High School Plan (FHSP), Endorsement Pathways,
Distinguished Level of Achievement, and Performance Acknowledgements.
Students graduating from a Texas high school must complete graduation requirements outlined by the state and
receive a passing score on five End of Course (EOC) exams including Algebra 1, Biology, U.S. History, English 1, and
English 2. Each student will graduate under one of the following graduation plans listed below. The appropriate
State of Texas Seal designating which plan was completed will be attached to the student’s transcript. High school
courses taken in grade 8 will earn credit towards graduation.
2017 and After Graduates
FHSP With Endorsement/
Foundation High School Plan
Subject Area FHSP With Endorsement Distinguished Level of Achievement &
(FHSP)*
Performance Acknowledgment
English 4 credits 4 credits 4 credits
4 credits
Mathematics 3 credits 4 credits
(including Algebra II)
3 credits 4 credits 4 credits
Science (one of the science credits must (one of the science credits must (one of the science credits
be Biology) be Biology) must be Biology)
3 credits 3 credits
3 credits
(includes U.S. History, (includes U.S. History,
(includes U.S. History, Government,
Social Studies Government, Economics, and Government, Economics, and
Economics, and either World Geography or
either World Geography or World either World Geography or
World History)
History) World History)
Languages Other than English 2 credits 2 credits 2 credits
(Spanish or Computer Science) (Level 1 & II of same language) (Level 1 & II of same language) (Level 1 & II of same language)
Fine Arts
(Choir, Band, Theater, Dance, 1 credit 1 credit 1 credit
Floral Design)
Physical Education
(PE, Athletics, ROTC, 1 credit 1 credit 1 credit
Cheerleading, Band)
Electives 5 credits 7 credits 7 credits
26 credits
Total 22 credits 26 credits
plus additional measures
Students graduating on the 26 credit Foundation Plan with Distinguished Level of Achievement are eligible for Top 10%
automatic admission. This graduation plan requires the same courses as Foundation Plan with Endorsements; however, one of
the 4 mathematics credits must be Algebra II.
*Foundation High School Plan credits are minimum requirements to graduate from a Texas High School. Students may opt to
graduate on these plans after their 16th birthday and completion of 10th grade if approved by parents and school officials.
Page 5
ENDORSEMENTS
House Bill 5, passed by the 83rd Texas legislature, set new requirements for the class of 2017 and beyond. All
students entering 9th grade in the fall of 2014 will be required to take a “core foundation” of academic courses which
meet the Foundation High School Plan requirements deemed necessary to pursue post-secondary education.
Students then must select an Endorsement which can be chosen from several areas. Choosing a career cluster, or
Endorsement area, gives the student direction on which electives and advanced courses to take in high school and
encourages the wise use of the elective opportunities. This organized sequence of courses becomes more specialized
as you approach graduation.
In the 8th grade you must begin the process of developing a personalized graduation plan next 5 years (high school
and after). Using the Interest Inventory that is administered in 8th grade, you can begin determining your career
interests and aptitudes. Then your parents, counselors, and teachers can help you to develop a graduation plan
which identifies and implements a graduation endorsement that is right for you.
Endorsements offered at SHS are as follows (sequence charts are available in the Course Description Section
beginning on page 25):
● Arts and Humanities
o Languages Other Than English
o History
o Fine Arts
o Art
o Music
o Theater
o Dance
● Business and Industry
o Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
o Architecture & Construction
o Arts, Audio Visual & Communication
o Business Management & Administration
o Hospitality & Tourism
o Marketing & Finance
● Public Services
o Health Sciences
o Human Services and Education & Training
o JROTC
o Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security
● STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
o Advanced Science
o Technology
o Engineering
o Advanced Mathematics
● Multidisciplinary Studies
o Four advanced courses from within one endorsement area that are not in a coherent sequence
o Two advanced courses from each of two endorsement areas
o Four credits in each of the four foundation subject areas to include English IV and chemistry and/or
physics
o Four advanced placement (AP) or dual credit (DC) courses to include one credit in each of the four
foundation subjects
Page 6
GRADUATION PLANS - TERMS DEFINED
House Bill 5 redefined graduation plans and established new requirements and labels for the different graduation
plans.
Foundation High School Plan (FHSP) - the skeleton plan with the minimum graduation requirements.
A student may graduate under the FHSP without earning an endorsement if, after the student’s sophomore year: 1)
the student and the student’s parent or person standing in parental relation are advised by a school counselor of the
specific benefits of graduating from high school with one or more endorsements and, 2) the student’s parent or
person standing in parental relation files with a school counselor written permission, on a form adopted by the
agency, allowing the student to graduate under the foundation high school program without earning an
endorsement. State requirements specify the completion of an Opt-Out Agreement that must be signed by the
parent, student, and administrator.
Foundation with Endorsement - the FHSP with one or more of the endorsements earned.
Distinguished Level of Achievement - A student may earn a distinguished level of achievement by
successfully completing:
● A total of 4 credits in mathematics, which must include Algebra II, and
● a total of 4 credits in science, and
● the remaining curriculum requirements, and
● the curriculum requirements for at least 1 endorsement
PLEASE NOTE: A student must earn distinguished level of achievement to be eligible for top 10% automatic
admission.
Performance Acknowledgements - A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on their transcript
for outstanding performances in the following ways.
● College Credit – By successfully completing at least 12 hours of academic courses, including those taken for
dual credit as part of the Texas core curriculum, and advanced technical credit courses, including locally
articulated courses, with a grade point average (GPA) of the equivalent of 3.0 or higher on a scale of 4.0, or by
earning an associate degree while in high school.
● Bilingualism/Biliteracy – Demonstrating proficiency in 2 or more languages by completing all English
Language Arts requirements and maintaining a minimum GPA of the equivalent of 80 on a scale of 100, and
satisfying one of the following:
o Completion of a minimum of 3 credits in the same language in a language other than English with a
minimum GPA of the equivalent of 80 on a scale of 100; or
o Demonstrated proficiency in the TEKS for level IV or higher in a language other than English with a
minimum GPA of the equivalent of 80 on a scale of 100; or
o Completion of at least 3 credits in foundation subject area courses in a language other than English
with a minimum GPA of 80 on a scale of 100; or
o Demonstrated proficiency in one or more languages other than English by scoring 3 or higher on an
AP exam for a language other than English.
PLEASE NOTE: In addition to meeting the requirements above, to earn a performance acknowledgment in
bilingualism and biliteracy, an English language learner must also have participated in and met the exit criteria for
a bilingual or ESL program and scored at the Advanced High level on the Texas English Language Proficiency
Assessment System (TELPAS)
Page 7
● AP Test - By earning a score of four or five on a College Board AP examination.
● PSAT Test - By receiving a score on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test
(PSAT/NMSQT) that qualifies the student for recognition as a commended scholar or higher by the College Board
and National Merit Scholarship Corporation, as part of the National Hispanic Recognition Program NHRP) of the
College Board or as part of the National Achievement Scholarship Program of the National Merit Scholarship
Corporation.
● SAT Test - By receiving a combined critical reading and mathematics score of at least 1250 on the SAT.
● ACT TEST - By receiving a composite score on the ACT exam (without writing) of 28.
● Certification/License - For earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry
certification or license with performance on an examination sufficient to obtain a nationally or internationally
recognized business or industry certification or performance on an examination sufficient to obtain a government-
required credential to practice a profession.
Page 8
Page 9
HIGH SCHOOL INFORMATION
Semester Grading System
Splendora High School operates on a semester-based grading system. Each semester consists of three six-week
grading cycles. These grading cycles are averaged to obtain a semester average. This average is what is recorded on
the student’s transcript and used for calculating GPA. The exception to the three-cycle grading system is dual credit
courses. Only a final semester grade is reported for dual credit classes. The semester grade is a cumulative grade
that is not an average of grading periods. The final semester grade is recorded on the transcript and used for GPA
and class ranking purposes. A semester course is worth .5, 1 or 1.5 credits (depending on the number of class
periods a class covers). In order to earn credit for a course, the student must earn a grade of 70 or higher. For
courses that are two semesters in duration, the two semester grades will be averaged to determine total credit for
the course. A passing grade for one semester may bring up a failing grade in the other semester if the yearly average
is 70 or higher. Students enroll in eight courses per semester, and all classes meet daily.
Course Load
Juniors and seniors are encouraged to enroll in a full academic program. Many colleges and universities expect
students to take full advantage of advanced courses in core academic subjects and/or elective offerings. Juniors and
seniors, with parent consent, are allowed to be enrolled in the work release or college release program.
Grading Scale for High School Courses
A = 90 - 100
B = 89 - 80
C = 79 - 70
F = 69 and below
Classification Policy
The number of credits a student has earned determines classification by grade level. Grade level classifications are
as follows:
Freshman 0 - 6.5 credits
Sophomore 7 - 13.5 credits
Junior 14 – 20.5 credits
Senior 21+ credits
Letter Grades (for students transferring into SHS from out of district high schools that
assign letter grades.)
If a student transfers in from a school that does not utilize a numeric grading system, the following conversion chart
will be used to determine which grade will be used as a transfer grade and/or placed on the student’s transcript.
This conversion chart will be used to convert Alpha grades to Numeric grades when it is not possible to obtain a
number grade from the transferring high school.
Letter Grade/Numeric Grade Conversion Chart
College Grade High School Transcript Grade
A+ 95
A 95
A- 95
Page 10B+ 85
B 85
B- 85
C+ 77
C 77
C- 77
D+ 72
D 72
D- 72
F 65
Substitute Assessments for EOC graduation requirements
Per the Texas Education Agency, students are allowed to use qualifying scores from approved assessments such
as PSAT 8/9, PSAT 10, PSAT/NMSQT, ACT, or SAT to exempt participation on STAAR EOC English I,
English II, and/or Algebra I if a student attains the required benchmark score.
The PSAT8/9, PSAT10, and PSAT/NMSQT tests are more than just a substitute assessment. These assessments
prepare students for SAT and ACT college entrance exams, can be used for college entry, and will support
working toward National Merit Scholar distinction.
Page 11GPA AND CLASS RANK
Weighted Grades, GPA, Rank
Grade Point Average (GPA) is calculated on a point system. Points are awarded to specific course grades at the end
of each semester (refer to the Standard Grade Point Assignment Chart A and the AP/DC Conversion Chart B below.)
The grade points earned in the class are assigned by the actual semester grade earned. Courses are weighted
differently based on level and degree of difficulty. With the exception of select courses, each course included in GPA
is assigned a numeric grade that is then converted to a point system using the chart below. The exception to the
numerical grade is detailed in Chart B.
GPA is calculated from grades earned in core classes only (English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies).
The following provisions shall apply to students who entered grade 9 in the 2013–14 school year and thereafter
Standard GPA Assignment (Chart A)
Course Grade AP/DC Pre-AP/Honors Regular Modified Content
100 7.0 6.0 5.0 4.0
99 6.9 5.9 4.9 3.9
98 6.8 5.8 4.8 3.8
97 6.7 5.7 4.7 3.7
96 6.6 5.6 4.6 3.6
95 6.5 5.5 4.5 3.5
94 6.4 5.4 4.4 3.4
93 6.3 5.3 4.3 3.3
92 6.2 5.2 4.2 3.2
91 6.1 5.1 4.1 3.1
90 6.0 5.0 4.0 3.0
89 5.9 4.9 3.9 2.9
88 5.8 4.8 3.8 2.8
87 5.7 4.7 3.7 2.7
86 5.6 4.6 3.6 2.6
85 5.5 4.5 3.5 2.5
84 5.4 4.4 3.4 2.4
83 5.3 4.3 3.3 2.3
82 5.2 4.2 3.2 2.2
81 5.1 4.1 3.1 2.1
80 5.0 4.0 3.0 2.0
79 4.9 3.9 2.9 1.9
78 4.8 3.8 2.8 1.8
77 4.7 3.7 2.7 1.7
76 4.6 3.6 2.6 1.6
75 4.5 3.5 2.5 1.5
74 4.4 3.4 2.4 1.4
73 4.3 3.3 2.3 1.3
72 4.2 3.2 2.2 1.2
71 4.1 3.1 2.1 1.1
70 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.0
69 and below 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Page 12The exception to the assignment of numeric grades applies to the following situations:
online dual credit courses
dual credit courses taken on campus at Lone Star College
dual credit math and science courses taken on the Splendora High School campus
AP mathematics and science courses taken on the Splendora High School campus
The conversion chart for AP/DC grades (Chart B) will be used in the assignment of grade points for those courses.
AP/DC Grade Assignment (Chart B)
Numeric Grade College Equivalent Grade Posted to Transcript Grade Points Assigned
90-100 A 95 6.5
80-89 B 85 5.5
70-79 C 77 4.7
60-69 D 72 4.2
0-60 F 65 0.0
Page 13Courses used for GPA calculation
Regular Pre-AP/Adv/Honors AP/DC
Department
5.0 GPA scale 6.0 GPA scale 7.0 GPA scale
English English I English I Pre-AP DC English III
English II English II Pre-AP DC English IV
English III AP English Language (English III)
English IV AP English Literature (English IV)
DC Humanities
Mathematics Algebra I Geometry Pre-AP AP Calculus
Geometry Geometry Pre-AP AP Statistics
Algebra II Pre-AP DC Mathematics
Algebra II Algebra II Pre-AP
Pre-Calculus Pre-Calculus Pre-AP
Algebraic Reasoning
AQR
Science IPC Biology Pre-AP AP Chemistry
Biology Chemistry Pre-AP DC Science
Chemistry Physics Pre-AP AP Physics 1
Prin. Tech.
Physics
Food Science
Adv. Animal Science
Adv. Bio. Tech
Anatomy &
Physiology
Environmental
Science
Forensic Science
Astronomy
Social Studies World Geography World Geography Pre-AP DC Government 2306
World History World History Pre-AP DC History 2322
U. S. History DC U. S. History
Government DC Government 2305
Economics DC Economics
AP Psychology
AP Human Geography
Page 14GPA for class rank is cumulative and includes all four years of high school. The total number of grade points shall be
divided by the total number of semester grades for courses included in the calculation of GPA. Failing grades
received in courses included in GPA calculations will receive zero grade points. Only traditional numeric marks
(including letter grades converted to numeric grades) shall be used. Those using Pass/Fail or S/U will be excluded
from GPA calculations. All grades from other schools shall be converted to the district Grade Point System. If a
student transfers in with Pre-AP and/or Honors courses from another district, those courses will be equated to Pre-
AP. If a student transfers in with an IB course, the AP scale will be utilized for recording the grade on the transcript.
Grades earned when repeating courses in credit recovery are not calculated in GPA.
Class ranks are calculated at the end of the each school year. Senior rank for graduation will be computed at the end
of the 3rd grading period.
Students who have not completed attendance requirements by the date class ranks are computed will be ranked as
credit attempted but no credit received. This will result in a drop of GPA and class rank. The class rank will not be
recalculated at the time the credit is earned, but at the next scheduled time for the appropriate grade level.
Valedictorian
The graduate with the highest GPA holds the honor of valedictorian. In order to be eligible for valedictorian, a
student must be in attendance at Splendora High School four consecutive semesters of his/her final two school
years.
Salutatorian
The graduate with the second highest GPA holds the honor of salutatorian. In order to be eligible for salutatorian, a
student must be in attendance at Splendora High School four consecutive semesters of his/her final two school
years.
State of Texas Top 10% Admission
This group of students consists of both three-year and four-year graduates that fall among the top 10% of the
graduating class at the time of official rankings. They are eligible for automatic admission to any* public university
in Texas. To be eligible for automatic admission, a student must:
Complete the Foundation Plan with Distinguished Level of Achievement
Graduate in the top 10 percent of his/her class at a public or private high school in Texas; and
Enroll in college no more than two years after graduating from high school; and
Submit an application to a Texas public university for admission before the institution’s application
deadline. Since deadlines vary, students should check with the specific university to verify the application
deadline.
*Senate Bill 175 – Amended Top 10% Admissions Rule for the University of Texas: Senate Bill 175, passed by the
81st Texas Legislature, allows the University of Texas at Austin to limit automatic admission to 75 percent of the
university’s enrollment capacity designated for first-time resident undergraduate students. Using data from recent
years, the University has determined that automatically admitting students in the top 7% of their high school
graduating class to the 2015 entering freshman class will fill 75% of available spaces. As a result, The University of
Texas at Austin will automatically admit all eligible 2015 summer/fall freshman applicants who rank within the top
7% of their high school graduating classes, with remaining spaces to be filled through holistic review.
Page 15ADDITIONAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES
In addition to course offerings provided at Splendora High School, the district provides other options for earning
high school credits. High school credits earned at the Junior High School level are not included in the GPA and are
not used for ranking purposes. The following information should be helpful to students and parents who wish to
consider these options.
Credit by Exam
The State Board of Education (SBOE) provides that school districts offer students the opportunity to pass certain
courses through credit by examination. The high school credit by examination for acceleration program is for a
highly capable student who feels he or she already possesses the knowledge and skills taught in an academic subject
and who has not previously received instruction in that subject. Scheduled dates for credit by exam for acceleration
are as follows:
June 9, 10, and 11, 2020 – Registration deadline is April 27, 2020
August 4, 5, and 6, 2020 – Registration deadline is June 16, 2020
All registration must be completed and submitted to the campus designee by the registration deadline. Additional
dates may be provided during each semester to accommodate testing of new students. Please see your counselor for
more information or to register for a credit by exam.
Performance Criteria for Acceleration
To receive credit for the course, the student must score 80% or higher on the districts designated criterion-
referenced test covering the requirements in Chapters 74 and 75 of the Texas Administrative Code and district
objectives of the course.
Granting and Recording Credit
Test scores will be posted to the Academic Achievement Record (transcript) and credit will be awarded for
grades of 80 or higher. No advanced course designations will be given. Credit by examination grades will not be
computed in the GPA and/or used for ranking.
Performance Criteria for Recovery
Eligible students have the opportunity to earn credit in courses for which they have had prior instruction through
credit by examination. The high school credit by examination for verification program is for students who have
previously failed a course or participated in home schooling, attended a non-accredited school or had a non-
traditional academic background or who were not successful in passing a course in high school. To receive credit for
the course, the student must score a 70% or higher on the districts designated criterion-referenced test covering the
requirements in Chapters 74 and 75 of the Texas Administrative Code and district objectives of the course.
Granting and Recording Credit
Test scores will be posted to the Academic Achievement Record (transcript) and credit will be awarded for
grades of 70 or higher. No advanced course designations will be given. Credit by examination grades will not be
computed in the GPA and/or used for ranking.
Correspondence Courses
State-required credits for graduation may be earned through correspondence courses for resident students. Courses
must be taken from the University of Texas Extension Division or the Extension Division of Texas Tech University.
Page 16The student is responsible for fees and books require for correspondence courses. Correspondence grades must be received by the second week of May if the grades are necessary for graduation. Students will not be allowed to use these grades for purposes of participating in the graduation exercise after this date. Only correspondence courses for initial credit in core courses will be calculated in GPA. Summer School Summer school courses are offered for initial credit, remediation and retrieval of credit. Courses offered are comparable to the same courses taught during the regular school semester(s) in content and achievement standards. Summer school course grades included in GPA calculations will be used except for courses taken for credit recovery. The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) TxVSN has been established as a distance learning option to supplement the instructional programs of public school districts. Students may request the opportunity to enroll in courses through the TxVSN by contacting their high school Counselor. Credits earned in Junior High High school courses taken in junior high school will earn credit toward the 26 credits required for graduation. Grades earned in junior high are not included in the GPA and not used for ranking purposes nor do they replace grades earned during the regular school year on the Academic Achievement Record (transcript). Page 17
REGISTRATION, SCHEDULING AND SCHEDULE CHANGES
Registration dates are announced each year. Students will receive specific instructions during that time from high
school staff; however, the responsibility for appropriate graduation and career choices rests with students and
parents.
One of the most critical functions performed by a school is the registration of students. Based upon registration
information, courses are scheduled and teachers are employed for the next year; therefore, it is important that
course selections be given serious consideration. Please select your courses accurately and appropriately. Schedule
changes will only be made for the following reasons:
Students who have a conflict in their schedule that cannot be resolved without changing a course may
change a selection to resolve the conflict. This type of change is limited subject to availability and
prerequisites.
At the beginning of each semester classes are balanced to provide an even distribution of students in course
sections. This may result in changing a course or the class period in which the student is scheduled.
Schedule changes for students being served through Special Services may be subject to approval by ARD
committee.
To request a schedule change:
Students must request the change within the first three days of school for the first semester. Second
semester schedules will be distributed and change requests for second semester must be made within the
first three days of the second semester. Second semester changes will be limited because most of our
courses are year-long courses that cannot be entered at semester. Also, to earn full credit for an
endorsement elective, the full year must be completed.
Until your concern is addressed, YOU MUST FOLLOW YOUR CURRENT SCHEDULE.
No student is allowed to leave class for a schedule change unless called for by their Counselor.
In high school classes, students earn credit for graduation. The State of Texas requires that students be in
attendance for 90% of the course to earn credit. Schedule changes from one course to another are limited because
of the attendance rule. If a student changes courses during the semester, he/she is not in compliance with the
attendance law and may lose credit in the course they were originally scheduled into and not be able to earn credit
in the new course.
Page 18EXEMPT COURSES FOR UIL ELIGIBILITY
As noted in the Texas Education Code:
Identification of Honors Courses under 19 TAC 74.30
(a) The following are identified as honors classes as referred to in the Texas Education Code, §33.081(d)(1).
Concerning extracurricular activities:
1) all College Board advanced placement courses and International Baccalaureate courses in all disciplines;
2) English language arts: high school/college concurrent enrollment classes that are included in the
“Community College General Academic Course Guide Manual (Part One)”
3) Languages other than English: high school/college concurrent enrollment classes that are included in
the “Community College General Academic Course Guide Manual (Part One),” and languages other than
English courses Levels IV-VII;
4) Mathematics: high school/college concurrent enrollment classes that are included in the “Community
College General Academic Course Guide Manual (Part One)” and Pre Calculus;
5) Science: high school/college concurrent enrollment classes that are included in the “Community College
General Academic Course Guide Manual (Part One)”; and
6) Social studies: Social Studies Advanced Studies, Economics Advanced Studies, and high school/college
concurrent enrollment classes that are included in the “Community College General Academic Course Guide
Manual (Part One).”
(b) Districts may identify additional honors courses in the subject areas of English language arts, mathematics,
science, social studies, economics, or a language other than English for the purpose of this section, but must identify
such courses prior to the semester in which any exemptions related to extracurricular activities occur.
(c) Districts are neither required to nor restricted from considering courses as honors for the purpose of grade point
average calculation.
The courses referenced in section (b) above do not have to be submitted to the University Inter-scholastic League.
They may be maintained at the local school district level.
It is important to remember that school districts may voluntarily impose stricter standards than those cited in this
document. Questions and/or requests for additional information should be directed to the UIL
Office: info@uiltexas.org
Honors courses recognized by Splendora ISD as exempt courses for UIL eligibility are as
follows:
All College Board Advanced Placement (AP) courses (see note below*)
o AP English Language (English III)
o AP English Literature (English IV)
o AP Calculus
o AP Statistics
o AP Physics 1
o AP Human Geography
o AP Psychology
Page 19 All dual credit (DC) courses offered through our partnership with Lonestar Kingwood (LSC-K) (see note
below*)
One Pre-Advanced Placement (Pre-AP) class waiver is allowed per semester (see note below*)
o Pre-AP English I
o Pre-AP English II
o Pre-AP World Geography
o Pre-AP World History
o Pre-AP Biology
o Pre-AP Chemistry
o Pre-AP Algebra II
o Pre-AP Geometry
o Pre-AP Pre-Calculus
*PLEASE NOTE: A grade of 60-69 must be earned to qualify for UIL exemption. Grades of less than 60 in any
advanced course will render students ineligible for UIL participation.
Page 20NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Scholarship Criterion The minimum GPA requirement for consideration of NHS membership is 4.5 on a 5.0 scale, as listed by the Splendora High School registrar or counselor. Students who meet the GPA requirement in April will be given an information packet to be filled out and due no later than the published date identified in the packet. Leadership and Service Criteria The information packet requires students to list their demographic information, leadership positions, service activities, other student activities, other community activities, work experience and recognition/awards, write an essay, and submit four teacher recommendations, along with student and parent signatures. Character Criterion The teacher recommendations are confidential and are expected to be used only by the Faculty Council, the advisor, and the principal(s). Students must not have more than two office referrals in the current selection year. All teachers will be asked to submit a character evaluation form (in addition to the four forms that the candidates give.) These forms may be anonymous. The Faculty Council will consider both positive and negative comments. Scores of 2 or below will eliminate the candidate from the selection process. Determination of Selection The Faculty Council will review the information provided and, by vote, determine the students who will be asked to join NHS. Members will be notified by the end of April and will be inducted in May. Non-selected students will be notified with a statement that helps them understand that the judgment and decisions of the Faculty Council are derived in a fair manner and based on sound professional opinions. According to the National NHS Handbook,”Parents and students must understand that no student has a right to be selected for membership in an NHS chapter”. Reconsideration of a Faculty Council’s decision must be a rare occurrence if the Council is to be expected to take its assignment seriously. It is important to uphold the integrity of NHS standards and to recognize the potential danger of yielding to pressure tactics.” Page 21
REQUIREMENTS FOR NCAA DIVISION I AND II INSTITUTIONS
NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Bylaw 5-1-(j) – Students entering NCAA Division I, II institutions as
freshmen who wish to receive financial aid and wish to practice and compete on an intercollegiate level must be
certified by the Eligibility Center. To be certified by the Eligibility Center, students must:
1. Graduate from high school. You should apply for certification during junior year of High School if you are
sure you wish to participate in athletics at the college level. The Eligibility Center will issue a preliminary
certification report when you have had all your materials submitted. After you graduate, the Eligibility
Center will review your final transcript to make a final certification decision according to NCAA standards.
Apply for certification at www.eligibilitycenter.org
th
2. Minimum core course GPA is 2.3, 10 of the 16 required core courses must be completed before their 7
semester (7 of the 10 must be English, Math or Physical/Natural Science).
3. Have a core-course GPA and a combined score on the SAT Verbal & Math sections or a sum score on the ACT
based on the qualifier index scale. The qualifier index can be found at www.eligibilitycenter.org.
4. Receive certification of amateur status. When registering for the Eligibility Center, you must Complete the
Amateurism Survey found at www.eligibilitycenter.org
5. Traditional school credits are the only credits accepted by NCAA. Correspondence, credit by exam, credit
recovery and night school are not accepted.
Only courses that satisfy the NCAA definition of a core course can be used to calculate your NCAA GPA. No special
values are allowed for “+” or “-“grades. The chart below shows what your core courses must include at a minimum.
Core Units Required for NCAA Certification
Division I
Division II
2008 & after
English Core 4 years 3 years
Math Core (Algebra I or Higher) 3 years 2 years
Science Core 2 years 2 years
Social Science Core 2 years 2 years
From English, Math, or Natural/Physical Science 1 year 3 years
Additional Core (English, Math, Science, Social Science, Foreign
4 years 4 years
Language, Non-doctrinal Religion)
Total Core Units Required 16 16
Page 22EARLY COLLEGE PROGRAM
(application process required)
Splendora High School has been awarded the designation by Texas Education Agency (TEA) as an Early College
school within a school. Every high school student is afforded the opportunity to take dual credit classes at no cost to
the student.
To be a member of the Early College cohort, students must submit an Early College application during their 8th grade
year. Students can become Core Complete or earn an Associate’s degree as a member of the Early College program.
Once a student meets TSI testing requirements, he/she may begin taking college courses on our high school campus
through Lone Star College. (See pg. 27 for specific details regarding TSI readiness standards.)
College Courses are offered on our high school campus and on the Lone Star College campus at Kingwood. The dual
credit grades are not awarded on the traditional high school grading period schedule. Final grades are given for each
course, and the final grade is recorded on the student's transcript. Grades for the college courses are not accessible
through our parent portal. Our high school staff works with Lone Star to monitor progress throughout the semester.
Core Curriculum - Sample Course Load by Grade Level (45 hours)
9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade
These are sample plans that
EDUC 1300 GOVT 2305 ENGL 1301 DC SCIENCE show the typical course sequence
(elective) for the degree plans. Course
PHED 1164 GOVT 2306 ENGL 1302 DC SCIENCE offerings are subject to change
based on course availability at
MUSI 1306 ECON 2301 HIST 1301 MATH 1314 Lone Star College and the
SPCH 1315 HUMA 1302 HIST 1302 certification of the staff that
Lone Star provides on our
campus. These charts also
Associate’s Degree - Sample Course Load by Grade Level (60 hours) represent the typical order that
students take courses, but that
9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade too may change based on course
EDUC 1300 GOVT 2306 ENGL 1301 MATH 1314 availability.
(elective)
PHED 1164 HUMA 1302 ENGL 1302 COSC 1301
(elective) TESTING REQUIREMENTS
MUSI 1306 Elective GOVT. 2305 DC Science
Students must meet testing
SPCH 1315 Elective HIST 1301 DC Science requirements to take dual
HIST 1302 Elective credit courses.
ECON 2301 Elective See Pg. 27 for specific testing
requirements.
Dual Credit Course selection and availability are dependent on course
offerings at Lone Star College in Kingwood and the certification of the dual
credit instructor that teaches on the SHS campus. Splendora ISD is not
guaranteed seats in particular courses offered on the Lone Star Campus.
Sometimes, the course that is discussed in the Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) may be changed to a different course
that will satisfy degree requirements because of course availability on the Lone Star Campus or the certification of
the staff teaching on our high school campus. Lone Star College Staff schedule their own classes on the Lone Star
Campus. While we work with them Lone Star Staff each semester to request specific courses, there is no guarantee
that all courses will be offered during the time that our students can take them on the Lone Star Campus. As a result,
courses may have to be adjusted to ensure that all students can meet degree requirements.
Page 23Dual Credit - 0-41 hours depending on student testing requirements and choice.
Visit with your academic advisor during registration for dual credit opportunities that are not part of the Core
Curriculum or Associate’s Degree.
Transferring College Credits to a University
College credit is awarded through Lone Star College. To determine how the course will transfer to
another public university, you can use the Texas Common Course Numbering System (TCCNS) at the
following link or visit the website of the specific university you plan to attend. https://www.tccns.org
GPA and Class Rank
The conversion chart for AP/dual credit grades (Chart B) will be used in the assignment of grade points for those
courses.
CHART B - DC/AP CONVERSION CHART
Numeric Grade College Equivalent Grade Posted to Transcript Grade Points Assigned
90-100 A 95 6.5
80-89 B 85 5.5
70-79 C 77 4.7
60-69 D 72 4.2
0-60 F 65 0.0
Page 24TSI Requirements
What is the TSI?
Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is a state-legislated program designed to improve student success in college. Part of
the program is an assessment to determine basic skills in reading, mathematics and writing. Students may show
their college readiness through their ACT, SAT, PSAT, STAAR EOC or TSI.
Students beginning the Early College Program can enroll in EDUC 1300 (elective) and PHED 1164 with a minimum
score in reading and writing, but students cannot continue taking other dual credit courses until the TSI standards
have been met. Students’ will not be registered for college courses until they meet TSI requirements.
A high school student is eligible to enroll in dual credit courses if the student meets the following requirements
relevant to the courses attempted. For specific enrollment requirements and prerequisites, please refer to the Lone
Star College Systems catalog for Description of Courses to determine required TSI subject area compliance.
Eligibility for enrollment in a dual credit course requires the high school student to meet all of the College’s regular
prerequisite requirements for that course, such as a minimum score on a specified placement test and/or minimum
grade in a specified previous course.
Specific questions about TSI readiness should be directed to student’s counselor.
340
TSI and Students Traveling to Lone Star College Kingwood:
Students that will be traveling to LSC-K to take classes must be TSI complete by the last week of school. If the
student becomes TSI ready after the end of the school year, we will make every effort to ensure that the student has
the opportunity to travel to Lone Star College.
Page 25Endorsement Sequences and Course Descriptions The remainder of this guide contains descriptions of pathways and courses that we offer at Splendora High School. The following section has been designed to help you identify endorsement sequences and explore your endorsement options. In the following pages you will find flowcharts that detail endorsement pathways. Use these charts to help you plan your high school experience. Behind each chart, you will find descriptions of each course contained in the endorsement pathway. For courses that are not included in endorsement pathways, refer to the course description section of the guide beginning on page 65. Prerequisite courses and grade level listings are recommended and should be taken into consideration when selecting courses. Some exceptions may be made with administrator approval, but because of the Endorsement Coherent Sequence requirements, prerequisites should be completed prior to enrolling in a course. Page 26
Page 27
BAND I-IV Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Junior High Band or equivalent Grade Level: 9-12
The high school band is a musical organization for students of wind and percussion instruments. Emphasis is placed
on the development of cultural growth, critical listening, basic music theory, instrument technique, creative self-
expression, mental and physical discipline, citizenship through group endeavors and physical conditioning. During
football season the various concert bands meet daily after school to make up the marching band which performs at
all varsity football games and selected contests. During concert season section rehearsals are scheduled to prepare
for concerts and contests. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is required.
MARIACHI BAND I-IV Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None Grade Level: 9-12
Mariachi is a traditional music of Mexican culture, incorporating a rhythm section that comprises guitarron, guitar
and vihuela, a violin section, trumpets and singers. The Mariachi class welcomes students of all levels or even no
musical experience. This ensemble performs at several concerts throughout the year along with the rest of the
Music Department. This course includes some student fees throughout the year for travel. Mariachi students are
required to wear a department-provided uniform detailed and designed for Splendora High School Mariachi
ensemble to all performances.
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY I-IV Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Junior High Band or equivalent Grade Level: 9-12
Music Technology will introduce students to the uses, concepts, techniques, and terminology of computing through
music applications. The students will gain experience with current hardware and software for music sequencing,
synthesis, and music performance practice. This course is also designed as an introduction to music fundamentals,
notation, and theory through music technology such as MIDI and digital recording. Students will also be learning
basic business practices used in the music industry. This is a project based class that will have multiple
opportunities throughout the year to showcase student work and collaborate with other performing emsembles and
digital-based classes throughout the campus.
AP MUSIC THEORY Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None however students should be able to read and write musical notation and it is strongly
recommended that the student has acquired at least basic performance skills in voice or on an instrument.
Grade Level: 11-12
The AP Music Theory course corresponds to one or two semesters of a typical introductory college music theory
course that covers topics such as musicianship, theory, musical materials, and procedures. Musicianship skills,
including dictation and other listening skills, sight singing, and harmony, are considered an important part of the
course. Through the course, students develop the ability to recognize, understand, and describe basic materials and
processes of tonal music that are heard or presented in a score. Development of aural skills is a primary objective.
Performance is also part of the curriculum through the practice of sight singing. Students understand basic concepts
and terminology by listening to and performing a wide variety of music. Notational skills, speed, and fluency with
basic materials are also emphasized. Students are required to take the AP exam in May.
CHOIR I-IV Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None Grade Level: 9-12
This choir is for students who wish to perform and further their musical training. Members of this choir will perform
in all SHS presentations. Study will include vocal and choral technique, music theory, sight-singing, music history
and current music trends and performers.
COLOR GUARD I-IV Credit: 0.5 - 2
Prerequisite: Audition Grade Level: 9-12
The high school color guard is an auxiliary unit of the marching band consisting of flags and rifles. Emphasis is
placed on physical conditioning, equipment handling and care, musical choreography and dance, creative self-
expression through movement, the refinement of motor skills, and citizenship through group endeavors. This class
meets only during the fall semester. During football season the color guard rehearses daily after school with the
marching band and performs at all varsity football games and selected marching contests. Attendance at all
rehearsals and performances is required. Students must furnish their performance uniform (hat excluded) and
footwear. Color Guard is recorded as a dance credit.
Page 28You can also read
