2020-2021 High School Course Catalog - Mount Vernon City School District
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Elizabeth Bancroft, NTHS-PVAM Chanel Baxter, NTHS - PVAM
Mount Vernon City School District
2020-2021
High School Course Catalog
0
Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
“ Mission
It is the mission of the Mount Vernon City School District to create a
sense of urgency in partnership with members of its community in a
journey to restore, rebuild and rebrand the district so that stakeholders
are partners in providing all students with an exceptional educational
experience.
Vision
Mount Vernon City School District (MVCSD) will be recognized as a
high-quality educational system where all students receive a rigorous
education, which prepares them to be model citizens
equipped with the necessary skills to compete in a global society.
”
Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
Mount Vernon City School District
Board of Education
Arlene Torres
President
Darcy Miller
Vice President
Board Trustees
Dr. Serigne M. Gningue
Micah J. B. McOwen
Warren Mitchell
Melissa Munoz Patterson
Adriane G. Saunders
Wanda White
Israel Williams
Student Representative to the Board
Nicholas Justino
Student Representative to the Board Alternate
Erendira Oseguera-Munguia
Richard McCormack
Clerk to the Board
Board of Education as of 01/16/2020
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Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
What an awesome time to be a student in Mt. Vernon. Your school experience to date has been the foundation for your future.
High School brings you one step closer to life as an adult. This course catalog has been developed to create multiple pathways
to college and career readiness. Imagine how exciting it is to live in a time and place where you can be anything you want to
be. Choosing the right courses to help ensure your acceptance into college or gain entry into your chosen profession is crucial.
The world is rapidly changing so you must have a wide array of experiences in order to compete for your place in the world. It is
for this reason the course catalog provides such diverse offerings. We continue to add advanced level courses and increase
course offerings to address the growing needs of our students, community and the world in which we live.
I encourage you to choose your courses wisely and keep your college and career goals in mind. Your high school years will
go by quickly, and every course you take must be taken with full confidence that it is in alignment with your personal
goals.
Take advantage of your guidance counselors’ expertise in helping you identify your post-secondary options early, so you will be
prepared to meet the challenges of being global and dynamic in the 21st century.
The Mt. Vernon City School District has produced some of the most accomplished graduates in various professions from the
legal field to sports and entertainment. Your journey to greatness begins today!
Yours for the sake of all children,
Dr. Kenneth R. Hamilton
Superintendent of Schools
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MOUNT VERNON CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT CENTRAL
OFFICE ADMINISTRATORS
Dr. Kenneth R. Hamilton ........................................................................................................................... Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Jeff C. Gorman ...................................................................................................................... Deputy Superintendent of Schools
Dr. Waveline Bennett-Conroy ....................................................................... Assistant Superintendent for School Improvement
Ms. Denise Gagne-Kurpiewski ......................................................................... Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources
Mr. Ken Silver ................................................................................................................ Assistant Superintendent of Business
Dr. Veronica Smith .......................................................................... Associate Superintendent for Student Services
Dr. Claytisha Walden ...................................................................... Associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction
Ms. Marci E. Tiggs……………………………………………………….Associate Superintendent for Human Resources
Dr. Felicia Gaon ............................................................................................................................. Director of Student Services
Dr. Evelyn Collins ........................................................................................ Director of Arts and Gifted and Talented Education
Dr. Gayle N. White-Wallace .......................................................................................................... Director of Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Rachel De Paul .................................................................................................... Assistant Director of Special Education
Dr. Marguerita G. Circello ............................................................. Standards Administrator for ENL and World Languages
Mr. Frank Gallo ................................... Standards Administrator for ELA, Literacy, Reading and Social Studies (9-12)
Dr. Satish Jagnandan ........................................................................................... Standards Administrator for Math and Science
Mr. Joseph McGrath ......................................................................................................... Standards Administrator for Technology
Ms. Sherry Ward .................................. Standards Administrator for Career and Technical Education, and Work Study
TBD...................................................................................................................................... Director of Health & Physical Education
TBD ........................................................................................................... Coordinator for Family and Community Engagement
TBD ..................................................................... Standards Administrator for ELA/Literacy, Reading and Social Studies
District Administration as of 01/16/2020
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Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mount Vernon City School District High Schools ..................................................................................................... 6
The Mount Vernon High School ................................................................................................................................................. 6
Mount Vernon STEAM Academy ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Nellie A. Thornton High School of Performing and Visual Arts .......................................................................................... 8
Student Support Programs ...................................................................................................................................... 9
English as a New Language ......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Special Education Programs ......................................................................................................................................... 9
National Honor Society ................................................................................................................................... 11
NCAA: National Collegiate Athletic Association Eligibility Guidelines ........................................................ 12
Grading Policy ................................................................................................................................................. 13
Grade Level Classification .............................................................................................................................. 14
Grade Point Average and Rank ................................................................................................................................. 15
Course Grade Weighting ................................................................................................................................. 15
Honor Roll Criteria .......................................................................................................................................... 15
Graduation Requirements .......................................................................................................................................... 16
Diploma Types and Credentials ................................................................................................................................ 16
Scheduling ....................................................................................................................................................... 20
Sample Student Schedules ........................................................................................................................................ 21
Graduation Requirement Worksheet ......................................................................................................................... 23
List of Course Offerings ....................................................................................................................................... 24
Course Descriptions by Department ..................................................................................................................... 28
English.............................................................................................................................................................................. 28
English As A New Language..................................................................................................................................................... 31
Social Studies ................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Humanities Electives ........................................................................................................................................................ 36
Science ............................................................................................................................................................................. 42
Mathematics ............................................................................................................................................................... 46
Spanish & World Languages ........................................................................................................................................... 49
Performing & Visual Arts ...................................................................................................................................... 51
Career and Technical Education (CTE) ........................................................................................................................... 58
Physical Education and Health ......................................................................................................................................... 64
Glossary ..................................................................................................................................................... 66
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Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
The Mount Vernon High School
Principal - Mr. Ronald Gonzalez
100 California Road
Mount Vernon, NY
10552 914-665-5300
CEEB: 333260
The Mount Vernon High School is a modern, comprehensive four-year school with distinct Small Learning Communities, or
“Academies” that represent the latest trends in innovation, college, careers, and all post-secondary endeavors. Each
“Academy” student population represents a variety of backgrounds in culture, education, occupation, and income. Our
academies guide students through focused articulation plans in the fields of: Science, Technology, Engineering & Math
(STEM); History, Language Acquisition & The Arts (Humanities); Career & Technical Education and Workforce Readiness
(CTE). Students, pedagogical staff, and support staff are teamed within academies to create holistic learning. All academies
are rich with teaching and learning approaches like AVID and The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
(September 2020) that engage learners to become self- sufficient thinkers that care for others, themselves and the world.
Our vision is to inspire students, staff, parents, and the community to achieve a high level of self-respect and academic
success through perseverance. Our students will see school, hard work, and determination as a means to advancement in
college, careers and global society.
The Mount Vernon High School students participate in a number of extra-curricular activities. These activities include:
National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Model United Nations, Science Club, Photography
Club, and many more. In addition, The Mount Vernon High School has a nationally recognized athletic program which
offers a number of Junior Varsity and Varsity sports teams.
Small Learning Communities “Academies”
• Incoming freshmen are placed in the Ninth Grade Academy.
• All students in grades 10-12 participate in one of three Small Learning Communities:
• CTE: Career & Technical Education and Workforce Readiness
• Humanities: History, Language Acquisition & The Arts
• STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Mathematics
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Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
Mount Vernon STEAM Academy
Principal - Mrs. Sharon Bradley
350 Gramatan Avenue
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
914-665-5120
CEEB: 330073
The Mount Vernon STEAM Academy (MVSA) provides an interdisciplinary approach to learning where rigorous academic
concepts are coupled with real-world lessons as students apply Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics in
context that make connections between school, community, work, and the global society, enabling the development of
STEAM literacy and with it, the ability to compete in the new economy. The Mount Vernon STEAM Academy is using an
exciting Problem-Based Learning curriculum that integrates a transdisciplinary approach that supports all subject areas around
the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals bringing a realness and relevance to our community.
Students at the Mount Vernon STEAM Academy will be interacting and learning with innovative and current 21st Century
digital curriculum and tools that will use the 4 C’s of Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, and Critical Thinking across
content areas to develop collective and personalized learning situations for solutions to global STEAM issues. Moreover, a
strong foundation in engineering will be set forth for students at MVSA. Project Lead The Way, a leader and partner in
engineering education, has several elective tracks that will be afforded for our students. During the 2020-2021 school year, the
engineering track will continue as we systematically increase offerings to include Computer Integrated Manufacturing to our
foundational courses. The Biomedical Science track will expand to include Human Body Systems. Additionally, several
options will be available to students in and out of schools through partnerships and student club offerings. This will include
but not be limited to robotics, computer programming, coding, and maker-space opportunity.
In an effort to bridge the gap to rigorous higher-level courses, all students at the MVSA will take AVID (Advancement Via
Individual Determination) as part of their learning to foster and promote College and Career Readiness. (www.AVID.org)
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Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
Nellie A. Thornton High School of
Performing and Visual Arts
Principal - Dr. Evelyn Collins
121 South 6th Avenue
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
914-358-2740
CEEB: 333267
Nellie A. Thornton High School of Performing and Visual Arts is a comprehensive four-year high school which offers a
creative opportunity for students entering grades 6 - 9 to excel academically and artistically. This theme-based performing and
visual arts high school is designed for creative students interested in the arts. The mission of the Performing and Visual Arts
Magnet program (PVAM) is to create a focused and high performing culture that prepares students for success in college and
conservatories by nurturing their passion and interest in the arts through a rigorous curriculum that integrates a sequence in the
arts. PVAM will assist each student with discovering and nurturing their unique talent while utilizing an arts framework to
support success in academic classes. Students will transfer their creative skills to the classroom and build their cognitive
framework and affect mindset to become strong readers, mathematicians, thinkers, and learners.
All students are provided the opportunity to participate in a number of extra-curricular activities. These activities include
National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society, Language Honor Society, Explorer’s Club, Math Team, Yearbook,
and many more. In addition, the students also participate in Junior Varsity and Varsity sports with The Mount Vernon High
School sports program, and in basketball (boys) and volleyball (girls) in the middle school division.
The Performing and Visual Arts Magnet Program is an award-winning performance and visual arts program having won awards
in theatre (Metro Awards), string orchestra (Grand Prize - Orlando Music Festival), and numerous 1st place medals in the New
York State School Music Association Festival (NYSSMA). Students have been featured in the media, have performed with the
Dance Theatre of Harlem and the Harlem School of the Arts; and the visual art student’s artwork has been featured in local
galleries. Students also participate in three theatrical productions each year and are assessed in the arts via winter and spring
showcases and arts juries held twice a year. The program presented The Lion King, Jr. and had an audience of over 4,000
patrons throughout the run. This year’s theatrical productions will include: “Black Nativity,” “A Soldier’s Play,” and “Annie.”
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Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
English As A New Language Programs
The goal of the Mount Vernon City School District English as a New Language (ENL) program is to equip English Language
Learners (ELLs) with the skills needed to succeed in the regular school program. The Mount Vernon City School District ENL
program of instruction is composed of two components: a Language Arts and a content area. Courses are offered as Stand-
Alone ENL where an elective credit is awarded upon passing each corresponding unit of study and as an Integrated ENL course
in the core content areas (ELA, Math, Science, and/or Social Studies); in these courses, core content area credit is awarded upon
passing each corresponding ENL unit of study. At the end of every school year, the NYSESLAT is administered by a certified
ENL teacher. The NYSESLAT is an assessment to ascertain how a student is progressing in English. NYSESLAT results
determine a student’s ENL placement/services for the following school year. English Language Learner services are delivered
by appropriate certified teachers.
Special Education Programs
ACADEMIC CAREER EXPLORATION (ACE)
These classes are designed for students with developmental disabilities including Autism and require intensive instruction and
supervision. These classes will foster the development of skills and support for the individual student in the specialized areas of
communication, socialization, sensory-motor processing, behavior management, daily living skills, and academics. The Life
Skills Program is designed for students who require an alternative to the traditional academic program in order to learn.
The curriculum focuses on functional academic skills, improving language, communication, social skills, and occupational
awareness. The ACE Program will highlight the importance of exposing the students to work opportunities within the school
and community.
8:1:2 AND 12:1:2 SPECIAL CLASS INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM (I.S.P.)
These classes serve students whose management needs are severe and chronic, requiring intensive and constant supervision. A
significant degree of individualized attention, intervention and intensive behavior management, as well as additional adult
support, is provided.
These classes are designed for students with academic difficulties and management needs which require a more restrictive
environment. The students receive all their academic instruction in the small class setting. Students are included with general
education students during special area classes such as art, music, and physical education. The student’s program includes
instruction that will follow New York State Common Core Learning Standards.
These students have academic and/or behavioral management needs that interfere with the instructional process, to the extent
that additional adult support is needed to engage in learning and who require specialized/specially designed instruction which
can be best accomplished in a self-contained setting.
15:1 SPECIAL CLASS
The maximum class size for those students whose special education needs consist primarily of the need for specialized
instruction, which can best be accomplished in a self-contained setting shall not exceed 15 students. These self-contained
classes provide specialized instruction of the general curriculum to students who require a small, highly structured learning
environment. Mainstreaming is available when educationally appropriate.
INTEGRATED CO-TEACHING CLASSROOM (ICT)
Students with disabilities who receive Integrated Co-Teaching services (Grades K, 7-12) are educated with age appropriate
peers in the general education classroom. ICT provides students the opportunity to be educated alongside their non-disabled
peers with the support of a special education teacher to assist in adapting and modifying instruction.
Integrated Co-Teaching ensures that students master specific skills and concepts in the general education curriculum, as well
as ensuring that their special education needs are being met, including meeting alternate curriculum goals.
CONSULTANT TEACHER INDIRECT & DIRECT SERVICES
Special Education teachers work directly with students in the general education classroom (Grades 1-6), within a small
group, to provide support in meeting the demands of the general education curriculum. Special Education teachers may also
consult with the mainstream staff to check on the carryover of skills learned in the small setting. Additionally, the Special
9Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
Education teacher collaborate with general education teachers to provide strategies to adjust the learning environment and/or
modify the instructional methods and adapt instruction/materials to meet student's needs.
RESOURCE ROOM
Resource Room services provide direct academic instruction and compensatory strategies to make progress within the content
areas. The purpose is to re-teach/reinforce concepts that are taught initially in the regular education classrooms and provide
necessary remediation of skill deficits. This program provides the opportunity for students to receive instruction in the regular
education classes with non-disabled peers and learn in the least restrictive environment.
Related services are available per the IEP requirements.
SPECIAL EDUCATION SUPERVISORS
The Mount Vernon City School District has eight Special Education Supervisors. Special Education Supervisors are certified
administrators responsible for the organization and supervision of programs for students with disabilities, instructional support,
and the supervision of special education staff and service providers.
SPECIAL EDUCATION SUPERVISOR SCHOOL (S) RESPONSIBLE FOR:
Ms. Susan Burnett Pennington School
Rebecca Turner Elementary School
Dr. Joyce Corpas Hamilton School
Districtwide Instructional Supervision
Ms. Karalyne Sperling Mount Vernon STEAM Academy
Nellie A. Thornton High School of Performing and Visual Arts
Williams School
Ms. Lorraine Monroe-Williams Benjamin Turner Middle School Out
of District students
Parker School
Ms. Trinisa Learry The Mount Vernon High School
Ms. Teresa Scott Columbus School Holmes
School Traphagen School
Ms. Michelle O’Bryan Graham School
Grimes School
Home Instruction
Lincoln School
10Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
National Honor Society
The National Honor Society (NHS) is a nationwide organization for high school students. The National Honor Society was
officially established in 1921 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). The purpose of this
organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to
develop character in the students of secondary schools.
Students who attend a Mount Vernon City School District high school who meet criteria and are inducted, may become
members of National Honor Society.
Members of the sophomore and junior classes who have a cumulative grade point average of 85 or higher, and no failing
quarter grade in any subject area, are invited to apply. Inducted students will have demonstrated good character, exemplary
behavior, and well-rounded documented service to school and community.
Qualifications For Inducted Members To Maintain Continued
Membership In NHS
1. The student must maintain an overall cumulative GPA of 85 percent or higher.
2. The student cannot have a failing final average in any subject.
3. The student must fulfill community service hours annually.
4. The student must attend regularly scheduled meetings.
5. The student must continue to show academic success, integrity and character and abstain from incidents of cheating,
plagiarism, misconduct, insubordination, fighting, suspensions, or intentional dishonesty.
6. If any of the above criteria are not met or maintained, a meeting will be held with the student and adviser(s), and probation
and possible exiting may ensue.
11Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
NCAA: NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
Students who wish to compete and receive athletic scholarships during their first year at a Division I or II School must be
certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Initial eligibility standards help ensure that students are prepared to succeed
academically in their first year of college. The eligibility process also protects the fairness and integrity of college sports by
ensuring student-athletes are amateurs.
Academic Requirements
Core Course Required for NCAA Certification:
Subject Area: Division I Division II
English 4 Years 3 Years
Math (Algebra 1 or higher) 3 Years 2 Years
Natural/Physical Science (at least one year of lab science) 2 Years 2 Years
Social Science 2 Years 2 Years
English, Math, Natural/Physical Science 1 Year 3 Years
English, Math, Natural/Physical Science, Social Science 4 Years 4 Years
or Foreign Language (Spanish)
Total Credits/Years: 16 16
Grade-Point Average
The NCAA Eligibility Center calculates a student’s grade-point average (GPA) based only on the grades earned in NCAA
approved core courses (see above).
• DI requires a minimum 2.3 GPA
• DII requires a minimum 2.2 GPA
Not all Mount Vernon City School District courses are NCAA approved. Courses are approved on an ongoing basis. To find an up-
to-date list of Mount Vernon City School District NCAA-approved courses go to: NCAA.org/course list and enter your school’s
CEEB#.
• The Mount Vernon High School - 333260
• Mount Vernon STEAM Academy - 330073
• Nellie A. Thornton High School of Performing and Visual Arts - 333267
Students who wish to compete and receive athletic scholarships during their first year at a Division I or II school, should register
with the Eligibility Center at the end of grade 11. To register with the NCAA Eligibility Center, go to: eligibilitycenter.org. It is a
student’s responsibility to inform his/her school counselor that he/she has registered with NCAA.
TEST SCORES
Students may take the ACT or SAT as many times as they want before enrolling full time in college. Students must list the
NCAA Eligibility Center (code 9999) as a score recipient when registering to take the ACT or SAT. If the ACT or SAT is
taken more than once, students are advised to send all scores and the Eligibility Center will use the best scores from each test
section to create your sum score. The Eligibility Center only accepts official scores from the ACT or SAT (College Board).
SLIDING SCALE
Divisions I and II use sliding scales to match test scores and GPAs to determine eligibility. The sliding scale balances
your test score with your GPA. If you have a low-test score, you need a higher GPA to be eligible. Find more information
about sliding scales at ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/test-scores.
12Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
GRADING POLICY
Exams and Quizzes including Midterms and Finals 30-50%
Overall testing will account for no less than 30 percent and not more than 50 percent of the student’s grade.
Projects, literacy tasks, presentations, portfolios, lab reports 20-30%
Teachers shall provide challenging projects/literacy tasks for their students based on their ability levels and the scope and
sequence of the course. Projects shall be designed by the teacher to enhance students’ reading, writing, listening, speaking,
critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Homework 10%
Homework will be assigned on a constant and regular basis throughout each semester and will be collected and monitored
by teachers to objectively evaluate the student’s performance in this area.
Class Participation 20-30%
This component of each student’s grade is determined by the quality and frequency of each student’s performance in class
activities, including written assignments, oral recitations, and presentations, as well as participation in group and individual
activities, exercises, discussions, exit tickets, and projects in class. In this area, students shall be graded objectively on the
basis of their “achievement level,” not in terms of their “personality type.” Sensitivity to those students whose cultural or
psychological background, learning disabilities, and/or limited familiarity with English inhibit their verbal participation in
classroom activities shall be taken into consideration in the determination of students’ performance in this area. Students’
participation in class activities must be evaluated and recorded by the teacher on an ongoing basis.
Each of the above four factors must be a component of the student’s grade. Students who have been absent from class for
verified, legitimate reasons (such as illness, court appearances, family emergencies, attendance at funerals, etc.) shall be
given a reasonable opportunity to make up missed work, including examinations. It is the responsibility of the teacher, in
consultation with the department supervisor, to develop an appropriate vehicle and procedure for “make-up” work.
All teachers must maintain accurate written and/or digital records (e.g. Schoology, Gradebook) containing the grades on
examinations, quizzes, homework assignments, projects, presentations activities, etc. which contribute to the determination of
each student’s final grade for the marking period. Teachers should be prepared to substantiate a grade to a parent/guardian and
administrator, if needed.
The school year shall consist of four quarterly reports or marking periods. According to the grading policy, the lowest grade
given for the first, second, and third marking period is 55 percent. During the fourth marking period, the grade given will be
the actual average that the student earned for the marking period. All marking periods will be averaged together to obtain a
final grade for the student.
Grading will be Pass/Fail for Plato Credit Recovery; Swimming will not be calculated in a student’s Grade Point Average
(GPA).
Non-core courses may use grading policy range and is subject to teacher’s discretion.
Midterms and Finals
Midterms and Finals are to be administered during class time to maximize instructional time. Midterms will make up 20
percent of the second marking period grade and Finals will make up 20% of the fourth marking period grade. Midterms can
be project based.
For half-year courses, the midterm will be 10% of the first marking period of the course, and the final exam will make up 10
percent of the second marking period of the course.
Regents Courses
Students are required to sit for the Regents examination in any course culminating in a Regents exam. A final exam can be
waived in lieu of the Regents exam.
Grading will be Pass/Fail for Plato Credit Recovery; Swimming will not be calculated in a student’s Grade Point Average
(GPA).
13Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
CATEGORY GRADING COMPONENT GRADES 6-12
Formative & Summative Assessments
50%
Exams/Projects/Quizzes
Homework Assignments 10%
Classwork/Class Participation 20%
Labs/Portfolios/Journals
20%
Presentations/Literacy Tasks
GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION
Minimum Minimum
Number of Number of
To Be Promoted: Credits Minimum Course Requirement Regents Passed
Earned
From To
Grade Grade
9 10 4.5 1 credit must be in English 1
or Social Studies
10 11 10 A minimum of 1 credit in each of the 2
core subject areas (English, Social
Studies, Science, Mathematics and LOTE)
11 12 16 Eligible to be fully scheduled to meet 3
NYSED graduation requirements June of
the current school year.
With administrative approval, school counselors may use their professional judgment and discretion when determining grade
placement for students enrolled in a New York State public school for the first time. Regents’ requirements for grade classification
may be waived for students who transfer to a Mount Vernon City School District high school after completion of 10th grade from a
non-New York State Public School. All students must meet NYSED course and Regents exam requirements as set forth by NYSED
to graduate.
14Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
GRADE POINT AVERAGE AND CLASS RANK
Numeric marks are used. The minimum passing mark is 65. The marks NM (No Mark) and NC (No Credit) receive no credit.
The mark MD (Medical Excuse) is used in Physical Education and receives full credit. Advanced Placement and Honors
courses are weighted; all other courses receive a weight of 1.0. Weight is determined according to the level of difficulty of
the course.
COURSE WEIGHTING
(AP) Advanced Placement, IB (HL), SUPA 1.10
(H) Honors. IB(SL) 1.05
It is the policy of the Mount Vernon Board of Education that the Mount Vernon City School District does not rank students.
HONOR ROLL CRITERIA
Principal’s Honor Roll Maintain an average of 95 or higher with no grade less than 70 on Report Card
High Honor Roll Maintain an average between 90-94.999 and no grade less than 70 on Report Card
Honor Roll Maintain an average between 85-89.999 and no grade less than 70 on Report Card
15Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
Graduation Requirements
Each of Mount Vernon City School District’s high schools offer an extensive, academically rigorous curriculum aligned to New
York State Learning Standards. Offerings include: English, Social Studies, Natural Science, Mathematics, Spanish, Art, Music
and Physical Education. In order to earn a New York State high school diploma, a student must have a minimum of 22 high
school credits and meet New York State testing requirements.
TYPES OF DIPLOMAS AND CREDENTIALS
• Local Diploma
• Regents Diploma
• Regents Diploma with an Advanced Designation
• SACC: Skills and Achievement Commencement Credential
• CDOS: Career Development and Occupational Studies Commencement Credential
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Local Diploma Regents Diploma
Required Courses Regents Diploma
w/ Advanced Designationa
Minimum Credits Required
Minimum Credits Required
English 4 4
Social Studies 4 4
Global History (2)
U.S. History (1)
Participation in Government (.5) Economics
(.5)
Mathematics 3 3
Science 3 3
Life Science (Living Environment) (1)a
Physical Setting Science (Earth Science,
Chemistry and/or Physics) (1)
Life or Physical Science (1)
World Languages 1b 3c
Visual Art, Music, Dance and/or Theater 1 1
Health .5 .5
Physical Educationd 2 2
Sequence/Electives 3.5 1.5
Total Credits 22 22
a
All students in the Mount Vernon City School District take Living Environment in the 7th and 8th grades. Upon successful completion of the Living Environment course and
passing the Regents, students will earn 1 high school credit.
b
Students are required to have completed two units of study in a World Language by the end of their 9th grade year. Students may satisfy this requirement by completing two units
of foreign language in middle school and passing the foreign language proficiency (Checkpoint A) test. All students in the Mount Vernon City School District take Spanish in the
7th and 8th grades. Students with a disability may be excused from the LOTE requirement if so indicated on the IEP but must still earn 22 units of credit to graduate.
c
Students acquiring a five-unit sequence of credits in one of the following areas may be exempt from the World Language requirement beyond one credit: Art, Music or Career
and Technical Education. Students with a disability, who are excused from the LOTE requirement per their IEP, need not complete a five-unit sequence in the Arts or CTE in
order to meet the requirements for the Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation.
d
Participation in Physical Education is required each semester of a student’s enrollment in a New York State public high school.
16Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
TRADITIONAL REGENTS ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS
SUBJECT LOCAL/ REGENTS DIPLOMA REGENTS DIPLOMA W/ADVANCED DESIGNATION
English English Language Arts English Language Arts
Social Studies Global History & Geography and Global History & Geography and U.S. History
U.S. History & Government & Government Regents
Regents
Mathematics One Commencement Level Math: Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2
Algebra 1, Geometry or Algebra 2
Science One Commencement Level Science: One Life Science Regents (Living Environment)
Living Environment, Earth Science, and one Physical Science Regents
Chemistry or Physics (Earth Science, Chemistry or Physics)
World Checkpoint B Examination or Five-Unit Sequence
Languages in the Arts or CTE
Total Exams: 5 8 or 9
17Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
DIPLOMA AND CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Diploma/
Population Credential Option Criteria
Type
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
All Students Regents Traditional
Diploma • Meet traditional Regents assessment requirements: ELA, Global
History, U.S. History, Math (1) and Science (1)
Regents • Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
All Students Diploma with Traditional • Meet traditional Regents assessment requirements: ELA, Global History,
Advanced U.S. History, Math (3), Science (2) and LOTE Checkpoint B exam
Designation
All students • Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
can choose an • Regents Assessment Requirements: ELA, SS (1), Math (1), Science (1),
alternate and one of the following:
pathway to
meet the 5th • English assessment in a different course from approved NYS
assessment department alternative
All Students Multiple Pathways
requirement • +1 Math Regents exam or approved NYS department alternative
for diploma
choice by • +1 Science Regents exam or approved NYS department alternative
meeting • +1 Social Studies Regents exam or approved NYS department
requirements alternative
for CDOS
or passing • CDOS Commencement Credential
an alternate • CTE pathway assessment following completion of an approved CTE
assessment program
Regents/ • Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
Regents with Traditional and • Meet traditional or multiple pathway assessment requirement with a
All Students Advanced Multiple Pathways computed average score of 90 or better on assessments (no more than 2
Designation department approved alternatives may be substituted and will not count in
with Honors the computed average)
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
All Students Regents Appeal
Diploma • Four Regents exams with a score of 65+ and one exam with a score of 60-64
and an appeal granted by the district
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
All Students Local Diploma Appeal
• Three Regents exams with a score of 65+, two exams with a score of 60-64
and two appeals granted by the district
English • Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
Language Local Diploma Appeal
• Four Regents exams with a score of 65+, ELA exam with a score of 55-59
Learners and one appeal granted by the district
English • Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
Language Local Diploma Appeal
• 3 Regents exams with a score of 65+, 1 exam with a score of 60-64, ELA
Learners exam with a score of 55-59 and two district granted appeals
Students with a • Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
Local Diploma Safety Net
Disability • 55+ on all required traditional/multiple pathways exams
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
Students with a Compensatory
Local Diploma • 45-54 on any required traditional/multiple pathways exams except ELA and
Disability Safety Net
Math can be compensated by a score of 65+ on another required exam
including ELA and Math
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
Students with a Local Diploma Appeal
Disability • Must have three Regents exams with 55+, up to two exams 52-54 and two
appeals granted by the district
18Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
DIPLOMA AND CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS (cont’d)
Diploma/
Population Credential Option Criteria
Type
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
• ELA and Math Regents exams 55+ or successfully appealed score of 52-54
• Participated in other required exams, but has not passed one or more as
Students with a Superintendent’s required for graduation
Disability / Local Diploma
Determination • Demonstrated proficiency in the subject area where student was not able to
IEP
pass an exam
• Earned and passed all courses for graduation as required by local district
policy
• For consideration, parents must submit a written request
• Earn 22 credits and meet traditional credit distribution
• Student did not meet Regents requirement through low pass (55-64) safety
net or the compensatory option
• Student who was unable to achieve a minimum score of 55 or did not initiate
an appeal of a score between 52 and 54 on the English and/or Mathematics
Students with a Superintendent’s Regents examinations
Disability / Local Diploma
Determination • Student has completed the requirements for the New York State Career
IEP
Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential
• There must be evidence that the student participated in all Regents
examinations required for graduation but has not passed one or more of
these examinations
• There must be evidence that the student has otherwise demonstrated
graduation level proficiency in subject area(s)
• For consideration, a parent must submit a written request
• Completes a career plan; demonstrates attainment of the commencement
level Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) learning
All students
Career standards in the area of career exploration and development, integrated
other than
Development learning and universal foundation skills; satisfactorily completes the
those who are
assessed and equivalent of two units of study (216 hours) in Career and Technical
using the Occupational Education coursework and work-based learning (including at least 54 hours
NYS Alternate Studies of work-based learning); and has at least one completed employability
Assessment (CDOS) profile; or
(NYSSA) • Student meets criteria for a national work readiness credential
NOTE: Credential is intended to be a supplement to a Local or Regents
Diploma
Students
• All students with severe disabilities who attend school for not less than
with severe
Skills and 12 years, excluding kindergarten, exit with this credential which must be
disabilities
Achievement accompanied by documentation of the student’s skills and strengths and
that are
levels of independence in academic, career development, and foundation
assessed
skills needed for post-school living, learning, and working.
using the
NYSAA
19Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
SCHEDULING
High School Bell Schedule
The bell schedule at all three high schools consists of nine periods. All ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students are required to be
enrolled in seven instructional periods each semester, which must include English, Social Studies, Science, Math, and Physical
Education. Twelfth grade students are also expected to be enrolled in seven instructional periods, and no less than five
instructional periods plus Physical Education.
PERIOD START TIME END TIME
1 7:50 AM 8:33 AM
2 8:36 AM 9:19 AM
3 9:22 AM 10:05 AM
HOMEROOM 10:05 AM 10:13 AM
4 10:16 AM 10:59 AM
5 (Lunch) 11:02 AM 11:45 AM
6 (Lunch) 11:48 AM 12:31 PM
7 12:34 PM 1:17 PM
8 1:20 PM 2:03 PM
9 2:06 PM 2:49 PM
Selecting courses:
• Graduation requirements represent the minimum number of courses needed to graduate.
• Colleges expect students to take a rigorous program of study, expanding beyond the minimum requirements.
• Mount Vernon City School District high school offerings include a number of electives in the humanities, STEM,
Career and Technical Education, and the Performing and Visual Arts. Students are encouraged to explore their interests
and challenge themselves. Annually, students in grades 9-12 and their parent/guardian are invited to discuss their
interests, course selections, and post-secondary planning with their school counselor.
Adding/Dropping a Course
Once the school term has begun, it is imperative that students are in class and engaged in the learning process. Therefore, students
are encouraged to give careful consideration before they register for a class.
• Effective September 2009, students have the first seven (7) school days of any course in which to attempt to drop or
add courses to their schedule. Schedule changes after the seven-day deadline will only be made with approval from the
Administrator of the Guidance Department. Student-initiated schedule changes will be restricted to those related to
improper academic placement or previous course failures that result in the student not meeting the prerequisite for
graduation.
• After the add/drop deadline has passed, it may be necessary for the Guidance Office to make a schedule change
including, but not limited to, the following reasons: academic misplacement, change in IEP, teacher recommendation,
a technical error in the scheduling process, a change in the master schedule, or adjustment for balancing classes.
20Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
DUAL CREDIT FOR COLLEGE COURSES:
Students who wish to enroll in college level coursework shall meet all academic, grade level, and coursework requirements as set forth
by administrative guidelines. Students who have demonstrated intellectual and social maturity may choose to matriculate at any one
(1) of the colleges that have a cooperative agreement with our School District. Such opportunities may include early admission to
college, collegiate-level work offered in the high school or other means of providing advanced work. Review and approval by the
administration are necessary before any college courses may be taken during the school day. The Board shall not be required to pay
tuition and other related costs for those high school students enrolled in college courses.
Sample Schedules by Grade
9th GRADE
PERIOD CLASS
1 English 1
2 Global History 1
3 Chemistry
4 Science Lab / Physical Education (alternating days)
5 Algebra 1
6 Transitional Math
7 Lunch
8 Spanish 2
9 Career Reading & Writing, AVID or Fine Arts
10th GRADE
PERIOD CLASS
1 English 2
2 Global History 2
3 Physics
4 Science Lab / Physical Education (alternating days)
5 Geometry
6 Lunch
7 Spanish 3
8 Career Reading & Writing, AVID, Fine Arts, CTE or
Elective
9 Health/Elective (alternating days)
21Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
11th GRADE
PERIOD CLASS
1 English 3
2 U.S. History
3 Introduction to Engineering
4 Elective / Physical Education (alternating days)
5 Algebra 2
6 Lunch
7 Spanish 4
8 AVID, Fine Arts, CTE or Elective
9 SAT English/SAT Math (alternating days) or CTE
12th GRADE
PERIOD CLASS
1 English 4
2 Economics and Government (one semester each)
3 Forensics
4 Physical Education/Elective (alternating days)
5 Pre-Calculus
6 Lunch
7 AP Spanish
9 AVID, Fine Arts, CTE or Elective
9 Elective
22Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
Mount Vernon City School District
Graduation Requirement Worksheet
Use this sheet to record all of the courses and Regents Examinations you pass each June.
Name:________________________________________ ID:_________________________________________
Cohort:________________________________________ Counselor:___________________________________
Middle School SUBJECT AREA GRADE GRADE GRADE GRADE Credits Credits
Credits 9 10 11 12 Req’d. Earned
Earned
English 4
Social Studies 4
Global History (2)
U.S. History (1)
Participation in Government (.5)
Economics (.5)
Science 3
Life Science (1)
Physical Setting Science (1)
Life or Physical Science (1)
Mathematics 3
Health .5
Visual Art, Music, Dance and/or 1
Theater
LOTE: Spanish 1
Physical Education 2
Electives 3.5
TOTAL CREDITS: 22
Credits Required Courses
Req’d.
22 Credits are required for graduation REGENTS EXAMS SCORE
4 English ELA
3 Mathematics Global History &
Geography
H.S. Credits Earned
2 Global History
8th Grade
1 U.S. History U.S. History &
Government 9th Grade
.5 Participation in Government
Life Science 10th Grade
.5 Economics
Physical Science 11th Grade:
1 Science - Life
Math 1: 12th Grade
1 Science - Physical
Math 2:
1 Science - Life or Physical Total Credits
Math 3:
2 Physical Education
LOTE CHECKPOINT B
.5 Health
CPR
1 LOTE (Spanish)
Pathway Assessment/ CDOS
1 Applied Arts/Fine Arts
3.5 Electives
23Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
2020-2021 Course Offerings
ENGLISH HUMANITIES ELECTIVES
1303 English 1 0090 AVID 9
1303H English1Honors 0010 AVID 10
1404 English 2 0011 AVID 11
1404H English 2 Honors 0012 AVID 12
1505 English 3 ® 0271 Career Reading and Writing I
1901 AP English Lit. & Composition 0371 Career Reading and Writing II
1902 AP English Lit. & Composition ® 3703 African American Studies
IB1001-1002 English Language & Literature 1052 Creative Writing
1606 English 4 1053 Public Speaking
1054 SAT/ACT English 1055 Journalism
ENGLISH AS A NEW LANGUAGE 1056 Journalism II
9510 ENL Entering 1904 SUPA Class and Literary Texts
9512 ENL Emerging 3801 Introduction to Sociology
9514 ENL Transitioning 3906 SUPA Foundations of Human Behavior
9515 ENL Expanding 1903 SUPA Gender & Literary Texts
9516 ENL Commanding 1900 SUPA Presentational Speaking
SOCIAL STUDIES 1905 SUPA Introduction to Creative Nonfiction
3404 Global History & Geography 1 3707 Dystopian Literature
3505 Global History & Geography II ® 3708 History of NYC
3404H Global History & Geography 1 Honors IB3003-3004 Economics (HL)
3505H Global History & Geography II Honors IB1001-1002 English A – Language & Literature (HL)
3901 AP World History 1 IB1010 Extended Essay (HL)
3902 AP World History 2 ® IB3101-3102 History of The Americas (HL)
3903 AP U.S. History ® 3706 Latin American History
3913 SUPA U.S. History® IB3010 Social & Cultural Anthropology
IB3101-3102 History of Americas IB5001-5002 Theory of Knowledge
3303 U.S. History and Government ® IB5003-5004 Creativity, Activity, Science (CAS)
3606 Participation in Government 3908 SUPA Economic Ideas and Issues
3607 Economics 3909 SUPA – Introduction to Public Policy Analysis
3905 AP U.S. Government and Politics
24Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
SCIENCE PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS
4301 Living Environment ® 6800 Beginning Band
4603 Chemistry 6804 Intermediate Band
4303 Chemistry ® 6808 Advanced Band
4604 Physics 6702 Concert Band
4304 Physics ® 6806 Beginning Orchestra
4309 Environmental Science 6807 Intermediate Orchestra
4602 Forensics 6808 Advanced Orchestra
4308 Introduction to Engineering 6704 Voice I
4901 AP Biology 6705 Voice II
4902 AP Chemistry 6709 Voice III
4903 AP Environmental Science 6712 Voice IV
3800 Introduction to Psychology 6801 Music Theory I
4904 AP Psychology 6803 Music Theory II
IB 4001 Environmental Systems & Societies 6950 AP Music Theory
4501 PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design 6701 Music Appreciation
4502 PLTW Principles of Engineering 6511 Acting I
4507 PLTW Principles of Biomedical Science 6512 Acting II
4508 PLTW Human Body Systems 6513 Acting III
4506 Computer Integrated Manufacturing 6514 Acting IV
2608 AP Computer Science Principles 6922 Technical Theatre & Design I
MATHEMATICS 6923 Technical Theatre & Design II
2221 Algebra 1 6924 Stage Design & Production I
2602 Geometry 6925 Stage Design & Production II
2300 Geometry ® 6901 Dance I
2603 Algebra 2 6902 Dance II
2303 Algebra 2 ® 6903 Dance III
2306 Statistics 6904 Dance IV
2304 Pre-Calculus 6907 Dance History
2310 SAT/ACT Math 6911 Tap Dance I
2901 AP Calculus AB 6912 Tap Dance II
2903 AP Statistics 6913 Tap Dance III
IB2001-2002 DP Mathematics (SL) 6914 Tap Dance IV
SPANISH/WORLD LANGUAGES 6302 Studio Art I
9010 Spanish I 6401 Studio Art II
9020 Spanish II 6403 Studio Art III
9030 Spanish III 6404 Studio Art IV
9040 Spanish IV 6840 AP Studio Art 2D
9050 Spanish Native Language Arts 6810 Beginning Piano
9060 AP Spanish Language & Culture 6820 Intermediate Piano
IB 9001-9002 Language AB 6811 Strings I
9012 World Language Elective 9-12 (RS) 6812 Strings II
6813 Strings III
6905 Dance Company
6930 Jazz Band
6940 Voice & Diction
6941 Theatre History
6960 Beginning Chorus
25Mount Vernon City School District 2020-2021 High School Course Catalog
CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH
6011 Accounting 5301 Physical Education 9
7003 Automotive Tech I 5401 Physical Education 10
7004 Automotive Tech II 5402 Physical Education 11
7005 Automotive Tech III 5403 Physical Education 12
7201 Barbering 1 5601 Fitness for Life I
7202 Barbering 2 5602 Fitness for Life II
7203 Barbering 3 5603 Fitness for Life III
7010 Career and Financial Management 5604 Fitness/Dance
7200 Careers in Health 5900 Health
7221 Certified Nursing Assistant
7911 Cisco 1 - IT Essentials
7912 CCNA Routing and Switching
7913 CCNA Security
7013 Computer Animation
7018 Cosmetology I
7019 Cosmetology II
7020 Cosmetology III
7021 Culinary Arts I
7022 Culinary Arts II
7023 Culinary Arts III
7210 Dentistry I
7026 Digital Imaging
7029 Entrepreneurship
7036 Graphic Arts
7042 Integrated Office Applications I
7043 Integrated Office Applications II
7058 Print Production
7060 Television Production I
7061 Television Production II
7062 Television Production III
7064 Web Design I
7065 Web Design II
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