Academic Catalog_Handbook_WRHS

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Academic Handbook and Course Catalog

Academic Snapshot: Presentation

Table of Contents West Ridge High School Academic Program Overview (1).wav (audio overview of entire Academic Handbook)

Know Your Number

High School Grading Policy

Graduation

Athletic Eligibility

Course Catalog

High School Graduation Credit Requirements (table)

Early Post Secondary Opportunities

Advanced Placement

Suggested AP Course Sequence

Dual Enrollment

WRHS Dual Enrollment Checklist

CLEP

AP Capstone

The ACT

OnToCollege

(audio overview) Wolves, Know Your Numbers_ Academic Readiness Initiatives.wav

Our "Wolves, Know Your Numbers" initiative focuses on three key areas: 1. ACT Scores 2. Ready Graduate Status 3. Attendance This program aims to empower our students with important information about their academic progress and future readiness. 1. ACT Scores: Our goal is to increase our school-wide ACT composite score to 21 or above by the end of the 2026-2027 school year. A high ACT score can open doors to better college admissions and scholarship opportunities. We encourage all students to strive for their personal best on this important exam. 2. Ready Graduate Status: We aim to increase our Ready Graduate rate by 10% by the end of the 2026-2027 school year. Currently, 36.2% of our graduates qualify as Ready Graduates, compared to the state average of 48.9%. To achieve Ready Graduate status, a student must meet one of the following criteria: ● Score 21+ on ACT or 1060+ on SAT ● Complete 4 Early Postsecondary Opportunities (EPSOs)

● Complete 2 EPSOs + earn an industry credential ● Complete 2 EPSOs + score 31+ on ASVAB AFQT

Early Post-Secondary Opportunities, EPSO s, include Advanced Placement ( AP ) courses, College Level Examination Program ( CLEP ), Dual Enrollment ( DE ), and Local Dual Credit

4 ( LDC ). These opportunities can give students a head start on college credits and better prepare them for postsecondary success. 3. Attendance: Our goal is to reduce our chronic absentee rate to 19% or below by the end of the 2026-2027 school year. Currently, our chronic absentee rate is 26.2%. Regular attendance is crucial for academic success - students who are chronically absent (missing 10% or more of school days) during their 9th grade year are 30% less likely to graduate on time. We believe that by focusing on these three areas, we can significantly improve our students' academic outcomes and future readiness. We encourage all students to know their numbers - their ACT score, their EPSO count, and their attendance record.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADING POLICY

Number/Letter Designation Each nine-week grade will be recorded on the report card and computer database as a number. The grade will be recorded on these two forms as a number using the current conversion scale:

90-100 = A,

80-89 = B, 70-79 = C, 60-69 = D, Below 60 = F

Graduation Requirements

Each student must take the following core curriculum: English …………….…4 credits

Math…………..……..…..4 credits Social Studies……..…3 credits U.S. Government..…1 credit

Science……………....3 credits Fine Arts……..………1 credit

World Language….. 2 credits (same language) Physical Education…..1 credit (or 2 or more credits of JROTC or fall Band classes and/or Color Guard Lifetime Wellness…....1 credit (or 2 credits JROTC containing wellness curriculum) Elective focus…….….3 credits above the core requirements The U.S. Civics Test must be taken and passed with a passing score. (Graduation Requirement) ACT or SAT: All students must complete either the ACT or SAT Exam in order to earn a Regular Diploma or higher. Math credits must include: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and an upper-level math credit.

Students must be enrolled in a mathematics course at least three out of four years of high school. Students who qualify for Algebra I in 8 th grade and achieve the qualifying score on the EOC for Algebra I will earn 1 unit of High School Credit.

5 **8th Grade Algebra 1 including a qualifying score on the EOC does not replace one of the 4 required credits needed for high school graduation.** Science credits must include: Biology (Life Science), Chemistry or Physics, and another laboratory science credit. Social Studies credits must include: U.S. History, Economics/Personal Finance, U.S. Government, World History, or World Geography. (Successful completion of 3 Credits of JROTC substitutes for U.S. Government credit.) Fine Arts and World Language requirements may be waived for students who are sure they are not going to attend a University and be replaced with courses designed to enhance and expand the elective focus.

Students completing a Career Technical Focus must complete a minimum of three units in the same program area.

Outstanding Achievement The students in each graduation class with a 4.0 GPA and above are distinguished and ranked. All rankings will be determined at the end of the grading period of the second term. This will serve as a final grade for ranking purposes. Testing/Grading For each course, every grading period will count equally. If a course has an EOC exam, that exam will count 15% of the course grade, and if a course does not have an EOC exam, the course final exam will count as 15% of the course grade. Upon completion of the course, the transcript will be amended to reflect the first attempt of the course, but the grade will be changed from an “F” to “NC” (no credit). Only the passing score will be used in calculating GPA and class rank. Similarly, students who earn a “D” in a course may retake that course to earn a higher grade with permission from the principal. With the exception of credit recovery software, it is the discretion of the principal to determine the method and schedule of the course to be taken by the student to replace the “D.” When spaces are limited in these courses, a student who received an “F” will take precedence over a student who has earned a “D” when deciding placement. Score conversions for End-of-Course Tests are based on guidelines developed by the Tennessee Department of Education. Credit Recovery Credit recovery is a strategy that permits students who have failed a course/s to recover course credits. Each of the credits offered in credit recovery will use a state-aligned curriculum focused on filling student learning gaps and preparing students for the next high school course. Subjects offered in the credit recovery will vary depending on student needs. At this time, there is no cost to parents for credit recovery in Sullivan County. The final grade recorded for any course successfully completed through Credit Recovery shall not exceed a score of 60. Students shall be admitted to or otherwise enrolled in credit recovery unless:

6 1. The student’s parent/guardian provides a written statement that the student is not to be enrolled in the proposed credit recovery course. Parents/guardians should be informed that not all post-secondary institutions will accept credit recovery courses or non-credit recovery sections of a course for credit and that the NCAA Clearinghouse will not accept credit recovery courses for credit. 2. The student has previously taken an initial, non-credit recovery section of the proposed course and received a grade of at least fifty percent (50%). Students who receive a grade of below fifty percent (50%) in the non-credit recovery section of the course must re-take the course. Diploma On Time The Diploma On Time (DOT) program is designed to help students who are not on track to graduate and who, without intervention, will not graduate high school. Additionally, the DOT program is not an option but a last resort to graduate with a State Diploma. For a student to be enrolled in the DOT program a student must be referred by an administrator and must have a meeting with the school to discuss the expectations of the student in the DOT program. Subjects offered in the DOT program will vary depending on student needs. At this time, there is no cost to parents for the DOT Program in Sullivan County. The final grade recorded shall not exceed a score of 70 for any course completed in the DOT Program that was not previously attempted. Any class previously attempted that is completed in the DOT Program will follow the guidelines listed for Credit Recovery. To be eligible for the program: 1. A student must have at least 10 credits. 2. Must be behind in credits to the extent that they would otherwise not be able to graduate on time. 3. Must be enrolled (and present) in school for the entire school day, with the possible exception of last term Seniors who may have an abbreviated day. 4. If the student is under the age of 18, written parent permission must be obtained prior to enrollment. 5. Students must be at least 17 years old to qualify. 6. Students must at least be in the 2nd semester of Junior year to qualify. DOT students are still enrolled in Sullivan County Schools and are subject to all Sullivan County School Board Policies. Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment Students who take or have taken an Advanced Placement, Cambridge International, College Level Exam Program (CLEP), Dual Enrollment, and International Baccalaureate Courses shall receive an additional 5 percentage points to each of the grading periods (9 weeks) to include the semester exam. Students must take the AP Exam in an Advanced Placement course by the end of the school year in which the course is given in order to receive AP level credit (5 percentage points). Students who do not take the AP Exam by the end of the school year will only receive honors-level credit (3 percentage points) for the course in question. Dual Credit Students who take or have taken a Local and Statewide Dual Credit test or a Dual Enrollment Course shall receive an additional 4 percentage points to each of the grading periods (9 weeks) to include the semester exam. Students who do not take the Dual Credit

7 test (articulation test) will not receive Dual Credit for the course and will not receive the 4 extra percentage points for the course in question. Honors/Pre-AP Students who take or have taken an honors/pre-AP course shall receive an addition of 3 percentage points to each of the grading periods (9 weeks) to include the semester exam, however, 3 points are not added to the EOC. Grade Point Average This adjustment in the above percentage points will be reflected in the GPA and will be utilized for class rank and submitted to colleges and universities for scholarships and other financial awards. Quality Points The policy regarding quality points has not changed. If the additional percentage points result in a rise in a letter grade then the quality points shall be adjusted as well. Semester Exam Exemption Requirements A student may elect to exempt a maximum of 2 Semester (Final Exams) provided the student has missed no more than 2 days during the semester and maintains at least a “B” average in the class for which the student wishes to exempt the final exam. There will be no distinction made between excused and unexcused absences for this exemption. A student who is assigned OSS at any point in the semester loses the ability to participate in the exam exemption for that semester. Each student will be responsible for verifying their exemption status with their teacher and will be expected to take the final exam if the student does not qualify or confirm the exemption status. **Mandatory State End-of-Course Exams are not subject to exam exemption policies.** Courses with Weighted Grades The following grading scales will also be utilized for overall GPA computation and class rank. The following scale will apply to Advanced Placement Courses* and Dual Enrollment courses: A = 5 quality points B = 4 quality points C = 3 quality points D = 2 quality points F = No credit *Only applies if the student takes the AP exam. If the student takes an AP course and does not take the AP exam, the course will be considered the same as an Honors course with appropriate said quality points awarded for an Honors course. The following scale will apply to Statewide Dual Credit courses. Courses must be approved by the state and school district. Students and parents will be required to sign a form acknowledging the required components of additional coursework.

A = 4.75 quality points B = 3.75 quality points C = 2.75 quality points

D = 1.75 quality point

F = No credit The following scale will apply to Honors Courses and National Industry Certification:

A = 4.50 quality points B = 3.50 quality points C = 2.50 quality points D = 1.50 quality point

F = No credit All other courses will be awarded quality points as follows:

A = 4.0 quality points B = 3.0 quality points C = 2.0 quality points D = 1.0 quality point

F = No credit All transferred grades will be converted to the Sullivan County course grading scale. Withdrawal Policy (From a Class) A student may withdraw from a course with parental and administrative approval no later than two (2) school days after the beginning of the term. Withdrawal after the designated deadline will result in a grade of “WF” for the term. A “WF” will be recorded in the letter grade column and no quality points awarded for that course. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Director of Schools. Graduation Students lacking no more than two (2) credits to graduate may participate in graduation exercises. A student may participate in only one (1) graduation. Early graduates will be honored with achievements gained at the time of their departure, except G.P.A. ranking which cannot be calculated for an early graduate. Beginning in the 9 th grade, students become a part of a “cohort.” These students have four (4) years and a summer to graduate with a regular diploma on time with their “cohort.” Students not meeting this time requirement and are 18 years of age or older may not be re-enrolled the following school year. Transcript Policy To request a transcript, a current or former student must use our Scriborder program, available on our website. There is no charge to students for transcripts requested while enrolled in school. A charge of 10.00 will be charged for each transcript requested after graduation. There will be a record kept of how many transcripts are requested and the location(s) to which transcripts are sent before and after graduation. Progress Reports and Grade Distribution Student progress during each grading period is available in the PowerSchool Parent Portal. Schools can setup/modify/edit login credentials for parents as needed. A paper

9 Progress Report can be requested if Internet/devices are not available within the home. Term grades will be available on the sixth (6 th ) school day following the close of the nine-weeks grading period in the PowerSchool Parent Portal. Schools can setup/modify/edit login credentials for parents as needed. A printed Grade Card can be requested if internet/devices are not available within the home. GRADUATION Requirements for a Regular Sullivan County Diploma, Honors Diploma, Graduating with State Distinction, Graduating with District Distinction, Special Education Diploma, Occupational Diploma, and Tennessee State Diploma 1. The Regular Sullivan County Diploma will be awarded to students who earn the required, specified 28 units of credit in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the State Board of Education. All students are expected to complete required End of Course tests and maintain a satisfactory record of attendance and conduct. 2. The Honors Diploma will be awarded to students who attain a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale and who score at or above all the subject area readiness benchmarks (18 for English, 22 for Math, 22 for Reading, 23 for Science) on the ACT. 3. The Special Education Diploma will be awarded to the students who have satisfactorily completed an Individual Education Program (IEP), successfully completed a portfolio, and have satisfactory records of attendance and conduct. 4. The Occupational Diploma may be awarded to Special Education students who do not meet the requirements for a regular high school diploma if the student has: a. Completed at least four (4) years of high school and b. Made satisfactory progress on their IEP and c. Maintained satisfactory records of attendance and conduct and d. Completed the occupational diploma Skills, Knowledge, and Experience Mastery Assessment (SKEMA); and e. Has two (2) years of paid or non-paid work experience. The decision to attain an occupational diploma shall be made at the conclusion of the student’s 10th grade year or two (2) academic years prior to the expected graduation date. Students who have received a Special Education Diploma or an Occupational Diploma shall continue to make progress toward a regular high school diploma until the end of the school year in which they turn twenty-two (22) years old. 5. The Tennessee State Diploma will be awarded to students who attain the specified 23 units of credit and have satisfactory records of attendance and conduct. 6. Students will be recognized as graduating with “ State Distinction ” by attaining a 3.0 GPA and completing at least one of the following: a. Participate in at least one of the Governor’s Schools; b. Participate in one of the state’s All-State musical organizations;

c. Be selected as a National Merit Finalist or semifinalist; d. Attain a score of 31 or higher on the ACT; or SAT equivalent. e. Attain a score of 3 or higher on at least two (2) Advanced Placement exams; f. Earn 12 or more semester hours of transcripted post-secondary credit; g. Earn a nationally and/or state-recognized industry certification; h. Earn statewide recognition or award at a skill or knowledge-based state tournament, convention, or competition hosted by a statewide student organization, and/or qualify for national recognition by a national student organization. 7. Students will be recognized as graduating with “ District Distinction ” by attaining a 3.0 GPA, and earning an industry certification. . 8. The Tennessee Tri-Star Scholar will be awarded to students who attain a 19 or higher on the ACT, and earns a capstone industry certification as promoted by the Tennessee Department of Education. 9. The Seal of Biliteracy will be awarded to students who have attained a high level of proficiency speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English. Students receiving this recognition shall meet the following criteria: a. Complete all English language arts requirements with an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher in those classes; b. Score at the advanced, on-track, or mastered level on each English End of Course assessment taken (excluding EOC taken during the student’s final semester prior to early graduation); c. Achieve a passing score on a nationally recognized foreign language proficiency assessment, portfolio, or alternate model that addresses communication, cultures, connections, comparisons, and communities. 10. Alternate Academic Diploma - The Alternate Academic Diploma will be awarded to those students who have met the requirements (of the Alternate Academic) Diploma aligned to the academic coursework requirements of the students earning a regular diploma. These students must have participated in the high school alternate assessments; earned the prescribed 22 credit minimum; received special education services or supports and made satisfactory progress on an individualized education program; maintained satisfactory records of attendance and conduct; and completed a transition assessment(s) that measures, at a minimum, post-secondary education, and training, employment, independent living, and community involvement. 11. Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction - The student must successfully complete all coursework required for graduation for his/her diploma type. Students may earn at least one science credit and at least one math credit through course substitutions approved by the State Board of Education, including, but not limited to, dual enrollment (DE) and Work Based Learning (WBL) courses aligned to a student’s chosen career path. These substitutions may only fulfill the student’s third credit of science or fourth credit of math. A list of WBL and DE courses that qualify as science and math substitutions will be published upon State Board of Education approval. By the end of the student’s senior year, the student must earn at least nine (9) credits of DE or WBL, meet no less than once per month during the school year with a career coach, and fulfill all other graduation requirements to earn the Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction. Students wishing to acquire the diploma distinction must declare their

11 intentions in writing to the HS Counseling Department during their Sophomore year. DE or WBL classes along with career coaching must begin during their Junior year.

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

Meeting the academic requirements for athletic eligibility is the responsibility of the student. The TSSAA requires students to earn at least 6 credits during the preceding school year to participate in athletics. Students whose 19th birthday is on or before August 1st may not participate in athletics. To be eligible as 9th graders, students must be academically promoted to the next grade. Students interested in competing in athletics during their initial year of college must meet the eligibility requirements set by the NCAA. These requirements include specific high school coursework, along with a minimum Grade Point Average and ACT/SAT score. Students should register with the NCAA Eligibility Center during their junior year and complete registration at www.eligibilitycenter.org . To view requirements, visit the website below. ( http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/Student_Resources/CBSA.pdf ). Certain courses will not count for NCAA core course requirements. Credit Recovery courses may not be approved for core courses by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Please remember that the NCAA only considers grades in core classes for eligibility purposes.

● NCAA Clearinghouse - www.eligibilitycenter.org

● NAIA – www.playnaia.org

● NCAA Initial Eligibility presentation- http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/eligibility_center/HS/HS_IE_Presentation.pdf

● NAIA presentation- https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1xAL7XW0DSnGb4at_lPC38xPIbZNsB5ErTu_3NVu gbfM/edit?usp=sharing

COURSE CATALOG English Language Arts Course Descriptions

Grade Level

End-of-Course Exam

Course

Description

Prerequisites

Covers grammar, vocabulary, literature, and writing. Literature includes world literature with poetry, a Greek epic, a Shakespearean drama, short stories, and a novel. Vocabulary study and oral presentations are integrated. Emphasizes mastery of grammar and mechanics. Introduces short story elements and poetic devices, reinforcing analytical skills through class projects. Comprehensive study of world literature, including fiction, nonfiction, Greek drama, Shakespearean drama, and a literary analysis of World War II. Writing, speaking, and grammar are integrated. Follows English 10 curriculum with enrichment projects. Explores world literature, including fiction, nonfiction, Greek drama, Shakespearean drama, and WWII literature. Writing, speaking, and grammar are included. Focuses on American literature from the colonial era to the modern period. Includes a full research paper following MLA guidelines. Develops argument and composition skills with critical reading and writing. Analyzes nonfiction texts from various periods and includes essays with different aims. AP Exam in spring. Surveys British literature and classic writings, focusing on composition, analytical thinking, research, and organizational skills for college preparation. Follows AP guidelines for literature and composition. Engages in critical reading and analysis of imaginative world literature. Includes writing assignments, creative projects, and a term paper. AP Exam in spring. Develops research, collaboration, and communication skills across multiple subjects. Students write research-based essays and design presentations. AP Exam in spring.

English 9

Yes

None

English 9 Pre-AP

Yes

None

English 10

Yes

English 9

English 9, English 9 Pre-AP

English 10 Honors

Yes

English 11

English 10

AP Language & Composition 11, 12

English 10 Pre-AP

English 12

English 11

English 11 or AP Language & Composition

AP English Literature

AP English Seminar

None

AP English Research

AP Seminar (required)

Expands on AP Seminar with an independent, year-long research investigation. AP Exam in spring.

Encourages creative expression through writing in various genres. Does not count toward the four required English credits.

Creative Writing 9-12

None

Journalism 1

Overview of journalism history and reporting techniques. Does not count toward the four required English credits. Covers yearbook finance, planning, theme development, layout, copywriting, and ethical considerations. Requires familiarity with graphic design and networking. Extensive work outside class is needed. Does not count toward required English credits. By application only.

9-12

None

10, 11,12

Yearbook

None

Prepares students for the ACT exam in 11th grade with test-taking strategies and subject review.

ACT Prep 9-12

None

Mathematics Course Descriptions

Grade Level

Prerequisite s

End-of-Course Exam

Course

Description

Full-year course covering algebraic terminology, properties, linear functions, inequalities, exponents, radicals, polynomials, rational expressions, quadratic functions, probability, and statistics. Algebra I is a graduation requirement. Accelerated, one-semester Algebra I course with in-depth content, projects, and applications. Covers same topics as Algebra I A/B. Required for graduation. Full-year course covering complex numbers, relations, functions, exponents, logarithms, quadratic relations, systems of equations and inequalities, probability, and statistics. Algebra II is a graduation requirement. One-block rigorous Algebra II course with in-depth study, projects, and applications. Covers same topics as Algebra II A/B. Required for graduation. One-semester course covering elements of geometry, lines, planes, polygons, congruency, similarity, right triangles, circles, cones, cylinders, spheres, coordinate geometry,

Algebra I A/B

Yes

None

Algebra I Pre-AP

Yes

None

Algebra II A/B

Yes

Algebra I

Algebra II Honors

Algebra I Pre-AP

9, 10

Yes

10, 11, 12

Algebra I, Algebra II

Geometry

Yes

14 formal proofs, and problem-solving. Required for graduation. One-block rigorous Geometry course with in-depth study, projects, and applications. Covers same topics as Geometry. Recommended for students taking advanced math courses. Required for graduation. One-block advanced course covering algebra topics and introductory trigonometry. Emphasizes functions, relationships, trigonometry, matrices, and networks.

Algebra I Pre-AP, Algebra II Pre-AP Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, ACT Math < 19 Algebra I Pre-AP, Algebra II Pre-AP, Geometry Pre-AP Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, ACT Math > 19 Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry AP Calculus AB

Geometry Honors

10, 11

Yes

Advanced Algebra & Trigonomet ry (Honors) Mathematic al Reasoning for Decision Making

10, 11, 12

Application-based course focused on real-world problem solving. Prepares students for technical college, military, or workforce.

One-block advanced course covering algebraic and transcendental functions, trigonometry, vectors, polar coordinates, complex numbers, sequences, and conic sections. Prerequisite for Calculus. AP Exam in spring.

AP Pre-Calculu s

11, 12

One-block course covering data analysis, data interpretation, systematic counting, and probability. Recommended for college-bound students. One-block introductory college-level statistics course covering data collection, analysis, and conclusions. AP Exam in spring. One-block advanced course covering integrals, Riemann Sums, Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, and accumulation functions. AP Exam in spring. One-block advanced course exploring differential and integral calculus, real-world applications, and limits. AP Exam in spring.

Statistics

11, 12

AP Statistics

11, 12

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC

Science Course Descriptions

End-of-Course Exam

Course

Grade(s)

Prerequisites Description

Examines interactions between natural systems and human impact through inquiry-based labs, projects, and environmental assessments. Prepares students for Biology I. Studies matter and energy, including chemistry, chemical reactions, light, sound, and motion.

Applied Environmen tal Science

By placement only

9, 10

Physical Science

9-12

None

Introductory course covering cellular biology, matter/energy flow, heredity, and biodiversity. Inquiry-based approach.

Biology I

9-12

Yes

None

Biology I Honors

Accelerated Biology I course with independent projects and research. Recommended before AP Biology. Continues Biology I with focus on plants, anatomy, and physiology, including dissections. Covers atomic structure, periodic trends, bonding, stoichiometry, and lab work.

9, 10

Yes

None

Biology II

10, 11, 12

Biology I

Chemistry I 10, 11, 12

Algebra I

Chemistry I Pre-AP (Honors)

10, 11, 12

Algebra I Follows Chemistry I curriculum with a faster pace and additional enrichment activities.

Studies forces, motion, sound, light, and electricity with strong mathematical emphasis. College-level course covering cytology, genetics, botany, and ecology. AP Exam in spring.

Physics

10, 11, 12

Algebra I

Biology I Pre-AP

AP Biology

9-12

Chemistry I Pre-AP, Chemistry II Pre-AP

AP Chemistry

11, 12

Advanced chemistry course preparing for college-level science and engineering. AP Exam in spring.

Social Studies

Course Name

Grade(s)

Prerequisites

Description

Covers the rise of nation-states in Europe, revolutions, imperialism, world wars, and modern geopolitics, including Tennessee connections. Examines industrialization, wars, social movements, and economic shifts in U.S. history with an emphasis on Tennessee connections. EOC: Yes. Focuses on financial decision-making, budgeting, saving, and investing. FBLA membership is available.

World History & Geography

9-12

None

U.S. History & Geography

11, 12

None

Personal Finance

Must enroll in Economics

U.S. Government & Civics

Covers principles and functions of American government, Tennessee state and local governance, and civic responsibilities.

None

Must enroll in Personal Finance

Studies economic reasoning, market structures, financial institutions, and national/global trade. Introduces human society, culture, diversity, social change, and institutions. Covers psychological methods, social cognition, memory, abnormal behavior, and real-world applications. Focuses on East Tennessee’s history, including Native Americans, Prohibition, and key figures. Writing-intensive course. Examines prehistoric to 1500 AD, including river valley civilizations, Greece, and Rome. College-level survey of U.S. history from exploration to the 20th century. AP Exam required. Covers European history from 1450 to present with thematic analysis and historical skills. AP Exam required. Studies scientific principles of behavior, cognition, and psychological research. AP Exam required. Examines human impact on geography, population patterns, and land use. AP Exam required.

Economics

Sociology

10, 11, 12 None

Psychology Appalachian History

11, 12

None

10, 11, 12 None

Ancient History AP U.S. History

10, 11, 12 None

11, 12

None

AP European History AP Psychology AP Human Geography AP Microeconomi cs AP Macroeconom ics AP U.S. Government

10, 11, 12 None

11, 12

None

9-12

None

Studies individual economic behavior. Online AP course. AP Exam required.

10, 11, 12 Economics

Studies overall economic systems. Online AP course. AP Exam required. Analyzes U.S. political systems, Constitution, and policy-making. AP Exam required.

10, 11, 12 Economics

Government

World Languages

Course

Grade(s)

Prerequisites

Description

Introductory French class covering basic grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Includes Francophone culture. Builds on French I with more complex grammar, expanded vocabulary, and greater focus on comprehension and conversation. Daily conversation practice, skits, and games. Focus on reading, writing, and improving vocabulary and fluency. Includes cultural study. Introduction to Spanish grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and listening comprehension. Focus on present tense and cultural aspects. Continuation of grammar with more vocabulary and drills to enhance application of concepts. Advanced course focusing on reading, composition, and conversation. Includes in-depth study of Spanish literature. Taught primarily in Spanish. Mastery of advanced grammar, comprehension, writing, and speaking to prepare for AP Spanish.

French I

10, 11, 12

None

French II

10, 11, 12

French I

French III

11, 12

French II

Spanish I

10, 11, 12

None

Spanish II

10, 11, 12

Spanish I

Spanish III

11, 12

Spanish II

Spanish I, II, III

Spanish IV AP Spanish Language & Culture

11, 12

Spanish I, II, III

Develops Spanish language skills through real-life materials like newspaper articles, films, music, and books.

11, 12

Fine Arts

Course

Grade(s) Prerequisites

Description

For students not pursuing advanced music coursework. Covers basic music structures, genres, and musical theater. No public performance required. Fulfills (1) Fine Art credit. Continuation of General Music I; further exploration of basic music structures. No public performance required. Fulfills (1) Fine Art credit. Covers the history of music. No public performance required. Fulfills (1) Fine Art credit.

General Music I

9-12

None

General Music II

10, 11, 12 General Music I

Music History

9-12

None

One semester of chorus, band, or piano

Music Theory & Harmony 10, 11, 12

For students planning music careers. Covers music theory, reading/writing music, chord structures, and analysis.

Chorus I (Concert Choir)

For students interested in singing and reading music in a co-ed setting. Requires vocal performances. Repeatable for credit. For male students (beginner or with one semester of experience). Involves learning to read music and public performances. Repeatable for credit. For female students (beginner or with one semester of experience). Involves learning to read music and public performances. Repeatable for credit. Students arrange and perform music without instruments. Includes various public performances. Repeatable for credit. For students who pass auditions. Requires public performances. Repeatable for credit. Develops basic or advanced piano skills. Covers musical notation, theory, and individual/group instruction. Performs at football games, community events, competitions, and parades. Requires summer band camp. Performs at football games, community events, competitions, and parades. Requires summer band camp. Visual unit of the marching band, focusing on flag/weapon techniques and dance. Requires summer band camp. Continuation of Fall Colorguard, participating in competitions and performances. Requires summer band camp. Requires audition. Students perform at football games, competitions, and community events. Requires summer band camp. Students perform in concerts and community events, learning percussion techniques and world music.

9-12

None

Chorus II (Men’s Ensemble) Chorus III (Women’s Ensemble)

9-12

None

9-12

None

Chorus IV (A Capella) Chorus IV - Advanced Women's Choir

10, 11, 12 Tryout required

Audition required

9-12

Piano

9-12

None

Band - Marching Band

9-12

None

Band - Concert Band

9-12

None

Colorguard (Fall) Colorguard (Spring) Percussion (Fall) Percussion (Spring)

9-12

None

9-12

None

9-12

None

9-12

None

Theater I, Choir, or Band preferred

Musical Theater

Teaches acting, singing, and dancing for a Broadway-style production. Public performance required.

10, 11, 12

Theater I (Beginning Acting) Theater II (Beginning Technical

Introduces acting techniques for theater scenes and includes a full-length play performance.

9-12

None

Covers technical theater aspects like lighting, sound, stage management, and set construction.

9-12

None

Theater) Theater III (Advanced Technical Theater) Theater IV (Advanced Acting)

Theater II, CTE Construction, or CTE A/V Course

Continuation of Theater II. Students handle set, costume, and prop design for productions. Includes hands-on construction and technical work. Advanced acting course focused on scene study, script analysis, and improvisation. Requires performances. Covers basic art history, perspective, shading, color theory, and academic art techniques. Advanced art course for self-motivated students. Covers independent studies in drawing, painting, and design. For students pursuing art careers. Focuses on acrylics, pastels, watercolors, sculpture, and colored pencils. College-level course covering music theory, reading, composition, and analysis. Includes AP Exam in the spring. Focuses on drawing techniques, materials, and artistic processes. Includes AP Exam in the spring.

10, 11, 12

Theater I or Musical Theater

10, 11, 12

Visual Art I

9-12

None

Visual Art II

9-12

Visual Art I

Visual Art III 10, 11, 12 Visual Art II

AP Music Theory

11, 12

None

AP Studio Art: Drawing

Teacher recommendation

11, 12

AP Studio Art: 2-D Design AP Studio Art: 3-D Design

Teacher recommendation

Covers 2-D design principles through practice and experimentation. Includes AP Exam in the spring.

11, 12

Teacher recommendation

Explores 3-D artistic media, materials, and design processes. Includes AP Exam in the spring.

11, 12

Physical Education, Health, & Wellness

Course

Grade(s) Prerequisites

Description

Required for all freshmen; develops positive lifestyle management integrating emotional, social, intellectual, and physical well-being. Covers mental health, nutrition, substance use/abuse, sexuality, family life, safety, first aid, and personal fitness. Introductory physical education course covering stretching, warm-ups, conditioning, individual and team sports. Includes indoor and outdoor games to improve physical fitness. Students must change clothes daily. Elective PE class focused on strength and weight training. Students create personalized workout plans monitored by teachers. Open to all students.

Lifetime Wellness

None

PE 1 - General

10, 11, 12

None

PE 4 - Weights & Conditioning (General)

10, 11, 12

None

PE 4 - Weights & Conditioning (Athlete)

Must be an athlete on a WRHS Athletic Team

Elective PE class for athletes focused on strength and weight training. Students create personalized workout plans monitored by teachers. Open to students in WRHS athletic programs.

9, 10, 11, 12

Air Force JROTC

Course

Grade(s)

Prerequisites

Description

Instills values of citizenship, service, personal responsibility, and accomplishment. Expands on ROTC 1; introduces basic principles and theories of leadership. Quality citizenship, character, and leadership development program; fosters partnerships and relationships. Continues increasing knowledge of Air Force history; develops citizenship, character, and leadership. Continues increasing knowledge of Air Force history; develops citizenship, character, and leadership. Continues increasing knowledge of Air Force history; develops citizenship, character, and leadership. Continues increasing knowledge of Air Force history; develops citizenship, character, and leadership. Continues increasing knowledge of Air Force history; develops citizenship, character, and leadership.

ROTC 1

9-12

None

ROTC 2

9-12

None

ROTC 3

9-12

None

ROTC 4

9-12

None

ROTC 5

9-12

None

ROTC 6

9-12

None

ROTC 7

9-12

None

ROTC 8

9-12

None

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS

Credits Required

Subject

Course

Honors Option

EPSO Opportunity

English 9

Pre-AP English 9

English 10

Pre-AP English 9

AP Seminar AP Language AP Literature

English 11

English

AP Research AP Language AP Literature DE Comp. 1 and/or 2

English 12

Algebra 1

Pre-AP Algebra 1

Algebra 2

Pre-AP Algebra 2

Geometry

Pre-AP Geometry

Math

Mathematical Reasoning and Decision Making Advanced Alg. Trig Statistics

AP Statistics AP Pre-Calculus AP Calculus AB/BC

Upper Level Math

DE Statistics DE Calculus

Biology 1

Pre-AP Biology

Chemistry 1 OR Physics Additional Lab Science World History & Geography U.S. History & Geography Personal Finance (0.5 credit) Economics (0.5 credit) U.S. Government

AP Chemistry AP Physics 1

Chemistry 2 Honors Biology 2 Honors Anatomy and Physiology

Science

AP Biology AP Environmental Science

AP Human Geography

AP US History DE History 1 and/or2 AP Micro/Macroeconomics DE Micro/Macroeconomics

Social Studies

AP Government

Fine Art

Visual Art

AP Studio Drawing

General Music

Chorus Piano Marching Band (Fall) Concert Band (Spring) Percussion-Batter y (Fall) Percussion-Front Ensemble (Fall) Percussion Ensemble (Spring Semester) Digital Arts 1 Floral Design and Operations Theater Arts 1 or 2 Spanish 1 AND Spanish 2

DE Intro. Theater

Honors Spanish

AP Spanish DE Spanish

World Language

or French 1 AND French 2

Lifetime Wellness or 2 JROTC classes PE 1 or 4 or 3 JROTC classes or 2 Fall semester Band/Percussion/ Color Guard classes

Lifetime Wellness

3 (in the

CTE

Elective Focus

same focus area)

AP Psychology DE Psychology DE Speech

Humanities

Math/Science

Fine Arts

JROTC

Any class not meeting a graduation requirement

Electives

Total Required Credits: 28

Tests Required for Graduati on

ACT

Civics Test

EARLY POST-SECONDARY OPPORTUNITIES (All AP and CLEP College Credit Equivalencies) EPSO_Equivalency_Table ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) (audio overview) The Value of Advanced Placement (AP) Courses.wav

What is the AP Program? The Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a curriculum offered by the College Board that provides college-level courses and exams for high school students. This resource will explore the benefits of participating in AP courses, their impact on college readiness, and how they can shape a student's academic future. These rigorous, college-level courses that high school students can take which culminate in standardized exams that, if passed with satisfactory scores, can earn students college credit or advanced placement at many universities.

Benefits of Taking AP Courses

1. Earning College Credit and Placement One of the most significant advantages of AP courses is the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. This can provide students with a head start in their college careers. Example: A student who scores well on the AP Biology exam might be able to skip introductory biology (biology for non-majors) courses in college, allowing them to move directly into more advanced coursework. 2. Financial and Time Savings ● By earning college credits in high school, students can potentially: ● Reduce the number of courses needed to graduate college ● Graduate early from college ● Have more flexibility in their college schedule Example: If a student enters college with 15 AP credits (equivalent to one semester), they could potentially graduate a semester early, saving thousands of dollars in tuition and living expenses. 3. Strengthening College Applications Colleges often view AP courses favorably in the admissions process. Taking AP courses demonstrates: ● Academic rigor

● Willingness to challenge oneself ● Preparation for college-level work

Example: A student applying to competitive universities might stand out by having taken multiple AP courses, showing their ability to handle challenging coursework. 4. Developing College-Ready Skills AP courses help students develop crucial skills needed for success in college: ● Time management

● Critical thinking ● Scholarly writing ● In-depth subject knowledge

Example: The research paper required in AP English Literature and Composition can help students prepare for the type of writing assignments they'll encounter in college humanities courses. 5. Exploring Academic Interests AP courses allow students to delve deeper into subjects they're passionate about, potentially influencing their choice of college major or career path. Example: A student who excels in AP Computer Science might discover a passion for programming, leading them to pursue a computer science degree in college. Impact on College Success Research has consistently shown that students who take AP courses are generally better prepared for college, regardless of their exam scores. AP students are more likely to:

● Enroll in college ● Persist in college ● Perform well in college courses ● Graduate on time

Example: A study by the College Board found that students who took AP exams were more likely to graduate college within four years compared to those who didn't take AP exams, even when controlling for academic ability and background. Conclusion The AP Program offers high school students a valuable opportunity to challenge themselves academically, earn college credit, and develop skills crucial for college success. While the program is rigorous, the potential benefits in terms of college readiness, academic exploration, and future opportunities make it a worthwhile consideration for many students.

SUGGESTED AP COURSE SEQUENCES

(audio overview of AP Pathways) AP Program Pathways_ Grades 9-12.wav

As of 2023-24, students have 19 AP course options . This can be overwhelming for rising freshmen during the four-year planning process as well as for upperclassmen considering taking AP for the first time. Whether you are a student striving to attain an AP Capstone Diploma or a student with an interest in a specific topic of study (such as science), below are OPTIONS to consider as you plan your course selections for the academic year. One of the best ways to work AP courses into your schedule is to take AP courses that fulfill graduation requirements. Talking with your family, teachers, and counselor will help you make the best choice of AP courses to meet your future goals. Another resource for exploring AP courses that are right for you is Map Out Your Journey with AP from the College Board. Remember, any student at any grade may take an AP course if he/she has met the prerequisites (see course description).

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