Prince William County Public Schools

Make the Most of PWCS' High School Program

Making the transition to high school is an exciting and challenging time for students and their families. There are many options to choose from and a number of requirements to meet. In Prince William County Public Schools, we believe that all students should have a rigorous educational experience based on curriculum that builds on what students have learned at home, in our community, and at school. The high school experience is designed to prepare students for future employment, further study at the college and university level, and to be effective citizens in our local, national, and global community. It consists of high-quality diploma options, a wide choice of specialty programs, core required coursework, an array of elective offerings, and non-traditional options for earning credits. While academic programs form the core of our high school program, it is also important to take advantage of the many opportunities to participate in the rich extracurricular programs at all of our high schools.

Where Do I Start?

Select the diploma type you wish to earn. Students entering the 9th grade are strongly encouraged to consider the Advanced Studies Diploma option to maintain the greatest number of options as they progress through their high school career. School counseling services provide regular opportunities for families to evaluate student progress toward diploma requirements and to make adjustments to the type of diploma selected. All PWCS high schools provide diplomas and certificates to meet the needs of students with different interests and needs.

The purpose of this course description catalog is to describe in general terms the courses taught in Prince William County Public Schools' high schools, grades 9-12. Students should study this course catalog and consult with their parent/guardian, school counselors, and teachers in planning their individual program of study. It is the responsibility of each student and his/her family to ensure that requirements for an Advanced Studies Diploma or a Standard Diploma are met. Graduation requirements are based on the year a student first enters 9th grade. School counselors can help with planning by reviewing test scores and records of past achievements and by discussing current interests and long-term goals. School counselors also have up-to-date information available about various training programs, schools, colleges, universities, and employment possibilities. School counselors review graduation requirements with students annually, and the school counseling staff at each school is available to assist you. Please work closely with your school counselor in making academic planning decisions.

Academic Year

The state requires that the regular academic year is at least 180 days, divided into two semesters. Courses are generally one year in length, and students receive a final grade and one standard unit of credit at the end of the school year for each course successfully completed. Some courses; however, are individually designed for one semester only. A one-semester course receives one-half credit, upon successful completion.

Registration

Courses listed will be included in the curriculum for the 2023-24 school year if there is sufficient enrollment and available staff. Grade levels listed for courses indicate the grade(s) in which the course is normally taken. All students will be expected to maintain a full-day schedule of classes required to meet the minimum standards necessary for graduation and Virginia Board of Education regulations.

All courses described may not be offered at all schools due to staffing and/or enrollment limitations. School counselors will work very closely with students and parents/guardians to develop academic plans where appropriate substitutions can be made for courses not offered.

Placement/Promotion Procedure

Recommendations concerning instructional placement of students are the responsibility of the teacher and other professional staff directly involved with the students. The final decision concerning placement, however, rests with the principal. Promotion at the high school level is based on the following guidelines:

• Students who are promoted from grade 8 will be placed in grade 9.
• Students in high school progress toward graduation on a course-by-course basis. Students take courses based upon academic performance, academic needs, graduation requirements, and previous credits earned.
• Graduation requirements for students shall be those in effect at the time the student entered the 9th grade for the first time.

The requirements for membership in grades 9-12 are as follows:

Course Requirements

All students, regardless of the diploma type or specialty program selected, will have to complete a set of required core classes in mathematics, science, social studies, English/language arts, physical education, and other subjects. The Standard (prior to 2018-19), Advanced Studies (prior to 2018-19), Standard (after 2018-19), and Advanced Studies (after 2018-19) Diploma Charts are designed to help students see what required courses must be completed for each diploma type. Some specialty programs offer courses which may be substituted for required classes. Students and their families need to work closely with their school counselor to explore their available course options.

Specialty Programs

Specialty programs allow for career exploration, subject area concentration, and college/university preparation. Prince William County Public Schools provide excellent opportunities for students to explore a wide variety of special programs. These "specialty" programs give students the chance to investigate careers ranging from the various building trades to advanced computer science. Students participating in these programs can earn certifications, licenses, or other professional credentials in an area of study.

In addition to career exploration and concentrated study in fields of interest, all our high schools provide rigorous college preparation through the College Board's Advanced Placement (AP) courses, the IB, or the Cambridge Programme. All three of these programs offer students the possibility of earning college credit for courses completed while in high school. There are also Dual Enrollment and Early Online College courses available to students in PWCS.

Families can explore the wide range of options available in their neighborhood high school program or consider one of the many options presented at our specialty program fairs and information nights held annually across the county. You can contact the counseling office of any high school for more information about programs of particular interest to you. Be sure to visit the Prince William County Public Schools website for information concerning transfer policies and application deadlines.

Electives

In addition to the core course requirements and specialty programs, all PWCS high schools offer elective course options which extend and enrich the curriculum, and challenge students. Students may choose these electives to customize their educational experience to meet their interests. Some examples are: advanced physical education, journalism, theatre, geography, astronomy, international relations, and many more. Speak with your school counselor to learn about the offerings available at your school.

Ways to Earn Credit

Traditional Classroom

The vast majority of students experience Prince William County Public Schools through the traditional classroom environment where face-to-face collaboration leads to a deep construction of knowledge with our excellent teaching staff. The classroom environment provides the greatest potential for student interaction. It also creates the opportunity to form lifelong friendships with their classmates over an entire school year.

Evening School

A limited number of core and elective courses are available in the evenings during the fall and spring semesters. These are courses required for graduation. Course availability is subject to sufficient course requests. Courses are typically 15 weeks in length and taught by certified content teachers. In-person attendance is mandatory. See your school counselor for a registration form and further information about the Evening School program.

Summer School

PWCS also offers select courses over the summer. The Summer School program allows students to accelerate the completion of required coursework by allowing students to add an extra course that won't fit into their normal day schedule of classes. Other students retake repeat coursework for a better grade and/or G.P.A. All students taking a summer school course that requires an end-of-course SOL test, must take the SOL test scheduled during summer school, unless the student has already passed the test. Students who have not passed a state assessment may be required to enroll in available summer remediation programs. An optional summer tutoring program is available to students who have passed a course and received a Carnegie credit but have not earned a verified credit due to failing the corresponding end-of-course SOL test. Summer school courses not taken in PWCS must meet the requirements as outlined in Regulation 722-3. See your school counselor for more information about the Summer School program.

Alternative Methods for Granting Standard Units of Credit

In some instances, currently enrolled students find it necessary to look for other options to earn a standard unit of credit. Students seeking to earn high school credits from educational institutions outside Prince William County Public Schools or the Virtual Virginia program must request permission to take the course. Credit will only be awarded for the course if permission is granted by the Student Learning Department prior to course enrollment. See your school counselor for more information about alternative options for earning standard units of credit.

Nontraditional Education

Independence Nontraditional School (grades K-12)

Independence Nontraditional School offers students in grades K-12 a comprehensive instructional program that merges leadership, career, and social skills necessary for success in the 21st century with existing Prince William County Public Schools curricula. Students can expect a rigorous curriculum which promotes the development of academic resilience, social responsibility, and self-respect. The innovative education environment provides flexible learning opportunities to support student success. Day and evening programs are offered. Age-appropriate interventions that address effective and affective development, second language acquisition, and special needs are provided in an inclusive manner.

Students are recommended for placement by school administrators, parents/guardians, or the Student Management and Alternative Programs Department. A nontraditional education plan for each student designed collaboratively by Independence Nontraditional staff, parents/guardians, and the student ensures each student meets his/her educational and graduation goals. Multiple instructional options support seamless student transitions to additional academic, extracurricular, and service-learning opportunities.

Individual Student Alternative Education Plan (ISAEP)

The Individual Student Alternative Education Plan (ISAEP) is a program offered through the Virginia Department of Education, which provides students between the ages of 16-17 years old who are at risk of dropping out of school, an opportunity to work toward a General Educational Development (GED) certificate while developing a vocational or career skill. Students must be referred to the program by the school counseling office, with the permission of the parents/guardians, and must meet the eligibility criteria to be admitted to the program. The ISAEP will only be considered for students after all measures to maintain students in a traditional diploma program have been exhausted. Contact the school counseling office for more information regarding the program.

General Information

Grade-Point Values: All courses taught for credit in Prince William County Public Schools are assigned grade-point values as follows:

Standard Diploma

22 Standard Credits, 6 Verified Credits: Students who enter 9th grade prior to 2018-19

Advanced Studies Diploma

26 Standard Credits, 9 Verified Credits: Students who enter 9th grade prior to 2018-19

Standard Diploma

22 Standard Credits, 5 Verified Credits: Students who enter 9th grade in 2018-19 and beyond

Advanced Studies Diploma

26 Standard Credits, 5 Verified Credits: Students who enter 9th grade in 2018-19 and beyond

Graduation Requirements

Diploma Options for students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan

Students with disabilities who have an IEP or 504 plan are encouraged to pursue the Advanced Studies or Standard Diploma. The IEP or 504 team will work with students and their families to determine the appropriate individual path to graduation for the student.

Credit Accommodations

Students entering 9th grade for the first time in 2013-14 and beyond are eligible to pursue an Advanced Studies Diploma, Standard Diploma, or Applied Studies Diploma. These students who would have previously been candidates for the Modified Standard Diploma may use credit accommodations to earn the Standard Diploma if they meet the following eligibility requirements (i) the student has a current IEP or 504 plan with standards-based content goals; (ii) the student has a disability that precludes him or her from achieving and progressing commensurate with grade level expectation, but is learning grade level content; (iii) the student needs significant instructional supports to access grade level Standards of Learning (SOL) content and to show progress; and (iv) based on multiple objective measures of past performance, student might not be expected to achieve the required standard and verified units of credit within the standard time frame. Credit accommodations shall be determined and documented by the student's IEP team or 504 plan committee, including the student where appropriate, at any point after the student's eighth grade year.

Applied Studies Diploma (For students with an IEP)

Courses Needed: Students with disabilities who complete the requirements of their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and do not meet the requirements for other diplomas shall be awarded the Applied Studies Diploma.

Transition Services (For students with an IEP)*

Realizing successful post-secondary outcomes is a goal PWCS has for all students. Depending on the severity of disability and the support services required in adult life, successful transition from high school to adult life may require that planning activities begin in elementary school with students exploring their interests in middle school. Starting the process early prepares students with disabilities to think about what they want to be able to do in adult life. High school transition planning includes exploring post-secondary opportunities and employment options and may include connecting with the adult service agencies that may provide the student with services.

Statement of Needed Transition Services - beginning no later than the first IEP developed when the eligible student is 14.

Recognizing the need for students with disabilities to engage in effective transition planning, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that transition planning be part of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Beginning no later than the first IEP developed when the eligible student is 14, the Team considers the student's need for transition services and documents this discussion. If appropriate, the IEP includes a statement of needed transition services. Such documentation must be reviewed and updated annually thereafter. Students must be invited to all meetings and allowed to participate actively when transition planning is discussed and are encouraged to actively participate.

Linkages to Post School Options - beginning no later than the first IEP developed when the eligible student is 14 and update annually.

Beginning no later than the first IEP developed when the eligible student is 14, the IEP's of students should include a post school vision statement as well as identify the transition services necessary to support the vision. IDEA 2004 defines transition services as a coordinated set of activities for a student with a disability that -

1. Is designed to be within a results-oriented process, that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement of the student with a disability to facilitate the student's movement from school to post-school activities, including post-secondary education, vocational education, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation;
2. Is based on individual strengths, preferences and interest; and
3. Includes instruction, related services, community experiences, the development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives, and when appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation. (P.L. 108-446, Sec 603 (34))

Transfer Students

Students who transfer to a Prince William County Public School from a public school system within the state of Virginia must meet all graduation requirements set forth by the Virginia Department of Education. Students who transfer to a Prince William County Public School from a private or out-of-state school will work with their school counselor to make an individualized graduation plan that allows the student some flexibility in meeting graduation requirements as set forth by the Virginia Department of Education. Students who enroll during the school year after the first 20 hours of instruction will be required to meet the following verified unit of credit requirements for graduation:

Diploma Warranty

Diploma Seal

Regulations Establishing Standards for Accrediting Public Schools in Virginia contain provisions for awards for exemplary performance for students who meet the requirements for graduation as follows:

• Students who complete the requirements for an Advanced Studies Diploma with an average grade of "B" or better and successfully complete college-level coursework that will earn the student at least nine transferable college credits in Advanced Placement (AP), IB (IB), Cambridge (AICE), or dual enrollment courses will receive the Governor's Seal on the Diploma.
• Students who complete the requirements for a Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma with an average of "A" will receive a Board of Education Seal on the Diploma.
• The Board of Education's Career and Technical Education Seal will be awarded to students who earn a Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma, complete a prescribed sequence of Career and Technical Education courses, and either:
  • Maintain a "B" or better average in those courses; or
  • Pass one of the Virginia Department of Education approved industry certifications, occupational competency assessments, or professional licenses. See your school counselor for a list of approved industry certifications.
• Board of Education's Diploma Seal for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) will be awarded to students who:
  • Earn either a Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma.
  • Satisfy all Math and Science requirements for the Advanced Studies Diploma with a "B" average or better in all course work.
  • Successfully complete a 50 hour or more work-based learning opportunity in a STEM area.
  • Satisfy all requirements for a Career and Technical Education concentration. A concentration is a coherent sequence of two or more state-approved courses as identified in the course listing within the CTE Administrative Planning Guide.
  • Pass one of the following:
    • A Board of Education CTE STEM-H credential examination; or
    • An examination approved by the Board that confers a college-level credit in a STEM field.
• The Board of Education Seal of Advanced Mathematics and Technology (available for students entering high school prior to 2018-19) awarded to students who earn a Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma and satisfy all of the mathematics requirements for the Advanced Studies Diploma (four standard units of credit including Algebra II; two verified units of credit) with a "B" average or better and either (i) pass an examination in a career and technical education field that confers certification from a recognized industry, trade, or professional association; or (ii) acquire a professional license in a career and technical education field from the Commonwealth of Virginia; or (iii) pass an examination approved by the Board that confers college-level credit in a technology or computer science area. The Board of Education shall approve all professional licenses and examinations used to satisfy these requirements.
• The Board of Education's Seal for Excellence in Civics Education will be awarded to students who earn a Modified Standard Diploma, Standard Diploma or an Advanced Studies Diploma and satisfy all of the following criteria: (i) complete U.S. and Virginia History and U.S. and Virginia Government with a grade of "B" or higher; (ii) complete 50 hours of voluntary participation in community service or extracurricular activities that have a civics focus; and (iii) have good attendance and no disciplinary infractions. Any student who enlists in the United States military prior to graduation will be deemed to have completed the community service requirement for this seal.
• The Board of Education's Seal of Biliteracy will be awarded to students who earn a Board of Education-approved diploma and (i) pass all required End-of-Course Assessments in English reading and writing at the proficient or higher level; and (ii) be proficient at the intermediate-mid level or higher in one or more languages other than English, as demonstrated through an assessment from a list to be approved by the Superintendent of Public Instruction. For purposes of this seal, "foreign language" means a language other than English, and includes American Sign Language.
• The Board of Education's Seal for Excellence in Science and the Environment is awarded to students who enter the 9th grade for the first time in the 2018-19 year and thereafter, and meet each of the following criteria:
  • Earn either a Standard or Advanced Studies Diploma.
  • Complete at least three different first-level board-approved laboratory science courses and at least one rigorous advanced-level or postsecondary-level laboratory science course, each with a grade of "B" or higher.
  • Complete laboratory or field-science research and present that research in a formal, juried setting.
  • Complete at least 50 hours of voluntary participation in community service or extracurricular activities that involve the application of science such as environmental monitoring, protection, management, or restoration.

"Ready to Go" Checklist

Dual Enrollment Opportunities for Students

How Can My High School Course Work Earn Me College Credit?

Students may take dual enrollment courses as "contract dual enrollment" by attending their community college classes on PWCS high school campuses and receiving instruction from PWCS teachers who are authorized to teach dual enrollment courses by sponsoring college/university.

Students may also take "on campus" courses at the community college for dual enrollment credit for those courses identified in the division's annual list of published dual enrollment offerings.

Students wishing to take courses not included in the division's list of dual enrollment course offerings may take "college credit only" offerings with a sponsoring college/university.

In all cases, students must meet the entrance requirements of the sponsoring college/university and have their principal's permission to enroll in courses offered for college credit with those schools the division has partnered with for these opportunities.

Information for all Virginia public four-year colleges can be found at www.schev.edu/students/preparing-for-college/credit-for-ap-ib-cambridge-and-clep-exams

Why Should I Take Advanced Course Work During High School?