Class of 2021 Course Registration Information It’s that time of year again to start planning for the next school year! The course request process is much different and involved at the high school level than the middle school level, so it’s really important that you read this information as well as the new curriculum guide, curriculum highlights, and due dates and deadlines found on the 17-18 School Year Info page on the Portal. Please take a look at: • 2017-2018 High School Curriculum Guide • Independent Study Application Form … and more! We hope that you enjoy exploring the new curriculum guides, important dates and deadlines, and curriculum highlights! Important Dates and Deadlines January 31
High School Curriculum Guide published
February 3
AP Recommendations deadline
February 10
College Advancement Program Update letter distributed at Parent-Teacher Conferences
February 14- March 3
Incoming 9th-12th grade students meet with academic staff
March 2
Independent Study Applications due
March 8
Signed Course Request List due
May 31
Summer Reading and Assignments published on portals
May 31
Textbook List published on portals
June 1& 2
Book Buyback and Donations
July 17
Student schedules posted to PowerSchool
August 8 & 9
Computer Registration and Add/Drop period for Upper School
Graduation Requirements and Academic Policies Graduation Requirements for the Class of 2021 English
4
Math
3
Physical Education
2½
Religious Studies
1
Science
3
Social Sciences
4
Performing/Visual Arts
1
World Languages
3 (consecutive years in HS) or up to level IV
Independent Research
½
Minimum Course Requirements and Academic Policies: • Year-long course=1 credit; Semester-long course=½ credit • Minimum of 24 credits required to graduate • You will be assigned to at least 5 academic core classes in English, Math, Science, Social Sciences, and World Languages. • All sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be enrolled in our Priory in the City Program. • Typical course load is 7 credits (5 credits of core classes; 2 credits of elective classes). • If you would like to add more than 7 credits to your course load, you may fill in the Add/Drop form on the Portal. We will consider these requests in mid- to late-July once the schedule has been built. • • •
You may earn Honors Distinction for certain courses. Check the curriculum guide for details. If you are contemplating playing a sport at the junior varsity or varsity level for JV/Varsity PE credit, you MUST check in with the Athletic Director for relevant forms before your season starts. You will be assigned 1 Study Hall period per semester. You may be released from Study Hall if you make Honor Roll at the end of Quarter 2.
Typical non-core, required courses for Freshmen: • Fitness for Life • •
Health Practical Theology
Tips on selecting your courses: • • •
•
Think about what you want your high school transcript to say about you to the college admissions committee. Balance required courses and elective courses. Please keep track of whether or not you’re fulfilling your graduation requirements as you request your courses. Fill out your Course Registration Worksheet, up to 7 credits. • Rank your requested courses in order of preference and importance to you on the worksheet. • Make sure you have alternates listed for graduation requirements. • Consider taking HPU courses through our College Advancement Office. See Mrs. Chung for more information. Fill out your Curriculum and Student Activities Planning Guide. Please use this sheet to guide your request for courses so that you can balance your academic life with your other responsibilities.
Differences between MS and HS Bell Schedule: Middle School
High School
No 0-period
Yes 0-period
Activity period after lunch
Activity period before lunch
Middle School workshop
No MS Workshop, just Study Hall
Of note: • Independent Research and Independent Study Interested in designing your own learning experiences with a faculty mentor by your side so you can personalize your schedule? Then apply for Independent Research (Gr. 10-12) or Independent Study (Gr. 9-12)! Examples of student-designed courses include: • Designing and constructing a vertical plant tower • Taking yourself through an online AP Computer Science course to prepare for the A.P. exam • Designing and making your own outfits à la Harajuku Fashion • Painting a dream using Surrealism techniques • Learning about the Hōkūleʻa and Star Navigation • Learning about the history and importance of surfing to the Hawaiian people Applications are due March 2! •
Global Leadership Distinction: If you’re a compassionate leader who cares deeply about the world and want to make it a better place, then earn Global Leadership Distinction, which will be noted on your high school transcript. Explore the 17-18 High School Curriculum Guide for eligibility details.