2016 Parent University
- 3. Welcome Parents of the Class of 2020! Your child will need you more than ever . . . to be a great . . . to be . . . to be . . . to be . . . ~2,300 students on the largest physical campus can be daunting but we are here to make it the best experience possible & help every student find a personal connection! “We all walk across the stage in May of 2020”
- 6. The first and last thing you own in your life is your education • AP Calculus AB • AP Calculus BC • AP Statistics • AP Macroeconomics • AP US History • AP Psychology • AP Human Geography • AP World History • AP American Government/Politics: US • AP Spanish Language • AP Studio Art: Drawing • AP Studio Art: 2‐D Design • AP Music Theory • AP Language • AP Literature • AP Principles of Computer Science ‐NEW • AP Calculus AB • AP Calculus BC • AP Statistics • AP Macroeconomics • AP US History • AP Psychology • AP Human Geography • AP World History • AP American Government/Politics: US • AP Spanish Language • AP Studio Art: Drawing • AP Studio Art: 2‐D Design • AP Music Theory • AP Language • AP Literature • AP Principles of Computer Science ‐NEW
- 7. Etowah’s Advanced Placement Programs are AWESOME! Etowah • Offers 23 College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Courses • Has added 10 new AP courses over the past five years • Has 28.6% of students who are taking AP courses this year. • Has maintained an average 85% exam pass rate. (State average: 56% and Global average: 61%.) • Increased the number of students taking AP classes by 41%. • Increased the number of AP exams taken by 46% • Increased the number of AP Scholars every year for 5 years running. • Recognizes 532 AP Scholar Awards from 2011 – 2015 in the new EHS AP Hall of Fame. • Is academically ranked in the Top 11% nationally with 5 straight years as one of America’s Most Challenging Schools
- 8. Can 9th graders take an AP course & did they have to be in AIM? • Yes! – AP Human Geography is offered to all grade levels • No – AIM/Gifted in not required – High IQ helps but I Will is even better! • EVERY student can take at least one honors or AP course while at Etowah! • Why bother taking tough classes? Etowah graduates are the least likely to need remedial courses at college – 5.4% of the class of 2014 required ELA or Math remedial courses Etowah students are more likely to graduate early or on time from college Etowah students spend less money on tuition due to the amount of AP course they transfer Etowah has the most collegiate academic and athletic scholarship money earned in CCSD over the past 5 years (Over $19.8 million not including HOPE) • Related factor: 55% of the Class of 2015 was HOPE Eligible! GO EAGLES!
- 9. By 2020, 60% of jobs in Georgia Will require a postsecondary degree Start with the end in mind Identify strengths & weaknesses S T R E T C H . . .not impale! Buy, don’t rent
- 10. 9th Grade Course Comparison Honors classes at high school: • Progress at a faster pace • Cover more in‐depth curriculum • Require more student work (inside and outside the classroom) • Are significantly more rigorous than middle school advanced classes
- 11. 9th Grade Lit vs. Honors Lit 9th Literature • 4‐5 large literary works • Reading a primary piece and supporting pieces separately • Writing/ analysis • Presentations • Research 9th Honors Literature • 9‐10 large literary works • Reading a primary and supportive pieces simultaneously • Increased writing/analysis • Increased outside readings • Presentations • Research
- 12. Biology vs. Honors Biology Biology • Standards based instruction with emphasis on vocabulary • Labs • Write informal lab reports • Projects • Classwork • Homework Honors Biology • Standards based instruction emphasizing application of knowledge & vocabulary • One lab per week minimum • Write informal lab and formal lab reports • Independent projects • Writing activities • Increased homework
- 13. • STUDENTS WHO ARE BORED or OVERTASKED, OVER‐TIRED, AND OVERDONE ARE . . . NO FUN Learn less More likely to be absent Will live in your basement at 35 years old eating & playing video games!
- 15. High School Attendance Lyn Turnell EHS Assistant Principal Special Education Administrator
- 16. 10 Characteristics of a Great Etowah Student 1. A great student.....ASKS QUESTIONS. It is truly the only way a teacher knows whether you really understand something. 2. A great student is a.....HARD WORKER. The hardest working students will ultimately be the most successful in life! 3. A great student is....INVOLVED. Being involved in the classroom and in extra‐curricular activities can help a student gain confidence which can improve academic success! 4. A great student is a.....LEADER. For some, leadership skills are innate, but for others...not so much. The good news is that these skills can be developed over time! 5. A great student is.....MOTIVATED. The best students are the ones that are motivated to be successful, because they want to be at school, they want to learn, and they want to succeed!
- 17. 6. A great student is a.....PROBLEM SOLVER. The world is becoming more complex every day and those students that are able to think critically and solve problems for themselves will be more prepared to face the challenges of the future! 7. A great student.....SEIZES OPPORTUNITIES. The best students take advantage of the opportunities they are afforded and value the education that they have an opportunity to receive. 8. A great student is a.....SOLID CITIZEN. Students who are well behaved and follow the rules and procedures have a better chance at maximizing their learning potential, as well as being more likely to learn more than their counterparts! 9. A great student has a.....SUPPORT SYSTEM. Behind every great student is someone that took the time to care! 10. A great student is.....TRUSTWORTHY. Being trustworthy is a quality that will endear you not only to your teachers, but also to your classmates!
- 21. Excused Absences As permitted under state law and State Board of Education policies, a student’s absence, tardy or early checkout may be excused for the following reasons: A. personal illness and when attendance in school would endanger their health or the health of others B. serious illness or death of an immediate family member C. mandated by order of governmental agencies, including pre‐induction physical examinations for service in the armed forces, or by a court order D. recognized religious holidays E. conditions that render attendance impossible or hazardous to one’s health or safety F. registering to vote or voting, for a period not to exceed one day G. parent/guardian military deployment per guidelines Excuses for absences will be provided by the parent/guardian in writing within 5 days of the student returns to school, and will contain the student’s name, date of the absence, reason for the absence, and the signature of the parent/guardian.
- 23. A Certificate of Enrollment is required in order for a student to receive a learner or driving permit. The requests for these certificates are submitted to room 3106 and require 24 hours to process. They are valid for 30 days from time of issuance except at the end of the school year when they are valid for the entire summer break.
- 24. Administrators and Counselors • Keith Ball, Principal • Lyn Turnell, Administrator ‐ Special Education and Section 504 – Lisa Shull, Counselor, Alphabet H ‐ L • Dan Snipes, Administrator ‐ Career Technical and Agricultural Education – Michele Dowd, Counselor, Alphabet M ‐ R • Bob Van Alstyne, Administrator ‐ Athletic Director, RTI – Whitney Morberg, Counselor, Alphabet A ‐ C • Amanda Ruiz, Administrator ‐ Curriculum and Student Services – Amanda Findlay, Counselor, Alphabet D ‐ G • Matthew May, Teacher on Special Assignment – Kelly Brangan, Lead Counselor, Alphabet S ‐ Z
- 25. Student Services & Counseling Dr. Amanda Ruiz EHS Assistant Principal Curriculum Director Ms. Lisa Shull Counselor
- 26. Student Services • Counseling • Enrollment & Withdrawals • Scheduling • Testing • Transcripts • Credit Recovery • Letters of Recommendation
- 27. • Classes are divided into two semesters • Each course is worth .5 unit of credit • A student will take 6 classes each semester • Credit is issued at the end of each semester (December & May) • Students must earn 23 units to graduate Grades and credits
- 29. Advice • Stay “on top” of assignments from the beginning • Complete your homework • Use some type of organization system • ASK for help
- 30. Tutoring Opportunities for Freshmen Before/After School Tutoring ‐ schedules are posted on each teacher’s ASPEN page and/or are available upon request. Academic Saturday School tutoring ‐ most Saturdays from 8:00 AM to noon. Mandatory Lunchtime Tutoring ‐ for students with less than 74% in an Academic subject after the first Progress Report (at 4 ½ weeks). Students attend tutoring with an academic teacher for the first ½ of lunch period (28 minutes). Tutoring is also available during September, February and Spring Breaks.
- 31. Testing • Course Final Exams • State mandated: Ga Milestones • PSAT • SAT/ACT/ASVAB
- 32. Course Final Exams • Given at the end of each semester • Calculated as a portion of the overall course grade • May be teacher generated or state mandated • Modified Schedule: Students leave early, with signed parent permission, after exam period
- 33. Ga Milestones • Align with the Georgia curriculum standards and include assessment of specific content knowledge and skills specific to a particular core course • Every student enrolled in a Ga Milestones course must take the assessment • Open‐ended (constructed‐response) items in language arts and mathematics (all grades and courses) • A writing component (in response to passages read by students) at every grade level and course within the language arts assessment • Standardized tests with criterion and norm‐referenced items
- 34. Ga Milestone Courses by Grade Level 9th Grade GSE 9th Grade Literature Algebra I or Geometry Biology 10th Grade Geometry Biology or Physical Science 11th Grade 11th Grade American Literature U.S. History 12th Grade Economics
- 35. Ga Milestone Scores Students receive a scale score, which converted into: 4 – Distinguished 3 – Proficient 2 – Developing 1 – Beginning A numeric score, which is then calculated as 20% of the final grade in the course.
- 36. Ga Milestone Study Guides • Study Guides for each subject are located on the Georgia State Department of Education Website . • Teachers are using instructional strategies and additional resources to help students prepare
- 37. PSAT • Preliminary SAT • Prepares students to take the SAT • Changed (along with the SAT) • 11th Grade PSAT scores are used to qualify students for the National Merit Scholarship • Given at Etowah each fall, typically in October • 9th Graders will be given the opportunity to take the PSAT and receive an official score report from College Board
- 39. Evolution of “Graduating” … • One Diploma Type • 4 Years of Math and Science • World Languages are not required • Pathways • A passing score on state mandated testing is no longer required. – participation is required – Score is 20% of a students final grade in the EOC Milestone Course – Students will not receive a final grade in the class without taking the Milestone.
- 41. Sample Course Sequence Freshmen Sophomore Junior Senior 9th Literature 10th Literature American Lit British Lit Earth Systems or Biology Biology or Chemistry Environmental Sci or Physics 4th Year Algebra 1 Analytic Geometry Algebra 2 Pre Calculus or Statistical Reasoning Required Elective World History US History Government & Economics Health & Personal Fitness Required Elective Required Elective Required Elective Miscellaneous Elective Miscellaneous Elective Miscellaneous Elective Miscellaneous Elective **Appropriate course placement creates many variations of course sequencing.
- 42. Registration Process • February 8th : EHS Counselors visited 8th graders at Booth Elective Selection sheets distributed • February 9th : Elective Fair – Cancelled due to weather • February 12th : Course Registration through green sheets • Course Placement Reviewed and Entered
- 43. Course Placement Process • Literature, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies Placement: Review of student data (8th grade courses, 8th grade course performance, 7th grade EOG scale scores, and Lexile Scores) are considered in placing your student • All students placed in Personal Fitness & Health
- 44. Course Requests • March 2016 ‐ Students will receive their 2016‐17 INITIAL COURSE REQUEST. – The Course Request will display the core course placement and elective choices (including alternates). – Please sign and return this request, noting any concerns. • April 2016 ‐ Students will receive a FINAL COURSE REQUEST. Please sign and return this request noting any further changes.
- 46. Course Selection Considerations • What are your student’s future plans? • What is your student’s work ethic? • What are your student’s strengths and weaknesses? • What are your student’s other time commitments?
- 47. Schedules • Electives are entered into a student’s schedule based on priority and availability • Etowah High School’s Master Schedule will be finalized in July. This means that all teachers have been assigned to sections and students are assigned to periods. • Students’ schedules will be “live” via the Student Portal in late July. • Student schedules will not be mailed. Please make sure that your student remembers his/her password to access schedules. If your student has not already done so, please have them visit http://id.cherokee.k12.ga.us and set up security questions that will allow your student to reset their password. If a password is forgotten, simply visit the site again and select Forgot My Password.
- 48. Key Differences Lunch • an hour‐long lunch • sit wherever you want • you may not leave the campus Class Transition • movement between buildings • 6 minutes with grace Attendance • credit may not be awarded after 6 absences in a class period • tardies are recorded to each class period Grades • grades are cumulative • grades become a part of the transcript at the end of each Semester
- 51. Rising Freshmen Updates and Contact Information Direct link to Rising 9th Grade tab on Etowah Homepage to check for updates and information http://www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/etowah‐ hs/studentservices/Student%20Services/FAQ.aspx Please direct emails to EHS.RisingFreshman@cherokee.k12.ga.us Or call the counseling office at 770 721‐3137
- 53. ETOWAH HIGH SCHOOL TRANSITION SCHEDULE FOR THE CLASS OF 2020 Class of 2020 Operation Graduation visit from Mr. Ball at ET Booth: January 20, 2016 at 9:15 Mr. Ball will visit ETB with Etowah’s mascot, Talon, as well as students from the Flight Club-Leaders Council and selected teachers to bring Grad Rags and talk with students about the Operation Graduation initiative. Class of 2020 “Be Our Guest” at EHS Varsity Basketball Game: January 30, 2016 (Changed due to weather) The Etowah Eagles will play region opponent Milton that evening with the Varsity Ladies tipping off at 6:00 pm and the Varsity Boys immediately to follow. Both games are in the New Gym. All students in the class of 2020 get in FREE with their Grad Rag! Parents, relatives, siblings, etc. will pay the regular game admission ($5.00 for adults & $3.00 for children). Class of 2020 Visits EHS for Lexile Testing and BRIDGE Bill: January 25 & 26, 2016 8th Grade students will visit EHS to complete Lexile testing to assist with appropriate class placement and to complete BRIDGE Bill requirements. Class of 2020 Counselor Visits to ET Booth: February 8, 2016 EHS counselors will visit ETB 8th grade students and offer an introduction to high school expectations and requirements for success. Also, counselors will provide students the opportunity to get answers to their questions related to transition, schedules, electives, sports, and clubs. Class of 2020 Parent Welcome Meeting and Elective Fair: EHS Auditorium – Cancelled due to weather EHS Administrators, Counselors and Teachers welcome the Class of 2020. Basics regarding transitioning to Etowah will be covered. Following general discussion, EHS will facilitate break-out sessions for Students with Individual Programs: Special Education, RTI, Gifted, Career Pathways, etc. Teachers of elective programs & academic elective classes will be available to rising 9th grade students to provide an overview of these various elective courses. EHS coaches and club sponsors will present the numerous extracurricular opportunities available at EHS. Information regarding questions and concerns collected from parents on this night will be covered at length at Parent University. Dr. Frank R. Petruzielo Superintendent of Schools ETOWAH HIGH SCHOOL 6565 Putnam Ford Drive Woodstock, Georgia 30189 (770) 721-3120 Fax (770) 926-4157 Mr. Keith L. Ball Principal Assistant Principals Dr. Amanda Ruiz Dr. Dan Snipes Mrs. Lyn Turnell Mr. Robert Van Alstyne
- 54. ETOWAH HIGH SCHOOL TRANSITION SCHEDULE FOR THE CLASS OF 2020 (continued) Class of 2020 Registration at ET Booth: Cancelled due to weather Etowah counselors will be with students at ET Booth to register students for classes for the 2016-17 school year. Class of 2020 Parent University: EHS Auditorium/Campus – February 29, 2016 at 6:30 – 8:30 or March 1, 2016 at 9:00 am - 11:30 am A thorough explanation of transition from middle school to high school will be provided. Various presentations by EHS administration and the counseling department that will address all aspects of the high school experience. Parents will be able to experience a 21st Century Classroom and a tour of EHS. The meeting will conclude with a question and answer session with our current student/parent panel. Honors/AP information will be covered at Parent University. Class of 2020 Rising 9th Grade Visit & Campus Tour: EHS Auditorium Class of 2019 Rising 9th Grade Visit & Campus tour: EHS Auditorium – May 23, 2016 – 11:30 & 12:30 Students in the class of 2020 will have an opportunity to walk the EHS campus visiting various buildings, cafeteria, and the gym. In addition, students will view a presentation on clubs and activities available at EHS. Class of 2020 Eagle Walk: ET Booth to the EHS New Gym –May 26, 2016 On the last day of the 2015-16 school year, students walk from ETBMS to EHS symbolizing their transition from ETB Falcons to EHS Eagles! Principal’s Cokes & Conversation: EHS Auditorium – Summer 2016 - TBD Informal meet & greet with EHS principal. Open to parents of existing and/or new EHS students. Conversation will include student expectations, new and upcoming initiatives, and include a Q & A session. Class of 2020 New Student Meet & Greet: EHS New Gym/Campus – TBD Parents and students will follow their student’s fall semester schedule and have the opportunity to meet each of their child’s teachers and familiarizing each student with classroom locations. Fall 2016 PTSA Open House & Curriculum Night (campus): EHS New Gym – TBD Parents will attend a brief PTSA meeting in the new gym, follow their student’s schedule meeting each classroom teacher, and hearing a brief overview of class expectations. School Council elections will be held that evening as well. Class of 2020 Fall Parent Meeting: EHS Auditorium – TBD The EHS Administrators & Counselors will invite parents to review and discuss curriculum, graduation requirements, attendance, expectations, and other basics regarding their student’s transition to high school.
- 55. Things I wish that I knew as a Freshman. You are given more freedom, but more responsibility. Get a raincoat! There is no freshman skip day. Come to school! Don’t try to change yourself immediately, don’t be different! Keep trying. If you fail, use that for mo va on. Don’t freeze up. Don’t be afraid to make different choices than your friends. This me in high school is to make the best decision for you. Learn the nicknames of the buildings (Old Science, New Science, C‐Building, L‐Building). Don’t run to class. You have enough me. Get involved in sports and clubs. Move involved = more fun. Make all the friends you want because you are all going through high school together. Don’t exclude others. Freshman classes will impact the rest of your high school years. GPA freshman year ma ers. Get 100s on the easy homework grades. Take challenging classes right away. Don’t wait! Si ng in the library for lunch doesn’t make you a loser. Take advantage of the hour and use this me to do homework. The teachers actually do care about you. Principal Ball or KB will be your best friend no ma er who you are, as long as you stay out of trouble. Go to sleep early if you can. There is no swimming pool. Be calm. Record your achievements for future applica ons for college. Freshman Friday isn’t really a thing. Don’t talk to Senior boys. If you show effort and follow your teachers direc ons, school will be easy. Check your Office365 email. Go to a teacher if you need extra help. Start to get an idea of what colleges you might want to a end. Find out where the athle c and a endance offices are located. Don’t be stressed, take it step‐by‐step.
- 56. Welcome Parents of the Class of 2019 Parent University Etowah High School Characteristics of a Great Student! Ask questions Hard worker Involved Leader Motivated Problem solver Seizes opportuni- ties Solid citizen Support System Trustworthy 21st Century Classroom Visits Parents will be able to experience a 21st Century Classroom and a tour of EHS.. (day session only) Q & A on EHS Speakers: EHS Student and Parent Panel Current EHS students and parents will address your questions. EHS Auditorium Monday, February 29, 2016 6:30 PM—8:30 PM Tuesday, March 1, 2016 9:00 AM—11:30 AM EHS MISSION STATEMENT: ETOWAH HIGH SCHOOL’S MISSION SHALL BE GRADUATING LIFE-LONG LEARNERS AND PRODUCTIVE COMMUNITY AND GLOBAL CITIZENS. Rise to the Occasion Speaker: Keith L. Ball, Principal Remind Texts Etowah Tweets Etowah Homepage: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/schools/etowah-hs Penny Jones, Secretary to Mr. Ball at penny.jones@cherokee.k12.ga.us Questions regarding Course Requests contact EHS.RisingFreshman@cherokee.k12.ga.us or call the counseling office at 770 721-3137
- 57. EHS 101 Overview Etowah High School Administration and Faculty will present a variety of course offerings to educate you about our school. Parents will also visit our 21st Century Classrooms and tour the school. Participants will be divided into different groups as they visit a classroom. Welcome and Introductions Speaker: Lyn Turnell, Assistant Principal During this introductory session, Parent University program organization will be reviewed including handouts. Lori Peters, School Council Chair Shannon Bates, PTSA President Rigor vs Rigor mortis! Speaker: Keith L. Ball, Principal In this first segment Mr. Ball, will help par- ents understand the challenges of creating a healthy balance for their student so they can build a living and a life they are proud of while at Etowah! He will provide a quick comparison of rigor for 9th grade courses. Expectations regarding homework, testing, reading assign- ments and projects will be discussed. Before/After School Academic Saturday School Mandatory Lunchtime Tutoring By appointment with Teacher High School Attendance Speaker: Lyn Turnell, Assistant Principal High school attendance procedures differ from those in place at the middle school level; for example, attendance is taken for each class period. Mrs.Turnell will explain the CCSD high school attendance policies and how they can impact students. Also, she will discuss the high school attendance procedures, and the attend- ance appeal process. All information shared today will be available on the Etowah High School website. Select the Counseling tab, then Rising 9th Grade Information. http://www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/ etowah-hs/studentservices/Student% 20Services/FAQ.aspx Student Services Speaker: Lisa Shull, Counselor Amanda Ruiz, Assistant Principal High school presents various options relative to course selection for students and parents. In this session course selection, graduation requirements, and the scheduling process will be explained. Infor- mation regarding the awarding of course credit and viewing a sample transcript are also included. Examples of 4-year academic plans, all leading to graduation, will be explored. High school brings several new experiences. The Student Services team will provide some advice to help students be successful in the transition from 8th to 9th grade. There will also be information about the Georgia Milestones Assessments which 9th grade students are required to take and also about the PSAT. Tutoring Opportunities Excellence is not a matter of chance, it’s a matter of choice”
- 58. 1 FAQ of Parents of Rising 9th grade Students Class of 2020 1. How are classes assigned and when? The placement process begins in February. Classes are assigned based on a student’s current classes at E.T. Booth. We do a “roll”, which means typical courses roll from one level to the next based on a student’s current grades, test scores and courses taken as an 8th grader. Health and Personal Fitness are then added to the course request. Students then receive elective sheets in order to choose their electives. These electives are then entered into the system generating a course request. 2. When do we go over our student’s 9th grade schedule? In late March, an Initial Course Request is sent home for families to review and provide feedback. There will be a Final Course Request sent home again in April for verification. Throughout the spring and summer, we continue to adjust and complete the scheduling process. Students’ schedules are posted on the CCSD Student Portal in late July. 3. Will my child need a math support class if he/she is an average student? No. Placement in Algebra Support is based on students’ grades from their 8th grade math class, most recent math EOG, and math ITBS scores. Additionally, math support may be recommended by an IEP or RTI team. 4. If my child is in advanced classes now – how do we change some classes to grade level? On the Initial Course Request that comes in Marche, check “edit” next to the recommended advanced courses and indicate a desire for regular or “on‐level”. It’s wise to balance your child’s course selection between advanced and regular level courses. 5. How do students qualify for Honors and/or AP classes? Rubrics are used to determine the placement of any student in honors/AP level courses. Additionally, any student regardless if they are gifted or not, can work their way into honors/AP courses. We are happy to review this data with parents who are requesting placement decisions that differ from our recommendation. 6. What is the average AP/Honors class size? 25‐32 students per class 7. How are grades weighted for Honors/AP classes for the HOPE Scholarship? The HOPE Scholarship GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale and uses only high school core classes: English, Math, Science, Social Studies and World Language. Middle school courses are not used to calculate HOPE GPA. Honors classes are NOT weighted for the purposes of HOPE. AP Courses are given an additional 0.5 weight per credit earned (i.e., a grade of B in an AP course would be translated to a 3.5 for the HOPE GPA calculation), however, no grade may be weighted above a 4.0. This means that an A in an AP course is still calculated as a 4.0, and is NOT calculated as a 4.5.
- 59. 2 Please visit www.gacollege411.org for updated information about the HOPE Scholarship from the Georgia Student Finance Commission. HOPE calculations and eligibility frequently changes, so utilize this website for up‐to‐date information. 8. If a student utilizes a Hope Grant and completes the program, are they still eligible for a Hope Scholarship and to receive an additional degree? All questions relating to HOPE scholarships need to be directed to the Georgia Student Finance Commission by emailing gacollege411@gsfc.org or calling 1‐800‐505‐4732. 9. What courses are necessary to meet the HOPE requirements for rigor? The HOPE Scholarship has determined that in order to qualify for HOPE, along with maintaining the required GPA, a student must also have taken 4 of these types of courses prior to graduation: Advanced math ‐ Algebra 2, or an equivalent or higher course. Advanced science ‐ Chemistry, Physics, Biology II, or an equivalent. Courses taken at a unit of the University System of Georgia in core subjects where such courses are not remedial and developmental courses. Advanced foreign language courses taken at an eligible high school or taken for degree level credit at an eligible postsecondary institution. Advanced placement courses in core subjects. Courses currently offered at EHS which meet the rigor requirements: Math Science World Language Calculus Human Anatomy/ Physiology French II, III and IV Honors Multivariable Calculus Chemistry German II, III and IV Advanced Mathematical Decision Making Physics Spanish II, III, and IV Algebra II Forensic Science Chinese II and III Accelerated Geometry/Algebra II Scientific Research 1 GSE Pre‐Calculus Scientific Research 2 Statistical Reasoning AP English Language & Composition; AP English Literature & Composition; AP Calculus AB; AP Calculus BC; AP Statistics; AP Biology; AP Physics I, AP Physics II; AP Physics C: Mechanics; AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism; AP Chemistry; AP Environmental Science; AP Computer Science; AP World History; AP Human Geography; AP United States History; AP Psychology; AP Government/Politics: United States; AP Macroeconomics; AP Spanish Language & Culture
- 60. 3 10. If my child is taking high school level science in the 8th grade, do they take Biology in the 9th grade or do they move on to Chemistry? Students who take High School Physical Science in the 8th grade are typically placed into Honors Biology. Students then continue in Chemistry in the 10th grade. Additional science options are available in 11th grade. Physical Science in the 8th grade is taken for high school credit. 11. If a student is currently taking high school Math, Science and/or a World Language 8th grade, do these final grades go towards their high school GPA? Yes, high school courses taken in 8th grade count in the ranking of students and towards a student’s NGA. However, this course work does not count toward the HOPE GPA. 12. How are 9th grade elective choices determined? EHS counselors visited current 8th grade students at ET Booth on February 8th and shared information on credits, graduation requirements, attendance and tardy policies. A 9th grade elective course description list was sent via e‐mail to all 8th grade students and parents. Students were given an Elective Registration Sheet to select and rank, in order of preference, electives they would prefer to take during the 2016 ‐17 school year. This form was returned to ETBMS and EHS counselors entered that information as student requests in the student information system. EHS counselors keep the student course requests on file in the counseling office. 13. What options are there for intramural sports? There are no intramural programs at the high school level. 14. Does weight training count as a P.E. requirement? No. Personal Fitness and Health are the two required PE courses students must take in order to receive a high school diploma. Each is a semester long and they are typically taken in the 9th grade. 15. What are P.E./Health requirements for student athletes? The only "required" classes are Personal Fitness and Health (both taken in 9th grade). All other physical education classes are electives. Typically, students involved in interscholastic athletics will choose to take weight training to prepare for the season. 16. Can my student take more than 1 P.E. course? Yes, Physical Education courses are considered miscellaneous electives and can be taken in additional to the Health/Personal Fitness requirement. A student must have 4 units of miscellaneous electives to graduate. 17. Can my student take more than 1 World Language during High School? Yes. However, many universities expect students to have at least two, and preferably three, consecutive years in the same World Language. As such, students are encouraged to complete at least two consecutive years in one language before starting another.
- 61. 4 18. How do I get the ADAP certificate required to satisfy the driver’s license/learning permit requirements? The Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program or ADAP is required for students to obtain a learner’s driving permit or a driver’s license. This is completed in the required Health course. Students earning 3 units of JROTC credit will meet the Personal Fitness and Health course requirement and the JROTC program includes the ADAP as well. 19. Will students remain in the same TAA/homeroom for all four years of high school? It is our goal for students to remain with the same Teacher as Advisor or homeroom teacher. However, due to enrollment numbers and teacher allotments, students’ homerooms sometimes change. Students who do not meet promotion requirements before the beginning of the next school year will not move to the next grade level homeroom; they will move to a retained homeroom the following year. 20. How long is TAA/homeroom and how often do they go? TAA is once a week, 28 minutes long, and is immediately following 1st period on Mondays. 21. What are the instructional hours of the school day? 8:15 A.M. – 3:15 P.M. 22. Do parents have a say in their child’s four year educational plan? Yes, we welcome parental input regarding a student’s four year plan. This is team effort between you, your student and your student’s school counselor. Although Graduation requirements are not negotiable, there are options “within” the required core courses. A parent may not choose a specific teacher, class period, or lunch period for a student. 23. Which subjects have 4 year requirements? The following subject areas require 4 units to graduate: Literature/Composition Mathematics Science Please refer to the Graduation Requirements for the Class of 2020 shared at Parent University 24. Do all teachers maintain websites with homework/classwork/test information? Yes, all teachers are required to maintain updated ASPEN pages which include specific information. If something is missing on a teacher’s page, please contact the teacher directly. 25. Is there before and/or after school tutoring and can any teacher tutor? Yes, most teachers offer tutoring/help sessions before school or at the conclusion of the school day. Students can tutor with any teacher. Please refer to teacher websites for the specific information. Tutoring is also available on Saturday’s for any current student.
- 62. 5 26. Are tutors available if grades are above 73%? Yes, schedule a tutoring appointment with the teacher. Please refer to teacher ASPEN pages for information on an individual tutoring schedule. 27. Are there tutors or mentors who keep my child “on track” for graduation? Yes, Guidance Counselors monitor each student’s progress towards graduation. Also, the students’ Teacher as Advisor (TAA) teacher is another caring adult in the building who reminds them about course work and graduation requirements. 28. Will a syllabus or course expectations be provided at the beginning of each semester? Yes, all year‐long course syllabi are distributed at the beginning of the year. If a course is a semester long course, then the syllabus will be given out at the beginning of the fall/spring semester. 29. How many people on the EHS staff hold advanced degrees? 107 teachers have advanced degrees: Master degrees: 63, specialist degrees:33, and doctorate degrees:11. 30. Are students still required to take the High School Graduation Writing Test (GHSWT)? No, this test is no longer a requirement for incoming high school students. 31. What are GA Milestones Tests (EOCs)? GA Milestones Tests (EOCs) assess student achievement in 8 state adopted curriculum core classes. Each exam is administered upon the completion of the course and each exam is calculated as 20% of the overall course grade. Courses are not considered complete if the student does not take this state mandated exam. The courses are: 9th Grade Literature Geometry Algebra I U.S. History Biology Physical Science American Literature Economics 32. Why do some of the goals in the EHS School Improvement Plan address test scores? The 2015 School Improvement Plan does not include testing goals. The goals for the current school year are: Increase the graduation rate. Analyze student performance data and use research based instructional practices (varied DOK levels, summarizing strategies and formative instructional practice) to improve teaching and learning. Improve the student attendance rate, faculty & staff attendance rate, and student discipline rates. The entire 2015‐16 EHS School Improvement Plan (SIP) can be found on the EHS website. 33. Is there a place where we can see SAT scores divided by regular and advanced students? No, SAT scores are not divided in this manner.
- 63. 6 34. Does EHS offer the ACT? Yes, the ACT test is offered several times each school year. Additionally, Princeton Review offers preparatory classes on the EHS campus. 35. Is there grade recovery and if so, what is the process? Yes, grade and test recovery options are left up to individual teachers and/or departments. Grade recovery can take many forms, including retaking an alternate version of a test, utilizing APEX computer‐based learning to improve a grade on a specific unit, or other options as decided by the teacher or department. By utilizing grade recovery and unit recovery, students may be able to improve a failing grade to passing. This would avoid having to retake the course incurring additional time and expense to the student. 36. What happens if my child fails a class? Failed classes can prevent students from being promoted to the next grade level and ultimately, from graduating on time. Students who fail a class that is needed to meet graduation requirements must recover the credit by retaking the course. Credit Connect using Apex, Summer School or Polaris Evening School are all options for credit recovery. An attendance appeal process will be completed for students who have a final course grade that is passing, but did not receive credit in the class due to excessive absences. 37. What is the cost of course recovery? At this time, County sponsored course recovery courses are $200.00 per .5 credit. Other online options vary in cost. Students must meet with their counselor and receive prior approval before any other options are utilized to ensure that CCSD will be able to accept the course from other institutions. 38. Do students need community service hours to graduate? No. However, competitive colleges and scholarships often consider community service hours during the application process. The student and/or parent should keep track of their total community service hours per year. A student also has the opportunity to receive a “letter” in community service. Ms. Szpindor is the EHS Community Service contact. 39. Are Career Pathways the same as college prep or different? Career Pathways are intended to provide a means of organizing and sequencing high school course offerings and selections. CTAE courses are a great way to provide students with a relevant course of study within a chosen career focus. Many of the Career pathways offered at EHS complement and enhance academic pathways. 40. How do we make sure our child is on the college path? Course offerings at EHS are college and career preparatory. Specifics about your child’s courses need to be discussed with their counselor.
- 64. 7 41. When do they pick their Career Pathway? Completing a Career Pathways is not a graduation requirement; all students who graduate from Etowah High School are on the same diploma track. Career Pathways are designed for every student and can be changed if needed. How does a counselor develop a relationship with a student? Counselors get to know their students by maintaining an open door policy and allowing students to schedule appointments as often and regularly as needed for their specific concerns. EHS counselors address the academic, social, and emotional needs of students. Students are encouraged to see their counselor during their lunch period. 42. Do the counselors work with students on planning their courses and help them choose a college? Counselors regularly check to make sure students are on track for graduation. Planning a student’s high school schedule is addressed during the Teachers as Advisor (TAA) time. This process requires the involvement of the TAA advisor, counselor, student, teachers and parents. GACollege411 is used to help a student select colleges that “fit” a student’s interests and needs. 43. How do we verify that the correct social security number is on file with the school? Please call ET Booth to verify this information, along with any other contact information you want verified and updated. Please remember, an accurate social security number must be on file to qualify for the HOPE Scholarships. 44. What grade do you use to determine class placement (i.e. final, 1st quarter, 2nd quarter)? All grades are examined along with standardized testing data to help place a student in courses. 45. Where do I get information on ways to pay for college? GACollege411.org has all this information. In addition, there are scholarship opportunities posted on the Counseling section of the EHS website. 46. We are receiving various mailings inviting students to be in a “society of honor”, etc. How do colleges view these? You should explore this type of information via the post‐secondary institution your child is interested in attending. 47. Can students graduate from high school with an associate’s degree? Is this opportunity available? High schools do not award associate’s degrees; however, it may be possible for students who participate in Dual Enrollment to earn enough credits while completing their high school requirements to earn both a high school diploma and associate’s degree upon graduating. 48. Can classes be taken early in the summer or night school in order for a student to graduate early? Yes, however, please keep in mind that classes taken during the summer or at Polaris evening school are tuition‐based.
- 65. 8 49. Please explain Dual Enrollment or Move On When Ready (MOWR). The Move on When Ready program (MOWR) is typically utilized for juniors and seniors. In addition to contacting the college of your choice for specific program requirements, students need to meet with their Etowah counselor to discuss options that will keep them on track for graduation; for CCSD policies and regulations, please refer to the CCSD Parent/Student Handbook. 50. Are there proactive plans/opportunities for students to spend time with other students not in their social group? This type of time spent sharing and understanding with one another could help build more compassion and less judgment. Yes, juniors and seniors may apply to participate in the Peer Facilitators course. This course is an elective credit which allows students to work with special needs students and other groups, assisting them in their course work and project completion. Additionally, EHS offers clubs, athletics, events, fundraisers, and the EHS Birds Eye Brew coffee shop as ways for students to meet and interact with other students with different social groups, backgrounds and demographics. 51. Are special needs students allowed to have laptops in class? Per IEP accommodations and based on IEP committee decision, a special needs student may be allowed to have a laptop at school. 52. Is there Driver’s Ed training for special needs students? No, Etowah High School does not offer Driver’s Ed training offered for any of our students. See local Department of Transportation for listings of private companies. Just Drive training offers drivers’ education for special needs students. 53. Is there a Career Evaluation for special needs students? CCSD has adopted a program called Career Cruising as a resource for identifying appropriate/preferred careers for any student exploring possible career interest. Depending on the needs and/or the specific information sought (skills inventory, barriers to employment, transferrable skills, etc.), informal evaluations can be administered by the CTI coordinator or other qualified personnel. CCSD also partners with the Vocational Rehabilitation Program of the Georgia Department of Labor. Students with disabilities, that qualify for vocational support services, will be referred the second semester of their graduating year for a vocational evaluation that assesses job‐related abilities, develops a work plan, and ultimately leads to job placement. 54. Is there an Equestrian program for special needs students? No, there is not an equestrian program offered through CCSD. Check out www.dreampowertherapy.org 55. Can we distribute Alateen literature or start an Alateen Club? In order to begin a club at EHS, students must have a teacher to serve as their sponsor and then they must see Dr. Snipes to complete CCSD required paperwork.
- 66. 9 56. Are there volunteer programs for skilled academic students to help tutor their peers? Yes, please explore the opportunities offered through NHS or Beta Club. 57. Where is a list of clubs posted? A list of EHS clubs posted on the Etowah website: www.cherokee.k12.ga.us/Schools/etowah‐hs 58. What can be done to encourage students to take the bus – go green incentives? Due to traffic congestion on Eagle Mountain, all students are encouraged to utilize CCSD Bus Transportation. Additionally, please visit the Clean Air Campaign website at www.cleanaircampaign.org 59. Does EHS have a program that allows students to leave school early to take part in other activities? i.e. tennis drills No, there are no programs or concessions for students to leave campus and attend sports drills. If students are checked out early to attend non‐school based extracurricular activities it will count against their attendance. Please see CCSD High School Attendance Policy found in the CCSD Student/Parent Handbook. 60. How do you extend your “Child Protection Plan” to manage parents/volunteers? At the beginning of the school year, parents have an opportunity to update demographic information. Parents are able to include the names of individuals they will allow to check their child out of school during the day. The school keeps this information in the computer system and refers to it anytime a student is being checked out. Only the persons listed in the student’s contacts may check a student out from school. In addition, a parent may contact the school at any time to update/change this information. If there are legal changes involving “custody of children” or “restraining orders”, that information is generally shared with the EHS counseling office. EHS administrators have a monthly update of the Cherokee County sex offender’s list sent from the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Additionally, a Mandatory Reporting Workshop and associated paperwork is completed by all volunteers each year. 61. Are homeschooled students allowed to participate on school teams if they live in the district? No, the following support services are not available to Home Study Students: a. Interscholastic/Competitive Activities Programs (ex. sports, chorus, band, drama, etc.) b. Part‐time enrollment in a Cherokee County School c. Before and after school programs d. Textbooks, supplemental materials/equipment, and on‐line resources are not provided to home study students by the school/school district. e. Academic competitions/recognitions including, but not limited to Spelling Bee, Science Fair, Social/Science Fair, Science Olympiad, Academic Bowl, Young Author’s Fair, Attendance Awards and Academic awards. 62. What is the earliest date a physical from a personal physician can be used for next year’s team? Any physical examination after April 1st is valid for the entire next school year. A physical examination has a validity of one calendar year. Students are encouraged to attend EHS Physical night on April 26, 2016 at a cost of $25.
- 67. 10 63. Who is trained to handle anaphylactic shock? Etowah High School has a full‐time nurse, Mrs. Cathy Alexander. The clinic is located on the second floor of the Administration building. In addition to Nurse Alexander, the staff is trained on anaphylactic shock on a yearly basis. 64. Can students’ cell phones be placed on vibrate or must they be shut off during classes? They must be turned off during all instructional time. Teachers in BYLD/BALD classes will instruct students to turn on their personal device for instructional use only. Students are never permitted to talk on the phone at any point during the day. 65. Who will be administering TKES survey to students? Only certified educators may administer the Student Surveys. Teachers may NOT administer the survey to students in their own class or classes. Principals, Assistant Principals, Counselors, Media Specialists, Graduation Coaches, Instructional Coaches, etc. (any certified educator who does not have students assigned to him/her for classes) may administer the survey. 66. Is there a chip installed in the students ID card? No, there is only a bar code used for the Media Center to check out books. 67. If a student is checked out during lunch for an appointment, is there a consequence? No, we would prefer you use school breaks or after school for appointments. If they must be during the school day, your child’s lunch period is preferred as they do not miss instruction and an absence during lunch is not counted against them. 68. Are there Merit Awards, either teacher nominated or via student application? Yes, Character Education, Attendance and various annual awards at Honors Day. Please see your child’s counselor for additional information regarding merit awards and scholarships. 69. Lunch is so early, will this change? The periods in which lunch is served is solely based on student population. Lunch periods begin at 10:21 and go through 2:15. 70. Will there be upper classmen to help students familiarize themselves with school? Yes, Student Ambassadors serve in this role. Ms. Kristy Szpindor is the faculty contact. 71. Are there after school or feeder recreational programs to continue sports? EHS currently offers inter‐scholastic sports at the junior varsity and varsity level. EHS does not offer intramural or club sports. 72. Would you consider offering a 9th grade soccer team? Currently only football and boys’ basketball have freshman teams due to participation levels and funding. However, 9th graders may try out for JV/Varsity teams.
- 68. GPA is calculated at each semester Sample Transcript Each Semester: You OWN it! Aug-Dec (Semester 1) - posted to your transcript, ex: 9th Grade Lit/Comp A Jan-May (Semester 2) posted to your transcript, ex: Coord Alg B Each semester is a final grade that is not averaged for the year.
- 69. Mr. Ball would like you to join Class of 2020! To receive messages via text, text @etowah20 to 81010. You can opt- out of messages at anytime by replying, 'unsubscribe @etowah20'. Trouble using 81010? Try texting @etowah20 to (706) 256-8694 instead. To: Message: Enter this number Text this message 81010 @etowah20 *Standard text message rates apply. Or to receive messages via email, send an email to etowah20@mail.remind.com. To unsubscribe, reply with 'unsubscribe' in the subject line. New message Recipients Subject etowah20@mail.remind.com (You can leave the subject blank) WHAT IS REMIND AND WHY IS IT SAFE? Remind is a free, safe, and simple messaging tool that helps teachers share important updates and reminders with students & parents. Subscribe by text, email or using the Remind app. All personal information is kept private. Teachers will never see your phone number, nor will you see theirs. Visit remind.com to learn more.
- 70. End-of-Grade Assessments Grades 3–8 End-of-Course Assessments High School Georgia Milestones What is the Georgia Milestones Assessment System? The Georgia Milestones Assessment System (Georgia Milestones) is a comprehensive assessment system spanning grades 3 through high school. Georgia Milestones measures how well students have learned the knowledge and skills outlined in the state-adopted content standards in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Students in grades 3 through 8 will take End-of-Grade (EOG) assessments in each content area, while high school students will take End-of-Course (EOC) assessments for each of the ten courses designated by the State Board of Education. QuestionsandAnswersforParents What is the purpose of Georgia Milestones? Georgia Milestones is designed to provide information about how well students are mastering the state- adopted content standards in the core content areas of English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Importantly, Georgia Milestones is designed to provide students with critical information about their own achievement and their readiness for their next level of learning—be it the next grade, the next course, or the next endeavor (college or career). Where can I find more information about Georgia Milestones? Talk with your student’s teacher or school principal. They can provide specific information about the dates your student will be taking the assessments this year. Resources to help your student prepare for Georgia Milestones are available on the Georgia Department of Education’s website at http://testing.gadoe.org. To see what online testing is like, you and your student may visit the Experience Online Testing Georgia website at http://gaexperienceonline.com. The items on the demonstration tests are general and represent multiple grade levels. They do not assess student achievement. What types of questions will a student see on the Georgia Milestones assessments? Georgia Milestones includes the item types described below: •• open-ended (constructed-response) items in English Language Arts and Mathematics (all grades and courses); •• a writing component (in response to passages read by students) at every grade level and course within the English Language Arts assessments; •• nationally norm-referenced items in all content areas and courses to complement the Georgia criterion-referenced information and to provide a national comparison; and •• multiple-choice items in all content areas and courses. Georgia Milestones will be transitioned to online testing over time. Online is considered the primary mode of testing, with paper-and-pencil available as backup until the transition is complete. 2015 – 2016 What can I do to help my student? Students who are prepared, calm, and rested perform better on tests. Here are some of the many ways to help your student approach Georgia Milestones in a relaxed, positive way: •• Encourage your student to employ good study and test-taking skills. These skills include following directions carefully, avoiding careless errors, and reviewing work. •• Explain the purpose of the tests. The assessments give students an opportunity to show what they have learned in school. They also give teachers information that helps them plan instruction. •• Point out that some items may be more difficult than others. •• Be certain your student gets plenty of sleep and has a healthy breakfast and lunch. Taking tests is hard work for many students and can require a lot of energy. •• Be certain your student is at school on time. Rushing and worrying about being late could affect performance on the tests. •• Remember to ask your student about the testing at the end of each day. © Photodisc/PunchStock
- 71. When do students take the assessments? Students will take the assessments on days specified by their local school system within designated state testing windows. The End-of-Course (EOC) Main administrations will occur in December and January in the winter months. The Spring Main administration will occur from late April through early June, with the Summer Main administration taking place in June and July. In addition, Mid-Month administrations are available during designated months of the year for students who require testing at a time other than the Main administrations. Students in grades 3 through 8 will participate in the End-of-Grade (EOG) assessments from early April through early May. What scores do students receive on Georgia Milestones? The state-adopted content standards set specific academic benchmarks and expectations for all students in Georgia’s public schools. Georgia Milestones measures how well a student has acquired the knowledge and skills outlined in the standards for his or her grade level. Students are not compared to each other but are measured instead on how well they are meeting the standards. Student achievement in each content area is classified into four performance levels. Student test results are provided to parents and schools. Georgia Milestones includes a limited sample of nationally norm-referenced items to provide a signal of how Georgia students are achieving relative to their peers nationally. Only approved norm-referenced items aligned to Georgia standards will contribute to a student’s criterion-referenced achievement level, scale score, and grade conversion score. In grades three, five, and eight, Georgia Milestones results inform promotion/retention decisions in the areas of reading (grades 3, 5, and 8) and mathematics (grades 5 and 8). If needed, students are afforded a retest opportunity in the summer. For high school students, the EOC measures serve as their final exam with the resulting score counting as 20 percent of their final course grade. Performance on the English Language Arts portion of Georgia Milestones is linked to the Lexile scale, a national reading measure that matches students to appropriately challenging reading materials. An abundance of books and articles are assigned Lexile measures by publishers. All major standardized tests can report student reading scores in Lexiles. For more information about the Lexile scale, as well as resources to help select literature for your student, visit www.gadoe.org/lexile.aspx on the Georgia Department of Education website. Georgia Department of Education Assessment and Accountability 1554 Twin Towers East Atlanta, Georgia 30334 Tel (404) 656-2668 Toll-Free (800) 634-4106 Fax (404) 656-5976 http://testing.gadoe.org In accordance with State and Federal law, the Georgia Department of Education prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its educational and employment activities. Inquiries regarding the application of these practices may be addressed to the General Counsel of the Georgia Department of Education, 2052 Twin Towers East, Atlanta, Georgia 30334, (404) 656-2800. Copyright © 2015 by Georgia Department of Education. All rights reserved. © Ryan McVay/Getty Images Are students with disabilities or students who are English Learners required to take Georgia Milestones? State rules, federal requirements of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandate that all students participate in the state assessment program. All students must be tested in all Georgia Milestones content areas at their respective grade levels or courses. Specified accommodations are allowed on state assessments for students who require them. Neither an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team nor a parent can request that a student be exempted from the assessment program. However, if an IEP team determines regular state testing is inappropriate for a student, even with accommodations, the student may participate in the Georgia Alternate Assessment (GAA). While Georgia Milestones’ primary mode of testing is online, paper-and-pencil tests will be available for students who require that mode of testing (e.g., Braille). Students with limited English proficiency who enrolled in a U.S. school for the first time may receive a one-year deferment from assessment in EOG content areas other than Mathematics and Science. Deferments are not permitted for EOC assessments.