Directions for High School Handbook:

Dear Parents & Students:

This handout has been provided to assist your high-school student as he or she makes course selections. Within these pages you will find helpful information such as graduation requirements, college admission requirements, and suggested sequence of study. After high school your student may go to college, technical school, enter the military or workforce. Please take the classes that will provide the most opportunity.

Our ESes, guidance and curriculum departments are committed to help your student make the best choices for their educational plan. It is the parent’s responsibility to know the course requirements for the other schools your student may attend during his/her high school year and to inform the ES of those requirements. The parent should also save all coursework completed in case of need for transfer to another high school or future college enrollment.

PAGE

CWCS Contact List……………………………………………………………………….............. 2

CWCS Mission………………..………………………………………………………….….......... 3

CWCS Expected Schoolwide Learning Results…..………………………………….….......... 4

Graduation Requirements Menu………………….…………………………………….............. 5

Graduation Requirements Agreement…………….……………………………………............ 6

Suggestions for Determining Course Placement for your High School Student……........... 7

Suggested Schedules for High School Completion………………………………….............. 8

Other Educational Opportunities: ROP, Turlock Adult Ed, Community College….............. 9

Clubs in High School CSF and NHS..………………………………………….………............ 10

Beyond High School…………………………………………………………………….............. 11

Career Planning…………………………………………………………………………............. 12

What Type of Colleges Exist?............................................................................................. 13

What are “a-g” College Prep Courses?.............................................................................. 14

UC-CSU Comparison of Minimum Eligibility Requirements………………………............... 15

Student ”A-G” Checklist…………………………………………………………………............ 16

UC Riverside Admission as a Homeschooled or Other Nontraditionally

Educationed Student………………………………………………………………................ 17

Steps to College Entrance and Scholarships………………………………………............... 18

SAT and ACT Dates and Financial Aid/Scholarships………………………………............. 19

Guidance Department Educational Series…………………………………………......... 20 & 21

Reading/Writing Courses………………………………………………………………...... 22 & 23

Life Skills…………………………………………………………………………………............. 24

History and Political Process…………………………………………………………............... 25

Math………………………………………………………………………………………............. 26

Science………………………………………………………………………………..…...... 27 & 28

Special Interest Electives………………………………………………………………............. 29

Foreign Language & Visual and Performing Arts……………………………………...... 30 & 31

Fact Sheet………………………………………………………………………………....... 32 & 33

Popular Internet Websites………………………………………………………………............. 34

4-year Planning Sheet…………………………………………………………………............... 35

CWCS

Connecting Waters Charter School

Waterford Unified School District

The mission of CWCS is to: Empower a community of parents, students, and teachers to create learning opportunities which will develop accountable, responsible, and contributing members of society who are independent, life-long learners.

Creating learning opportunities by:

v Assisting students and parents with educational guidance

v Individualizing curriculum to meet students’ needs

v Providing materials, resources and supportive instruction

v Allowing flexibility in both teaching styles and learning styles

v Promoting real-life context-based learning

v Challenging students to achieve mastery of academic standards

Connecting Waters Charter School

Expected Schoolwide Learning Results

(ESLRs/Growth Areas)

CWCS will prepare its graduates to be:

1. Effective Communicators (Reading/Writing). “Student will read and write effectively.” Student:

·          reads actively and derives meaning from written media.

·          reads extensively for a variety of purposes.

·          writes using grammatically acceptable English.

·          adjusts tone and style of writing for purpose and audience.

·          supports statements using well-rounded facts, theory, and opinion.

·          separates fact from opinion.

·          logically reaches conclusions based on sufficient evidence.

·          clearly and succinctly states key points.

·          organizes ideas in a variety of ways.

·          demonstrates creativity through style, organization, and development of content.

2. Technologically and Socially Skilled Individuals (Life Skills). “Student sufficiently understands and functions in the world around him/her.” Student:

·          demonstrates involvement in his/her community.

·          has knowledge of the reciprocal relationship between the individual and his/her environment.

·          demonstrates various skills in seeking employment and/or college admission.

·          understands and demonstrates his/her role as an employee, consumer, and financial manager.

·          identifies and documents the effects of technology on his/her environment.

·          participates in physical activities that develop strength, endurance, and personal fitness.

3. Historically Aware (History). “Student appreciates the history of mankind in all its diversity.” Student shows his/her appreciation for history by identifying relationships between past and present events or situations-

·          involving cause and effect: people, events, or situations influencing an action or result.

·          involving comparison: similarities and differences.

·          involving classification: events and situations explained as political, economic, social, and/or intellectual.

·          involving anticipation of the future using evidence from the past and the present to draw conclusion about the future.

·          involving understanding of the extent of time.

·          student applies physical and cultural geography to his/her understanding of societies.

4. Effective Citizens (Political Process). “Student comprehends the political process.” Student:

·          understands the structures, operations, and relationships of the governments in the United States.

5. Mathematical Thinkers (Math). “Student applies mathematical principles and operations to solve problems.” Student demonstrates knowledge of basic skills, conceptual understanding, and problem solving--

·          with numbers and operations.

·          in geometry and measurement.

·          in functions and algebra.

·          in statistics and probability.

·          student solves problems with problem formulation, problem implementation, and/or problem conclusion.

·          student communicates own knowledge of basic skills, understanding of concepts, and ability to solve problems and understand the mathematical communication of others.

6. Scientific Thinkers (Science). “Student applies scientific concepts and skills to explain his/her world and find solutions to its problems.” Student:

·          observes, compares, orders, and categorizes characteristics and behaviors.

·          communicate ideas.

·          relates factors of differing objects and events, and infers about unknown or unseen processes.

·          applies knowledge and thought processes to explain his/her world and solve problems.

·          demonstrates recognition of the interrelationships among the scientific themes (energy, interactions, patterns, change).

·          demonstrates recognition of the four spheres (litho-, hydro-, atmo-, eco-).

·          recognizes the effects of the sciences, technologies, and societies on one another and on the environment.

7. Lifelong Learners (Special Interests). “Student realizes his/her own unique educational interests, talents, and abilities.”  Student:

·          has experience or knowledge in a variety of the arts, trades, professions, languages and other disciplines.

Graduation Requirements Menu

A student must pass the CAHSEE, as well as meet all requirements listed below, to receive a diploma from CWCS.

Students who meet the below requirements but do not pass the CAHSEE, can earn a School Certificate.

Successful completion of 210 units or its equivalent is required for high school graduation, in addition to successful completion of both sections of the CAHSEE exam. School options for completing each growth area are listed under the growth area. Choose one track for each growth area below:

Reading/Writing

This Charter School graduate reads and writes effectively.

A. 30 Units of Reading/Writing electives B. School Demonstrations 1 and 2

C. Student Developed Demonstration

Life Skills

This Charter School graduate sufficiently understands and functions in the world around him/her.

A. 50 Units including: B. School Demonstrations 3 to 8

10 units Typing/Computer electives (opt. typing test) C. Student Developed Demonstration

20 units Physical Education electives

5 units Health

15 units Life Skills electives to meet school standards (20 electives if student passes the typing test)

(Beginning with graduating class of 2012, required: 5 units of Education and Career Planning, leaving 10 units of life skills electives.)

History

This Charter School graduate appreciates the history of mankind in all its diversity.

A. 25 Units of History including: B. School Demonstrations 9 and 10

10 units World Studies C. Student Developed Demonstration

10 units US History

5 units Economics

Political Process

This Charter School graduate comprehends the political process.

A. 5 Units United States Government B. School Demonstration 11

C. Student Developed Demonstration

Mathematics

This Charter School graduate applies math principles and operations to solve problems.

A. 20 Units Mathematics including: B. School Demonstration 12

10 units Algebra 1 C. Student Developed Demonstration

10 units Mathematics elective

Science

This Charter School graduate applies scientific concepts and skills to explain his world and find solutions to its problems.

A. 20 Units of Science including: B. School Demonstration 13

10 units Physical Science elective C. Student Developed Demonstration

(typical courses are Earth Science, Chemistry, Physics)

10 units Life Science elective

(typical courses are Biology, Anatomy/Physiology)

Special Interests

This Charter School graduate realizes his own special interests, talents and abilities.

A. 60 Units of Electives including: B. School Demonstrations 14 or 15

10 units Foreign Language or Visual and Performing Arts electives

50 units electives (college prep, academic or vocational)

State Required Assessment

CAHSEE ELA and CAHSEE Math must both be completed with a score of “PASS”. Six opportunities to pass are offered during 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th grades.

Graduation Requirements Agreement

(For ES use to direct student’s educational program. Required for all 9^th graders and those entering the school during any high school year.)

ESs: Enter the required information in ES Webfiles in View/Active Students/Detail screen, then mail completed form to: IEM Student Records, 1166 Broadway Ste. Q, Placerville, CA 95667

School Name:

Student: Student Code Grade:

ES: ES Code

Post High School Educational Plans

By signing below, I understand that it is the parent/student responsibility to provide the ES with information of required courses for college admission that are over and above, or different than our school graduation requirements.

_____ 4 yr. college _____ 2 yr. College_____ Technical _____ Military _____ Other:

Current Career Interests

(Student, parent and education specialist must initial only one method for completing each growth area below.)

Growth Areas	Carnegie Units	School Demos	Student Demos	GED Test Scores(Adult students only)
1. Reading/Writing.
2. Life Skills
3. History
4. Political Process
5. Mathematics
6. Science
7. Special Interests

Possibility of returning to a regular high school: Yes ____ No ____ Maybe ____

Warning: Only Carnegie Units are generally accepted at any other high school you may choose to attend.
I understand that to receive a diploma, I must complete all school requirements and pass both sections of the CAHSEE assessment.
I understand that any "basic" level coursework completed at this charter school will meet this school's graduation requirements, but may not transfer to a different high school nor will it be accepted by most 4 year colleges.
I understand that to go directly into a 4 year college, I need to follow the a-g course plan listed on the website, and be in contact with the college I plan to attend.

· It is the parent’s responsibility to know the course requirements for other schools this student may attend during his/her high school years and to inform the ES of those requirements they are expected to meet while with this charter school.

· I understand that beginning with the graduation class of 2012, Education and Career Planning will be a Life Science Skills Graduation Requirement.

Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date: ___________

Parent Signature: _______________________________________________ Date: ___________

Specialist Signature: ____________________________________________ Date: ____________

Revised 4/23/08

Suggestions for Determining Course Placement for your

High School Student

It is best to use several academic indicators when trying to determine proper placement for your child. Your Educational Specialist (ES) is also a great resource! You should consider the following:

ü What are your child’s career and academic goals?

ü What do the STAR test results reveal?

ü What is your child’s reading level?

ü What math course is your child ready to take?

ü What kinds of grades does your child achieve?

ü What is your child’s capability and motivation?

Your ES will help you decide on one of three levels of coursework according to the “Suggested Schedules for High School Students” Handout on the next page (students may take different levels concurrently, ie, a basic math course with general English):

Basic Courses – ES recommendation only, based on several academic indicators! These are below skill level, non-college prep courses. Students placed here read at 5^th grade or below and/or at a pre-algebra math level. You should encourage your child to progress to General or College Prep a-g coursework each year, depending on your child’s career and academic goals. Efforts should focus toward passing the CAHSEE and may include CAHSEE preparation curriculum.

General Courses – These are skill level, non-college prep courses. Students placed here are above the 5^th grade reading level and are taking pre-algebra or algebra. Students are typically non-college bound and desire to go directly into the workforce, the military or a vocational/trade school. Since your child is thinking of going directly into the job market, consider recommending ROP, community college, or adult school courses which may benefit their preparation.

College Prep a-g Courses – Students placed here are typically at the 7^th grade or higher reading level and algebra math level. Students at .this level of coursework desire to go to community college to earn an AA and/or a university to earn a four year Bachelor’s degree.

Ø You will need to work with your ES to find a highly qualified teacher for “a-g” courses.

Ø Please see handout “What are a-g Courses” for more information.

Ø Visit our website at www.connectingwaters.org , go to “Guidance” then “College Bound Students” for more helpful tips.

Connecting Waters Connecting Waters

Suggested Schedules for High School Completion 2009

210 Carnegie units are required for graduation

(These are suggested guidelines only. You may modify your individual student’s schedule by working with your ES.)

General Graduation	a-g College Prep
9^th Grade	9^th Grade
10 - English 9 10 - Algebra 1 10 - Physical Education 1 10 - Earth Science 5 – Health 5 – Education and Career Planning 50 Carnegie units	10 - A-G English 9 10 - A-G Algebra 1 or A-G Geometry 10 - Physical Education 1 10 - A- G Earth Science or A-G Biology 10 - A-G Foreign Language 1 5 - Health 5 – Education and Career Planning 60 Carnegie units with 3 A-G units
10^th Grade	10^th Grade
10 - English 10 10 - Algebra 1 or Geometry 10 - Life Science or Biology 10 - World Studies 10 - Physical Education 2 10 – Typing/Computer Skills 60 Carnegie units	10 - A-G English 10 10 - A-G Geometry or A-G Algebra 2 10 - A-G World History 10 - A-G Biology or A-G Chemistry 10 – Physical Education 2 10 - A-G Foreign Language 2 60 Carnegie units with 5 A-G units
11^th Grade	11^th Grade
10 - English 11 10 - U.S. History 10 - Geometry or Algebra 2 10 - Biology 10 - Foreign Language 1 or a Visual and Performing Arts course* 50 Carnegie units	10 - A-G English 11 10 - A-G U.S. History 10 - A-G Algebra 2 or A-G Trig/Pre- Calc or A-G Prob & Stats 10 - A-G Chemistry or A-G Physics 10 – A-G Visual/Performing Arts 10 – Typing/Computer Skills 60 Carnegie units with 5 A-G units
12^th grade	12^th grade
10 - English 12 10 - U.S Govt./Economics 10 - 1 Life Skills course* 20 - 2 Elective courses*: (work with ES to choose appropriate electives) 50 Carnegie units	10 - A-G English 12 10 - A-G U.S. Govt./Economics 10 - Physical Education 2 10 - 1 Life Skills course* 10 – Additional A-G course 10 - 1 A-G Elective or Special Interest Course (*work w/ ES to choose appropriate course) 60 Carnegie units with 2 A-G units

* There are a variety of school courses that will meet this requirement.

Notes to remember:

ü Education and Career Planning (5 units) is a 9^th grade graduation requirement beginning with the Class of 2012.

ü Most private colleges and other state colleges will accept the UC entrance requirements.

ü UC/CSU requires a minimum of 15 A-G units and recommends a total of 18 A-G units.

ü To meet the recommended 18 unit A-G units, you will need to complete 240 Carnegie units, and add in 3 more A-G courses to your schedule. Consult with your ES.

ü R.O.P. Courses can be taken starting at age 16 and or/11^th grade. Please contact your County Office of Education fore more information.

Students may waive 5 of the required Typing/Computer credits by passing a typing test with at least 30 wpm. The student must do 5 additional life skills credits in lieu of the 5 waived typing credits.

Other Educational Opportunities: ROP, Turlock

Adult Education, Community College

ROP/ROCP – Regional Occupation Centers and Programs - ROP trains people for work. People enroll in ROP courses to further their education, upgrade their present job skills or learn new skills. There are 73 Regional Occupation Centers and Program (ROC/P’s) in California. Students may earn credits to fulfill high school graduation requirements while acquiring job skills to take their place in the “World of Work”. Community college credits are also available through most ROP courses. ROP courses are open to students 16 years or older or in 11^th grade.

Regional Occupational Programs (ROP/ROCP) by County:

County	Contact	Phone	Website (www.)
Alameda	Sean McPhetridge	510-337-7093	alamedarop.com/
Calaveras	Robert Silva	209-754-1811 x5307	ccoe.k12.ca.us/programs_services/rop.html
Mariposa	Kristie Mitchell	209-742-0260 x234	fresnorop.org/Pages/
Merced	Lee Moua	209-381-6678	rop.mercedlearn.org/
San Joaquin	Laura Guess	209-468-5981	sjcoe.org/rocp/
Santa Clara/North	Cora Hilario Alyssa Lynch	408-573-3290	sccoe.org/depts/rop-north/
Santa Clara/South	David Matuszak	408-842-0361	sccoe.org/depts/scrop/
Stanislaus (Modesto City Schools)	Janine Cessna Elda Martinez	209-576-4166 209-576-4130	Monet.k12.ca.us/careers
Waterford HS	Dawn Reece	209-874-3301	Child Development ROP course
Tuolumne	Wynette Hilton	209-962-7846	No website

Turlock Adult Education:

One of our vendors, this program offers many courses primarily for adult students age 18 and older; some courses may be available for students aged 16 years and older. For more information http://turlock.k12.ca.us/tas/

Community College:

Connecting Waters encourages capable high school students to enroll in community college courses when it is deemed appropriate by the parent and the Educational Specialist. If the community college course is being used to meet college entrance requirements, the course should be UC/CSU transferable.

The parent is responsible for enrolling the student by contacting the college enrollment office. The parent must identify their student as being currently enrolled in a public high school. Each community college is able to set its own standards for admittance, such as a minimum age, demonstrated ability, or professor approval. Colleges may require placement testing and/or orientation sessions. They may also require the ES to sign letters of recommendation, the Director to sign a concurrent enrollment form, and require official transcripts before admitting the high school student. It is important for parents to start this process early to meet application and enrollment deadlines.

Clubs at Connecting Waters for High School Students

California Scholarship Federation, CSF, a club at CWCS that started in the 2005-06 year for high achieving high school students. Most regular high schools belong to the statewide CSF organization, where membership is considered a mark of distinction by colleges and universities. The purpose of CSF is to recognize students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. CSF emphasizes high standards of service, scholarship, and citizenship. Qualifying for membership is on a semester basis following a point system that requires A’s and B’s in the most difficult classes. The majority of the required membership points must come from University of California accepted coursework, also known as “a-g” courses. Please contact Mary Halter at mhalter@connectingwaters.org for an application. This club is open to Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors and semester two Freshman. Applications are accepted each semester and are due in the fall by September 14 and again in the spring by January 31.

National Honor Society, NHS, is a nationwide organization whose purpose is to recognize students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. NHS emphasizes high standards of scholarship, service, leadership, and character for high school students. What makes a student eligible? Students must be in grades 10, 11, or 12 and have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in general or a-g coursework. Additionally, potential members must meet high standards of leadership, service, and character. Applicants are screened by a Faculty Council consisting of three to five Educational Specialists. Please contact Mary Halter at mhalter@connectingwaters.org for an application. Applications are due by September 14.

Awards Ceremony for High School Students

Connecting Waters Charter School values our students and their accomplishments. Each year, students in the CSF and NHS clubs are recognized at an Awards Ceremony and Dessert during the spring. Our graduating students are also honored at this event, and awards are given to graduates who meet the following criteria:

CSF Life Membership Awards – graduates are honored for being an active CSF member for 4 semesters. Graduates receive a gold cord to wear at the graduation ceremony.

NHS Awards – graduates are honored for NHS with a blue cord to wear at the graduation ceremony.

STAR Test Honorees – graduates who score proficient or advanced on 3 STAR exams in 2 years will be honored with a white cord to wear at the graduation ceremony.

Beyond High School…what are your options?

Job Market?

Going directly into the job market after high school may require some specialized skills.

Military?

Entrance requirements into the Armed Forces differ slightly from branch to branch. Students coming from an Independent Study program such as ours must meet certain criteria to qualify for entrance, and the entrance requirements are much different than what it takes to get in directly from a traditional high school. If you are interested in the military, you need to contact a recruiter.

Trade/Technical/Vocational School?

Trade/Technical/Vocational Schools differ from school to school. Students may find information online or at the library or Career Expo. Many technical certificate programs are also offered at your local community college for a fraction of the cost.

2 year California Community College?

The California Community College System is the largest higher education system in the world serving 2.5 million students on 109 college campuses throughout California. Community College is a great place for technical or vocational training. Students can also attend a Community College with the plan to transfer to a 4 year university. Sixty percent of students who receive their bachelor’s degree at a California State University and thirty percent of students who graduated from a University of California school started their education at a community college!

4 year University?

California is fortunate to have several 4 year University options. There are 23 CSU’s, 9 UC’s, and 77 Independent Colleges and Universities! Universities have eligibility requirements for high school students, so you will need to check their admissions websites. Most want high school students to take a rigorous high school program that includes “a-g” courses.

Education pays in higher earnings and lower unemployment rates

Unemployment rate in 2006 (Percent)	Education attained	Median weekly earnings in 2006 (Dollars)
1.4	Doctoral degree	$1,441
1.1	Professional degree	1,474
1.7	Master's degree	1,140
2.3	Bachelor's degree	962
3.0	Associate degree	721
3.9	Some college, no degree	674
4.3	High-school graduate	595
6.8	Less than a high school diploma	419

Note: Data are 2006 annual averages for persons age 25 and over. Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey.

Career Planning

In order to make plans for your career, you will need to do some investigating! The Education and Career Planning course offered here at CWCS is a great way to begin exploring careers. You can also do some research on your own.

A good place to start is to determine your personal areas of interest, your current skills, how much education/training you want to pursue after high school, your personality traits, and your personal and financial goals for your future.

Here are some tips to get you started:

Talk with your ES, school counselor, tutors, family and other important people in your life about careers.
Take an interest inventory, skill assessment, or personality inventory online, see websites below, or by taking the PLAN test in November at the Modesto Learning Center.
Seek help in understanding the results.
Match your personal interests, skills, personality traits, and educational goals with possible career choices.
Investigate careers online and at the library.
Plan for training or college after high school to reach your career goal.
Add additional skills through participation in school clubs and local community organizations. Volunteer/community service is a great way to add skills!
If you can, start a part-time job to add employment skills.

Greatest Places on the Web for Career Planning:

http://online.onetcenter.org – Occupational Information Network (O*NET), developed by the US Department of Labor, offers occupational information and a skills search.

www.advisorteam.com/temperament_sorter/register.asp?partid – The Kiersey Temperament Sorter II is a 70 question personality assessment. It provides insight into one’s own personality to use in selecting a career or work environment.

www.cacareerzone.org/index.html - California Career Zone is an interactive website designed for students providing self assessment inventories, information for over 900 occupations, 300 career videos, a reality check section, and a variety of resources.

www.californiacareers.info – another career information site that includes self assessment.

What Type Of Colleges Exist?

There are two basic types of post-secondary education institutions:

1. Community, Technical, and Junior Colleges

Many colleges offer programs that are less than four years in length. Most of these schools offer education and training programs that are two years in length or shorter. The programs often lead to a license, certificate, associate of arts (AA) degree, associate of science (AS) degree or associate of applied science

(AAS) degree.

Community and Junior Colleges are public, two year colleges. They serve people from nearby communities and offer academic courses, technical courses, and continuing education courses. In many cases, students who earn associate degrees may transfer to four year universities and receive credit toward their BA or BS degrees.

Technical Colleges are generally colleges that have a special emphasis on education and training in technical fields. Technical colleges may be private or public.

2. Four Year Colleges and Universities

These schools usually offer a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Some also offer graduate and professional degrees.

Four Year Colleges provide educational programs in the arts and sciences. These colleges confer bachelor’s degrees.

Universities include a college of arts and/or sciences, one or more programs of

graduate studies, and one or more professional schools. Universities confer bachelor’s degrees and graduate, masters, and Ph.D. degrees. Many universities also confer professional degrees, for example, in law or medicine.

CALIFORNIA’S COLLEGE SYSTEMS AT A GLANCEGLANCE

System	Community College	California State University	University of California	Independent Colleges and Universities
Number of Campuses	110	23	10	More than 70
College Entrance Test	None required (Placement tests are given for Math and English)	ACT or SAT Reasoning Test	ACT Plus Writing OR SAT Reasoning AND two Subject Tests (not math 1C)	Varies, check with the college or university of your choice, usually the ACT or SAT Reasoning
Degrees Offered	Associate Degrees, vocational certificates, and university transfer programs	Bachelors, Masters, Pre-Doctoral	Bachelors, Masters, Doctorates, And professional degrees	Associates, Bachelors, Doctorates, Masters, and professional degrees…depending on the college/university
Cost (subject to change)	$20 per unit	Approximately $2,916 per year	Approximately $6,850 per year	Varies

What are “a-g” College Preparation Courses?

a-g College Prep Courses defined: “a-g” is the course code that indicates the student followed the approved University of California and California State University course description and used the approved text(s). Course descriptions and their textbooks are posted on the school's web page at www.ieminc.org/handbook/highschool/Courseinfo/agcoursetitle.htm . Students must use approved texts and course descriptions for a-g college prep credit on the transcript.

Who should take a-g College Prep Courses? They are required for students who wish to attend a California State University or University of California directly out of high school. “a-g” courses are highly recommended for students wanting to attend a private college or university directly out of high school. Students who are planning to attend a community college should discuss this option with his/her ES. Students who have not completed the a-g college prep sequence may be able to qualify for admission through alternative paths and should talk to the college or university directly. Any student wanting to return to their regular high school to graduate should be taking a-g coursework, especially in English and History.

Is my child ready for a-g College Prep Coursework? In general, a-g College Prep coursework is designed for students who read at the 7^th grade or above or score Proficient or Advanced on the STAR test, although students who score Basic may be ready for the rigor of the coursework depending on the student’s goals and aspirations. Your ES can help you to determine the best placement for your child. To determine math placement, talk to your ES about taking a math readiness test like the free tests offered by the Math Diagnostic Testing Program (MDTP). Tests are available for all levels of math from pre-algebra to calculus see the http://mdtp.ucsd.edu website for more information.

“A-G” SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS. The University of California and the California State University require the following for admittance:

Area	Subject	Required Year(s)	Recommended Year(s)
a.	History/Social Sciences	2	2
b.	English	4	4
c.	Mathematics	3	4
d.	Laboratory Science	2	3
e.	Language Other than English	2	3
f.	Visual and Performing Arts	1	1
g.	Electives	1	1
Total Required Subjects 15

Community college courses can be used to complete “a-g” subject area requirements as long as the course is a UC/CSU transferable course. Many online programs are available, please consult your ES or contact the Guidance Department at guidancecounselor@connectingwaters.org .

Course Specific hints – ALL COURSES MUST FOLLOW THE COURSE OUTLINE, have a Highly Qualified Teacher, and:

English Students must read at least three novels from the suggested reading list alongside the curriculum. The course must emphasize reading and expository writing.

Lab Science Lab Science courses must include at least 20% laboratory work and cannot be completed in a home environment. Therefore, a-g Biology, a-g Chemistry, a-g Physics and a-g Anatomy/Physiology must have an on site type/formal lab component. Options include taking the course at community college, taking supplemental labs at our Modesto Learning Center, or taking the lab portion from an approved HQT onsite lab vendor.

Language Other than English Students must follow the course outline and should be given opportunities to apply dialogue.

Visual and Performing Arts Students must follow both the course outline and the California State Standards by subject at http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/index.asp . The course must include some cultural and historical studies and should not simply be a performance experience.

College Prep Electives Our approved electives include a-g Life Science, a-g Physical Science, a-g Earth Science, a-g Economics, a-g European History. The sciences in this category do not need a 20% lab component, however, lab experiences are recommended.

UC-CSU Comparison of Minimum Eligibility Requirements

UC and CSU requires you to complete the 15 units of high school coursework to meet minimum eligibility. A unit is equal to an academic year.

Subject Requirements	University of California	California State University
a – History/Social Science	2 years	2years
b – English	4 years	4 years
c – Mathematics	3 years (a-g Alg, a-g Geom, and a-g Alg 2); 4 years recommended	3 years (a-g Alg, a-g Geom, and a-g Alg 2); 4 years recommended
d – Laboratory Science	2 years, including at least two of the three disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics; MUST include on-site lab 3 years recommended	2 years, including at least two of the three disciplines of biology, chemistry, and physics; MUST include on-site lab
e – Language Other Than English	2 years of the SAME language; 3 years recommended	2 years of the SAME language
f – Visual and Performing Arts	1 yearlong course	1 yearlong course
g – College Prep Elective	1 year of an elective chosen from any course on the “a-g” course list, EXCEPT for those indicated as not fulfilling the “g” requirement	1 year of an elective chosen from any course on the “a-g” course list, EXCEPT for those indicated as not fulfilling the “g” requirement
Testing Requirements	SAT Reasoning or ACT AND 2 SAT Single Subject Tests (beginning with the Class of 2012, the two Subject Tests are not required)	SAT Reasoning or ACT

Students must earn grades of C or better in all “a-g” courses.

GPA: GPA is calculated using only “a-g” courses taken after the 9^th grade. Although grades from 9^th grade are not factored into the eligibility GPA, grades lower than a C in a 9^th grade “a-g” course will not count toward satisfying the “a-g” college eligibility requirements (and in most cases, will need to be repeated).

Minimum GPA for UC eligibility = 3.00
Minimum GPA for CSU Eligibility Index can be found at www.csumentor.edu/planning/highschool/calresidents.asp

At least 7 of the 15 units must be taken the last two years of high school.

Honors points: UC and CSU will award up to 8 extra grade points for AP courses and transferable community college courses

Student A-G Checklist

Student Name ____________________________ Student ID# ___________________________

ES _____________________________________□ CWCS Requirement met (CSU/UC)

Area	Subject	Required Year(s)	Recommended Year(s)
a.	History/Social Science – 2 years required Two years of history/social science, including one year of world history, cultures and geography; and one year of U.S. history or one-half year of U.S. history and one-half year of civics or American government.	2	2
b.	English – 4 years required Four years of college-preparatory English that include frequent and regular writing, and reading of classic and modern literature. No more than one year of ESL-type courses can be used to meet this requirement.	4	4
c.	Mathematics – 3 years required, 4 years recommended Three years of college-preparatory mathematics that include the topics covered in elementary and advanced algebra and two- and three-dimensional geometry. Approved integrated math courses may be used to fulfill part or all of this requirement, as may math courses taken in the seventh and eighth grades that your high school accepts as equivalent to its own math courses.	3	4
d.	Laboratory Science – 2 years required, 3 years recommended Two years of laboratory science providing fundamental knowledge in two of these three foundational subjects: biology, chemistry and physics. Advanced laboratory science classes that have biology, chemistry or physics as prerequisites and offer substantial additional material may be used to fulfill this requirement. The final two years of an approved three-year integrated science program may be used to fulfill this requirement.	2	3
e.	Language other than English – 2 years required, 3 years recommended Two years of the same language other than English. Courses should emphasize speaking and understanding, and include instruction in grammar, vocabulary, reading, composition and culture. Courses in languages other than English taken in the seventh and eighth grades may be used to fulfill part of this requirement if your high school accepts them as equivalent to its own courses.	2	3
f.	Visual & Performing Arts – 1 year required A single yearlong approved arts course from a single VPA discipline: dance, drama/theater, music or visual art.	1	1
g.	Electives – 1 year required One year (two semesters), in addition to those required in "a-f" above, chosen from the following areas: visual and performing arts (non-introductory level courses), history, social science, English, advanced mathematics, laboratory science and language other than English (a third year in the language used for the "e" requirement or two years of another language).	1	1
Total Required Subjects		15

= Met A-G Subject Requirement (check box if requirement is met).

Use above chart for correct course and/or selection.

a. History

Social Sci

b. English

c. Mathematics

d. Lab

Science

e. Language

f. Visual

Performing

g. Electives

All classes must be

A-G

□ US History A/B

(10 units)

□ World History A/B

(10 units)

□ European History A/B

(10 units-course does not count toward the CWCS world studies graduation requirement )

□ American Government

(5.0 units)

All classes must be A-G

□ English 9A/9B

(10 units)

□ English 10A/10B

(10 units)

□ English 11A/11B

(10 units)

□ English 12A/12B

(10 units)

All classes must be

A-G

□ Algebra A/B

(10 units)

□ Geometry A/B

(10 units)

□ Algebra 2A/2B

(10 units)

□ Prob & Stats A/B

(10 units)

□ Trig/Pre-Calc A/B

(10 units)

□ Calculus A/B

(10 units)

All classes must be A-G

□ Biology A/B

(10 units)

□ Chem A/B

(10 units)

□ Physics A/B

(10 units)

□ Anatomy/

Phys A/B

(10 units)

All classes must be

A-G

American Sign Language A/B

□ 1 (10 units)

□ 2 (10 units)

□ 3 (10 units)

French A/B

□ 1 (10 units)

□ 2 (10 units)

□ 3 (10 units)

German A/B

□ 1 (10 units)

□ 2 (10 units)

□ 3 (10 units)

Portuguese A/B

□ 1 (10 units)

□ 2 (10 units)

□ 3 (10 units)

Spanish A/B

□ 1 (10 units)

□ 2 (10 units)

□ 3 (10 units)

All classes must be

A-G

□ Dance A/B

(10 units)

□ Music A/B

(10 units)

□ Adv. Music A/B

(10 units)

□ Theatre A/B

(10 units)

□ Visual Arts A/B

(10 units)

All classes must be

A-G

□ Earth Science A/B

(10 units)

□ Economics

(5 units)

□ Life Science A/B

(10 units)

□ Physical Science A/B

(10 units)

□ __________

Class –from another category

Units _________

A-G course information can be accessed on-line at: www.ieminc.org/handbook/highschool/Courseinfo/agcoursetitle.htm

UC Riverside’s Admission as a Homeschooled or Other Nontraditionally Educated Student

The University of California, Riverside seeks to recruit and retain an academically strong student body that has demonstrated the rigorous preparation needed for admission to a major research institution and reflects the diversity of our state and region. To that end, UC Riverside has developed an admission program for homeschooled or other nontraditionally educated students in recognition of the benefits of the education they have received, including the depth of learning, socialization, maturity, creativity, and vision. These qualities provide excellent foundations for pursuing an education at UC Riverside.

Examples of nontraditional educational settings include those where the high school education was:

primarily home-based
completed as home-based after leaving a traditional high school during the last year or two
based on courses from various sources such as high school, community college, and online program, with or without extensive home-based education
completed early by taking the California High-School Proficiency Exam AND performing additional studies outside of class or participating in significant educational life experiences such as charity work or experience in another country
taken at a charter school emphasizing an innovative educational approach that doesn't have a UC-approved "a-g" course list
taken at a high school with a UC-approved "a-g" course list, but the student graduated without fulfilling the "a-g" course work because the student emphasized homeschooling or another novel educational approach instead (this is where CWCS fits in!)

Admission Requirements

Students who wish to apply to UC Riverside through this admission program must satisfy the following requirements:

Meet high school qualifications

Students must have attended the nontraditional school for a significant part of their education
Students must earn either a HS Diploma, GED, or Certificate of Proficiency

Meet the examination requirement

Either the SAT Reasoning or the ACT with writing
2 SAT Subject Tests in 2 different areas (two subject tests are not required beginning Class of 2012)

Complete the University of California (UC) application for admission

Special Instructions apply, please contact CWCS Guidance Dept at guidancecounselor@connectingwaters.org

Submit a portfolio to UC Riverside

Special Instructions apply, please contact CWCS Guidance Dept at guidancecounselor@connectingwaters.org

STEPS TO COLLEGE ENTRANCE AND SCHOLARSHIPS

FRESHMAN YEAR

Take college preparatory classes, including a-g algebra or a-g geometry and an a-g foreign language.
Take the Education and Career Planning course.
Attend the Career Expo and/or other local College Fairs.
Develop strong study skills and test taking skills.
Participate in school and community activities – remember it’s the whole “package” that counts – grades, course rigor, volunteer work, community service, and leadership…that’s what the colleges are looking for!
Begin an “Activity Record” by keeping copies of report cards, list of co-curricular activities and awards and honors, community service activities with descriptions of what you do.
Start thinking about colleges, visit colleges during breaks and summer
October – take PSAT (practice SAT) test.
November – take PLAN (practice ACT) test.
January – investigate CSF (California Scholarship Federation).

SOPHOMORE YEAR

Continue #1-10 on the freshman level, don’t forget about #4, and #5…very important!
Continue to participate in academic enrichment programs, summer workshops, and camps with specialty focuses such as music, arts, sciences.
Continue researching colleges – visit websites, campus visits, college fairs. Make a list of colleges you would like to attend.
Take Study Skills.
Discuss career choices and college with parents and counselor, look into the ROP program.
October PSAT
November PLAN
SAT Subject in June for any subject you will complete before June.

JUNIOR YEAR

Continue with full academic program, maintain grades, study (review freshman, sophomore steps).
Assume leadership roles in activities.
Attend college fairs, visit colleges and meet with representatives, narrow down your possible college choices by using websites and discussing with counselor.
Take the Guidance Department’s Internship course this year or during your senior year.
Investigate scholarships online and discuss with counselor.
Update your “Activity Record” (see #4, #5 Freshman Year).
October – take the PSAT (in your junior year the scores count towards the National Achievement Program)
March, April, May, June – take the SAT Reasoning, SAT Subject Tests and/or ACT
Summer – practice writing college applications, practice writing your college essay and review for content, grammar, punctuation, readability.

SENIOR YEAR

Take a full academic program! Study and maintain your grades (review freshman, sophomore, junior steps
Continue to update your “Activity Record” and to be active in school and community -#4,5 Freshman Year
Collect letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, administrators and community leaders.
Attend college fairs, meet with representatives attend college nights.
Make a final decision about College, make sure you meet requirements, double check deadlines, selecting a college major can be helpful, get advice from your counselor.
Write any essays to be included in applications.
Be aware of scholarships available by checking newsletter and online resources.
September through December take all necessary college entrance tests (SAT Reasoning or ACT if UC then SAT Subject’s). Make sure your official test scores are being sent to the colleges to which you are applying.
Write thank you notes for all financial assistance received.
October 1 through November 30 - submit your college admissions applications to CSU and UC. Check deadlines for early decision applications and private colleges.
January 1 through March 2 -apply for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) make sure to complete the GPA Verification Form with your school.
June – have your school send your final transcripts to the college of your choice.

2009-10 SAT and ACT – College Entrance Exam Test Dates and Deadlines

Test	Test Date	Registration Deadline	Late Registration Deadline
ACT (with optional writing)	Sept 12	Aug 7	Aug 21
SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests	Oct 10	TBA	TBA
ACT (with optional writing)	Oct 24	Sept 18	Oct 2
SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests including Language with Listening (only date offered all year)	Nov 7	TBA	TBA
SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests	Dec 5	TBA	TBA
ACT (with optional writing)	Dec 12	Nov 6	Nov 20
SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests	Jan 23	TBA	TBA
ACT (with optional writing)	Feb 6	Jan 5	Jan 15
SAT Reasoning Test Only	March 13	TBA	TBA
ACT (with optional writing)	April 10	March 5	March 19
SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests	May 1	TBA	TBA
SAT Reasoning and Subject Tests	June 5	TBA	TBA
ACT (with optional writing)	June 12	May 7	May 21

ACT Fees – Basic Registration Fee $29 (with optional writing add $14)

SAT Fees – SAT Reasoning $41.50; SAT Subject Tests are $18 for basic registration plus $8 per subject (Language tests with listening are $19) To Register:

SAT – www.collegeboard.com

ACT – www.act.org

School Code : 053706 NOTE: test results are posted onto high school transcripts

FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

Planning and timely action can make a difference in how much money you have to pay for college. You can start early by setting up a college savings account. It is important to research ways to finding money for college. Talk with friends who have students in college, attend financial aid meetings in the area, and go to local college fairs. Most colleges have their own scholarship and financial aid programs available through their Financial Aid Office, but most colleges require that you have submitted a FAFSA application (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). You can check the college website for financial aid information (for California colleges check out www.californiacolleges.edu ). Make sure to meet deadlines.

The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and is the application used for all types of federal financial aid – for junior colleges, trade schools, colleges and universities! All graduating students planning to attend a junior college, trade school, private college, or university should apply. File between January 1 and March 2, 2010 at www.fafsa.gov . For the California Grant Program, or CalGrants, request a GPA Verification Form from the CWCS guidance office and file between January 1 and March 2, 2010.

Please make sure to view our online newsletters starting September 1^st to get updates on scholarships! You will find a link to the scholarship website along with deadlines. They are available to mostly juniors and seniors…and you don’t have to be applying to a university to be eligible for many of them! Click the newsletter button at www.connectingwaters.org or click on the Guidance button, then Scholarships, these are updated every month!

Guidance Department Educational Series

“College Basics 101” Workshop

9/22 and 9/24 via Elluminate 10am – 11am

11/6 Modesto Learning Center 11am – 12 noon

Not sure where to start? Find out! This workshop will focus on getting prepared for college, how to research your options and what it takes to get in. What courses should you take? How do you begin finding a college? Where do you want to go? Learn all about it! To reserve your space and to register for one of the workshops call the School Office at (209) 874-1119 or 1-800-808-9895 ext.6.

College Fair Tour

A bus tour to the Fall College Tour hosted by the Community College

October – TBA

Want to learn more about college? Over 150 colleges attend and workshops are presented.

College Tours

Tours of various universities including CSU Stanislaus, UC Merced, and more!

Ongoing…will be advertised on Parent Listserve

Do you want to know more about California’s system of colleges? Want to know what they have to offer and what you need to do to get there? Meet representatives from the Community Colleges and the Universities. Learn what they have to offer!

PSAT – Practice SAT

PLAN – Practice ACT

PSAT is offered on October 14^th, $13 fee, 7^th Day Adventist Church, Ceres GEA # TBA

PLAN is offered at the Modesto Learning Center on November 13^th, $10 fee, GEA # TBA

High school students are invited to take these practice tests to prepare for the SAT and/or ACT exams. The Guidance Department explains the test results and assists students in understanding their academic strengths and weaknesses.

Career Workshops

Will be part of the Parent Workshop Training Event in February Presented by representatives

High school students and parents are invited to explore all of the opportunities available to them! Workshops will be offered by representatives from Community College, Private College, Technical Schools, and more. More information to come in our newsletters and online via the parent listserve.

Financial Aid Workshop

January – TBA

Class of 2009 parents and students are invited to attend this very important event regarding financial aid for: junior college, trade schools, colleges and universities. We will discuss the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), GPA Verification Forms, California State Grants/Pell Grants, Scholarship Information, other ways to access free money for college and much more! Don’t miss out! To reserve your space and to register for one of the workshops call the School Office at (209) 874-1119 or 1-800-808-9895 ext. 6.

High School Orientation Meeting

February – TBA , Meeting will be held at the Modesto Learning Center or via Elluminate

Attention 7^th and 8^th graders!!!! A very important meeting to discuss the importance of high school and the courses you should take. Do you want to attend college? A trade school? How about Junior College? Now’s the time to plan for your future!! A must attend event! Don’t miss out! To reserve your space and to register for one of the workshops call the School Office at (209) 874-1119 or 1-800-808-9895 ext. 6.

COURSES

Education and Career Planning Course:

Grade Level: 9

Prerequisite: none

Dates offered: Several dates and venues to choose from Elluminate, Modesto Learning Center or Independent Study with a Career Portfolio assignment

This 5 unit Life Skills course is mandatory for all 9^th graders beginning in the 2008-09 school year. The course allows students to answer: Who am I? What do I want? How do I get there? Students will use self evaluation tools and will research careers to begin to develop a ten year plan! Options for taking the course:

1. Elluminate – online class. Section 1-Tuesdays 10-11am; Section 2-Thursdays 10-11am

2. In person Class – at the Modesto Learning Center one Friday per month, 10:30 – 12 noon

3. Independent Study – students will follow the course outline, completing the course on their own, and will submit a portfolio for a portion of the grade.

Textbook – Career Choices: A Guide for Teens and Young Adults. This text is required for the online or in person class. For the Independent Study course, the text is recommended; however, students can use other sources to meet the requirements of the course and to complete the portfolio.

Study Skills:

Grade Level 2008-09 year: 9-12

Prerequisite: none

Dates offered: To Be Announced, one course in Fall and one in Spring

This 1 unit course will help students learn how to organize themselves, take notes, and study.

Education and Career Planning with Internship:

Grade Level 2008-09 year: 11 or 12, students will take Education and Career Planning 1^st semester and Education and Career Planning with Internship 2^nd semester

Prerequisite: Education and Career Planning (or similar course if taken at another high school)

Dates offered: Tuesdays via Elluminate 10-11am

For the 2008-09 school year, this course will be offered to 11th and 12^th graders as a Life Skills elective option, and will be worth a total of 10 units (semester 1=Education and Career Planning, 5 units and semester 2= Education and Career Planning with Internship, 5 units). Students will find and complete a short internship. Students also learn about careers, job skills, and budgeting.

Reading/Writing Courses