ii

Declaration of Nondiscrimination

No student, employee, or applicant for employment in the Fairfax County Public Schools shall,

on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, marital status, disability, or age (under

certain conditions), be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected

to discrimination under any education program or activity. Compliance is coordinated by the

directors of the following: Office of Design and Construction Services (571-423-2280) regarding

access to facilities; Office of Equity and Compliance (571-423-3050 or dial 711 for access to

Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS)), regarding equal employment opportunity,

discrimination, and sexual harassment issues; Due Process and Eligibility (703-317-3000),

Department of Special Services, regarding programs and activities for students with disabilities.

Correspondence may be addressed to the above offices and sent to 8115 Gatehouse Road, Falls

Church, Virginia 22042.

Front cover illustrated by

C. Nguyen

Back cover illustrated by

Jensen

iii

iv

Welcome to Lake Braddock!

Adjusting to Middle School We are excited about our middle school students and can’t wait to help them make the transitions at Lake Braddock. All Lake Braddock Middle School students belong to an academic “team” consisting of students who have the same teachers for English, science and social studies. One learning disabilities teacher or ESOL teacher may be assigned to a team to coordinate services. Also, there is a counselor and an administrator (sub school principal) on each team. The developmental guidance and counseling program is an essential and integral element in the total educational program. Middle school counselors, under the leadership of the director of student services, deliver a full range of services. These include individual and group counseling, academic advising, crisis intervention, career awareness activities, coordination of standardized testing, parent and school consultation and conferences, special needs screening, and honors identification. The staff in the Student Services Office helps students to make the transitions from elementary to middle school and from middle to high school. Counselors strive to provide diverse and developmentally appropriate opportunities for their students to be academically successful, capable, increasingly self-reliant and resourceful. All students will participate in the Virginia state testing program. Information relating to these tests will be provided throughout the year. End of course Standard of Learning (SOL) tests will be administered to students taking Algebra 1 and Geometry.

Staff

Lake Braddock Secondary School David F. Thomas, Principal 703-426-1000 Laura Waterman, Associate Principal Brett Garner, Assistant Principal 703-426-6389 Middle School Student Services Office 703-426-1030 Anne Polino, Director of Middle School Student Services Counselors: Ian Brodie, Tracey Butler-Johnson, Sylvia Coleman, Kristin Girardin, Joshua Miles Subschool 1 Grade 8 703-426-1110 Josephine Rodriguez-Walhout, Assistant Principal Subschool 2 Grade 7 703-426-1120 Lance Jackson, Assistant Principal

v

What to Expect in Middle SchoolClasses Students will be expected to take seven classes each semester. Most classes meet for the entire year; some elective classes meet for only one semester (or 18 weeks). Seventh Graders will take: English 7, U.S. History, Investigations in Environmental Science, Mathematics 7 (Algebra 1 Honors for those who qualify), Health and Physical Education, and elective choices to complete the schedule. Eighth Graders will take: English 8, Civics, Investigating Matter and Energy 8, and Math (Mathematics 8, Algebra, Algebra 1 Honors or Geometry Honors), Health and Physical Education, and elective choices to complete the schedule. Students in grades 7 and 8 receive credit toward graduation for high school courses taken in middle school. These courses count toward credits in the required sequences as well as toward the total number of credits required for high school graduation and calculation of the grade point average (GPA). Middle school parents may request that grades for any high school credit-bearing course taken in the middle school be removed from the student’s high school transcript, and therefore the student will not earn high school credit for the course. In addition, the student will not be eligible for a verified credit in any course which has been removed from the transcript. The request to remove a course from the transcript must be made in writing to the middle or high school the student will attend no later than the end of the first 9 weeks of school in the year following completion of the course.

Lunch/Bruin Block All students will have a 30-minute lunch period each day. In addition, there are “Bruin Block” activity periods. Bruin Block provides teachers with time to assist individual students with their homework as well as reinforce study skills. Teams also have the opportunity to conduct team-building activities and interdisciplinary projects during this time.

Lockers Lockers will be available to all students to use for storing coats, backpacks, books, and school supplies. In addition to their hallway locker, students will also be assigned a locker in their PE class. The PE locker is smaller and cannot accommodate a backpack. Middle School After-School Program—Bruins Stay After Lake Braddock’s MS After-School Program offers a wide variety of clubs including recreation, social, life skills and academic enrichment activities. In addition, staying after to receive academic assistance from a classroom teacher is considered part of the After-School Program. In middle school, students choose specific clubs of interest and attend on those meeting dates, no formal commitment is required. It is up to the student to stay current with club announcements. An After-School Registration Form is required for participation in the Bruins Stay After Program. Students are expected to follow Lake Braddock’s Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) rules and regulations when staying after.

vi

Middle School Clubs

The following clubs were offered during the 2017-18 school year: CyberPatriots Going Green Club Mathcounts Pinterest Club STEM Club Science Olympiad Theatre Sports NJHS (National Junior Honor Society) French Club Video Arcade FCCLA Dance & Choreography Club Disney Club Cupcake Club G.L.A.M. (Girls Learning and Maturing) CoEd Intramural Sports *Club listings will be available during the first month of school and may change at any time.* Late Buses Late buses are available three days a week (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday). These routes differ from regular routes (a listing will be available prior to the start of late runs). A schoolwide announcement will be made at 4:40pm dismissing students to their buses. Buses leave promptly at 4:50pm. A bus board will be located outside of the main entrance letting students know which buses have arrived and their location/order. Please Note: In order to ride the late bus, a student must be signed-in to an after school club or activity to then receive a bus stamp prior to boarding. This stamp is their ticket to riding the late bus home. Students staying after will receive their hand stamp in the cafeteria around 4:30pm and will wait in the cafeteria until the schoolwide announcement is made at 4:40pm. STUDENTS: It is against SR&R to leave campus and return to ride the late bus home. If this occurs, students will forfeit their right to ride the late bus and may be asked to take a break from participating in the After-School Program. If a student plans on staying after on a non-late bus day, parental pick-up is required. On non-late bus days, students are expected to stay after with a teacher to receive academic support and/or enrichment OR attend a club that meets on those days (Wednesday and Friday).

Homework All students will be expected to do homework on a regular basis. Normally there will be approximately one to one and a half hours of homework per night. It is important that students understand the expectations of their team teachers. Students are encouraged to spend a minimum of 30 minutes reading per night. To help with time management a planner/student passport is given to each student at the beginning of the year.

Grades Students will receive report cards four times during the school year. Progress reports are emailed weekly to parents. These progress reports provide parents with the overall grade in each of the seven courses. In addition, detailed progress reports will be emailed at the mid-

vii

point and the end of each quarter. Detailed progress reports are sent by teachers and include more information on students individual assignments. Grades may be viewed anytime through a SIS Parent or Student Account. Students and parents are encouraged to communicate regularly regarding grades. When necessary, parents may want to schedule a parent conference through their student’s assigned school counselor.

Honor Code Lake Braddock’s goal is to promote a community of trust that will enhance student achievement. Students who accept responsibility for their own academic integrity learn and can take pride in genuine achievement. This Honor Code represents expectations of student behavior that are consistent with fully preparing future citizens in a democratic society. What is Honor? • The honorable person is a person of honesty and integrity.

♣ Honesty means doing your own work.

♣ Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. Honor in academic endeavors carries over into adulthood. Honorable students become honorable citizens in the workplace, in society, and in their personal lives. Practically speaking, honor allows a society to function smoothly.

• Honor is valuable in and of itself. It defines the high moral standards which we hold not only for ourselves personally, but also for our community. The citizen who witnesses a crime is duty-bound to report it. Students have a similar obligation to encourage one another to be honorable and to report dishonorable behavior which weakens our school community. What is Academic Honor? • An honorable student takes pride in the products of his or her own talents and efforts. The honorable student respects others’ work and would not claim it as his or her own. Therefore, the honorable student does not engage in the following actions:

♣ Cheating, which includes copying any part of any assignment, quiz, or test; allowing others to copy any part of any assignment, quiz or test; unauthorized use of study materials (paper or electronic); and giving or receiving unauthorized prior knowledge of assessments.

♣ Fraud, which includes deception, falsifying data, and forgery.

♣ Plagiarism, which is stealing another’s work and passing it off as one’s own.

The Honor Pledge

“On my honor, I pledge that I have neither given nor received unauthorized assistance on this assignment or test.”

viii

School Counselors All students are assigned to the counselor for their team. Students and parents are encouraged to communicate on a regular basis with the team counselor and teachers. Counselors are available as a resource to students through parent, teacher or student self-referrals. Students may work with counselors individually, in small groups, or in classroom guidance units. Other services include:

Individual counseling Learning style information Group counseling College and career search Academic counseling Intermediate school orientations Peer mediation Programs for parents Group counseling Recognition for outstanding students Parent conferences Special Education support Consultation with private resources Counselor Tips for Parenting Referrals to community agencies Minority achievement programs Annual registration for classes Individual progress reports New student registration Testing services Conflict resolution Crisis resource team Organizational and study skills Career interest inventories

English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program The middle school ESOL program comprises a range of courses to meet the cultural, linguistic, and academic needs of middle school Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 students. The language objectives of the program are based on the 7th and 8th grade English Language Arts standards, benchmarks, and indicators. The primary goal of all middle school ESOL courses is language acquisition. Courses that are based on science and social studies use that content as the vehicle for language learning. Their curriculum parallels the major concepts of upper elementary and middle school content courses. Their intent is to help students develop social and academic language proficiency, and to provide them with foundational academic learning that will support their achievement of the Virginia SOL. The curriculum in the literature/language courses, and the science/social studies-based courses for all proficiency levels relies on integrated instruction, the writing process, and access to computer technology. It promotes high achievement for ESOL students by providing appropriate comprehensible academic instruction in a participatory environment.

Special Education Programs The program for students with special education needs is based on the philosophy that individuals with disabilities have the right to a free, appropriate public education designed to meet their unique needs and learning styles. Although guided by the Virginia Standards of Learning and the Fairfax county program of Studies, instruction is adapted and modified based on individual needs as outlined in the current level of functioning on each student’s IEP. Instruction is provided in the least restrictive

ProgramsProgramsProgramsPrograms

ix

environment by appropriate personnel based on the student’s needs as reviewed at least yearly at the IEP. Programs offered include services for students with learning disabilities, emotional disabilities, other health impairments, mental retardation, speech and language impairment, hearing and vision impairments.

Support Programs In order to aid students in achieving proficiency on the Standards of Learning (SOL) tests, additional academic support semester courses are available. These courses are designed to provide direct instruction in order to augment knowledge and skills in certain indicated subject areas. Action Literacy: Action Literacy is a one-semester SOL support class for the English Reading SOL (not Writing SOL) for 7th grade students reading on or just below grade level. The classes are capped at 15 students. These students have word acquisition skills and comprehension skills near grade level (on grade level to two years below grade level), but their general comprehension is literal or low level. The focus of this course is explicit reading strategy instruction. Read 180: READ 180 is a full year reading intervention course designed to meet the needs of students whose reading achievement is well below the proficient level. The course addresses individual needs through direct teacher instruction, high-interest reading material, and adaptive instructional software. Because it is an intervention course, READ 180 is capped at 15 students. It can be accessed by both seventh and eighth graders from ESOL or general and special education populations. Depending on their proficiency level, some students might be in the course for two years. Responsive Writing: Responsive Writing is a one-semester English Writing SOL support class for students. This small intervention class will focus on implementing the writing process and applying the Six Traits of Writing. The classes are capped at 15 students. Built around best practices in writing such as conferring, using mentor text, and supporting real-world writing, this class offers students strategies that enable them to write effectively. Power Math 7 and 8: The Power Math course provides students with foundational concepts and skills to support success with current mathematics explorations and enhance experiences with future mathematics study. Power Mathematics in grade seven focuses on number and number sense, computation and estimation, and pre-teaching content (front loading) to support student learning in the upcoming units of study in the core mathematics class. Power Math in grade eight focuses on number and number sense, computation and estimation, and pre-teaching content (front loading) to support student learning in the upcoming units of study in the core mathematics class. Algebra Readiness Incentive (ARI): This course is designed to augment student abilities in Algebra. Placement and eligibility is determined through assessment. Strategies for Success: Bruin Prep Bruin Prep is a class designed to maximize student learning through a variety of practical and cognitive skills. Students will learn study skills such as creating analogies with course material; using mnemonics

x

to facilitate the recall of sequential or visual content; organizing materials and time; making realistic choices as they pertain to future employment and careers and instilling a sense of accomplishment and achievement through the completion of assignments. Students will be shown the methods that can be used to help them achieve independence and success in their learning.

Advanced Academic Programs Level IV (AAP) The AAP Level IV services for grades seven and eight offer students a highly challenging instructional program. Curriculum differentiation in the depth, breath and pace of instruction is matched to particular students and content areas. Qualification for the AAP Level IV is done at the county level. At Lake Braddock, AAP Level IV students have opportunities to work with academic peers in three core subject areas (English, social studies, and science) while participating with the entire student body in activities such as student government, physical education, and elective courses. See the math honors program information below for placement in high school credit courses in grades seven and eight.

Honors Program Students who demonstrate high achievement in one or more areas of academic strength may choose to participate in honors courses in any of the four core academic subject areas. Honors classes use a curriculum that extends the POS in depth and complexity. Honors classes, which are available in all middle schools, seek to provide opportunities to build on the individual student strengths, develop critical and creative thinking skills, and prepare students for advanced coursework in high school. Students eligible for full-time Level IV placement have the option to take full honors at their local middle school. At Lake Braddock, the academic focus of honors classes is placed on higher level critical thinking skills. These classes provide an enriched and accelerated curriculum. Assignments offer the student a chance for enrichment, allowing for creation of individual projects and research activities in areas of demonstrated strength.

Math Honors Program Students who have taken advanced math 6 at an FCPS elementary school are automatically enrolled in math 7 honors in 7th grade. Students either coming from within or out of FCPS and who did not take advanced math 6 will be looked at holistically for placement in math 7 honors. Parents can request their student be placed in math 7 honors. Placement in Algebra 1 Honors in 7th grade is determined through testing done at the base elementary school for FCPS students. For students coming from out of the county, summer testing will be held to determine placement in Algebra 1 Honors. Placement of 7th grade students in Geometry Honors is determined by completion of the necessary pre-requisite class as determined by the FCPS high school curricular specialist. At the 8th grade level, parents can select Algebra, Algebra 1 Honors, Geometry Honors, or Algebra II Honors provided their child has the necessary prerequisite for the selected class.

xi

High School Options Students should consider current interests and future goals when selecting courses. Plan carefully; talk with your parents/guardians, counselors and teachers as they can help you make wise decisions about courses to take in middle school. World language classes as well as Algebra 1, Algebra 1 Honors, and Geometry Honors are high school credit courses offered to eighth graders. Algebra 1 Honors is also available to 7th grade students who qualify through testing. These courses become part of the high school transcript record, are included in the calculation of high school grade point average (GPA), and count toward credits for high school graduation. It is recommended, but not required, that 8th grade students take Algebra 1 and a World language if they plan to enroll in Advance Placement courses in high school. Admission to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) requires the completion of Algebra 1 prior to 9th grade.

1

TABLE OF CONTENTS Graduation Requirements for Students Who Enter the 9th Grade for the First Time in 2016-2017

and Beyond ......................................................................................................................................................1

STANDARD DIPLOMA ...............................................................................................................................1

22 CREDIT DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION .......................................................................1

ADVANCED STUDIES DIPLOMA ............................................................................................................3

26 CREDIT DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION .......................................................................3

POSTSECONDARY PLANNING ................................................................................................................4

GRADE POINT AVERAGE ..................................................................................................................................................................................4

EXPUNGING HIGH SCHOOL COURSES TAKEN IN MIDDLE SCHOOL .........................................................................................4

PASS-FAIL..............................................................................................................................................................................................................4

COURSES TAKEN OUTSIDE OF FCPS ...........................................................................................................................................................5

WITHDRAW POLICY...........................................................................................................................................................................................5

PROMOTION POLICY .........................................................................................................................................................................................5

Middle School .......................................................................................................................................................................................................5

WORLD LANGUAGES PROFICIENCY CREDIT .........................................................................................................................................5

ADVANCED ACADEMIC PROGRAMS ..........................................................................................................................................................5

International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program ...................................................................................................................................6

Advanced Placement in High School .............................................................................................................................................................6

International Baccalaureate in High School .................................................................................................................................................6

Thomas Jefferson High School For Science And Technology.................................................................................................................7

FCPS ONLINE COURSES .....................................................................................................................................................................................7

STUDENT FEES .......................................................................................................................................................................................................7

1

Graduation Requirements for Students Who Enter the 9th Grade for the First Time in 2016-2017 and Beyond

For more information, please visit https://www.fcps.edu/academics/graduation-requirements-and-course-planning, which includes more detailed information and tutorials about diploma types and graduation requirements.

STANDARD DIPLOMA 22 CREDIT DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION The requirements for a student to earn a diploma shall be those in effect when the student enters the 9th grade for the first time. The following applies to students who enter 9th grade in 2016-2017 and beyond. To graduate from high school, students shall meet the minimum requirements for the Standard Diploma as outlined below, including 22 standard credits, 6 of which must be verified credits. A standard credit is earned when a student passes a course. A verified credit is earned when a student passes a course and the associated end-of-course SOL test. In some cases, students may utilize substitute tests, certifications, or the appeal process to earn verified credits. State guidelines prescribe the number of verified credits required for graduation for students entering a Virginia public high school for the first time during the tenth grade or after. Eligible students with disabilities have the opportunity to use credit accommodations to earn a Standard Diploma. Students must be found eligible for these accommodations. Consult your school counselor for specific information. Students receive credit toward graduation for high school courses taken and passed in middle school. These courses count toward credits in the required sequences as well as toward the total number of credits required for graduation and calculation of the grade point average (GPA). Middle school parents may request that grades for any high school credit-bearing course taken in the middle school be removed from the student’s high school transcript, and therefore the student will not earn high school credit for the course. In addition, the student will not be eligible for a verified credit in any course which has been removed from the transcript. The request to remove a course from the transcript must be made in writing to the middle or high school the student will attend the following year, prior to the end of the first nine weeks. See current version of FCPS Regulation 2408.

1 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include at least two different course selections from among: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, or other mathematics courses above the level of Algebra II. The Board of Education (Board) shall approve additional courses to satisfy this requirement. 2 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include course selections from at least three different science disciplines: earth sciences, biology, chemistry, or physics; or completion of the sequence of science courses required for the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The Board shall approve courses to satisfy this requirement.

Standard Diploma Course Requirements (8 VAC 20-131-50)

Subject Area Standard Credits Verified Credits

English 4 2

Mathematics1 3 1 Laboratory Science2, 6 3 1 History and Social Sciences3, 6 4 1 Health and Physical Education 2

World Language, Fine Arts or Career and Technical Ed 7

2

Economics & Personal Finance 1 Electives4 3 Student Selected Test5 1

Career and Technical Education Credential8

First Aid/CPR/AED Training9

Total Credits10 22 6

2

3 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include U.S. and Virginia History, U.S. and Virginia Government, and World History/Geography I and World History/Geography II. AP World History satisfies the requirement for World History/Geography II. 4 Courses to satisfy this requirement shall include at least two sequential electives as required by the Standards of Quality. 5 A student may utilize additional tests for earning verified credit in computer science, technology, career and technical education, economics, or other areas as prescribed by the Board in 8 VAC 20-131-110. 6 Students who complete a career and technical education program sequence and pass an examination or occupational competency assessment in a career and technical education field that confers certification or an occupational competency credential from a recognized industry, or trade or professional association, or acquires a professional license in a career and technical education field from the Commonwealth of Virginia may substitute the certification, competency credential, or license for (i) the student selected verified credit and (ii) either a science or history and social science verified credit when the certification, license, or credential confers more than one verified credit. The examination or occupational competency assessment must be approved by the Board as an additional test to verify student achievement. 7 Pursuant to Section 22.1-253.13:4, Code of Virginia, credits earned for this requirement shall include one credit in fine or performing arts or career and technical education. 8 Students shall earn a career and technical education credential approved by the Board that could include, but not be limited to, the successful completion of an industry certification, a state licensure examination, a national occupational competency assessment, or the Virginia Workplace Readiness Assessment. 9 Students are required to be trained in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators, including hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. 10 Students shall successfully complete one virtual course, which may be a noncredit-bearing course or elective credit bearing course that is offered online.

3

ADVANCED STUDIES DIPLOMA 26 CREDIT DIPLOMA REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION The requirements for a student to earn a diploma shall be those in effect when the student enters the 9th grade for the first time. The following applies to students who enter 9th grade in 2016-2017 and beyond. To graduate from high school with an Advanced Studies Diploma, students shall meet the minimum requirements as outlined below which include 26 credits, 9 of which must be verified credits. A standard credit is earned when a student passes a course. A verified credit is earned when a student passes a course and the associated end-of-course SOL test. In some cases, students may utilize substitute tests or certifications to earn verified credits. State guidelines prescribe the number of verified credits required for graduation for students entering a Virginia public high school for the first time during tenth grade or after. Consult your school counselor for specific information. Students receive credit toward graduation for high school courses taken and passed in middle school. These courses count toward credits in the required sequences as well as toward the total number of credits required for graduation and calculation of the grade point average (GPA). Middle school parents may request that grades for any high school credit-bearing course taken in the middle school be removed from the student’s high school transcript, and therefore the student will not earn high school credit for the course. In addition, the student will not be eligible for a verified credit in any course which has been removed from the transcript. The request to remove a course from the transcript must be made in writing to the middle or high school the student will attend the following year prior to the end of the first nine weeks. See current version of FCPS Regulation 2408.

1 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include at least three different course selections from among: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, or other mathematics courses above the level of Algebra II. The Board of Education (Board) shall approve courses to satisfy this requirement. 2 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include course selections from at least three different science disciplines from among: earth sciences, biology, chemistry, or physics; or completion of the sequence of science courses required for the International Baccalaureate Diploma. The Board shall approve courses to satisfy this requirement. 3 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include U.S. and Virginia History, U.S. and Virginia Government, and World History/Geography I and World History/Geography II. AP World History satisfies the requirement for World History/Geography II. 4 Courses completed to satisfy this requirement shall include three years of one language or two years of two languages. 5A student may utilize additional tests for earning verified credit in computer science, technology, career or technical education, economics, or other areas as prescribed by the Board in 8 VAC 20-131-110. 6 Students are required to be trained in emergency first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and the use of automated external defibrillators, including hands-on practice of the skills necessary to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. 7 Students shall successfully complete one virtual course, which may be a noncredit-bearing course, or may be a course required to earn this diploma that is offered online.

Advanced Studies Diploma Course Requirements (8 VAC 20-131-50)

Subject Area Standard Credits

Verified Credits

English 4 2

Mathematics1 4 2

Laboratory Science2 4 2

History and Social Sciences3 4 2

World Language4 3

Health and Physical Education 2

Fine Arts or Career and Technical Ed 1

Economics & Personal Finance 1

Electives 3

Student Selected Test5 1

First Aid/CPR/AED Training6

Total Credits7 26 9

4

POSTSECONDARY PLANNING Each middle school in Fairfax County Public Schools provides a sequential postsecondary planning program that focuses on the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and self-understanding necessary to achieve postsecondary goals. As part of this planning, students develop and initiate a Student Learning Plan. This plan provides opportunities for students to identify strengths and interests, explore college and career options, and develop postsecondary goals. To assist in the process, information and resources are provided through the school counseling program at your school and are available online.

GRADING SYSTEM A (93-100) = 4.0 B- (80-82) = 2.7 D+ (67-69) = 1.3

A- (90-92) = 3.7 C+ (77-79) = 2.3 D (64-66) = 1.0

B+ (87-89) = 3.3 C (73-76) = 2.0 F (below 64) = 0.0

B (83-86) = 3.0 C- (70-72) = 1.7

GRADE POINT AVERAGE

Middle schools do not calculate a grade-point average. High school grade point average (GPA) is calculated on the basis of all courses for which high school credit has been earned or attempted, including repeated courses previously passed. In order for a repeat course to raise a GPA, the student’s grade must be higher than the one originally given. All classes appearing on the high school transcript including high school classes taken in summer school, middle school, elementary school, or online are included when calculating GPA. Algebra 1 Honors, Geometry Honors and Algebra 2 Honors receive an additional 0.5 weight added to the final grade upon successful completion of the course. Successful completion is defined as completing the course with a passing grade. For example, a final grade of A in an honors class shall receive 4.5 quality points. High school credit bearing courses dropped will not be counted in grade point average (GPA) except when a final grade of F is received: (a) for the fourth grading period of a full-year course, or (b) for the second grading period of a semester course. A student's GPA is determined by dividing the total number of quality points earned by the number of courses included in the transcript. The grade point average is reported to three decimal places (thousandths). Fairfax County Public Schools does not rank its students.

EXPUNGING HIGH SCHOOL COURSES TAKEN IN MIDDLE SCHOOL

In accordance with Virginia Board of Education regulations, FCPS Regulation 2408 permits parents of students who take a high school credit-bearing course in middle school to request that the grade be omitted from the student's high school transcript and the student not earn high school credit for the course. Parents must make this request in writing no later than the end of the first nine weeks of the school year following completion of the course. The form to make this request, along with the process for making the request, is available at: https://www.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/forms/is104.pdf or through your student’s school counselor. Parents are strongly advised to discuss this decision with their student’s school counselor and the impact of expunging a course on desired high school diploma type and standard and verified credit requirements.

PASS-FAIL The Fairfax County School Board policy permits students to take certain high school courses on a pass-fail basis. With parental/guardian approval, middle and high school students are given the option of taking one high school elective credit per school year on a pass-fail basis. For middle school students, this may be applied only to high school world language credits or ESOL courses that count towards high school world language credits. Any student wishing to take a course as pass-fail shall indicate this by completing a Request for Pass-Fail Status form requiring parent/guardian approval requiring parent approval and returning it to designated school personnel on or before the 22nd school day or by the first half of the first grading period subsequent to entering the course. This decision may not be reversed. If a student drops a class being taken on a pass-fail basis and transfers to a new class, the student shall have 10 school days to make a decision as to whether the new class will be taken on a pass-fail basis, provided it is a high school world language or ESOL course. Grades are determined as follows:

• ''P'' for an A, A-, B+, B, B-,C+,C, C-, D+, D which will receive credit but will not count

in grade-point average.

• ''F'' for an “F” which will receive no credit but will be counted in grade-point average.

5

COURSES TAKEN OUTSIDE OF FCPS

Currently enrolled FCPS students who wish to take a course outside of FCPS and transfer back the credit must follow the guidelines provided in the current version of FCPS Regulation 2408. Please note that there are limited options for students to pursue credit outside of FCPS during the September—June school year, with more options available in the summer. Students must have written approval from their school prior to enrolling in the course. The course must meet the requirements outlined in the Regulation 2408 and Virginia Board regulations. For additional information about pursing coursework outside of FCPS for credit, please contact your school counselor.

WITHDRAW POLICY

For the first grading period only, a student has five days after the date on which report cards are sent home in which to drop a course without having a grade recorded. Courses dropped are not counted in the grade point average except when an F is received for the course. Middle schools do not calculate grade-point averages; however, if a high school credit course is taken by a middle school student, courses dropped are not counted in the high school grade-point average except when an F is received for the course. Unless the principal approves an exception, a student may not withdraw during the final quarter of a course if he or she is passing the course. If a student drops a course during the:

1st quarter: No penalty--nothing is recorded. 2nd quarter: WP (withdrawn passing) or WF (withdrawn failing) is recorded. Exception: For semester courses a WP or F for failure is recorded. 3rd quarter: WP or WF is recorded. 4th quarter: WP or F for failure is recorded.

PROMOTION POLICY

Middle School To qualify for promotion, seventh and eighth grade middle school students must demonstrate knowledge and competency based upon identified standards of achievement in the four core areas of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. To guarantee promotion, students must demonstrate proficiency in the foundational knowledge and skills in each of the four core subject areas and earn a passing final grade based on grade level expectations. Students normally shall progress annually from level to level. Exceptions may be made when, in the judgment of professional staff members, such exceptions are in the best educational interests of the students involved. Retention of students shall be affected only after prior notification of and explanation to the student’s parents or guardians; however, the decision shall rest with the base school principal. To be placed in grade 9, the student must be promoted from the 8th grade.

WORLD LANGUAGES PROFICIENCY CREDIT

The Credit Exam for World Languages is given in each fall and winter to students who wish to demonstrate written proficiency in one of several languages: American Sign Language, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali/Bangla, Chinese/Mandarin, Farsi/Persian, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Pashto, Punjabi, Russian, Sanskrit, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog/Pilipino, Tamil, Telugu, Tigrinia, Twi, Urdu, or Vietnamese. Students who are successful on the exam receive two world languages credits which may be used to fulfill the world languages requirements/electives of the Advanced Studies or Standard Diplomas. In addition, middle school students in grades 6-8 enrolled in certain ESOL 5720-5730 courses may receive up to two world languages credits towards high school graduation requirements in the two-plus-two option for fulfilling the world languages requirement. High school students enrolled in ESOL 5720 courses may receive elective or up to two world languages credits toward high school graduation requirements in the two-plus-two option for fulfilling the world languages requirement. For more information on the exam, go to: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/high-school-academics-9-12/world-languages/credit-exam-world-languages or contact the World Languages Team at 571-423-4602.

ADVANCED ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Fairfax County Public Schools Advanced Academic Programs seek to provide academic rigor to all students who are interested in challenging learning experiences designed to meet the unique learning profile of a broad range of advanced learners. Through a continuum of opportunities, students engage in complex subject matter, preparing them for more challenging and rigorous classes as they advance in grade level. Advanded Academic courses at the middle school consist of Honors classes and the Level IV Center program. Honors classes, aligned with national standards for gifted and talented education, are open to all students. The goal of Honors classes is to provide extensions to the Program of Studies that add depth and complexity. Resources, units, and lessons are designed to nurture and develop advanced academic potential in all learners. The extensions in Honors classes encourage students to think conceptually; to make connections across time, place and subject; to perform as a practitioner or scholar in a discipline;

6

and to self-assess and reflect on their learning and the learning process. At the middle school level, Fairfax County offers open enrollment in Honors social studies, English, science, and mathematics. Students who have demonstrated high achievement, interest, and/or potential in one or more academic areas and seek academic rigor may enroll in Honors classes. Students eligible for full time Level IV center placement have the option to take full honors at their local middle school. Advanced Academic courses in high school are open to all students. Students have the opportunity to enroll in honors courses as underclassmen and continue in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), concurrent enrollment, and dual enrollment courses. Students may earn college credits based on the results of their examinations (AP or IB) or course grade (concurrent and dual enrollment). Student transfer applications may be submitted for an AP or IB program if the base school does not offer the desired program of study. For more information on the transfer process, please vist the web site at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/high-school. AP and IB courses are advanced-level courses with external exams. Students who take AP and IB courses are required to complete the examinations. The Advanced Academic program responds to the requirement of the Virginia Board of Education that each local school division plan and implement an instructional program for gifted and talented students at all levels K-12. Courses designated as honors, Level IV, IB or AP fulfill this requirement. Differentiated curricula and teaching strategies which stress critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem solving are integrated into the content of all advanced academic course offerings. The four-year sequence of courses in each of the academic disciplines, which progress from honors to AP, and IB, provides a continuous and balanced advanced academic program.

International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IBMYP) is a program designed for students in grades 6-10 and is available to all students in IBMYP schools. The program helps students develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes, and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a rapidly changing world. FCPS curriculum is supported and enhanced by concept-based learning with a focus on developing Approaches to Learning skills: communication, organization, self-management, thinking and research. IBMYP schools develop intercultural awareness, and provide a holistic learning experience for all students. The IBMYP program is available at the following middle and high schools: Annandale, Poe, Holmes, Stuart, Glasgow, South Lakes, Hughes, Mount Vernon, Whitman, Lee, Key, Edison, Twain, and Robinson.

Advanced Placement in High School Centreville, Chantilly, Fairfax, Falls Church, Hayfield, Herndon, Lake Braddock, Langley, Madison, McLean, Oakton, South County, West Potomac, West Springfield, Westfield, and Woodson High Schools offer the Advanced Placement (AP) program. Individual AP courses are also offered at other high schools. All students enrolled in an AP course are required to complete the end-of-course AP exam. Students may receive college credit and/or placement based upon their exam grades. The AP program is offered in English, social studies, mathematics, science, world languages, and fine arts. AP courses are offered as open enrollment to all students committed to rigorous, academic work. Students taking at least 3 AP exams with at least a grade of 3 on each are recognized by the College Board as AP Scholars. Further information about the AP program may be obtained by contacting the school counselor or AP coordinator at the participating school.

International Baccalaureate in High School Annandale, Edison, Lee, Marshall, Mount Vernon, Robinson, South Lakes, and Stuart High Schools offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP). To qualify for the IB Diploma, students must select at least one subject from each of six IB subject groups, including English, world languages, mathematics, science, social studies, and an elective. Students take at least three and not more than four of these subjects at higher level (HL), the others at standard level (SL). All students enrolled in an IB course are required to complete the end-of-course IB exams. IB diploma candidates must complete 150 hours of extracurricular activities and community service, take the Theory of Knowledge course, and write a 4000 word essay on a topic of their choice. Students in IB schools may also take IB courses in areas of academic strength and interest. IB diploma course students take one or more IB courses and the associated exam(s) and receive recognition for each IB exam with a score of “4” or better. Lee, Mount Vernon, and South Lakes offer the IB Career-related Program (IBCP). To qualify for the IBCP students must complete a two-year CTE sequence, two IBDP courses, and demonstrate world language development. IBCP candidates must also complete community service, take the Approaches to Learning course, and complete a reflective project related to their CTE course of study. The IB program is offered in English, social studies, mathematics, science, world languages, fine arts, and other electives. IB courses are offered as open enrollment to all students committed to rigorous academic work. Further information about the IB program may be obtained by contacting the school counselor or IB coordinator at the participating school. Annandale, Edison, Lee, Mount Vernon, Robinson, South Lakes, and Stuart High Schools implement the IB Middle Years Program (IBMYP) in 9th and 10th grades. Students may choose to work toward the MYP certificate at authorized high schools, which requires the completion of a personal project at the end of 10th grade and success on the MYP 10th grade assessments.

7

Thomas Jefferson High School For Science And Technology The Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is a unique Fairfax County public school offering a comprehensive college preparatory program emphasizing the sciences, mathematics, and technology. As the Governor’s School for Science and Technology in Northern Virginia, the school serves students who are selected in a competitive process and intend to pursue college preparation in the sciences, engineering, or related fields. Students may obtain information about application procedures and deadlines from the School Counseling Office of their local schools or by calling Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Office of Admissions at 571-423-3770 or at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/thomas-jefferson-admissions.

FCPS ONLINE COURSES

FCPS Online Campus is a program designed to provide students with an online option for earning high school credits toward graduation. This program supports the Governor’s “Early College Scholars” program by providing advanced courses to students. Students registered in any Fairfax County Public School are eligible to apply to take a course through the FCPS Online Campus. These courses are for students who have scheduling conflicts, transportation issues, or have special needs requiring web-based instruction. Tuition will be charged when a student is already scheduled to receive seven credits during the academic year or when a student enrolls in an FCPS online summer course. Students must meet all course requirements to enroll in an FCPS online course. Students interested in enrolling in an FCPS Online Campus course should consult their school counselor for information regarding the registration process. For more information go to: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/online-campus. The following courses are currently available online for middle school students:

• Geometry, Geometry Honors, Algebra 2, Algebra 2 Honors, Precalculus Korean 1,

Korean 2, Spanish 1, Spanish 2, Chinese 1

STUDENT FEES

Courses that require a student fee for consumable materials have been designated in this catalog. The schedule of divisionwide student fees to be charged for any elective course can be found in Notice 5922 at: http://www.boarddocs.com/vsba/fairfax/Board.nsf/files/8VTGQE44E4F6/$file/R5922.pdf. Students eligible for the federal Free and Reduced-Price meals program may have course and test fees waived. For more information, see your school counselor.

8