Wednesday, February 6, 2013

First class with 'A-G' requirements moving through high school



San Diego Unified's plan to have all students complete the classes required to be eligibile for admission into the University of California and California State University is now under way as the Class of 2016 is more than half way through ninth grade.

"These are among the most rigorous graduation requirements for any large district in California," said Dr. Nellie Meyer, Deputy Superintendent of Academics. "We think our students are responding well to having the bar raised."

The new requirements include taking specific high school courses, called 'a-g,' that are minimum subject-area courses for students to be eligible for admission to University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) schools.The Board of Education approved the change in 2009.

"We recognize that all students are not headed to a University of California or California State University campus," said Meyer. "But we do believe they all students should be well-prepared for college, career or whatever the future holds upon graduation."

Changes for the Class of 2016 are:
  • World Language: Two years (four credits) of the same language, Grades 7-12;
  • Mathematics: Three years (six credits) Algebra, Geometry, Intermediate Algebra, Grades 7-12;
  • Visual and Performing Arts: One year (two credits) of UC/CSU “F”-approved visual and performing arts course.
San Diego Unified is providing student learning support, staff training and resources to help all students successfully meet these requirements. Teachers and school counselors are being trained to spot students who may need special help with the requirements.

In addition to completing 'a-g' requirements, the Class of 2016 and beyond must take additional coursework, pass the high school exit exam, complete a senior exhibition and earn at least a 2.0 in overall grades and citizenship to receive a high school diploma from San Diego Unified.

For more information, see the Class of 2016 and Beyond graduation requirements online or check with your child's counselor.