Thomas S. Hart Middle School 8th Grade AB 1802 Presentation

Why is it important for the counselors to meet with you? Assembly Bill 1802 increased funding for counseling at the middle and high school levels. Counselors are required to meet with all 7th and 8th grade students to discuss student records and future educational goals. We want all of you to be successful students and to think about your future. Middle school is a stepping stone to high school. Knowledge is Power!!

The Middle School Record All of you have a cumulative record here at school that includes the following: Transcript (6th, 7th, 8th grades) STAR-Test Scores Attendance Discipline records

Grades How do you calculate your GPA (Grade Point Average)? A = 4 pts B = 3 pts C = 2 pts D = 1 pt F = 0 pts Look at your grades for each class: add up the points. Then divide the sum by the number of classes. You need a 3.5 to be on the honor roll. You need a 4.0 to be on the principal’s list.

Your Middle School Transcript

STAR Testing What is the STAR Test? How does it affect me? State test Evaluates progress in grade level standards How does it affect me? Indicator of your personal academic progress Helps determine class placement (honors classes, support/skills classes)

How to read a STAR Test

THE TRANSITION TO HIGH SCHOOL - A NEW JOURNEY

MANY NEW BEGINNINGS Diversity of students Wide variety of classes Extra curricular activities/clubs Athletics ROP (Regional Occupational Program) classes Graduation requirements CAHSEE (California High School Exit Exam) College & career choices

To graduate from high school, you need 230 credits! What is a credit? - “Points” you can earn for passing a class How many do you get? - 5 credits for each semester class that you pass - 10 credits for each year long class that you pass How many do you earn each year? - Passing 6 classes = 60 credits How many do you need to graduate? - 230 - Passing 6 classes each year for 4 years = 240 credits How can you fall behind in credits? - Failing a class

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS English ……………………………………………40 Math*………………………………………………20 * If Algebra requirement is met in middle school, student must still take 2 years of math in high school Social Studies ……………………………………35 Science …………………………………………...20 Physical Education……………………………….20 Fine Arts/Foreign Language…………………….10 Health……………………………………………….5 Electives…………………………………………..80 Total Credits: 230

ADDITIONAL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Speech Proficiency California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) English/Language Arts Math

There are many options after high school graduation. Community College California State University (CSU) University of California (UC) Private and Out-of-State Colleges Career/Vocational Schools Military Work

College Entrance Requirements Grades of C or better in these classes: 2 years of History (1 world, 1 US) 4 years of English 3 years of Math (algebra, geometry, intermediate algebra) *UC recommends 4 years 2 years Lab Science (Biology & Chemistry) *UC recommends 3 years 2 years World Language 1 Year Visual/Performing Art 1 year College Prep Elective

NEXT STEPS Stay focused and study hard for the remainder of your 8th grade year (remember your GPA counts for participation in sports (2.0 with no F’s) and eligibility for certain classes) Take the STAR test seriously and do your best Continue to make good choices in all aspects of your life