2017 – 2018

TOPEKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

HIGH SCHOOL

PROGRAM OF STUDIES

Topeka Public Schools

624 SW 24th Street

Topeka, KS 66611

785-295-3000

The Online Version of the Program of Studies is the most up-to-date version.

The Topeka Public Schools, Unified School District No. 501 is committed to affirmative action and equal opportunity. No person shall, on the basis of age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, national origin or ancestry be denied lawful access to any appropriate educational service, program or activity provided by the school district. The Title VI and Title IX compliance coordinator is the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching/Learning/Administration.  The Section 504/Title II compliance coordinator is the Coordinator of College and Career Ready Services. For employment, the EEO/AA officer is the general director of human resources. All compliance coordinators may be contacted at 624 SW 24th Street, Topeka, KS 66611-1294, (785) 295-3000. The clerk of the Board of Education has been designated to receive and redirect or handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, regulations and procedures. The clerk may be contacted by calling (785) 295-3045 or by writing to 624 SW 24th Street, Topeka, KS 66611-1294.

Table of Contents

Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers

Career Clusters and Their Pathways

Graduation Requirements / Kansas Board of Regents Curriculum

Enrollment Requirements

Kansas Board of Regents Qualified Admissions

Grade Classification

Fine Art Courses That Meet Graduation Requirements

KSHSAA Eligibility

National College Activities Association Eligibility

Courses That Can Be Taken More Than Once

Online Course Work 

Honors, Pre-Advanced Placement, and Advanced Placement Classes

Dual Credit

Washburn Institute of Technology

Postsecondary Courses and Eligibility

Credit/No Credit Options

Weighted Courses and Grade Point Average

Honor Roll

National Honor Society

Academic Lettering

Independent Study

Religion Program Credit

Testing

Graduation Requirements for Exchange Students

Home Schooled Students

Schedule Change Procedure

Special Program

Course Offerings

Business

English Language Learners

Family and Consumer Science

Fine Art

Language Arts

Mathematics

Miscellaneous

Physical Education

Resource/Intensive Instruction

Junior ROTC

Science

Social Studies

Trade and Industry

World Languages

Washburn Institute of Technology

Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers (TCALC)

USD 501, Topeka Public Schools

The Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers (TCALC) is an innovative high school program created in partnership with business and industry concentrating in four strands:  Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing; Bioscience & Biomedical; Business, and Human Services. The Center is all about students solving real problems, with real tools used by real professional(s), being mentored by real employers, leading to real contributions in the professional area.

Students enrolled in the Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers Program, fast forward into their future as if they already have a college degree and are fully immersed in a professional culture.  Students use industry standard tools which lead to substantial advanced contribution during the formative high school years.  Students learn from global and local leaders, such as Westar Energy, Valeo Behavioral Health, Stormont Vail, and Meals on Wheels who have chosen to partner with the district and share the program’s commitment to educate the future leaders of America. The Center is an example of how business, community and public education can partner to produce personalized learning experiences that educate the needed workforce of tomorrow, especially in high skill, high demand jobs.  Early career professional skills like project management, business ethics, time management, teamwork, creativity and instructed, role modeled and measured.

TCALC is not a vocational program.  The Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers provides students the opportunity to deeply explore professions of high interest through a profession-based, inquiry-based learning method. Local and global business partners participate with highly skilled instructors to provide authentic exposure and skill acquisition in high demand/high skill 21st century professions.

Requirements for Enrollment:

1. Attained junior or senior status and on-track towards graduation
2. Desire to work in a profession-based real world environment with other TPS high school students
3. Be willing to comply with business ethics (e.g. attendance) and dress codes as determined by the type of TCALC study they are involved in
4. Be willing to spend 2.5 hours a day (morning or afternoon) away from their home high school; 7:55 AM to 10:25 AM or 12:30 PM to 3 PM.
5. Be able to coordinate transportation either through the district or personally to TCALC sites and business partnership sites.

Types of Strands and Courses Offered: (Proposed)

TCALC is driven by the changing workforce needs of industry, therefore instructors and TCALC Business Partners co-author all coursework.  TCALC curriculum is dynamic, constantly evolving to follow industry trends and market changes using a copyrighted rapid prototyping curriculum development process.

• Bioscience/Biomedical Pathways – Environmental Science and Animal Health; Energy; Medical Science Careers and research; Bioscience Research; Forensic Science.
• Business Technology and Media – Business; Technology Solutions; Programming, Software management, and app development, iMedia; Filmmaking; Interactive Design.
• Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing – Architecture; Engineering, Robotics; Advanced Manufacturing; Design Process for Engineers; and
• Human Services – Teacher Education/Training; Health Sciences,  Law and Public Safety; Emergency and Fire Management

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation may be provided in the morning and afternoon for students enrolled in the TCALC Program, Monday through Friday, from their home high school to TCALC.  A bus will pick up and return students from the program and be able to attend the last or first 4 hours at their home high school.  Students are required to provide transportation to and from internships, business projects, or observations.

Classes for TCALC are held Monday through Friday, 7:55 AM to 10:25 AM or 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM.

Transportation to Washburn Tech and HealthCare Technology at HPHS:

Bus transportation is provided for juniors and seniors enrolled in courses at Washburn Institute of Technology, Monday through Friday.  Buses will transport students in the morning and afternoon from each high school. Students are not limited to morning or afternoon sessions while attending Washburn Tech.

Health Care Technology Course offered by Washburn Tech has bus transportation from each home high school to HPHS as well as the return trip.  In addition, bus transportation is provided from the high school to the clinical site required by the course.

Career Clusters

Technological advances and global competition have transformed the nature of work. Tomorrow’s jobs will require more knowledge, better skills, and highly flexible workers who continually update their knowledge and skills. The goal is to provide students with relevant context and for learning through pathways to college and career readiness.

The Career Clusters framework provides a link between school-based learning and the knowledge and skill required for success in the workplace. Each career cluster represents a distinct grouping of occupations and industries based on the knowledge and skills they require. The career cluster and related career pathways provide an important organizing tool to develop personal programs of study.

Career Cluster pathways are designed to provide a smooth transition from high school to postsecondary education (technical colleges, community colleges and universities), apprenticeship opportunities, the military, and/or the workplace. Stakeholders from education, business and industry developed the courses that address the need for high skill, high wage, and high demand careers in the 21st Century.

APPROVED PATHWAY:

1. Includes a minimum of three secondary-level credits.
2. Includes a work-based element.
3. Consists of a sequence: Introductory-level, Technical-level, and Application-level courses.
4. Supporting documentation includes Articulation Agreement(s) and a Program of Study.

LOCATION OF CLASSES:

Students may enroll in any of the courses offered at their home school. Students interested in enrolling in a pathway course that is offered at a school other than their home school should contact their school counselor to review options.

Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources

The production, processing, marketing, distribution, financing, and development of agricultural commodities and resources including food, fiber, wood products, natural resources, horticulture, and other plant and animal products/resources. 

No Current TPS Pathway

Recommended Electives

Architecture & Construction

Careers in designing, planning, managing, building and maintaining the built environment.

Recommended Electives

Arts, A/V Communications & Visual Arts

Designing, producing, exhibiting, performing, writing, and publishing multimedia content including visual and performing arts and design, journalism, and entertainment services.

Recommended Electives Art

Recommended Electives Music

Recommended Electives Theater

Recommended Electives Audio Visual Arts (AV) and Communications

Other Recommended Electives

Business Management & Administration

Careers in planning, organizing, directing and evaluating business functions essential to efficient and productive business operations.

No Current TPS Pathways

Recommended Electives

Education & Training

Planning, managing and providing education and training services and related learning support services such as administration, teaching/training, administrative support, and professional support services. The Education and Training pathway TCALC courses are located at Quinton Heights (designated below with both a check and an asterisk) and are available to all TPS high school students.

Recommended Electives

Finance

Planning, managing and providing education and training services, and related learning support services such as administration, teaching/training, administrative support, and professional support services.

*Required course for concentrator designation

Recommended Electives

Government & Public Administration

Planning and executing governmental functions at the local, state and federal levels, including governance, national security, foreign service, planning, revenue and taxation, and regulations.

No Current TPS Pathways

Recommended Electives

Health Science

Planning, managing, and providing therapeutic services, diagnostic services, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development.

No Current TPS Pathways

Recommended Electives:

Hospitality & Tourism

Preparing individuals for employment in career pathways that relate to families and human needs such as restaurant and food/beverage services, lodging, travel and tourism, recreation, amusement and attractions.

Recommended Electives

Human Services

Preparing individuals for employment in career pathways that relate to families and human needs such as counseling and mental health services, family and community services, personal care, and consumer services.

Recommended Electives

Information Technology

Building linkages in IT occupations for entry level, technical and professional careers related to the design, development, support and management of hardware, software, multimedia and systems integration services.

Recommended Electives

Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security

Planning, managing, and providing legal public safety, protective services and homeland security, including professional and technical support services. The Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security are available to all TPS high school students.

Recommended Electives

Manufacturing

Planning, managing and performing the processing of materials into intermediate or final products and related professional and technical support activities such as production planning and control, maintenance and manufacturing/process engineering.

No Current TPS Pathways

Recommended Electives

Marketing

Planning, managing, and performing marketing activities to reach organizational objectives such as brand management, professional sales, merchandising, marketing communications and market research.

Recommended Electives

Science, Technology Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)

Planning, managing, and providing scientific research and professional and technical services (e.g., physical science, social science, engineering) including laboratory and testing services, and research and development services. The Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics TCALC courses are located at Highland Park High School and are available to all TPS high school students.

Recommended Electives

Transportation Distribution & Logistics

The planning, management, and movement of people, materials, and goods by road, pipeline, air, rail and water and related professional and technical support services such as transportation infrastructure planning and management, logistics services, mobile equipment and facility maintenance.

Recommended Electives

Some information taken from the © 2012 National Association of State Directors of Career Technical Education Consortium  

All rights reserved.  8484 Georgia Avenue, Suite 320, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Graduation Requirements & Kansas Board of Regents Curriculum

Enrollment Requirements

Students must be enrolled in a full schedule both semesters. Seniors may seek approval for a condensed schedule second semester.

Kansas Qualified Admissions

If you are a Kansas resident who will graduate from an accredited high school during the 2016-2017 academic year or later, you can guarantee admission to Fort Hays State University, Pittsburg State University, Wichita State University, Emporia State University, and Kansas State University by completing the Qualified Admissions or Kansas Scholars curriculum and the following:

• 2.0 GPA in the Kansas Qualified Admissions curriculum AND
• ACT score of at least 21; OR
• SAT score of at least 980; OR
• Graduate in the top 1/3rd of your class

University of Kansas requires completion of the Qualified Admissions or Kansas Scholars curriculum and the following:

• 2.0+ GPA in the Kansas Qualified Admissions curriculum and
• 3.0+ overall GPA and 24+ ACT (1090+ SAT) or
• 3.25+ overall GPA and 21+ ACT (980+ SAT)
• If applicable, achieve a 2.0 GPA or higher on any college credit taken in high school

Grade Classifications

Topeka Public Schools’ grade advancement policy is based upon the current requirement that a student earn 24 credits in order to graduate. A credit is earned for each subject carried successfully for a school year or the equivalent. The policy follows:

Students must earn the following number of credits to be classified per grade:

• A senior must earn twenty-four (24) credits by the end of the second semester to participate in the graduation ceremony (Appeals may be made to the building administrator.)
• A junior must earn seventeen (17) credits to be considered a senior for the next school year.
• A sophomore must earn twelve (12) credits to be considered a junior for the next school year.
• A freshman must earn six (6) credits to be considered a sophomore for the next school year.

Sometimes a second-year student will not have attained sophomore status, but is eligible for sophomore-level courses. Hence, courses are designated by year or level rather than by class status to avoid confusion about eligibility. Likewise, a third-year student who does not have enough credits to be considered a junior may enroll in junior-level courses, and a fourth-year student who does not have enough credits to be considered a senior may enroll in senior-level course.

Fine Arts Courses That Meet Graduation Requirements

Kansas State High School Activities Association Eligibility

In order to be eligible for Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) events, a student must be currently passing five classes and have passed five classes the preceding semester. Some examples of KSHSAA activities are sports, cheerleading, debate, music, and dance team.

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Eligibility

If a student wants to participate in Division I or Division II sports, start the certification process early, usually by the end of the junior year.

In general, to be certified a student must:

• Beginning August 1, 2016, NCAA Division I will require 10 core courses to be completed prior to the seventh semester (seven of the 10 must be a combination of English, math or natural or physical science.)

• Present a required grade-point average in core courses.
• Present a required score on ACT or SAT assessments.
• Complete the core courses listed below:
• Graduate from high school.

Courses That Can Be Taken More Than Once

Online Course Work

Topeka Public Schools offers and accepts some online coursework that correlates to Topeka Public Schools curriculum standards. Consult Curriculum & Assessment Coordinators for more details.

Accelerated Course Work

Students may apply to accelerate some coursework to meet their 5-year personal plan of study. See the Curriculum & Assessment Coordinator for further information.

Honors, Pre-Advanced Placement, and Advanced Placement Classes

Topeka Public Schools promotes an Advanced Placement (AP) program of studies that encourages equitable access for all students, reflecting the diversity of our district.  Advanced Placement students will engage in academically rigorous coursework that challenges their thinking and prepares them for success in a wide variety of postsecondary experiences.

In order to achieve success, Advanced Placement students will experience the following opportunities:

• a teacher trained in Advanced Placement methodology, whose instructional practices are aligned to expectations from the College Board.
• opportunities for additional support in Advanced Placement coursework;
• the rigor and atmosphere of a college level exam; and
• Enrichment activities that encourage and promote the pursuit of a postsecondary education.

The AP curriculum prepares students to take the AP examination (for a fee) for college credit.  Students whose test scores are considered acceptable on the AP exam usually receive college credit and/or advanced placement in the course for which they tested.  It is possible to take an AP exam without having enrolled in an AP course.

Honors and Pre-AP levels of required courses demand from students additional reading and writing, strong critical thinking and analysis skills, and real proficiency in the subject.  

For more information on the rewards of Advanced Placement Courses see College Board.

Concurrent Enrollment with Washburn University

TOPEKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS REGULATION 6150-4

1. Students wishing to take a college course shall make this request to the building principal the semester prior to enrollment in the course.
2. Students may enroll in a college course if that course is not offered at their attendance center or if the building principal grants an exception.
3. Dual credit may be approved by the building principal for college courses taken at an accredited institution. Credit shall be shown on the high school transcript as credit or no credit. This credit/no credit is to be in accordance with all provisions in Administrative Regulation No. 6150-1. College courses shall not be used in the calculation of the student's high school grade point average.
4. One-half (.5) high school credit may be awarded for successful completion of at least a three-hour credit college course. No more than one-half (.5) high school credit will be awarded per semester for college-level courses.
5. The building principal will have the responsibility for approving.

Topeka Public Schools and Washburn University (WU)

The goal of concurrent enrollment is to enhance the transition from high school to college by providing eligible students the option of earning WU academic credit at a reduced tuition rate for the successful completion of a select group of courses.  The dual credit courses are limited to juniors and seniors who have at least a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA. Additionally, students enrolling in College Algebra must either score 22 on the ACT Math Exam or the equivalent score on the COMPASS Math Test.  Courses offered for concurrent credit are:

Washburn University Accelerated College Experience (ACE)

The Accelerated College Experience (ACE) program is designed to expand access to academically challenging

college curricula for qualified high school students through a combination of Concurrent Enrollment Partnership (CEP) courses, the Senior Academy (SA), and selected online courses. High school juniors and seniors with at least a 3.0 GPA can earn up to six hours of college credit each semester at half the regular tuition rate through the ACE program. Students must have the approval of their high school principal or counselor (and their parent or legal guardian if under 18) to enroll in these courses.

Concurrent Enrollment Partnership (CEP) Courses

These courses are taught at the participating high schools during the regular school day and have the same requirements as the courses taught on the Washburn University campus.  The courses vary by high school.  A CEP program orientation and registration session is held at each high school in both the fall and spring.  Students should contact the program liaison at their high school for specific times, dates, and course information.

Washburn Institute Of Technology (Washburn Tech)

Topeka Public Schools pays tuition at Washburn Institute of Technology (Washburn Tech) for current high school juniors and seniors in the district. Topeka Public School students attend Washburn Tech on a part-time basis, approximately a half-day schedule.  Bus transportation is provided. Based on enrollment requirements for the program of interest, seniors only may attend full time second-semester. Students who successfully complete a half-day schedule (a.m. or p.m.) of courses at Washburn Tech during a semester earn 2.0 credits at their home high school.

General Enrollment Requirements:

A student must:

• Be 16 years of age and have junior or senior standing in high school
• Submit an application
• Successfully complete the general entrance examination, WorkKeys
• Submit a copy of high school transcript and attendance records
• Conference with a Washburn Tech counselor
• If accepted, pay a $20 enrollment fee after receiving a cost sheet from Washburn Tech
• Be responsible for cost of books, supplies and tools

Post Secondary Courses and Eligibility

Students desiring to enroll in college courses and participate in Kansas High School Activity Association sanctioned activities must adhere to the following guidelines, as well as the Dual Credit policy.

• A 3-credit college course is counted as one high school 0.5 credit course.
• A 5-credit college course is counted as two high school 0.5 credit courses.
• A student must enroll in a minimum of 3 high school 0.5 credit courses along with sufficient college courses to meet the 5 class eligibility ruling.

Examples:

• Three 0.5 credit classes at a high school and one 5-credit college course
• Three 0.5 credit classes at a high school and two 3-credit college courses
• Four 0.5 credit classes at a high school and one 3-credit college courses

Credit/No Credit Options for High School Students

Topeka Public Schools Regulation 6150-1

1. All students who are enrolled in the district-approved minimum course load (or more) may elect one of those subjects each semester on a credit/no credit basis. EXCEPTION: Any senior may elect one subject on a credit/no credit basis either semester without being enrolled in the district-approved minimum course load.
2. A maximum of three (3) credits taken on the credit/no credit plan will be counted toward graduation.
3. Students electing a subject on a credit/no credit basis will have the same attendance and academic requirements as all other students enrolled in the subject. The minimum Standard for the lowest passing grade will be the determining factor for credit in the course.
4. Students electing this option will be required to indicate their decision, in writing, not later than the sixth week of the semester. A form for this request will be provided. Parental consent must be given and will be so indicated by the parent's signature on the request form.
5. The entry on the student's transcript will be indicated as "credit" or "no credit" with appropriate credit noted and will not be counted in computing the student's grade point average.
6. Once the student has declared a subject to be taken on the credit/no credit basis, the decision is irrevocable.

Note:  The Kansas Board of Regents Curriculum does not recognize credit/no credit.  The NCAA Eligibility Center will compute credit/no credit as a “D.”

The deadline for requesting Credit/No Credit is the end of the sixth week of the semester.

Weighted Courses and Grade Point Average

A weighted class is one in which an A is worth 5 points, a B - 4 points, a C - 3 points, and D - 2 points.

Weighted grade point averages will be calculated for the following courses:

• All Pre-Advanced Placement/ Advanced Placement courses/ All honors courses
• Fourth year of Foreign Languages and Debate

Weighted grade points will be assigned only to the courses listed below:

Capital City Honor Roll

Students are recognized for the Honor Roll at the end of each quarter.  Honor Roll is based upon unweighted GPA, and a student must be enrolled in at least five classes, which earn a letter grade of D or better.  There are three levels of Honor Roll: 4.00 GPA, 3:50 - 3.99 GPA, 3.00 - 3.49 GPA.

Highland Park Honor Roll

To be eligible for an Honor Roll listing, students must receive at least five letter grades (A, B, or C). Grades are computed on a weighted scale.  At the conclusion of each quarter (except fourth) an Honor Roll list will be displayed on campus.

Rank in class will be determined after each semester for students using both the traditional and weighted grade point averages (GPA). The weighted GPA will be used to determine the top 20% of the graduating class and the top five students in the class, as well as scholarship recipients.

Topeka High Honor Roll 

Students are recognized for the Honor Roll at the end of each semester. Honor Roll is based upon weighted and unweighted GPA, and a student must be enrolled in at least five classes which earn a letter grade. An incomplete grade is calculated as an “F.” To be on the Honor Roll, a student must have a GPA of 3.50 or above.

Topeka West Honor Roll 

To be eligible for an Honor Roll listing, students must receive at least five letter grades (A, B, or C). Grades are computed on a weighted and unweighted scale.

At the conclusion of each quarter (except fourth) an Honor Roll list will be displayed on campus and published in the West Word. Students who achieve a grade point average of 4.0 and above are designated “Champions.” Those who earn a 3.50 – 3.99 grade point average are designated as “Challengers”. Students earning a 3.00 – 3.45 are designated as “Chargers”.

Rank in class will be determined after each semester for students using both the traditional and weighted grade point averages (GPA). The weighted GPA will be used to determine the top 20% of the graduating class and the top five students in the class, as well as scholarship recipients. 

Highland Park National Honor Society

Highland Park juniors and seniors are eligible for membership in National Honor Society. Students must have at least a 3.5 grade point average on a weighted or unweighted scale, and demonstrate the qualities of scholarship, leadership, character, and service. Information forms are mailed to all students who qualify academically. Details regarding criteria and the application process are in the Highland Park Student-Parent Handbook.

Topeka High National Honor Society

National Honor Society is an organization recognizing students’ outstanding achievements in Scholarship, Character, Leadership, and Service, the four pillars of the organization.  The following information describes criteria for selection and the process.

Criteria for Student Consideration

1. The student must be a junior or a senior.
2. The student must have attended Topeka High School for at least one semester.
3. The student must have a GPA of 3.5 on a weighted or unweighted scale.
4. The student must complete a contract, write an essay over a given topic, and complete the Student Activity Form.

Topeka West National Honor Society

Topeka West juniors and seniors are eligible for membership in National Honor Society. Students must have at least a 3.4 grade point average on a weighted scale and demonstrate the qualities of scholarship, leadership, character, and service. Information forms are mailed to all students who qualify academically. This is done at designated times of the year – juniors in February and seniors in October. Details regarding criteria and the application process are in the Topeka West Student-Parent Handbook.

Highland Park Academic Lettering

Students maintaining exemplary grade point averages will be awarded academic letters at the annual Academic Awards program in May.

To qualify for an academic letter: 1) students must be in at least their fourth semester of attendance at Highland Park, and 2) students must have a weighted grade point average of 3.50 or higher.

Students initially receive a letter and a lamp of learning pin. In subsequent years, students who maintain the 3.50 grade point average receive a bar to place on the letter.

Topeka High Academic Lettering

Students may earn an Academic Letter from Topeka High school by achieving a 3.5 GPA, weighted or unweighted, for two semesters. All course work must be taken at Topeka High School.

1. GPA is computed on a semester basis.
2. The qualifying student first receives a certificate. The second time a student qualifies s/he will receive an Academic Letter. Each subsequent qualifying semester, the student receives a bar.
3. Credit earned in summer programs or through an online course not through Topeka High School is not applicable to the Academic Letter.

Topeka West Academic Lettering

Students maintaining exemplary grade point averages will be awarded academic letters at the annual Academic Awards program in May.

To qualify for an academic letter: 1) students must be in at least their fourth semester of attendance at Topeka West, and 2) students must have a weighted grade point average of 3.40 or higher.

Students initially receive a letter and a lamp of learning pin. In subsequent years, students who maintain a 3.50 grade point average receive a bar to place on the letter.

Independent Study

Independent Study is open to those who wish to study subject matter of particular interest that is not offered in the regular curriculum. Refer to course 1390 in this document. Students with a Gifted Individual Education Plan refer to course 8590.  Students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) refer to course 8490.

The deadline for the completed application is Nov. 15 for second semester courses and April 15 for first semester courses. Applications are available in the counseling offices.

Religion Program Credit

Coursework directed specifically toward religion will not be accepted for transfer credit. Non-doctrinal religious courses may be accepted for credit.

Testing

Graduation Requirements for Exchange Students

Exchange students must meet all graduation requirements to receive a diploma and to participate in commencement ceremonies.  Exchange students should inform building administration early in the fall semester if they desire to obtain a diploma.

Applications must be made prior to July 1st to be considered for admission to a Topeka Public School.  All transcripts must be in English to be admitted to the school.  Transcripts will be reviewed and staff will determine grade placement.

For further information please review Board Policy 8025-03.

Home-Schooled Students

Topeka Public Schools reserves the right to request any type of validation necessary to help us determine the appropriate course and grade placement.  Examples could be homework, tests, textbook used, themes, projects, and any other materials which show the progress of the home-schooled students. Classes approved for credit within the guidelines of Topeka Public Schools policy will be entered on the transcript as a “CR” for credit or “N” for no credit. Every effort will be made to enroll homeschooled students in an appropriate course of study. Contact counselors for additional guidelines.

Capital City School Schedule Change Procedure

It is the policy of this school to honor students’ course requests (within the limitations of the system e.g. class size, staff availability, scheduling conflicts).

It is also the policy of this school to limit changes in students’ schedules.  Students should not assume that requests for course changes will be honored.

If there is a valid reason for a course change, the following process is used:

1. The student makes a formal request to the Cluster Advisor or School Counselor for a schedule change, identifying one or more of the valid reasons for a course change.  The student also provides his/her reasons for the request.
2. The request for schedule change is reviewed by the School Counselor and Advisor
3. Upon review, the student’s schedule may or may not be revised
4. Requests must be submitted by the third full day of class

Valid Reasons for petitioning a schedule change include:

• The student has not met the prerequisite to be in the class.
• The student has already taken the class and passed it.
• The student’s request for an elective class was listed on his/her enrollment form, but the class is not on his/her schedule.
• The student has a medical excuse that prohibits the student from taking the class.
• A core graduation requirement is not listed on the schedule (i.e. English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science).
• A teacher has directed a change based on student’s academic need.
• The student has failed a previous semester with a particular teacher.

Highland Park High School Schedule Change Procedure

It is the policy of this school to honor student’s course requests made during the spring enrollment period (within the limitations of the system e.g. class size, staff availability, scheduling conflicts).

It is also the policy of this school to limit changes in student’s schedules after the spring enrollment period. Students should not assume that requests for course changes after the enrollment period will be honored.

If there is a valid reason for a course change, the following guidelines are used:

• Schedule changes will only be allowed for the first five school days of the semester.
• Student-initiated changes will be handled before and after school only.
• Teacher-recommended changes may be requested during the school day, and must be completed within the first 10 days of the semester.

Valid Reasons for petitioning a schedule change include:

1. The student has not met the prerequisite to be in the class.
2. The student has already taken the class and passed it.
3. The student’s request for an elective class was listed on his/her enrollment form, but the class is not on his/her schedule.
4. The student has a medical excuse that prohibits the student from taking the class.
5. A core graduation requirement is not listed on the schedule (i.e. English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science).
6. A teacher has directed a change based on student’s academic need.
7. The student has failed a previous semester with a particular teacher

Topeka High School Schedule Change Procedure

Classes are scheduled and teachers are hired and assigned on the basis of selections students make in the spring.  Therefore, class changes will not be possible except as follows:

1. A class must be added or changed to meet graduation requirements.
2. A change is necessary because the student is academically misplaced. (The change must be recommended by teacher/counselor/parent and approved by the division principal.)
3. Honors, Pre-AP, and AP classes will only be changed at semester as space allows.  Please choose wisely.

Topeka West Schedule Change Procedure

It is the policy of this school to honor student’s course requests made during the spring enrollment period (within the limitations of the system e.g. class size, staff availability, scheduling conflicts).

It is also the policy of this school to severely limit changes in student’s schedules after the spring enrollment period. Students should not assume that requests for course changes after the enrollment period will be honored.

If there is a valid reason for a course change, the following process is used.

• The student completes a SCHEDULE CHANGE PETITION REQUEST identifying one or more of the valid reasons for a course change. The student also writes his/her reasons for the request.
• The student submits the petition for review by their division counselor and principal.
• Upon review, the student’s schedule may or may not be revised.
• Petitions must be submitted by the fifth full day of 1st semester and the fifth full day of 2nd semester.

Valid Reasons for petitioning a schedule change include:

1. The student has not met the prerequisite to be in the class.
2. The student has already taken the class and passed it.
3. The student’s request for an elective class was listed on his/her enrollment form, but the class is not on his/her schedule.
4. The student has a medical excuse that prohibits the student from taking the class.
5. A core graduation requirement is not listed on the schedule (i.e. English, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science).
6. A teacher has directed a change based on student’s academic need.
7. The student has failed a previous semester with a particular teacher.

Special Programs

Advancement Via Individual Determination – HPHS & THS

 The AVID Student: AVID targets students in the academic middle - B, C, and even D students - who have the desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard. These are students who are capable of completing rigorous curriculum but are falling short of their potential. Typically, they will be the first in their families to attend college, and many are from low-income or minority families. AVID pulls these students out of their other elective courses and puts them on the college track: acceleration instead of remediation.

The AVID Elective: AVID students are expected to enroll in honors and/or Advanced Placement®, as well as AVID Elective. AVID Elective is one period a day where students learn organizational and study skills, work on critical thinking and inquiry, get academic help from peers and college tutors, and participate in enrichment and motivational activities that make college seem attainable.

 English Language Learners - HPHS, THS & TWHS

The ELL programs support students to speak, read, and write English in all school subjects.

Services are delivered to qualifying students in one or more of the following ways:

• Enrollment in an English Language Learner (ELL) class to provide instruction in speaking, reading, and writing English, as well as assistance in the regular academic classroom
• Enrollment in an ELL content class, where the academic subject matter is provided through “sheltered” or adapted instruction to teach both English and the academic content material
• Adaptations made by teachers to make the content understandable to the ELL student
• The assistance of bilingual paraprofessionals to help make the content understandable to the ELL student
• The use of computer programs to increase the ELL student’s proficiency in English

 Topeka High School International Studies Program

Topeka High School believes in educating our students to be college and/or career ready in a global society. An essential component of achieving this goal is educating students in Global Literacy including critical thinking in a conscious and deliberate way and problem solving on a global scale to be responsible global citizens.

Topeka High School has created an International Studies Program that will provide our students with the essential 21st Century Skill of Global Literacy. This program allows students to take coursework that will provide global engagement in such areas as world geography, international studies, international business, ethnic studies, humanities, world literature, and more, while developing communicative competence in a Romance language (French, German, or Spanish), in addition to Mandarin Chinese.

Students will engage with this global curriculum through the study of the relationship among the perspectives, practices, and products of different cultures in meaningful contexts. They will learn skills that will allow them to function in a world that is culturally and globally diverse, learning to recognize different perspectives by analyzing real-world perspectives and events, while acquiring information from a variety of global sources.

To receive the designation with a focus on International Studies a student must complete a minimum of the following:

• 3 units of World Language

• 1 or more languages

• For at least one language students must

• Complete two units OR
• Reach the proficiency level of Intermediate on the Foreign Language STAMP (Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency) test

•   3 units of designated International Studies electives, including:

• World Geography (.5 units) AND
• International Relations OR Advanced Placement Comparative Government and Politics (.5 units)

• The International Studies Senior Capstone Project (.5 units) in the student’s area of international interest*

*This course is still in development. One component will be a formal presentation to a panel of teachers, administrators, and community members.

To receive the designation with an emphasis in International Studies a student must complete a minimum of the following:

• 3 units of World Language

• 2 or more languages required

• For at least one language students must

• Complete 2 units OR
• Reach the proficiency level of Intermediate on the Foreign Language STAMP (Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency) test

• 3 units of designated International Studies electives, including

• World Geography (.5 units) AND
• International Relations OR Advanced Placement Comparative Government and Politics (.5 units)

• 2 units of either additional World Language and/or designated International Studies elective
• The International Studies Senior Capstone Project (.5 units) in the student’s area of international interest*

24 units are required for Graduation = 15.5 required units + 8.5 elective units

28 units are available prior to Graduation = 15.5 required units + 12.5 elective units

A student could complete the International Studies diploma designation program and still participate all four years in another program such as AVID, MJROTC, Trade and Industry, Band, Music, Art, etc, if they wish.

Elective courses that count toward the International Studies diploma designation are denoted by the symbol in the Program of Studies.

**Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors interested in pursuing this diploma designation must have a transcript review in order to determine your ability to complete this program prior to graduation.**

Topeka High School International Studies Curriculum Options

Jobs for America’s Graduates - HPHS, THS, and TWHS

Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) is a state-based national non-profit organization dedicated to preventing dropouts among young people who are most at-risk.  In more than three decades of operation, JAG has delivered consistent, compelling results – helping nearly three-quarters of a million young people stay in school through graduation, pursue postsecondary education and secure quality entry-level jobs leading to career advancement opportunities. http://www.jag.org/node/1

 Junior ROTC - HPHS, THS, and TWHS

Benefits of JROTC Program

Since its inception in 1916, the JROTC program has been viewed as a strong program that provides youth with much-needed skills in citizenship and leadership. Additionally, numerous studies have shown that students who participate in JROTC programs have better attendance, grades, and graduation rates relative to students who were in general academic programs. Principals and school administrators also maintain positive attitudes toward JROTC because these programs:

Highland Park High School Air Force JROTC Mission

"Develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their nation and community”

• The objectives of JROTC are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship, promote community service, instill responsibility, character, and self-discipline, and provide instruction in air and space fundamentals.

• The AFJROTC program is grounded in the Air Force core values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. The curriculum emphasizes the Air Force heritage and traditions, the development of flight, applied flight sciences, military aerospace policies, and space exploration.

http://www.au.af.mil/au/holmcenter/AFJROTC/AboutJROTC.asp

Topeka West High School Army JROTC Program Outcomes:

• Act with integrity and personal accountability as they lead others to succeed in a diverse and global workforce
• Engage civic and social concerns in the community, government, and society
• Graduate prepared to excel in post-secondary options and career pathways
• Make decisions that promote positive social, emotional, and physical health
• Value the role of the military and other service organizations

http://www.usarmyjrotc.com/jrotc-program/jrotc-program-information

Topeka High School Marine Corps ROTC Values

• Motivate students to lead
• Foster a disciplined and constructive learning environment.
• Instill essential skills like time organization, responsibility, goal setting, and teamwork.

http://www.mcjrotc.org

Topeka West’s Leadership Program

Leadership is the skill of motivating, guiding and empowering a team towards a socially responsible vision. Topeka West believes in The Social Change Model of Leadership.  We believe that by fostering students individual strengths,  and examining leadership theory our students will begin to see their potential as leaders.  We also believe that by implementing those newly found skills in community action projects, we can begin to grow leaders in the city of Topeka for positive change.

Topeka West and Washburn University’s Leadership Institute have partnered to provide Topeka West Students with a unique opportunity.  Starting in the Fall of 2015, Topeka West Students may take Leadership Studies 3 as a dual credit option through Washburn University for a reduced fee.  Students who elect to take the course for dual credit will have met the requirements for the entry-level course in Washburn’s Leadership Studies Certificate or Leadership Minor. For more information see: Leadership Studies Academic Programming

Leadership Studies Graduation Distinction Requirements:

Starting with the class of 2017, students at Topeka West can earn a distinction on their diploma denoting their completion of Leadership Studies Programming.

To receive the Leadership Studies diploma designation (a phrase equating to high honors, like emphasis on), a student must complete a minimum of the following:

1. Leadership Studies I
2. Leadership Studies II *Leadership Studies I and II cannot be taken concurrently

1. -Applications due October 15th and March 15th

3. 25 Hours of Community Service Junior Year
4. 25 Hours of Community Service Senior Year
5. Leadership Studies students who are interested in receiving distinction must declare an academic focus area of of leadership. To complete your focus area requirements, you must complete 4.0 credits in your focus area and maintain a B average in those focus area courses. Classes in your focus area must include TPS requirements, along with the electives that would fulfil 4.0 total credits.

*Distinction will be available starting with the class of 2017

Students may choose to focus on one of the following disciplines to declare their academic focus in leadership.

The table below denotes a sample focus area curriculum:

Courses By Department

Business Education- course descriptions