Curriculum and Grading

“Answers in the Toolbox,” a report by the U.S. Department of Education, notes that particularly for African American and Latino students, a strong academic curriculum is the most significant predictor of success in college. A strong academic curriculum is more significant than class rank, test scores, grade point average or socio-economic status. Based on these research findings, we require our students to fulfill the following requirements or their equivalent for graduation credit:

Promotion Requirements


All students must pass all courses in order to be promoted to the next grade, including core academic subjects, Saturday courses and physical education.

Course Requirements:
Courses each have their own proficiency requirements. All must be completed with a minimum grade of C- (70%). Students who earn at least 60% in math/science courses are eligible for summer school. Students who earn below 60% are scheduled to repeat. The typical sequence of courses is:

4 years Humanities (History & Literature)

  • World History and Literature I (grade 9)
  • United States History and Literature I (grade 10)
  • United States History and Literature II (grade 11)
  • World History and Literature II (grade 12)

4 years of Math

  • Algebra I (grade 9)
  • Geometry (grade 10)
  • Algebra II (grade 11)
  • Pre-Calculus or Calculus (grade 12)

4 years of Lab Science

  • Physical Science (grade 9)
  • Physics (grade 10)
  • Chemistry (grade 11 or 12)
  • Biology (grade 11 or 12)

2 years of Foreign Language

  • French I (grade 11)
  • French II (grade 12)

4 years Physical Education/Wellness

1 year Studio or Performing Arts

8 Saturday Class credits

Field Work Requirements:

  • 2 summers of approved enrichment programs with documentation
  • 1 Internship experience

Additional Competency Requirements:

  • Pass MCAS required tests.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in use of technology to achieve learning goals.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in writing and defending a persuasive essay.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in public speaking in English.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in financial literacy and health education by earning a passing score on the competency test [note: requirement starts with the Class of 2012].
  • Demonstrate leadership and service through a successful internship experience.
  • Complete portfolio requirements.