10th Grade Meetings

Content Specialists, Instructional Technology Coaches, CTE Teachers, and the Counselors presented course selection, internship, and certification information to sophomores this past week to help prepare them for their upcoming course selection for their junior year. Below you will find information that was shared with our sophomores.

What is Advanced Placement (AP)?

Friendswood High School participates in the Advanced Placement (AP) Program sponsored by the College Board. AP courses prepare students for the Advanced Placement examinations given by College Board in May. An advanced score, determined by the individual universities, on an AP exam can result in a college or university awarding credit, exempting from courses, or advanced standing. It is the student’s responsibility to research the individual colleges to better understand their policies in awarding AP credit. Please note there is a fee for each AP exam.

AP courses are equivalent to first year college courses and are intended for students who possess proven ability, interest, and motivation to handle the extra workload and study requirements. The decision to take an AP course should not be taken lightly. It is strongly recommended any student considering AP courses seek advice from his/her counselor, parent(s), the course instructor, and current students enrolled in the particular AP course of interest. Student involvement in extracurricular activities should also be factored into AP course selection.

When considering AP courses, students must carefully consider the extra time commitment the courses entail. By definition, AP courses are demanding and require extensive homework and self-directed study. Therefore, a strong degree of motivational, organizational and time management skills are critical. As a result, extra points are awarded to a student’s grade point average for every AP course taken. When signing up for an AP level course, it is imperative to understand a schedule change will not be made until the end of the first six weeks. If no level down option exists, a change will not be made until the end of the first semester. Schedule changes will only be made with the approval of the principal, counselor, teacher and parent. The grade earned will appear on the report card.

AP Courses Offered at Friendswood High School

• AP English III
• AP English IV
• AP French IV
• AP German IV
• AP Latin IV
• AP Spanish IV
• AP Calculus AB
• AP Calculus BC
• AP Statistics
• AP Biology
• AP Chemistry
• AP Environmental Science
• AP Physics 1
• AP Physics 2
• AP Computer Science
• AP Computer Science Principles
• AP Music Theory
• AP 2D Art and Design
• AP 3D Art and Design
• AP Drawing
• AP Economics (Macro)
• AP European History
• AP Human Geography
• AP United States Government
• AP United States History
• AP World History

For additional information regarding Advanced Placement please visit the College Board website at Information for AP Students or speak with your counselor.

General Information

A dual credit course is a college course taken by a high school student for which the student earns both college and high school credit. Some courses are taught at Friendswood High School by FHS teachers during school hours; other courses are taught on campus before and after school by COM teachers. Friendswood has cooperative arrangements with Alvin Community College, San Jacinto, and College of the Mainland. Classes taught at Friendswood High School are affiliated with College of the Mainland. Dual credit courses cover a blend of high school and college-level subject matter. Discussions and required readings will cover topics discussed in college-level courses. Participating in the dual credit program enables a student to make substantial progress toward a college degree before finishing high school. Dual credit courses are also useful in fulfilling the performance acknowledgments for graduation plans. Extra points are awarded to a student’s grade point average for every Dual Credit course taken. The grade earned in the Dual Credit class will be reflected on their permanent college transcript. Other advantages include:

1. Convenience, courses are taught at the high school campus, at the college, or online depending on the arrangements made with your high school.
2. Close to home, learn what college professors expect while still in familiar surroundings. Note that because this is a college course, professors only communicate grades and performance with the students directly.
3. Student success, successful completion of college-level courses will aid in a successful transition to a college campus later.
4. Dual credit courses are intended for students who possess proven ability, interest and motivation to handle the extra workload and study requirements. The decision to take a dual credit course should not be taken lightly. It is strongly recommended any student considering dual credit course seek advice from his/her counselor and parent. When considering dual credit courses, students must carefully consider the extra time commitment the courses entail. Dual credit courses are demanding and require extensive homework and self-directed study. Therefore, a strong degree of motivational, organizational and time management skills are critical.

Enrollment Eligibility

1. For Dual Credit classes taught at Friendswood High School, you must meet the course prerequisites per course, have a minimum of a B overall average, and have passed all the End of Course State assessments taken to date.
2. Meet established admissions requirements at the junior college.
3. Comply with the state-mandated TSIA program.
4. Take applicable placement tests prior to enrolling.
5. Attend mandatory advisement session with COM College Connections Advisor.
6. Complete the dual credit enrollment form, acquiring the appropriate school and parental signatures.
7. Pay the reduced costs associated with taking a dual credit college course.

Dual Credit Courses Offered On Campus During School Hours

• British Literature
• Calculus for Business and Social Sci
• College Algebra
• English III: Composition 1301/1302
• English IV: Composition 1301/1302
• Math for Bus and Social Science w ALG
• Math for Bus and Social Science w CAL
• Practicum in Health Science-EMT
• US History
  

Dual Credit Courses Offered On Campus Before School Hours

• American Music
• Psychology
• Sociology
• US Government 2305 (Federal)
  
• US History

For additional information about the Dual Credit program visit the College of the Mainland's website and visit with your counselor.

Dual Credit

• Taught at the college level
• Extra points are awarded to a student’s grade point average for every Dual Credit course taken
  
• *Gain college credit immediately after successfully completing the course (*See notes about transferring credits below).
  
• May be taught by a College of the Mainland Professor OR an FHS teacher.
• A Dual Credit course costs $250 for 1-2 classes per semester and $75 for a 3rd class (plus additional costs for books, fees, etc.).
  

Advanced Placement (AP)

• Taught at the college level
• Extra points are awarded to a student’s grade point average for every AP course taken
  
• Must pass the end-of-course Advanced Placement exam to be eligible to apply for college credit after high school graduation
• Taught by an FHS teacher.
• An AP course is free; however, students do have to pay $99 for each AP exam taken in May.

Remember: Both are college-level courses with a high level of rigor. They are different in content and focus, but one is not easier than the other.

Ask Yourself:

• Do you plan to go to a two-year or four-year college?

• Do you plan to go to school in Texas or out of state?

• Will the schools you want to attend accept dual credit or AP credits?

• What is your intended major?

In general, Texas colleges accept both AP and Dual Credit Hours....however . . . credit does not necessarily equal credit.

• For example, a student may take a Dual Credit or AP English class; however, that does not mean that the college will accept it as an English credit but instead may award an elective credit.

Colleges have specific requirements depending on the program the student is entering. Colleges may want students to take the course at their school as opposed to transferring them in.

Some out-of-state schools DO take dual credit grades and many take AP scores. However, some out-of-state schools accept NEITHER.

How do I know if my AP credit or Dual Credit hours will transfer?

Check the school’s website! School websites may be difficult to maneuver so if you cannot find the information you need, call the Office of Admissions.

On Wednesday, January 13 at 6pm, please join the FHS Administration and Counseling team with College of the Mainland for a virtual meeting for those who are interested in taking dual credit for the first time during the 2021-2022 school year. This includes on-campus dual credit courses, workforce dual credit, as well as Collegiate High School. Topics covered will include, but are not limited to:

• What is dual credit?
• What are the benefits to dual credit?
• How much does it cost?
• What can we expect?
• What is the difference between dual credit and AP?
• What are the steps involved in registering for a dual credit course?

Please use the following information to join the meeting:

Join Zoom Meeting

https://fisdk12-net.zoom.us/j/93739651798?pwd=emVSN0FNSWF4UUxoZ3lsd3dKZVE0Zz09

Meeting ID: 937 3965 1798

Passcode: 604817

What is Work Force Dual Credit?

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) partners with public junior colleges, public state colleges or public technical colleges under an agreement with school districts across the state to expand dual-credit and career and technical education programs through the use of Skills Development Funds and other resources. Dual credit and technical education programs are funded in an effort to respond to industry demands for skilled workers in technical fields. High school students can enroll in postsecondary classes, while simultaneously completing high school coursework. This gives students the ability to get a jump-start on their education or career goals as they earn credits toward a degree or professional credential while still in school.

Enrollment Eligibility

1. For Work Force Dual Credit courses, your counselor must verify that you have met or be on track to meet ALL graduation requirements, that you have met the prerequisites per course, and that you have passed all the End of Course State assessments taken to date.
2. Meet established admission requirements at the Junior College.
3. Comply with the state-mandated TSI program.
4. Complete the Dual Credit Endorsement form acquiring the appropriate school and parental signatures.
5. Pay the costs associated with taking a dual credit college course.
6. Provide own transportation to and from the Junior College.

College of the Mainland Work Force Academy offers the following opportunities:

• Cosmetology
• Welding.
• * Note that Workforce Dual Credit courses are not considered MAP weight. They will count for regular weight in a student’s GPA.

Click here for more information about Work Force Dual Credit or contact your Counselor.

Concurrent Enrollment Collegiate High School

Concurrent enrollment in a college is allowed for students who have met the established admission requirements at the college and comply with the state mandated TSI Assessment. Students must have written permission from the principal or counselor, and parent. No high school credit is granted towards graduation requirements. College hours may be earned in accordance with the college’s rules and regulations.

Location: All classes taken at College of the Mainland.

Goals: All students will work toward high school graduation and associate degree requirements simultaneously. Special application required. There are fees associated with Collegiate High School.

Admission Requirements

• Be on grade level
• Have passing state assessment scores
• Seeking a foundation graduation plan with an endorsement
• Meet college entrance testing requirements
• Students can still participate in FHS extracurricular activities while enrolled in Collegiate High School.
• Students enrolled in Collegiate High School are not eligible for Friendswood High School’s Valedictorian or Salutatorian.

Click here for additional information about the Collegiate High School and discuss with your counselor.

What Are Internships?

• Work Based Learning increases career preparedness

• Paid or UnPaid

• Combination of Classroom and Field Experience

• Meaningful Work not just Job Shadowing

• Strengthen and improve academic, technical and employability skills

What Are the Benefits of Internships?

• Engage with business and industry professionals
• Apply knowledge learned in a classroom
• Explore potential career options
• Develop essential employability skills

What Is an Industry Based Certification?

An Industry Based Certification is a credential or certificate that verifies that a student has mastered the knowledge and skills established by that industry.

What are the Benefits of Certifications?

Certifications serve as a signal to employers and colleges that the student has:

• Demonstrated mastery of skills in that career field
• Has experience with the real-world demands of work
• Has “grit”

Certifications also:

• Help students earn higher wages when they enter the workforce

• Help students develop career interests and reach their goals

• Serve as a ladder to future success

• Help students with essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and prioritizing information that can transfer to multiple career pathways.

Education and Training

Ready Set Teach I and II

• Region 4 ECS Substitute Certification
• Educational Aide Level I
• Guaranteed Interview with FISD

Law and Public Service

Practicum in Law
Dual Credit Emergency Medical Technician - Basic

• Emergency Medical Technician Certification

Health Science

Health Science Theory/Clinical

Practicum in Health Science - CCMA

Practicum in Health Science - EMT

• Patient Care Technician
• Teen Community Emergency Response Team
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant
• Emergency Medical Technician

PLTW Biomedical Science

Biomedical Innovations

ISM - Scientific Research and Design

Practicum in STEM

• John Hopkins University COVID 19 Contact Tracing Cert

PLTW Engineering

SystemsGo Rocketry

Engineering Design and Development

ISM - Scientific Research and Design

Practicum in STEM

• No Certifications in this Program of Study at this time

Computer Science

Independent Study in Evolving/Emerging Technologies

ISM - Computer Science I and II

Practicum in STEM

• Oracle Certified Associate OCA Java SE 8 Programming
• Microsoft - Introduction to Programming Using Python
• CompTia Security

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Advanced Floral Design

Practicum in Agriculture - any Ag related setting

Practicum in Agriculture - Vet Assistant

• Certified Veterinary Assistant
• Texas Floral Design Certification Level I and II

Arts, AV Technology and Communications

Practicum in Graphic Design

Practicum in AV Production I and II

Practicum in Digital Audio Technology

• Society of Broadcast Engineers - TV Operator Certification
• OSHA General Industry Certification

Business, Marketing and Finance

INCubatoredu/ACCELeratoredu,

Practicum in Marketing I and II,

Business Intern,

Career Prep I and II (Work Study)

• Microsoft Office Specialist
• Texas Real Estate Salesperson License

Hospitality and Tourism

Practicum in Culinary Arts I and II

• Food Handler and ServSafe Certifications

Resources

• Link to the 20-21 Academic Planning Guide
• Link to the Advanced Academics webpage
• Link to the Advanced Placement webpage
• Link to the Dual Credit webpage (at bottom of Counseling webpage)
• Link to the Career and Technical Education webpage
• Link to the Counseling Center webpage

Counseling Staff

• Krystal Fletcher (Lead Counselor) kfletcher@fisdk12.net
• Kelly Cawthorn (A-Eq) kcawthorn@fisdk12.net
• Shelby Wright (Er-La) swright@fisdk12.net
• Toni Batiste (Le-Rh) lbatiste@fisdk12.net
• Melissa Hickman (Ri-Z) mhickman@fisdk12.net
• Thao Deckard (Counseling Center Assistant) tdeckard@fisdk12.net