Frequently Asked Questions
What is a credit?
Credits are awarded for each class for which you earn a “D” or higher.
Classes are worth either one credit or a one-half a credit. If you are unsure of how much a particular class is worth, ask!
What is my "GPA"?
GPA or Grade Point Average is the average of all of the final grades that you have earned in all of the classes you have taken. You can have a graduation GPA, college admission GPA and Bright Futures GPA. It is a good idea to know them all.
Why is my GPA important?
In order to graduate, you must have a GPA of a 2.0 for the 24 credit option and a 3.0 for the 18 credit option. A 2.0 is a “C” average. A 2.0 cumulative
GPA is also needed to be involved in sports and any school activity during high school.
Is there more than one standard diploma?
Yes. There are now three standard diploma options from which to choose:
Four-Year Traditional High School Graduation (24 Credits)
Three-Year Standard College Preparatory (18 Credits)
Three-Year Career Preparatory (18 Credits)
You and your parents must choose your diploma option and review your progress toward it yearly.
Why should I take the State Testing seriously?
Firstly, you have to pass the 10th grade State tests in order to earn a standard high school diploma.
Secondly, if you don’t do well on those tests in 9th or 10th grade, you have to take a remedial class in place of an elective that you have chosen and will continue to take the tests until you pass.
What is a CAR-PD class and why am I in it?
CAR-PD stands for Content Area Reading - Professional Development. The CAR-PD designation on a course indicates that the instructor is trained to incorporate reading strategies in the daily curriculum of the course. CAR-PD students learn the subject being studied as well as develop additional reading skills that will help improve their FCAT Reading scores. CAR-PD strategies are research-based and have been shown to greatly improve student learning and reading ability.
The State of Florida sets the requirements for placing students in remedial reading classes. Students who have high level 2 reading scores can be eligible for CAR-PD classes (rather than having to take a year of remedial reading). This frees up an elective period in their schedule, enabling students to select an elective of their choice.
CAR-PD classes do not cover a watered down curriculum and are not "reserved" for students needing reading remediation. CAR-PD simply indicates that the teacher is CAR certified and is able to incorporate reading strategies within the course curriculum. These strategies are good for all students, not just those needing extra help in the area of reading.
Obtaining Information on a Specific Postsecondary School
Postsecondary School
After you have narrowed down your list of schools to several possibilities, you will need more specific information on each school. Below are some important questions to ask about each school you are considering.
How do I check college entrance requirements?
Each college catalog will include what subject preparation is recommended for admission to
that college. In addition, there are special requirements for various fields such as science, math, engineering, architecture, nursing, technology and other areas. Be sure that the college offers the major subject area in which you are interested.
How do I obtain a college catalog?
To obtain your own copy, write to the college admissions office. Some college catalogs are available for reference in your high school guidance office, in your high school media center and online at the college’s home page.
How do I obtain an application for admission?
Applications for the state university system of Florida, Florida community colleges, and some private Florida colleges are online at www.FACTS.org and in your school guidance office. You can also write to the Director of Admissions at the school to which you plan to apply. With the application you will receive instructions for completion and the deadline date for returning the application.
How do I complete my college application?
Applications vary both in format and types of questions. Read all questions before answering any of them. Complete all required questions. You may prefer to do a rough draft on paper first. Follow the directions regarding the return of the application to the college. Consult your guidance counselor if you have additional questions after reading the application carefully.
When should I send the completed applications to the colleges?
Check the deadline dates in the college instructional materials or catalogs. Most applications are sent during the first semester or early in the second semester of the senior year. Students who apply under Early Decision plans must apply sooner, usually in October. Students who plan to attend college in August should apply during the fall semester of their
senior year.
How do I obtain transcripts?
A transcript is the official record of your grades, test scores, honors, etc. You may request the guidance office to send transcripts to the college of your choice. Allow two weeks for all requests for information/forms from your guidance office.