High School Instructional Program

 

The emphasis of education for high school students in Newton County is preparation for life after high school. Through a range of intriguing and challenging courses, students find opportunities for critical and creative thinking, and vital skills for future success. Students may choose from many electives to pursue an interest in-depth, or sample subjects to focus educational and career interests. Strong instructional departments provide a solid educational foundation.

Through the Fall of 2007, those entering the ninth grade were able to choose one of two programs of study: College Preparatory or Technology/Career-Prep. (Graduation programs with distinction have mandatory additional requirements.) The College Preparatory Program requires a minimum of four units each of English, mathematics, and science; three-and-one-half units of social science, and two units of foreign language. The Technology/Career-Prep program requires four units of English, three units each of mathematics and science, and three-and-a-half units of social studies. Each program of study meets or exceeds minimum state graduation requirements. The Technology/Career-Prep program additionally requires four units of vocational credits with three units concentrated in a vocational area. This program of study prepares students for post-secondary options.

Tiered diploma options are no longer included in the graduation requirements for students entering ninth grade in 2008-2009. All students are expected to complete a common set of requirements to earn a regular diploma. The following units are required under the new graduation rule for all students: four units each of English, mathematics, and science, three-and-one-half units of social science, three units in Technology/Career and/or Modern Language/Latin and/or Fine Arts, one unit in health and physical education, and three and one-half units of electives.

All high school students in Newton County are required to pass all five sections (English/language arts, Writing, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies), of the Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT) in order to participate in the graduation ceremony. In addition, eight courses (Algebra I, Geometry, Physical Science, Biology, 9th Grade Lit/Comp., American Lit, Economics, and US History) require students to take state End of Course Tests (EOCT’s) that count as 15% of the student’s grade.

Gifted and Advanced Placement courses are important curriculum features for College Preparatory students. The Quest program for academically gifted students offers classes in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies. These classes are taught on an advanced/enriched level and parallel the regular school curriculum

High school students who meet program requirements may also participate in the Youth Apprenticeship Program and/or Joint or Dual Enrollment opportunities. Joint enrollment provides students with the opportunity to receive post-secondary school credits while continuing their high school education. Dual enrollment provides students with the opportunity to receive post-secondary school credit that also counts toward high school credit.

Currently, Newton County has fifty business partners in the Apprenticeship Program. This program provides students who commit to post-secondary education, the opportunity to receive work-based learning under a business partner mentor in his/her career field.

High school students may be involved in a wide variety of co-curricular programs, including drama, band, chorus, and visual arts. Students are offered civic, social, and service experiences beyond the classroom through a wide variety of clubs and organizations. The high schools of Newton County offer a comprehensive athletic program for secondary students.

 

Contact:

Ms. Samantha Fuhrey
Director of  Secondary Education
770-787-1330 ext. 1224

Helpful Links

System Secondary Handbook

Alcovy High School Handbook

Eastside High School Handbook

Newton High School Handbook