Jersey Shore Area School District
Frequently Asked Questions
In case you have concerns, here are some frequently asked questions and answers to clear things up.
Q: What if I don’t know which Learning Pathway course to take my Freshman year?
A: That’s Okay. Not every student will have a definite learning pathway plan when entering Grade 9. It is also recommended that students take personality and skill surveys to help identify areas of interest.
When requesting courses, think about which Career Areas you found most interesting when exploring Smart Futures in CAPS (Grade 9) and Business Education (Grade 8). Which Career Pathways align best with your interests, learning style, and future plans?
Q: Can I still schedule Honors/AP/Dual Enrollment classes and take a Learning Pathway?
A: Absolutely. The Learning Pathway model is simply a road map for students in relation to career aspirations by aligning high school course work with college majors and/or career standards. All students will be able to select and take their core academic courses in English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Refer to the Pathways Guide and Pathway Maps for recommendations and options.
Q: How many credits do I need to schedule for my senior year?
A: Seven (7) credits. Full time students in all four grades are expected to schedule a minimum of 7 credits per year. Refer to the Pathways Guide and Pathway Maps for specific credit recommendations and options.
Q: Do I need to schedule a science credit if I have already earned three science credits during my 9th, 10th and 11th grade years?
A: Students should schedule a science class every year they are a student in the high school. If you are planning on attending a four year college then the answer is a definite yes. Most colleges expect four years of science. If you are planning on attending a two year college or going right into work force, then you may want to schedule another course, something other than a science class, that better fits into your future plans. Please consult your counselor. If you have yet to earn three full credits of science than you must schedule enough science credits to meet this expectation. Refer to the Pathways Guide and Pathway Maps for specific credit recommendations and options.
Q: Do I need to schedule both American Government and Economics (or AP United States History)?
A: Yes, both of these courses are required by state standards. The information you will learn in both of these classes is designed to make you a more informed citizen of the United States. So yes, you need to schedule both of these 1/2 credit courses (or the full credit AP US History). If you did not pass one of your previous social studies classes in Grade 9-11, you do not need to double up as a senior. Refer to the Pathways Guide and Pathway Maps for specific credit recommendations and options. If you have any further questions, please schedule an appointment with your counselor.