1. Freshman Class Meeting Sept. 2009 – Class of 2013 Counselor Assignment: Mrs. RademakerA – G Mrs. RipkaH- M Mrs. Barra N–Z

2. Agenda 1. What can my counselor do for me? 2. MHS info 3. Going to college?

3. Your counselor can help you with: ● Academics: – Chosing the appropriate classes – Resources for tutoring ● College Exploration ● Vocational/Career: – Career plans/exploration – Considering options ● Social/Emotional: – Personal concerns – Peer relationships – Decision making, considering options – Responsibility

4. MHS Schedule Changes ● Before 5 th week (Sept. 23) – No notation on transcript – May only drop for a study hall ● 6 th week through 10 th week (Oct. 28) – WP = Withdraw passing / WF= Withdraw failing – May only drop for a study hall ● After 10 th week will not be allowed to drop

5. Grading System ● Numerical grading system: ● Weighted grading system: – Every class carries weight – Standard vs. Honors 93-100A 85-92B 77-84C 70-76D 69 and belowF

6. MHS Grading System ● Nine-week grading system – Only semester grades are permanent grades ● Semester grades and Semester Final Exams – Nine-week grade = 40%, 40% – Semester Final Exam grade = 20% ● Must pass 8 semesters of core classes to be eligible for Dr. Ed (PE does NOT count)

7. No Weighted Points ● Weighted points affect class rank. ● Cannot be a required course ● You must carry 4 weighted classes ● If you declare a 5 th or 6 th class for no weighted points: – Your grade won't be included in your weighted point average for class rank. – You will still get a credit towards graduation. – You must complete the form before the end of the fifth week of the semester (September 23 rd ).

8. Importance of Grades ● Job / College ● Class rank – based on cumulative weighted point average – available after freshman year ● Other recognition – Gold Cord – National Honor Society – Honor Roll – High Honor Roll

9. If your future includes college— you need to know this Without exception, below are the top 3 factors used in gaining admissions to college—in order of importance: 1. Classes taken in high school— strength of schedule 2. Grades 3. Standardized tests—ACT, SAT

10. Homecoming Get involved! A word from Adriana Garcia Student Council President

11. Questions?