Credit Flexibility Mr. Brad Faust Mr. Matthew Brown

Where did Credit Flex come from? Senate Bill 311 (the Ohio Core legislation) raised the graduation requirements for high school students, with the goal of increasing the number of students who are ready to meet the demands of our global and technological age. It included among its provisions a requirement that by March 31, 2009, the State Board of Education adopt a plan that enables “students to earn units of high school credit based on a demonstration of subject area competency, instead of or in combination with completing hours of classroom instruction.” School districts, community schools and chartered nonpublic schools “shall comply” with the provisions of the plan, phasing in its provisions during the school year.

Who is Eligible? Any student entering grades 8-12 who: Meets the course’s established pre- requisites, Demonstrates competency in the content area of chosen study, Possesses sufficient skills to work independently, and Completes learning activities on time.

What are the Types of Credit Flex? Test Out -This option gives students the opportunity to take a test to show mastery of material. Students must earn an 80% or higher. Students taking the AP Exam must earn a 3, 4,or 5 on the AP Exam. Virtual Learning -This option allows students to take courses online through Hayes’ APEX online program or through an independent vendor. Independent Study -This option allows students to create their own course using the state- issued curriculum standards as their guide. This may include: distance learning, educational travel, internship, music, arts, after-school/tutorial program, community service or other engagement projects and sports. Dual Enrollment -This option allows students to earn high school and college credit for courses. Students pay a reduced price to the sponsoring college, typically $200-$350 for these courses. Our teachers teach these courses. Students may take these courses without earning the college credit as well.

Test Out & APEX Online Course Offerings Visit the Guidance Website > Credit Flex, then select “Test Out” or “Virtual Learning”. Test Out Courses APEX Courses

Dual Enrollment Course Offerings World Literature Honors College Algebra Applications for Dual Enrollment will become available in May.

What are the Costs? Test Out & Independent Study: $80 AP Test Out: $89 Virtual Learning: $25 due to DCS for outside vendor or cost to be determined due to DCS for APEX. (Student and parents are responsible for any additional costs to outside vendors.) APEX outside of school is $ Dual Enrollment: Varies ($150 - $250 range and due to the college offering the credit. DCS does not charge for these courses.)

What are the Deadlines & Where Can I Find Applications? June 1 st for the first semester and October 1 st for the second semester. Applications are available online on the Guidance website > Credit Flexibility. Credit Flexibility

Questions?