Academic Planning Guide

BASE Mission Statement:
The Beaverton Academy of Science and Engineering welcomes and prepares a diverse community of students to thrive, lead and contribute to a better world through challenging, innovative and collaborative learning experiences.

Beaverton School District Goal:
WE empower all students to achieve post-high school success.

"The District prohibits discrimination and harassment based on any basis protected by law, including but not limited to, an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national or ethnic origin, marital status, age, mental or physical disability, pregnancy, familial status, economic status, veteran status, or because of a perceived or actual association with any other persons within these protected classes."

Gaining independence, continuing your education, and finding a career – those are some of the options available to you once you leave high school. Carefully use the information presented in this guide to develop a four-year plan for high school graduation, complete at least one of our Programs of Study, consider your goals for your future after high school, and thoughtfully select courses that will help you achieve those goals and plans.

Use this planning guide at home with your parents and at school with teachers, and your school counselor.  Make every effort to take advantage of the opportunities to educate yourself about your choices by getting input from your teachers regarding the level and types of classes that will help you reach your goals, and seek your counselor’s guidance regarding course prerequisites, possible sequences, and post-high school planning.

BASE Curriculum Plan

The State of Oregon and Beaverton School District require students to complete 24 course units in order to graduate. Regular attendance also continues to be a requirement. These requirements reflect the minimum program that students can complete and still earn a high school diploma. For the majority of students, particularly those who are planning post-high school education, the pursuit of a challenging academic program is the most important consideration, and additional classes in core subject areas are necessary.

Students planning to enter a four-year Oregon Public University System school will need to meet the University’s admission requirements. Students planning to attend out-of-state and/or private colleges and universities should work with their school counselors to assist in the communication with admission counselors at individual universities to plan a high school course of study as it relates to specific admission requirements.  It is important to develop these plans early in your high school career.

Minimum Graduation Requirements - Typical Curriculum Plan

PART I:
Language Arts (4)
1 credit required at Grade 9: Literature and Composition 9
1 credit required at Grade 10: Literature and Composition 10
1 credit required at Grade 11: Literature and Composition 11 or advanced courses
1 credit required at Grade 12: Literature and Composition 12 or advanced courses

Mathematics (3)
1 credit required at Grade 9: AGS I, AGS II, AGS3, AAGS3, or advanced courses
2 credits required Grade 10-12: AGS II, AGS III, AAGS3, Pre-Calc or advanced courses

Social Science (3)
1 credit required at Grade 9: World Geography & Culture
1 credit required at Grade 10: US History
1 credit required at Grade 11/12: Gov/Econ, AP Gov, or Law

Science (3)
1 credit required at Grade 9: STEM Physics
1 credit required at Grade 10: STEM Chemistry
1 credit required at Grade 11-12: Biology I, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics 1

Health Education (1)
1.0 credit Grade 9: Health 1 & Health 2 (If not completed during 9th grade, students will continue to be scheduled into Health.)

Physical Education (1)
0.5 credit Grade 9: Students must submit a minimum of 65 hours of physical activity documented on the PE Forms.
0.5 credit Grade 10: Students must submit a minimum of 65 hours of physical activity documented on the PE Forms. (A total of 130 hours are required to meet the graduation requirements.)

Electives:
All students, with the assistance of their parents and school counselor, may select a combination of elective courses that best meet the needs of their post-high school graduation plans and their desired pathway. Three of these elective credits must be earned in any one of the following areas: music, visual arts*, theater arts, business education, technology education, or world language**. CTE Programs of Study in the areas of Biomedicine, Computer Science, and Engineering are focused elective courses that support students in hands-on career opportunities. Elective credits in additional math & science courses and in world language are highly recommended for college-bound students and students planning on entering an apprenticeship program..

PART II:
Essential Skills that demonstrate proficiency: Read, write, and apply math

Essential Skills can be met by Reading, Writing, and Math scores on the OSAS and ACT (both opportunities are provided junior year) or SAT. For students who do not meet on these assessments, work samples may be used.

PART III:
Career Education (.5): All students must complete Personalized Learning Requirements. To meet these requirements,

(StEPP): Each student must: 1) develop an education plan and build an education profile, 2) participate in career-related learning experiences, 3) apply and extend knowledge in an extended application. Students utilize CIS technology to meet some of these requirements in their Crew classes.

Total Credits to Graduate: 24

*Students who intend to apply to schools in California must take courses in the fine arts.  See counselors for information.
**Students who are planning to attend four-year universities and many other colleges must successfully complete a minimum of two years of the same world language.

Contact your High School’s Counseling Office for additional details.

Schedule and General Course Information

1. The State of Oregon requires students to complete a minimum of 24 credits to earn a high school diploma. Our semester schedule gives you the opportunity to earn 7.0 credits each year (seven 0.5-credit classes per semester) for a total of 28 possible credits earned during a four-year course of study.

2. Make certain you pay close attention to graduation requirements. Develop a Personal 4-Year Plan with your counselor that addresses all the years you have left in high school, including graduation requirements and college or career expectations.

3. The three credits of science must include Physics, Biology, and Chemistry.

4. The 1.0 P.E. credit is completed outside of school.  Students must document 130 hours of physical activity and have it approved by an administrator.

5. Elective classes are designed to build skills in areas of study that meet student needs for college admission, the pursuit of career pathways, and individual interests. Some elective courses have fees; some courses that receive college credit require testing fees and/or college tuition fees. The inability to pay fees should not interfere with enrollment in a course. Students who are unable to pay the fee should discuss the possibility of a scholarship or fee waiver with their counselor.

6. When selecting elective choices, students should consider elective subjects carefully and select viable alternative classes. While we strive to provide students with their first choice in classes, due to scheduling conflicts, alternate courses on your forecasting list will be selected if a conflict occurs. Choose your alternates carefully.

7. Students and parents/guardians should review the 4-Year Plan each term and update it as necessary (the 4-Year Plan is found in CIS). Careful and thoughtful selection of required and elective classes lead to meaningful in-depth study in areas of interest.

8. Although certain courses are required, students need to read the course descriptions before filling out the course forecasting worksheet appropriate for their grade level.  In most cases, courses that meet for one semester earn 0.5 credits. Courses that meet for two semesters earn 1 credit.

9. Choose courses carefully!  We hire teachers and create classes based on student requests so changes will not be possible after forecasting is finished.  Students will be expected to accept and complete the classes they request (including alternates).

BASE Schedule
The current school day runs from 7:30 a.m. to 2:05 p.m. All classes are on an A/B block schedule. Periods 1, 3, 5 & 7 meet on “A” days, which alternates with periods 2, 4, 6, & 8 on “B” days. CREW classes meet Monday through Friday.

Schedule Changes and Corrections
Counselors work very hard to give students their first choice or chosen alternate courses requested during the February forecasting process. If a scheduling error is made (you are in the wrong level, you did not have the course on your forecasting sheet as a first choice OR alternate), counselors need to be notified before school begins so corrections can be made. If alternates were not selected on the forecasting form, counselors and/or admins will select alternates that fit your schedule for you. Because the offering and staffing of many courses depend upon the requests made during the spring, students are expected to accept and complete the courses they have requested during the forecasting process. We are not able to offer students the option of scheduling classes with specific teachers or at specific times. The schedule strives to ensure equity to all students and to maintain balanced class loads for teachers.

Schedule Changes after the Term Begins
Students may not drop or add classes after the first 10 days of the term. High school courses dropped after the first 10 days result in a grade of Withdraw/Fail (W/F) on the student transcript for that course. This grade counts against the student's G.P.A.  When students drop courses within the first 10 days, the course will be replaced with a Supervised Study, Early Release, Late Start, or course selected by the counselor or admin.  There are rare exceptions to this practice which primarily relate to significant, documented medical issues.  Counselors or an Administrator can offer more information.

We do not make schedule changes to switch teachers, change class periods, or accommodate Early Release/Late Arrival needs.

Late Arrival / Early Release
Students in the 11th and 12th grade who are on-track to graduate and meet graduation requirements may choose to arrive late to school or leave school early.

• For Seniors, Early Release may take the place of the 8th period Access Tutorial class.
• For Juniors, Early Release or Late Arrival would be in addition to the Access Tutorial 8th period class.
• Students must pass each class in the previous semester to be eligible for Late Arrival or Early Release.
• Students who have not yet passed their state testing requirements will have their Access Tutorial, Late Arrival or Early Release replaced with Read/Write Lab, Math Lab, or Academic Options class until Essential skills are passed at Counselor/Administrator discretion.
• Students who have failed a course in the previous semester must have one Access Tutorial or Academic Options period in their schedule.
• Students with either Late Arrival or Early Release are expected to provide their own transportation.

Parent/Guardian permission required to enroll.

Biomedical Pathway

This program is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program designed to allow students to explore the medical pathways through:

• Research and design solutions for patient care and medical technologies
• Explore the human body, diseases, prevention, and treatment
• Participate in authentic lab-based research
• Explore proper patient care
• Communicate health information accurately and professionally
• Adhere to safety, privacy, legal, and ethical practices essential in a healthcare workplace

*Transferology is a resource students can use to see how credits will transfer to colleges of interests.
 
Additional Requirements for Pathway Honors: *Students who complete 8 semesters in this Pathway (including the Capstone) with a B or better AND pass the NHSA exam will earn their Biomedical Stole.  Students who complete 6 semesters in this Pathway AND pass the NHSA exam will earn their Biomedical Cord.

Computer Programming and Software Pathway

This program is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program designed to allow students to explore the Computer Programming and Software Pathway. A student will:

• Learn programming languages and tools
• Demonstrate knowledge of hardware components
• Employ quality assurance practices to create workable products
• Practice teamwork and problem solving skills
• Create websites and software applications

Additional Requirements for Pathway Honors: *Students who complete 6 semesters in this Pathway with a B or better in AP CSP, Cybersecurity, and AP CSA, complete the EoC in each course, and complete the CAP project in CSA, will earn their Computer Programming and Software Development Stole.  Students who complete 6 semesters of Computer Science core course will earn their Computer Science Cord.

Engineering Pathway

Engineers apply science, math and technology to solve real-world problems.  Bridges and buildings, cars and roadways, energy generation and distribution, clean water systems, cell phones and the Internet were all made and improved by Engineers.

This program is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) program designed to allow students to explore Engineering careers.   Students will:

• Apply design principles to identify and solve problems
• Create working programs/products that meet specifications
• Practice teamwork, organization, and other professional work habits
• Engage in critical design review and review suggestions for improvement
• Explore digital electronics and circuits
• Use 3D Modeling  software
• Demonstrate leadership and time management
• Create with 3D printers, laser systems, CNC routers and more

*Transferology is a resource students can use to see how credits will transfer to colleges of interests. 

Additional Requirements for Engineering Honors: Students who complete 8 semesters in this Pathway (including the Capstone) with a B or better will earn their Engineering Stole.  Students who pass 6 semesters in this Pathway (including the Capstone) are pathway completers and will earn their Engineering Cord.

Academic Integrity Policy
BASE expects all students to adhere to the highest standards of academic honesty and integrity. Violations of academic integrity include cheating, plagiarizing, turning in another’s papers or projects, giving one’s work to others, passing test information to others, misrepresenting other’s work as their own, or being found in possession of another’s work.

What Is Plagiarism?
Definition: Plagiarism is the use of another person’s words, ideas, or facts as if they were your own, without giving credit to the original source.

Examples:
You are plagiarizing when you use information from another source without including proper documentation (e.g. citations and a list of works cited or bibliography).

You are plagiarizing when you turn in another student’s work as your own or allow someone else to copy your work; this work might include homework, tests, papers, or other assignments.

You are plagiarizing when you copy materials from sources such as the Internet, books, or periodicals without introducing the material or using citations to show the beginning and end of the “borrowed” material.
(Adapted from the OCTE pamphlet “What’s Plagiarism and How Can You Avoid It?”)

Guidelines for Avoiding Plagiarism:
Indicate clearly when you use anything from another person’s work, even if only a phrase or a single keyword, by using quotation marks. If you use more than three words from a source in a row, put them in quotation marks and cite the source.

When summarizing or paraphrasing, distinguish clearly where the ideas of others and your own comments begin.

When using another person’s ideas, credit the author by name and identify the work in which you found the idea.

Err on the side of caution by giving credit whenever you suspect you are using information, other than general knowledge, from a source.

If you are unsure if you are plagiarizing, it is your responsibility to consult with your teacher regarding the work before the assignment is due.
(Adapted from Write for College, published by Write Source.)

Note:  Assignments or portions of assignments submitted in a class may not be submitted in a second class unless the teacher of the second class gives prior approval.  Submitting the same work in multiple classes (or even in a class previously taken) without authorization will bear the same consequences as plagiarism.

Consequences for Plagiarism or Violations of Academic Integrity

Violations of academic integrity result in these consequences:
1. Parent/Guardian contact.
2. Discipline referral and consequences according to the Student & Parent Resource Handbook.
3. Ineligibility for Valedictorian..
4. The assignment will not be accepted for the course.
5. Can be reported to colleges.

For second offenses, more extreme cases, or cases that occur in AP or college level classes, the consequences may also include:
1. Notification of teachers who have written letters of recommendation and possible withdrawal of letters of recommendation.
2. Notification of colleges through Common Application updates.
3. Notification of National Honors Society.
4. Notification of all of the student’s current teachers.

Advanced Programs

BASE, Portland Community College, Oregon Institute of Technology, Missouri S&T partners, and the Advanced Placement Program are all committed to encouraging participation in advanced programs by a variety of students. The courses are designed with a diversity of students in mind. Any student who is curious and willing to accept significant academic challenges should consider taking one of these courses. Students planning to pursue advanced programs should discuss their options with their counselor and teachers. Students should carefully consider the number of advanced classes they request against their extracurricular activities and other responsibilities outside of school.

Advanced Placement Program
In operation since 1955, the Advanced Placement Program has a long record of providing students the opportunity to take college-level courses and examinations while still in high school. Participation in an AP class brings many benefits to students:

• AP courses provide the chance to study a particular subject in more depth
• AP courses prepare students for the demands of college work and help with achievement in other courses
• Depending on AP national exam scores and a student’s choice of college, students may qualify for college credit.
• In 2021, each exam will cost approximately $95. This is subject to change per College Board.

For the 2021-22 school year, students who want to participate in the national AP exams in May will be  required to register and pay for AP exams in the fall. This is a change in practice for AP Exams. Students who register late for exams will be assessed at minimum $50 fine per test.

Students with financial need can apply for test fee waivers. See your counselor for additional information.

College/University Dual Credit Options
In addition to the Advanced Placement Program, students at BASE may earn college credit through Oregon Institute of Technology, PCC or Missouri S&T.

Portland Community College and other colleges also offer the opportunity for students to earn college credit while taking courses at BASE.   Listed below are the courses that offer this option.  As additional courses are continually being added, students should speak with their teachers or counselor about these opportunities.

Current dual credit courses include:

• Calculus 1 DC
• Writing 121
• Spanish IV DC
• Pre-Calculus
• Principles of Biomedical Science
• Human Body Systems
• Biomedical Innovation
• Introduction to Engineering Design
• Principles of Engineering
• Digital Electronics
• Engineering Design and Development
• Medical Interventions

Note: While colleges within the Oregon Public University System generally accept dual-credit and AP course credits based on examination scores, out of state and private institutions may not. It is your responsibility to contact your post-high school colleges and university options to inquire about the acceptance of AP and dual-credit courses towards college credits.  Your high school counselor can also help you with this process.

Please refer to the C3 site to help you understand the pros and cons of taking dual-credit courses or earning college credits in high school linked here: http://c3oregon.org/accelerated-learning. This site “is designed to help act as a roadmap for students considering earning dual-credit [college credit] while in high school, and wishing to utilize these college credits they earn after they graduate from high school.”  (PCC C3 Dual Credit Program)

Please be aware that the colleges and universities that award the dual credit may change from year to year.

Middle School and High School Level Placements
Math-
In coming 6th grade students or students new to the Beaverton School District enrolling at BASE will be allowed to take a math placement test to help determine the appropriate math level. Once a student is placed, they must follow the math sequence. Once in high school, if a student wants to advance in math, they must take an accelerated math course during summer school.  The course must be completed with a C or better to advance a level.  BASE does NOT recommend the use of abbreviated/intensive courses.  It is important to work closely with the school counselor when making these decisions.

Students can take Math 111 and Math 112- which is the equivalent of the full year of Pre-Calculus.  Students must pass both courses at a C or better to enroll in Calculus.  The PCC placement test does not replace taking both Math 111 and Math 112.  BASE does not recommend acceleration through Pre-Calculus. Pre-approval from the school counselor is required.

Spanish-
In coming 8th grade students or students new to the Beaverton School District enrolling at BASE will be allowed to take a Spanish placement test to help determine the appropriate level.  Throughout the school year students will also have the opportunity to take the STAMP test to earn proficiency credit for a world language and to advance to a higher level in the World Language courses.  It is important to work with the school counselor about these options.

BASE AP Course Offerings

BASE Dual Credit Courses

* For PLTW Credit through Missouri S&T please reference this site for the details Missouri S&T Dual Credit

* Check transferability of courses

• Oregon State University
• University of Oregon
• Portland State University

** To earn the college credit for Engineering students must 2 of the following:  Introduction to Engineering Design-PLTW, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, and Engineering Design & Development.

*** Pending PCC approval.  See your counselor for updates.

Four-Year Plan

*PE is completed outside of the schedule.  The hours need to be submitted by the end of the 10th grade.

**See Science courses for more information.

Grading

Standards Based Grading:  Grading involves an evaluation of student achievement  guided by learning targets standards for reporting on student academic achievement.  The intent is to measure where a student currently stands in mastering a long-term target.  Our classes use a standards-based grading process based on a 1-4 continuum.  The numbers reflect how a student is performing on particular learning targets within a given subject.  The number 4 is considered “highly proficient” and 1 is “developing.”  In most courses, the long-term learning target summary judgment scores are averaged to determine an overall grade for the course.  However, individual teachers determine how students will demonstrate their learning and how their progress will determine the letter grade. Please read teacher syllabi carefully for full descriptions of how grades are determined for each class.

Weighted Grades:  Students graduating from Beaverton schools have both a regular grade point average (GPA) AND a weighted GPA on their academic transcripts. Weighted courses are indicated in the course description with a designation of “Weighted Class”.  “Weighting” a grade adds to the GPA earned in certain courses.  In the Beaverton system, grades of A, B, and C earned in weighted classes will earn an extra grade point.  Therefore, an “A” in a weighted class yields 5 grade points, a “B” will yield 4 grade points, and a “C” will yield 3 grade points.  A student’s GPA is a number calculated using two factors:  credits earned and “grade points,” which correspond to a letter grade.

Pass/Fail Grades:  Courses that do not have specific learning targets may receive a grade of Pass or Fail.  A pass grants credit but does not affect the GPA.  Fail does not receive credit and DOES calculate into the GPA.  Courses granting P/F grades are usually tutoring/office aide assignments or classes specifically designated in a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP).
 

Student Education Plan and Profile (StEPP)

All students must complete Personalized Learning Requirements. To meet these requirements, (StEPP) each student must:
1) Develop an education plan and build an education profile
2) Participate in career-related learning experiences (CRLE’s)
3) Apply and extend knowledge in an extended application

Opportunities for career education activities are available in grade level Crew class, Pathway programs, and throughout the school year.  Students are expected to participate in these activities and complete any activities they miss.  To keep track of the required items to earn the 0.5 Career Education credit students can check CIS using the CIS icon on the BSD Student Bookmark page.
 

College Planning
Some colleges have specific admission requirements that are unique and should be planned for early in high school.  For example, California schools require students to earn 1.0 credits in the same type of fine arts, Arizona schools often require 4.0 credits of math in addition to 1.0 credit of fine arts, and the University of Washington requires a senior year math-based course such as statistics, advanced computer science, physics, etc.

FRESHMAN YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING

Planning ahead is a critical step in the college process.  These are some key things to focus on and begin during freshman year.

1. Focus on organization and study skills to earn excellent grades.  Freshman year is critical in establishing overall GPA.
2. Identify the Pathway program or programs you intend on completing.
3. Become involved in extracurricular activities.
4. Career Education: Begin building CIS portfolio
5. Find opportunities to volunteer in the community.
6. Begin developing a four-year plan to meet college and career goals.
7. Take challenging courses.
8. Browse college websites and admission criteria.  Refer to oregoncis.uoregon.edu for college sort options.
9. Attend District Post High School planning nights.  Refer to BASE’s website or the BSD Website for dates and locations..

SOPHOMORE YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING

Concentrate on academic preparation and college readiness skills.  Continue to explore post-high school options that meet college and career goals.

1. Keep grades up.  If there was a struggle freshman year it’s important to raise grades and improve the transcript this school year.
2. Continue to stay involved in school activities, community activities or volunteer commitments.
3. Review CIS activities for career research and recommended high school courses.
4. Begin to attend College Rep visits at BASE (these happen in the Fall).  This is a great time to begin exploring options.
5. Talk with your counselor about registering for the PSAT in October.  The PSAT is a preliminary test that will prepare you for the SAT.  This is only a practice test and will not be used for college admissions.
6. Take the pre-ACT practice test in after Winter Break and during the school day at BASE.  All students are registered for this exam.
7. Explore college websites admission requirements to consider courses needed during junior year.  Consider how all coursework requirements fit in class schedules.  Discuss with counselor appropriate AP courses if student has not yet enrolled in an AP course.
8. Attend district post high school planning nights.  Refer to BASE’s website for the yearly calendar or BSD website.
9. Look at scholarship databases, through the scholarship part of BASE’s website to see if there are eligible scholarships for 10th grade students and to become familiar with what scholarships require.

JUNIOR YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING

Begin the college selection process.  Attend college fairs, financial aid seminars, district college planning to learn as much as possible about the college application process.

1. Keep the rigor and grades up.  When applying to school in the fall, colleges will first see junior year grades.
2. The junior and senior year has the most weight in the college admissions process.
3. Get involved in community and school.  Community service and extra-curricular activities are one key component of scholarship opportunities.
4. Continue creating activities list. Record and keep CIS portfolio updated.
5. Register for the PSAT in early October.  Junior year PSAT scores may qualify a student for the National Merit Scholarship competition and the National Achievement and the National Hispanic Scholars program; along with a variety of other scholarship opportunities.  Scores will not be used for college admissions, but it is still recommended to take one last practice for the SAT.  Register for the October PSAT in September.  A limited number of tests are ordered, and they are purchased on a first come basis.
6. Continue attending college rep visits, in the Fall at BASE, and exploring colleges and universities you may be considering.
7. Attend the Portland National College Fair at the Convention Center in the fall to explore college opportunities across the country.
8. Visit college campuses
9. Take the ACT college admission exams.  All juniors at BASE take this exam. The ACT may be taken multiple times to earn the best score possible.
10. Attend District Post High School Planning Nights.  Refer to the BASE and the BSD website for the yearly calendar.
11. Narrow down to 3-5 schools to apply to in the fall of your senior year.
12. Review the scholarship database list on the BASE website to begin a timeline of scholarships to apply for during senior year.   Look to see if scholarships are available for any juniors.
13. Know NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) requirements if planning to play sports or participate in a NCAA activity in college.

SENIOR YEAR COLLEGE PLANNING

It’s time to apply and begin the steps to reach post high school college and career goals.

1. Keep the rigor and grades up.  Don’t drop classes second semester.  Colleges will see and notice if a student dropped a class and they want seniors to challenge themselves to be prepared academically for college.
2. Make a timeline of deadlines for college applications and submit applications.
3. Review required application procedures and documents required carefully.  Not submitting all items will delay your admission status.
4. Provide four weeks’ notice to counselor and teachers for letters of recommendations. Speak with teachers and your counselor before sending links requesting a letter of recommendation.
5. If concerned about your ACT or SAT score, work with your counselor. Retake the ACT or SAT to try for a higher score, if necessary.
6. Attend district Post High School Planning Nights.  Refer to BASE & BSD website for yearly calendar.
7. Create a FAFSA ID and get documents together to submit FAFSA or ORSAA after October 1st to ensure you do not miss important deadlines. 
8. Apply for the OSAC scholarship at oregonstudentaid.gov.  One application for multiple scholarships.
9. Refer regularly to the scholarship database on the BASE website for current scholarship opportunities.
10. Check your email & college postals regularly. Open all documents received through email and mail from colleges a student has submitted an application to.  Don’t miss important deadlines or information they may still be requesting.
     

Off-Campus Courses

Students may apply no more than 6 credits of off-campus credits toward fulfilling graduation requirements taken while currently enrolled as a BSD student. All courses must be approved by the student's counselor prior to enrolling in any course outside of BASE.  See your counselor for the appropriate form.  Should board policy change, this policy may be updated accordingly. Courses from external programs* must satisfy three requirements in order for credit to be awarded by BSD and appear on a student transcript:

1. External course providers must be accredited by Cognia, or regional affiliate
2. External courses must be led by a properly certified teacher.
   1. A certificated teacher has the primary responsibility for the student's instructional interaction. Instructional interaction between the teacher and the student involves two way communication that includes, but is not limited to, direct instruction, review of assignments, assessment, testing, progress monitoring, and evaluation of proficiencies.
3. The content of external courses must substantially align to the learning targets of the equivalent course currently offered in Beaverton Schools.
4. External course assessments must be sufficiently aligned to the BSD equivalent course learning targets, to the extent that they will collectively provide sufficient evidence towards proficiency in those learning targets.
5. To have credit from external courses applied to the BSD transcript an official transcript must be submitted to BASE.
6. Credit will be transcripted exactly as it appears on the official transcript from the provider.
7. BSD is in the process of maintaining a list of vendors and courses that have been vetted to meet these standards, which will be updated annually once in place. This list is a work in progress for the 2021-22 school year.

Credit Recovery Courses

BASE offers online credit recovery courses for core credits and Health 1 for students who earned an F in those courses.  Students may recover credit through Target Recovery.  This is done with the guidance of the student’s counselor and mentorship of the Teacher of Record in the content area.  This process allows students to recover a failed course and receive a “P” on their transcript in place of the F if the indicated targets are passed.

Students who receive a “D” or “F” grade may also repeat the course for a change of grade.  The “D” grade will convert to an “N” mark on the transcript, and the new course with the new grade will be recorded during the semester in which the class was retaken.  For courses where an “F” was earned, the new grade will not replace the “F” on the transcript.  Four-year colleges do not count D’s in core classes as meeting requirements for college entrance. It is recommended that students retake courses in which they earned a D.  See counselors for details.

Credit recovery options include:

• Math: ALL AGS courses, Geometry, Algebra 2, Prob/Stats and FAT
• ELA: Lit and Comp 9, 10, 11, and 12
• Science: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
• Social Studies: Global Studies 9, American Studies 10, Government 1, and Economics 1
• Health: Health 1 and Health 2

Credit Recovery for AP, dual-credit or elective courses are not offered. Course offerings are subject to change based on Teacher of Record availability and funding. Students interested in credit recovery should contact their counselor prior to and during the forecasting season. See counselors or Administration for details.

Course Repetition
Most courses for which students receive a passing grade may not be repeated for credit, though there are some exceptions in the elective course areas. Students should discuss the implications of repeating courses with passing grades with their counselor before they are taken.

Independent Study
Students may occasionally work with individual teachers on an independent study course.  There are specific criteria attached to this type of course.  A contract must be completed and submitted within the first two weeks of the semester to be considered for elective credit.  See your teacher for the actual contract and further details.

Work Related Credit Options

School to Work Opportunities
BASE’s School-to-Work Careers program aims to improve the way students are prepared for college, careers, and citizenship. The goal is to improve learning through interesting and relevant experiences that integrate school-based and work-based learning and foster real-world applications of principles and concepts. Students interested in school-to-work activities should speak to BASE's School–to–Work Coordinator and their counselor for more information and registration.  The following opportunities are available to BASE students:

• Community Service: Students who would like to earn 0.5 elective credit for their volunteer experience must complete some course requirements and 65 hours of community service. A total of 1.0 elective credit can be earned through volunteer-related activities (130 total hours of community service). Your counselor and the Internship Coordinator are a great resource for local volunteer opportunities for students. The Community Service opportunity is open to all grade level students. IMPORTANT NOTE: Pre-registration with the School-to-Work coordinator at the beginning of each semester is required to earn credit.
• Structured Work Experience: A currently employed student who would like to gain additional skills in the workforce may receive 0.5 elective credit per semester after completing some specific requirements. A total of 1.0 elective credit can be earned by juniors and seniors through work-related activities. IMPORTANT NOTE: Pre-registration with the School-to-Work coordinator at the beginning of each semester is required to earn credit.

Withdrawal From School

Students planning to transfer to another school must present a written request from a parent/guardian to the Counseling Office.  The registrar will issue a withdrawal slip for the student to present to teachers in order to receive grades and return textbooks and Chromebook.  Withdrawing from school for any reason other than transferring to another school requires working with a counselor and/or administrator.  Students are automatically withdrawn following the 10th consecutive day of absence per Oregon law. State law prohibits students from leaving school before age 18 or earning a GED or high school diploma.  A release from compulsory education may be granted at 16 or 17 years of age under special circumstances (see counselor or Administrator).

Transfer Credit

• Credits awarded to students transferring into a Beaverton high school by high schools accredited by Cognia or one of its regional affiliates will be accepted as if the credits had been awarded in the District.
• Credits from community colleges and private and public colleges and universities accredited through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) or one of its regional affiliates will be accepted.
  • Credit for courses at Portland Community College (Quarter Credit System) or any accredited college or university will be awarded according to the following table:

**1 College PE Credit = 0.5 HS Credit

• International transcripts will be evaluated according to district procedures.  Please see the school counselor or administrator for assistance. 
• International Grades: Any passing grades earned through non-American schools outside the United States will automatically be converted to “Pass” grades on the Beaverton transcript.  These grades will have no impact on overall GPA.

Diploma Distinction and Graduation

Graduation Ceremony
Only those students who have earned 24 or more credits and meet Oregon graduation requirements before the graduation day may participate in the graduation ceremony. Students must earn at least 20.5 credits by the end of the first semester their senior year to be on track for graduation.  All fines and fees must be paid for students to participate in graduation activities.  Students must pay fines and fees at their neighborhood high school as well.

Valedictorian Requirements
The valedictorian will be the graduating senior with the highest cumulative weighted GPA. The Valedictorian must attend BASE for at least three of their four years of high school, completing the senior year at BASE.

Honor Roll
3.0-3.49 Order of the Phoenix in any one semester will be eligible for the The Order of the Phoenix for the following semester.
3.5-4.0 Order of the Flame in any one semester will be eligible for The Order of the Flame for the following semester.

*In addition to GPA requirements, students must also demonstrate academic integrity.

Awards and Recognition
Students at BASE have a variety of opportunities to get involved and to be recognized for their involvement.  These awards include being part of academic excellence clubs, culturally diverse clubs, and earning cord and/or stoles during the senior year.  Below is a list of the awards and recognitions available to students at BASE for the 2021-2022 school year..

National Honor Society
NHS membership requires a 3.7 unweighted GPA, with evidence of the four pillars: scholarship, leadership, character, and service.  Students demonstrate this through an application process.  Students are invited to apply by the NHS Faculty Council and then they are scored by a rubric once again by the faculty council. Students who participate in NHS will earn a Dark Blue Graduation Cord.

Advanced Placement Honors
Students earn the Advanced Placement Honors by completing 5 credits of AP classes.  Students who meet this requirement will earn a Purple Graduation Cord.

Biomedical Pathway Graduation Recognition Requirements
Biomedical Pathway Completers are recognized with a Red and White PLTW graduation cord.  To qualify, students must complete at least 6 semesters of Biomedical core courses including both semesters of Biomedical Innovations, the capstone class.  The Biomedical core courses are Principles of Biomedical Studies, Human Body Systems, Medical Interventions, and Biomedical Innovations. Pass the NHSA Exam.

The Biomedical Pathway Honor Award recognizes Biomedical Compeleters who also complete the pathway with high scholarship with a Red PLTW graduation stole.  Students must earn a B or better for 8 semesters or Biomedical courses.  The B or better grade must be earned in  Principles of Biomedical Studies, Human Body Systems, Medical Interventions, and Biomedical Innovations.  Pass the NHSA Exam.

Computer Science Pathway Graduation Recognition Requirements
Computer Science Pathway Completers are recognized with Silver Cord PLTW cord.  To qualify, students must complete at least 6 semesters of Computer Science core courses including both semesters of AP CS Principles, Cybersecurity and AP CS A which is the capstone class.

The Computer Science Pathway Honor Award recognizes Computer Science Completers who also complete the pathway with high scholarship with a Silver PLTW graduation stole.  Students must earn a B or better in each course, complete the EoC in each course, and complete the CAP project in CSA.

Engineering Pathway Graduation Recognition Requirements
Engineering Pathway Completers are recognized with a Blue and White PLTW graduation cord.  To qualify, students must pass at least 6 semesters of Engineering core courses including both semesters of Engineering Design & Development, the capstone class.  The Engineering core courses are Intro to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, Applied Engineering, and Engineering Design & Development.

The Engineering Pathway Honor Award recognizes Engineering Pathway Completers who also complete the pathway with high scholarship with a Blue PLTW graduation stole.  Students must earn a B or better for 8 semesters of Engineering courses.  The B or better grade must be earned in Intro to Engineering Design, Principles of Engineering, Digital Electronics, Applied Engineering, Engineering Design & Development, and Computer Science Principles.

Notes:

• When the district suspends letter grades, “P” grades will qualify toward Engineering Pathway Completion and a B or better grade toward the Engineering Pathway Honor Award.
• Computer Science Principles is not included in the calculation for the Engineering Pathway Completer Award, but is included as one of the classes to earn a B or better toward the Engineering Pathway Honor Award.

First in Family to Attend College
Being the first generation, in a family, to attend college is a significant accomplishment for students and their families.  To recognize this accomplishment students who are First Generation College Students will receive a White Graduation Cord.

Oregon Institute of Technology Dual Credit
Students who complete 10+ Oregon Tech credits with a B or better, using classes that have final reported grades. Will earn the Blue, White, and Gold Graduation Cord.  Please note, any courses still in progress and ungraded will not be considered for cords.

Portland Community College Dual Credit
Students who complete 9 or more credits through dual credit classes articulated with PCC will earn a Blue and Gold cord for graduation.

Project Lead the Way Dual Capstone Honors
Students who are enrolled and complete the Engineering Design Development capstone for the Engineering Pathway and complete the Biomedical capstone for the Biomedical Pathway will earn a Red and Blue cord for graduation.

BSD/OSAA Activity and Athletic Eligibility
Please note that BSD Board Policy requires students to be enrolled in at least 2.5 credits each semester, earn at least 2.5 credits in the semester prior to the season, and be on track to graduate in four years to participate in athletics and OSAA activities. It covers all high school students involved in interscholastic athletics or in extra- curricular activities that involve competition between schools or public performances. Activities and athletics require a participation fee. Fees for the 2021-22 school year are yet to be determined and must be paid to the high school where the student is participating in the activity or athletics.

Eligibility of Participation
Students must meet Beaverton School District and OSAA eligibility standards if they wish to participate in athletics or activities. All ninth graders are eligible to participate during the first grading period of the school year if they are taking five or more classes. After the first grading period, there will be additional academic standards for all students. Students must be enrolled in a minimum of five academic classes that earn credit for eligibility.

BASE students must meet the following requirements in order to participate in athletics and/or activities:

• Students must attend all classes each day in order to participate in practice, an event, game or activity.
• Demonstrate good citizenship in the school and in the community.
• Adhere to school rules and the training rules of the school, 24 hours a day.
• Have a parent-signed participation form before tryouts or the first practice.
• All 9th and 11th graders, and any students new to the district who have not had a physical within the last two years, will be required to have a physical. BSD will accept physicals dated after May 1, 2021, recorded on BSD forms (available on the website of the schools where the student is participating in the spring or in the Athletics Offices).                     
• Indicate emergency medical treatment approval and provide documentation of insurance.                     
• Travel by school authorized transportation only.
• Demonstrate adequate progress toward graduation with the following number of credits earned by the start of the school year: Sophomores - 4.5 credits, Juniors – 10 credits, Seniors – 17 credits.                      
• Fifth year seniors are not eligible to participate.

In addition, students must meet the following Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) requirements to participate in athletics and/or activities:

• A student must reside in the attendance area of the school district he/she represents in competition.
• A student must be enrolled in courses or work which will offer 2.5 credits each semester honored by BASE. Credit for work experience, independent study and credit recovery will satisfy this requirement.         
• Earn 2.5 credits the semester before the season begins.     

Academic Support Program for Athletics/Activities
The Beaverton School District enforces an Academic Support Program for all students involved in athletics or activities that compete or perform. These students must be passing at least five classes during their participation. OSAA eligibility is reviewed each time grades/progress reports are sent home. Students with any failing grades must participate in the ASP until grades are passing.

For additional details contact the Athletic Director office at your neighborhood comprehensive high school. Students interested in the rules and regulations of college athletic scholarships are encouraged to visit: www.ncaacleaaringhouse.net.