When students choose their classes, it can help them determine what they want to do in their careers. Many students find it crucial to plan for their future after high school. At the Upper Perkiomen High School, small changes have been made in choosing courses.
When selecting courses, all students get a sheet that allows them to pick classes for the next year. The school is proposing other classes, including AP Geography. This class is specifically for 9th-grade students. Journalism is going to be a literature class now, with .5 English credits. Students will now have two courses under Film as Literature.
It is now required by the school board that the course sheets receive the parent’s signature. The Program of Studies which is approved by the school board, always requires signatures from teachers and meeting with counselors to obtain theirs.
It is highly suggested that students do not miss any passes to guidance. Otherwise, the school will have to choose courses for them.
Mrs. Senavaitis, the vice principal at UPHS, reminds students, that even if they have requested a class, it is not guaranteed they will get it. The school will try to match what the students want, but students may need to choose one class over another. She told the WSJ, “Once all course requests are entered into Skyward, the schedule is built and then teachers are assigned based on who is able to teach each individual course. This could change throughout the summer depending on course and student needs.”
Once a student finishes their course sheet, no changes can be made after Friday, June 6th. Mrs. Senavaitis suggests that students pick classes that will be of use to them in the future. For example, If a student wants to study crime, they would apply to a forensic class.
On Thursday, January 30th, Course Selection Night will be held. By this time, all course catalogs should be approved by the school board. The event will provide information on how students choose their classes. This will take place in the UP High School’s auditorium at 6 PM. 8th graders planning to attend UP, and 9-12 are invited. This also includes parents and guardians. Those new to the high school will be provided with insight into how their school years will be moving forward.
The choices students make in the present may make drastic changes to their futures. Next year may inspire many students in what they want to do in their adulthood.
