Graduation Pathways & Credits
What is the minimum number of high school credits usually required to graduate in many Texas high school graduation plans?
22 (Foundation High School Diploma)
What is the common statewide test type students may need to pass or meet a graduation standard on (standardized end‑of‑course exams, exit exams, or state assessments)?
End‑of‑Course (EOC) exams or other state standardized assessments required for graduation in various states.
What does the term “senioritis” commonly describe?
“Senioritis” is an informal term for reduced motivation, effort, or performance by high school seniors, especially toward the end of the year.
True or False — Most district senior requirement lists include an expectation to complete community service or a senior project
True
What is the name of the application used for many U.S. colleges that lets students apply to multiple institutions with one form?
The Common Application (Common App)
Name two core subject categories that typically require multiple credits for graduation (examples: English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies).
English, Math, Science, Social Studies
Name one purpose of state graduation testing (for example: ensure students meet minimum standards, measure learning outcomes).
Purpose of state graduation testing: To verify that students meet minimum academic standards and to provide comparable measures of learning across schools and districts.
Name one simple daily habit that helps prevent falling behind during senior year
Use a planner/agenda to track assignments and deadlines; check grades weekly.
Name one common requirement a district like Harmony might have specifically for seniors
What does FAFSA stand for and why is it important for seniors planning to attend college?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid; it determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and many state/school aid programs.
What is an “endorsement” (in the context of a graduation pathway)?
A focused area of study within a graduation pathway that tailors coursework toward a career area or college major (examples: STEM, Business & Industry, Arts & Humanities, Public Services).
What should a student do if they are not meeting benchmarks on required state assessments during 11th grade?
Action steps include meeting with teacher and counselor, enrolling in tutoring, preparing for and retaking assessments where allowed, and using credit recovery options or improvement plans.
Provide two strategies students can use to stay motivated during the last year of high school.
1) Break larger tasks into small, achievable goals with short deadlines and rewards; 2) Use an accountability partner (peer, teacher, or parent) and keep postsecondary goals visible (vision board, application deadlines).
Describe why attending senior meetings (counselor check-ins, graduation info sessions) is important for fulfilling district-specific senior requirements.
Ensures students learn deadlines, required documentation, graduation rehearsal and ceremony rules, and available supports (scholarships, financial aid steps).
Name two things a student should include in a college/career plan meeting with their counselor.
target schools list, planned major/career, current transcript and GPA, testing plans (SAT/ACT) or dual-credit info.
Explain why taking recommended sequence courses (like Algebra II before Precalculus) matters for graduation and college readiness.
Course sequences build prerequisite knowledge; skipping or failing prerequisite courses can prevent enrollment in higher-level courses, reduce college readiness, and limit college admissions options.
Explain how local credit recovery or correspondence courses can help a student who is behind on credits.
They allow students to retake or make up failed courses (via summer school, online recovery, or approved correspondence/virtual courses) so they can earn the necessary credits to graduate on time.
A student is failing one class in spring semester. List a step-by-step plan they can follow to get back on track before graduation.
Name the digital platform Seniors use to submit college acceptance documents and community service hours
SchooLinks
Describe how dual-credit or AP courses during 11th and 12th grade can affect college admissions and costs.
Dual‑credit/AP can give college credit, improve transcripts, and reduce college costs/time to degree; admissions value varies by institution.
Describe how a student can use elective credits strategically to strengthen a college application or career readiness plan.
Using electives strategically: Choose electives that demonstrate interest/strength in intended major/career (e.g., STEM electives for engineering, world languages for humanities, career & technical education for trade fields); take rigorous electives (AP, IB, dual-credit) to strengthen transcript and potentially earn college credit.
Describe one way state policies allow alternative routes or waivers for students who struggle with standard assessments (e.g., retesting, alternate assessments, or requirements tied to demonstrated mastery).
Alternative routes/waivers/examples: Retesting opportunities, approved alternate assessments, local waivers, or demonstration-of-mastery portfolios (availability depends on state/district policy).
Explain how leadership roles or community service during senior year can counteract senioritis and benefit a student’s postsecondary plans.
These responsibilities build structure, demonstrate commitment on applications and resumes, provide meaningful experiences to discuss in essays/interviews, and help maintain focus and a positive routine.
Create a checklist a senior should complete before graduation day to satisfy typical district requirements (include at least 8 items).
Explain how a student can research and compare two postsecondary options (4-year college vs. community college vs. trade school) and what criteria to use.
Compare cost, program length, transferability of credits, job placement rates, campus supports, and personal fit.