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Guidance Office » Information Regarding Accelerated Courses

Information Regarding Accelerated Courses

In the fall, the Guidance Office begins its individual student meetings to review schedules. During these meetings, students will sit down with our school counselor, Mrs. Belile, to discuss their academic progress, review course selections for the upcoming year, and ensure they’re on track for graduation and post-secondary goals. This is an important opportunity for students to ask questions, explore interests, and make informed choices about their future.

Additionally, listed below is important information about the advanced coursework opportunities available to students in our District. These opportunities are designed to support academic excellence, strengthen critical thinking skills, and help prepare students for future success in college and careers.

What Is Advanced Coursework?
Advanced coursework includes a range of challenging academic options for middle and high school students. These may include:

  • Honors, gifted, or accelerated classes
  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Dual enrollment or concurrent-enrollment college courses
  • Courses leading to college credit or industry-recognized certifications
 

Types of Advanced Coursework Offered at Morristown CSD:

  1. Accelerated Coursework for Eighth Grade Students:
    Eligible eighth grade students may take high school-level courses in subjects such as math, English, science, social studies, world languages, arts, music, or career and technical education.  To qualify, students must meet written criteria set by the Superintendent or their designee and receive instruction that prepares them for state learning standards in those subject areas.  Credit may be earned upon successful completion of the course and related exams.
  2. Advanced Placement (AP) Courses:
    AP courses allow high school students to challenge themselves with college-level material.  Students may earn college credit or advanced standing at many colleges and universities by successfully completing AP exams administered by the College Board each May.  Enrollment in AP courses is based on readiness, which the District will determine.
  3. Dual Credit College Courses:
    Students who meet prerequisites and show readiness may take college-level courses through a partner college. These may be offered during the school day at the high school, online, or on a college campus.  All courses must be approved by school administration before enrollment.

The benefits of participating in advanced coursework include:
Advanced coursework offers numerous benefits that greatly support a student's future success. These programs build college and career readiness by developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills. They provide opportunities to earn college credits, which can reduce future education costs and create a smoother transition into higher education. Furthermore, participation in advanced coursework can enhance a student's competitiveness in college admissions, showcasing their dedication and capability to handle challenging material. Additionally, achieving success in such programs fosters academic confidence, encouraging students to pursue further academic and professional challenges with greater assurance.

How to prepare for and enroll in available courses:
Preparing a child for advanced coursework requires a multifaceted approach that nurtures their academic, emotional, and social development. To start, it is essential to foster a growth mindset, encouraging children to view challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Regular communication with teachers and educators is also crucial, as it allows parents to stay informed about their child's progress, identify areas of strength and weakness, and collaborate on strategies to support their academic success. 

A tentative list of courses offered in the next school year:

  • AP Calc AB (Accelerate U)
  • Child Development (SUNY Potsdam)
  • College Biology 151 (SUNY Potsdam)
  • College Biology 152 (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Econ 101 (SUNY Canton)
  • Intro to Environmental Studies (SUNY Potsdam)
  • College Health (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Intro to Literature (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Introduction to Education (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Personal Finance (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Photography (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Politics 110 (SUNY Canton)
  • Pre-Calc (SUNY Canton)
  • Exploring Programming (SUNY Potsdam)
  • Psychology (HVCC)
  • Sociology (HVCC)
 

Tuition Costs/Fees:
District Policy 7223 addresses the financial responsibility for college courses taken as part of advanced coursework. According to this policy, the district will not pay for tuition and related costs if a student fails or drops a course after the add/drop period. In such cases, parents or guardians will be directly billed for these costs. This policy highlights the importance of commitment and the need for students and parents to carefully consider the responsibilities associated with enrolling in college courses.

Information on academic and non-academic support available to help students succeed:
All students have access to our Intervention Room support three times a week, where students can receive targeted help with coursework, organization, and skill-building. Additional resources include counseling services, and check-ins with support staff. We are here to ensure every student has what they need to thrive—both in and out of the classroom.

We are committed to ensuring that all students have equitable access to these opportunities and the support they need to thrive. If you have questions or would like help exploring advanced course options for your child, please don’t hesitate to contact your school counselor or building administrator.