Flextime and Advisory - Course Selection Timeline and Scholarship Information for Seniors
1/31 During Chills Assembly time 9th and 10th graders will have a presentation in the Strom from Mid-Coast School of Technology regarding their courses and programs
If you plan to attend MCST next year you must APPLY here:
Don’t get thrown off by the question asking for your state ID number. Just touch base with your counselor and we can tell you what it is.
Grade 11 will have an Advisory during this assembly where they will get course sign-up sheets and link / QR code for course guide.
Grade 12 will be able to take advantage of campus privileges or attend caf for senior activity (tentative idea)
2/5 9th / 10th Advisories will distribute Course Guides, Course Choice Sheets and instructions on how to complete class requests
2/7 Early Release schedule (no assembly)
2/14 Grades 9 thru 11. Students in advisory will spend time choosing classes or getting signatures on their course choice sheets.
Grade 12 will be in the Gym for White Folder (LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID INFO) distribution
2/13 No Tagging for grades 9 through 11. All students will finish entering course requests and collect proof of course request completion which then should be delivered to the Counseling Department.
12th grade privs
2/15 All course requests due in to the Counseling Department
2/26-3/1 Counselors will work with students who have not completed course sign up or have made critical errors in their selection process.
Parent Presentations
1/24 – 2/8 8th grade parent presentations at various sending schools
2/28 “White Folder” parent presentation scholarship information and advice on affording college
NEW/RECONFIGURED/FEATURED COURSES for 24-25!
ENGLISH
H/CP Becoming a Writing Coach (last offered in 2019) .5 credit
Becoming a Writing Coach Grades 11 and 12: Semester Course (.5 English credit) Course description: This course is open to grades 10-12 but cannot be used as a replacement for the Grade 10 required course. While reflecting on their own idiosyncratic learning styles and strategies, students engage in an in-depth study of the writing process and writing in the disciplines, study the theory and practice of effective tutoring, conduct mock coaching sessions, and work collaboratively to develop methods, strategies, and materials associated with peer coaching in the writing center. Students will learn to guide peers through writing assignments across the curriculum, explain the sometimes complicated writing process, and gain an in-depth understanding of standard English conventions while gaining awareness of their own writing, research, and thinking skills.
H/CP Indigenous Voices (will be year-long next year) 1 credit
Indigenous Voices Grades 11 and 12: Yearlong Course (1 English credit) Course Description: This course will offer students the opportunity to encounter the marginalized voices of Native peoples (with a focus on the Wabanaki peoples of Maine) and gain an appreciation for the valuable perspectives these voices have 8 to offer. Students will explore the concept of US settler colonialism and examine the underpinnings of US history through an alternative lens to understand that the dominant narrative is not the only one available. Through exploration of Indigenous authors and texts; critical readings of primary source texts; exposure to award- winning films; and consideration of Indigenous ways of knowing and being (including through classroom guests), students will explore topics such as sovereignty, reciprocity, language, cultural survivance, and overcoming intergenerational trauma. This course employs a non-traditional approach that is interdisciplinary, discussion-based, student-driven, experiential, community-centered, and place-conscious.
SOCIAL STUDIES
AP African American Studies 1 credit
AP African American History Grades 11 and 12: Yearlong Course (1 credit) Prerequisites: Successful completion of World History and U.S. History. Strong writing skills as well as skills interpreting primary documents are necessary for this course. Summer work may be assigned. Course Description: AP African American Studies is an interdisciplinary course that examines the diversity of African American experiences through direct encounters with varied sources. Students explore key topics that extend from early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of the contemporary moment. Given the interdisciplinary character of African American Studies, students in the course will develop skills across multiple fields, with an emphasis on developing historical, literary, visual, and data analysis skills. This course foregrounds a study of the diversity of Black communities in the United States within the broader context of Africa and the African diaspora. *Please Note: The College Board charges a fee for the AP exam. Financial assistance is available for students who qualify.
WORLD LANGUAGE
Latin, Latin Everywhere Grades 9-12 1 credit
Latin, Latin Everywhere Grades 9-12: Yearlong Course (1 credit) Course Description: How has ancient Roman culture impacted contemporary life? What influences from Roman literature, architecture, and art can we notice in our daily life? This course will serve as an introduction to the history, literature, institutions, and culture of ancient Rome. Roman culture was not monolithic so attention will be paid to Rome from its founding to the 2nd century CE. We will look especially at Roman literature and art to discover how Romans created a collective identity. The course will focus especially on identifying cultural connections between ancient Roman society and contemporary cultures with an emphasis on how Latin shaped the English language.
SCIENCE
Applied Engineering .5 credit
Applied Engineering Grades 11 and 12: Semester Course (.5 credit)
Course Description: This course will introduce the engineering design process and will allow teams of students to utilize that process as they address several real-world problems, including an engineering challenge that is posed and judged within a nationwide high competition. Addressing the real-world problems will require students to apply science, math and technology concepts in a meaningful way within their proposed solution solutions. Student groups will enter one of their solutions in a national competition; winning teams in the USA earn cash prizes and the opportunity to travel to the national competition in California!
AP Physics I 1.5 credits
AP Physics I Grades 10-12: Yearlong Course (1.5 credit) Prerequisite: Algebra II with a recommended 85% or better. Course Description: AP Physics I or Honors Lab Physics (above) is strongly recommended for students intending to pursue any discipline of science, engineering, or any health-related field, as well as any other student whose major in college may require a college-level physics course. It is also ideal for any student wishing to challenge themselves with AP content that is less mathematically rigorous than the AP Physics C curriculum. The rigor of AP Physics 1 is similar to that of Honors Lab Physics, but this course includes slightly more content as well as engineering projects; the rigor is also approximately equivalent to that of AP Environmental Science. It is a college-level course that incorporates algebra-based mathematics and problem-solving skills, with the ultimate goal of preparing students for the AP Physics 1 exam. The course emphasizes experimental applications of physics concepts and developing the skills utilized by physicists to develop mathematical models of the physical world. This course fulfills the requirement of a “lab science credit” for students applying to 4-year colleges. Expectations: Students will be expected to regularly complete work at home. The ability to apply Algebra to science concepts will be necessary to succeed in this course. Attendance is very important; “make-up work” can help but cannot substitute for the educational experiences of a missed class. Students will have the option of taking the Advanced Placement Exam in the spring. *Please Note: The College Board charges a fee for the AP exam. Financial assistance is available for students who qualify.
Human Ecology and our Natural Watershed .5 credit
Human Ecology and our Natural Watershed Grades 10-12: Semester Course (.5 credit) Course Description: This is a STEM based elective that will focus on understanding current issues in the Megunticook and neighboring watersheds. Elements of the course will include field work, data and statistical analysis, GIS (Geographic Information Systems) integration, working with community members to identify needs and concerns of the area of study, consulting with experts in different aspects of water quality, cultural influence, and historical impacts. Students must feel comfortable interacting with a variety of people and ultimately sharing their findings with a community audience. This course will provide opportunities for possible overnight expeditions and working in a wide variety of field and classroom spaces therefore your sense of adventure, “getting your hands dirty,” and desire to learn about your community is essential.
Sustainability in Action .5 credit
Sustainability in Action Grades 9-12: Semester Course (.5 credit) Course Description: This is an action course in which students learn by doing. Much of our time will be outside or out and about so you will want to be prepared for activity. The course will focus on contributing to improving the sustainability of our school campus. The work that students will be involved with may include reducing the waste we generate, the energy we use, the carbon footprint of our food system, how we manage chemical use in and outside of our school or many other possibilities. Part of our time will support current sustainability initiatives on campus which include harvesting and selling produce, winterizing the school garden, and supporting the composting efforts. The remainder of class time will be student directed. Perhaps we will work with animals to learn about their care while providing services to us. Or maybe we want to explore how to increase the biodiversity of the plants to support more pollinators. The ideas we explore and implement will be based on your interests and energy. If you are interested in making a positive contribution this is the course for you.
APPLIED ACADEMICS
Retail Management & Entrepreneurship (formerly Entrepreneurship) .5 credit
Retail Management & Entrepreneurship Grades: 10-12: Semester Course (.5 Math or AA credit) Course Description: Starting and running a business is the dream of many Americans! In this course you will learn the basics needed to plan and run a business. Do you have what it takes to run a business? Do you have ideas for new products? This course will provide you with the core skills you need to become successful. You will study the characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, learn about concepts related to small businesses, analyze business opportunities, conduct market research, and develop a business plan. You will ‘learn by doing’ as you oversee a real business and use your expertise during the process. There aren’t many high schools that teach you how to be your own boss. Don’t miss out!
Intro to Early Childhood Education .5 credit
Introduction to Early Childhood Education Grades: 9-12: Semester Course (.5 Applied Academics credit) Course Description: This course focuses on the early years of “people making,” when young children are forming first relationships, expanding their “life world,” and seeking independence. We take a look at all aspects of development: physical, social-emotional, and intellectual. We learn how play makes an essential contribution to early learning. Introduction to Early Childhood Education is an excellent course for students who want to develop skills through real life experiences. There is a weekly preschool lab opportunity to work with 3 to 5 year olds. Videotaped feedback is a tool we use to promote understanding. This course will help whether you are interested in professional work that includes children or are simply curious about human development.
VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS
Children’s Theater .5 credit
Children's Theater Grades 9-12: Semester Course (.5 VPA credit) Course Description: This engaging program is designed to introduce high school students to the exciting world of theater for young audiences (TYA) and children's theater from a variety of perspectives. Through a combination of hands-on activities, group projects, and practical experience, students will explore the fundamentals of theater production, performance, and storytelling as they relate to a young audience as well as using theater activities to engage students of all ages in new learning and experiences. In this course, students will have the opportunity to observe, work with, and perform for their younger peers as well as explore the world of TYA outside of the classroom setting
Musical Theater .5 credit
Musical Theater Grades 9-12: Semester Course (.5 VPA credit) Course Description: Welcome to the exciting world of Musical Theater! This dynamic and collaborative course is designed to immerse students in the multifaceted art form of musical theater. Whether you are an aspiring actor, singer, dancer, or simply a passionate enthusiast of the stage, this course offers a comprehensive exploration of the magic that happens when acting, singing, and dancing come together. Students in this course will study musical theater history, style, method/technique, and will also have opportunities for both solo and ensemble performances. Please Note: This course is co-taught by the theater teacher, Ms. Smith, and music teacher, Mr. Albert. Together, they will create a well-rounded learning experience featuring a blend of theater and music instruction, allowing students to explore the synergy between these disciplines, resulting in vibrant and memorable musical theater performances.
Tech Theater A (formerly “Building Stage Magic”) .5 credit
Technical Theater A Grades 9-12: Semester Course (.5 VPA credit or .5 AA credit) Course Description: This course is great if you like hand-on, project-based classes with real life application! Students will learn how to design and build a wide variety of props and scenery for real theatrical productions in the Strom Auditorium and in the Black Box Theater. During breaks between shows, students will learn the fundamentals of scenic design including renderings, scale model construction, and digital model making. Students may also choose to explore costume and makeup design and construction.
Tech Theater B (formerly Lights! Sound!) .5 credit
Technical Theater B Grades 9-12: Semester Course (.5 VPA credit or .5 AA credit) Course Description: Similar to Tech Theater A, this course embraces hands-on, project-based learning. In addition to building primary scenic and property elements of CHRHS theatrical productions, students will learn the basics of lighting, sound, and projection design utilizing a wide variety of digital and organic tools. As part of this course, students will also have the opportunity to learn the basic operations of all sound and lighting equipment in the Strom Auditorium. As in Tech Theatre A, students may have the opportunity to explore other aspects of production design and construction, including costuming and make-up.
AP Art and Design 1 credit
AP Art and Design Grades 10-12: Yearlong Course (1 VPA credit) Prerequisite: Admission is by recommendation of current teacher. Course Description: AP Art and Design is an advanced, college-level art class offering highly motivated students the opportunity to develop, refine, and express their creative voices in a rigorous educational environment. Developed for students who are prepared to create and complete an advanced level art portfolio, AP Art and Design emphasizes the production of college-level unique artwork through practice, experimentation, and revision. The course includes daily artmaking, independent research, practice, individual and group critique, reflection, and direct teacher instruction. Students will strive to develop their personal voice through the synthesis of concepts, composition, and execution of artwork. 3+ art classes are highly recommended. Students are expected to submit a final, digital portfolio, which includes 12-15 works including 5 best pieces. * Please note: College Board charges a fee for the AP portfolio submission. Financial assistance may be available.
https://worthingtonscholars.org/scholarship-program/
So You Want to be A Registered Maine Guide?
Attend this free webinar and see what it takes!
The webinar is limited to 100 participants, so don’t delay if you are interested.
Upcoming College Spy Webinars!
Extracurricular Activities and College Planning
Beginning To Build Adulting Skills During High School
Transition to College: Stop Worrying and Start Planning
Ugh… FAFSA
I’m fresh out of clever things to say about the FAFSA. Honestly, I had hoped to move on from the sheer unmitigated disaster that has been the “simplified” FAFSA rollout, but alas, it continues to be one:
Now THIS is some news you can use!
Mental Health on Campus
It is hardly a surprise that the kids who have been struggling during high school continue to face challenges when they move on to college. Just as the social skills deficits that kids demonstrated in high school during/after COVID graduated to colleges with the kids (many colleges have determined it to be necessary to institute SEL–Social Emotional Learning–programs to address the deficits that kids were turning up with), so too have they needed to address the staggering mental health crisis that starts–but certainly does not end–before they head to college.
Here’s an article from Tufts University that suggests some strategies that kids (and those who nurture them) may utilize.
What I Did On My Summer Vacation
Some advice on making the most of your summer
What’s Next for Holistic Admissions?
Although I am happy to serve as a filter for information of interest for the 1,906 people in the 17 US states and 12 countries who are reading the Courier, there are times when I think that folks would be better off to get the info first hand.
This is one of those times…
“Colleges are increasingly looking beyond the numbers when it comes to admissions. Since the pandemic, many have made SAT and ACT scores optional due to doubts about the tests’ evaluation of students.
This coincides with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in June of 2023 to end race-conscious admissions. Universities are reexamining how to cultivate a diverse student population. This decision will likely increase skepticism around the admission process.
Admissions offices must now reconsider what skills and qualities to focus on when choosing incoming students. In the upcoming Virtual Forum hosted by The Chronicle, a panel of experts will explore the future of holistic review.
Join “What’s Next for Holistic Admissions” on Tuesday, February 6th at 2 p.m. ET.”
Don’t worry if you can’t make it! It will be recorded and I will share it when it is published.