Principal Meyer Presents Changes to Course of Study

At the December Board of Education meeting, High School Principal Ann Meyer described several modifications to the course of study, including a planned rotation of electives, a new sequence in the mathematics program, and a change in advanced physics. Meyer presented the plan as a way to manage anticipated enrollment increases and class size. The rotation of electives frees up staff for other assignments and also increases that an otherwise under-enrolled elective will remain viable. The following are examples of the rotation of electives for the next two school years.

Discipline	2014-2015	2015-2016
Social Studies	TV/Video Production Psychology	Media Introduction to Business Management
English		Speech and Debate
Science	Environmental Science (non-AP)	Forensics
Math	AP Statistics	AP Computer Science

Another change includes the addition of physical education electives for upperclassmen -- sports psychology and social issues in sports. These electives are designed to reinforce some of the Common Core literacy expectations.

Meyer also described adjustments in the mathematics program that stem from the Common Core. The general aim is to organize the sequence so that instruction aligns with the NY assessments and that the number of required tests is not excessive. The updated course sequence has students taking the Algebra Regents in high school so that they are not required to take multiple Math Regents exams. The major impact of the curriculum change is the flip of Geometry and Algebra II content. It is important to note that the program still has a path leading to Advanced Placement Calculus (AB or BC).

The final update involves Advanced Placement Physics B, which is the College Board has reorganized as a two-year commitment. Locally, this change would limit students' exposure to additional disciplines in science without enhancing their preparation for college physics, which requires calculus. In place of AP Physics B, the High School will  offer Advanced Topics in Physics with an Introduction to Engineering.
Board members asked several questions about the plans

• Will the flipped math sequence weaken geometry preparation for the SAT?
• Will the new physics course would adversely affect applications to engineering schools?
• Do the physical education electives comply with state requirements?
• How can we accommodate the demonstrated interest in speech and debate?
• Is there a need for an introductory computer course in addition to AP?  
• Will some current juniors be unable to take desired electives because of the rotation?

Meyer and Guidance Director Anne Abbatecola responded to questions and pledged to monitor the changes, and the Board encouraged them to communicate widely about the plans.

The full course of study report can be found here.