We believe that all students have the right and privilege, under our democratic way of life, to be exposed to learning situations that will help them grow intellectually, physically, socially, and emotionally to the fullest extent of their individual ability. To accomplish this, the staff encourages initiative, curiosity, creativity, and the development of skills in communicating, understanding abstractions, and solving practical problems. We believe that all students have obligations to themselves, their family, their community, and their nation to attain high standards of values, responsibility, and achievement.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE and CLASS RANK

The Grade Point Average (GPA) at John Dickinson High School is a weighted average and is computed by using only the grades in the academic core courses of English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, Foreign Language, and any Advanced Placement course. A grade of “C” or better in an Advanced Placement (AP) level course receives an additional one and one-half (1.5) quality points in the computation of the GPA. A grade of “C” or better in an honors level course receives an additional quality point in the computation of the GPA. The weighted, cumulative GPA is used to determine class rank. It is important to note that students in Advanced Placement level courses are required to take the Advanced Placement test as part of the course requirement. Students are responsible for the fee attached to the test. Students who might find the fee (approximately eighty dollars) restrictive may apply through the guidance office to administration for support. In order that students not carry large sums of money, we advise parents to make checks payable to Dickinson. The school will then remit payment to the testing service.

To determine eligibility for honor roll status, an un-weighted GPA, which includes all grades of A, B, C, D or F is used. To determine district athletic eligibility a weighted GPA, which includes all grades of A, B, C, D or F is used.

The weighted, cumulative GPA is used to determine class rank. Final grades will take precedence over marking period grades when computing indexes. These rankings are available to students by checking with their guidance counselor. Students transferring from other schools will be awarded the additional quality point for courses taken only from the highest phase for schools using the “phase” system. If a school does not offer honors level courses, no additional quality points can be awarded.

Additional information on the grade requirements for individual courses will be obtained from your teachers.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

The specific requirement for graduation is (at least) 24 credits. These include:

The State of Delaware and the Red Clay Consolidated School District also require three (3) career pathway credits, earned by enrolling in sequential /specialized course work within the same career area.