High school graduation requirements span grades 9-12. They are revised periodically to prepare students for continued success in higher education and the workplace. The district’s minimum graduation standards, as of Spring, 2002, are:

    1. Satisfactory citizenship.
    2. Completion of 220 semester credits earned in grades 9-12.
    3. Passing grade in district proficiency tests in reading comprehension, written expression, and mathematical computation. Beginning with the Class of 2004, students will need to pass the California High School Exit Exam.
    4. Successful completion of these required courses:

Mathematics – Two years. Beginning with the Class of 2004, two years of math will be required, including Algebra and Geometry.

Science – Two years (includes one year of lab physical/earth science and one year of lab biological/life science).

Social Science – Three years (includes one year in World History, one year in U.S. History, one semester in American Government and one semester in Economics).

Foreign Language – One year or Fine Arts, one year. (Students who take one year of foreign language also must take one semester of Fine Arts.) 

Fine Arts – One semester unless fulfilled by Foreign Language.

Career Preparation – One semester.

Guidance and Health – One year (includes a suggested minimum of 10 hours of voluntary school/community service).

Physical Education – Two years.

Computer Technology – One semester (beginning with the class of 2003) or demonstrated computer technology competency.

High School "Blueprint" — As of Spring 2002, a new High School "Blueprint" is being created to improve instruction further. For an update, contact the Office of Educational Services.

Advanced Placement — For college-bound students, Advanced Placement offers an opportunity to earn college credits by qualifying on College Board AP exams. Schools offer AP courses in subject areas such as English, math, foreign languages, history, economics, science and fine art. At the conclusion of each class, students take the qualifying exams.

Glendale Schools have excellent track records in preparing students to attain passing grades on these rigorous exams.

Beyond the Classroom — For many students, the high school experience extends beyond the classroom. They take advantage of numerous campus activities, from clubs, organizations and school projects to student body government. These activities often help students discover special talents and interests they will pursue in later life. The district also offers opportunities for community service.

High School Proficiency Standards — Students must demonstrate mastery of proficiency standards in reading, writing and mathematics to qualify for a high school diploma. Beginning with the Class of 2004, students must pass the California High School Exit Exam in order to receive a diploma from any public high school in the state (may be subject to change).

Proficiency testing in the secondary schools now begins in the eighth grade. Follow-up counseling and remediation work are provided to students who require additional help mastering the proficiencies.

Preparing for Life After High School — As students progress toward graduation, they learn it’s important to plan for life after high school. Counselors, career center specialists and other support staff are ready to help.

Information and services available include higher education and financial aid advisement, career planning, personal counseling, and development of life-coping skills.