Student Handbook 3p5r5e

Student Handbook 2012

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

James Madison High School 2012 Handbook, First Edition Copyright 2012 James Madison High School. All rights reserved. No part of this Handbook and/or materials may be reproduced in any form or by any means without written permission. Reservation of Rights: James Madison High School reserves the right to make changes to provisions of this handbook and its rules and procedures at any time, with or without notice, subject to licensing requirements. This catalog is not a contract or an offer to contract but merely a general outline of the program being operated presently by the school.

HSSH1.1-120901

ii

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

CONTENTS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE .......................................................................................................................................... 7 MISSION, VISION, VALUES, AND STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES ........................................................................ 8 MISSION STATEMENT .....................................................................................................................................................8 VISION STATEMENT ........................................................................................................................................................8 VALUES ........................................................................................................................................................................8 STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES .......................................................................................................................................9 VISION AND MISSION KEY DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................. 10 VISION .......................................................................................................................................................................10 MISSION ....................................................................................................................................................................10 ACADEMIC YEAR, HOLIDAYS, INFORMATION, HOURS OF OPERATION ................................................. 11 ACADEMIC YEAR ..........................................................................................................................................................11 HOLIDAYS...................................................................................................................................................................11 INFORMATION ...............................................................................................................................................11 HOURS OF OPERATION..................................................................................................................................................12 TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................................ 13 MINIMUM HARDWARE AND OPERATING SYSTEM...............................................................................................................13 SOFTWARE .................................................................................................................................................................13 INTERNET CONNECTION AND E-MAIL ...............................................................................................................................13 TECHNOLOGICAL COMPETENCY.......................................................................................................................................13 ISSIONS ........................................................................................................................................................ 14 APPLICATION PROCESS ..................................................................................................................................................14 ISSION REQUIREMENTS...........................................................................................................................................14 ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT ............................................................................................................................................14 DIPLOMA COMPLETION TIME .........................................................................................................................................15 COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE LAWS ..................................................................................................................................15 GETTING STARTED ............................................................................................................................................... 16 ORIENTATION..............................................................................................................................................................16 STUDENT PORTAL ........................................................................................................................................................16 LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (LMS) ........................................................................................................................16 COURSES ....................................................................................................................................................................16 EBOOKS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 17

HSSH1.1-120901

iii

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

STUDY TIPS .......................................................................................................................................................... 17 TOP 5 PLACES NOT TO STUDY …EVER ..............................................................................................................................17 TOP 5 CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EFFECTIVE STUDY SPACE .....................................................................................................18 STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ......................................................................................................................................19 STUDY KEYS ................................................................................................................................................................19 STUDYING AND PARENTING............................................................................................................................................21 A STUDENT’S GUIDE TO AVOIDING PLAGIARISM ................................................................................................. 22 AVOIDING PLAGIARISM .................................................................................................................................................22 APA FORMAT .............................................................................................................................................................23 IMPORTANT TO ...........................................................................................................................................24 STUDENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITY ................................................................................................................. 24 EXAMS AND GRADING ......................................................................................................................................... 25 PROGRESSING THROUGH THE COURSE

..............................................................................................................................25

ASSESMENTS...............................................................................................................................................................25 GRADE CHALLENGE POLICY AND PROCEDURES ...................................................................................................................25 CHALLENGES TO INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENTS WHILE A COURSE IS ACTIVE ...................................................................................26 CHALLENGES TO A FINAL COURSE GRADE AFTER THE COURSE HAS BEEN COMPLETED...................................................................26 GRADING SYSTEM ...................................................................................................................................................27 GRADING CRITERIA.......................................................................................................................................................28 GRADE CHALLENGE POLICY ............................................................................................................................................28 ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY AND PROCESS ........................................................................................................ 30 PLAGIARISM AND CHEATING ..........................................................................................................................................31 UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO OFFICIAL HIGH SCHOOL MATERIALS ...........................................................................................31 MISREPRESENTATION, FALSIFICATION OF HIGH SCHOOL RECORDS OR ACADEMIC WORK ..........................................................31 MALICIOUS/INTENTIONAL MISUSE OF COMPUTER FACILITIES AND/OR SERVICES ......................................................................32 STUDENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS ...............................................................................................................................32 ACADEMIC HONESTRY APPEAL PROCESS ................................................................................................................32 REVOCATION OF DIPLOMA POLICY ..................................................................................................................................32 SHIPMENTS .......................................................................................................................................................... 33 COURSE SHIPMENT POLICY ............................................................................................................................................. 33

SHIPMENT ERRORS .......................................................................................................................................................34 REPLACEMENT FEES ...................................................................................................................................................... 34

PROCESSING FEES.........................................................................................................................................................34 TUITION PAYMENTS ............................................................................................................................................ 35 FINANCE OPTIONS...................................................................................................................................................35 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ............................................................................................................................................36 TUITION REIMBURSEMENT .............................................................................................................................................36 HSSH1.1-120901

iv

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

PAYMENT METHODS ....................................................................................................................................................36 AUTO BILL PAY ............................................................................................................................................................36 E-STATEMENTS ............................................................................................................................................................ 36

SCHEDULE OF FEES ............................................................................................................................................... 37 REFUND POLICY ................................................................................................................................................... 39 GENERAL CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY ........................................................................................................................39 RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................................................ 40 MAINTENANCE AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS ..............................................................................................40 FERPA POLICY – STUDENT RIGHT TO ........................................................................................................41 NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY ............................................................................................................................. 43 AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT.................................................................................................................................43 STUDENT IDENTITY VERIFICATION PROCEDURES ................................................................................................. 44 COMPLAINT PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................... 45 TERMINATION POLICY ......................................................................................................................................... 47 TH

TERMINATION FOR NOT ING 8 GRADE ...................................................................................................................... 47

TERMINATION FOR GRADES....................................................................................................................................47 TERMINATION FOR INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT......................................................................................................48 TERMINATION FOR ACADEMIC DISHONESTY ................................................................................................................... 48

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA PROGRAMS ................................................................................................................... 49 STUDY TRACKS ............................................................................................................................................................. 49

OPEN ELECTIVES ..........................................................................................................................................................51 GRADUATION ...................................................................................................................................................... 52 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS ...............................................................................................................................52 GRADUATION ITEMS ...............................................................................................................................................52 GRADUATION WITH HONORS.....................................................................................................................................52 GRADUATION CEREMONY ..............................................................................................................................................52 JMHS CAREER SERVICES ....................................................................................................................................... 53 ASHWORTH COMMUNITY ..............................................................................................................................................54 TEACHERS AND QUALIFICATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 55 COURSES .............................................................................................................................................................. 57 COURSE SPECIFICS ........................................................................................................................................................ 57

BUSINESS AND LIFE SKILLS .............................................................................................................................................58 FOREIGN LANGUAGE...............................................................................................................................................60 HSSH1.1-120901

v

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

LANGUAGE ARTS .........................................................................................................................................................61 MATHEMATICS ............................................................................................................................................................65 SCIENCE ...................................................................................................................................................................67 SCIENCE LABS..............................................................................................................................................................69 SOCIAL STUDIES ......................................................................................................................................................71 APPENDIX ............................................................................................................................................................ 73 GRADE CHALLENGE FORM .............................................................................................................................................74 STUDENT COMPLAINT FORM ..........................................................................................................................................75 TRANSCRIPT REQUEST FORM..........................................................................................................................................76

HSSH1.1-120901

vi

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

President’s Message

Greetings, Welcome to James Madison. Since 1987, we have been setting new standards of excellence in education. Today, we are a respected, worldwide leader in self-guided distance learning. We have successfully combined our resources to bring the finest, most comprehensive instruction, in the most flexible way possible. Ashworth also offers a broader array of study options than other online schools, such as: more career-focused instruction and , greater accessibility to faculty and academic advisors, more opportunities to connect with other students, more affordable tuition, and easier payment plans. Overall, you can look forward to a first-class educational experience that meets your highest expectations. For the last 25 years, Ashworth has been educating busy people like you. In fact, hundreds of thousands of students have entrusted us to help them achieve a better life. Let Ashworth help you study smarter, advance faster, and reach your goals. Here's to your new life! Cordially,

Rob Klapper President James Madison High School

HSSH1.1-120901

7

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Mission, Vision, Values, and Student Learning Outcomes MISSION STATEMENT Empower students to achieve their aspirations through flexible, convenient, affordable, and highly relevant educational programs. VISION STATEMENT Be the leading nontraditional learning institute educating people motivated to improve their lives. VALUES 1. Access - We believe anyone who wants to learn should have access to affordable, quality education anytime, anyplace. 2. ability - We set measurable goals and are able to students and to each other for our actions, performance, and results. 3. Integrity - We operate with the utmost integrity, and treat both our fellow colleagues and our students with dignity and respect. 4. ion - We believe we can make a difference in people’s lives and want to help each student, faculty and staff member in our diverse community realize his or her individual potential. 5. Teamwork - We are committed to collaboration and communication among students, faculty, and staff, as both are essential to achieving great outcomes for students and our company. 6. Excellence - We strive to uphold high standards in our academic programs, student experience, and services, and are continually seeking ways to improve each of these areas.

HSSH1.1-120901

8

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES By incorporating these institutional outcomes into each of its programs, Ashworth ensures that graduates are prepared to succeed in varied professional, civic, and personal settings.

1. Effective Communication We promote the development of effective oral, written and visual communication skills that lead to the clear and purposeful expression of ideas, information, and logical reasoning.

2. Critical Thinking We foster the development of critical thinking skills that help students recognize the relevance of perspectives and biases, search for evidence to conclusions, analyze problems, reflectively process information, and formulate solutions.

3. Job-Specific and Technical Skills We promote the development of job specific technical skills and an understanding of the common body of knowledge associated with a specific program. Those skills, and that knowledge base, are needed to competently and effectively manage responsibilities in the workplace.

4. Professional and Life Skills We promote the development of professional and life skills that include responsibility, self-motivation, and a personal desire to contribute to the world. Students will make progress toward becoming engaged and self-reliant learners, demonstrating habits of intellectual inquiry, and striving toward their maximum potential.

5. Qualifications for Advancement We provide students with , as well as the qualifications they need, so they can confidently apply for jobs, change careers, advance in their current workplace, or pursue skill-based hobbies and interests.

HSSH1.1-120901

9

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Vision and Mission key definitions VISION Be the leading non-traditional learning institution educating people motivated to improve their lives. • Leading: we will serve more students than any other online learning institution • Non-traditional: we are a progressive company markedly different from traditional brick-and-mortar institutions given our course offering, online delivery and affordable pricing • Learning: we enable students to acquire the requisite knowledge and skills in their area(s) of interest • Institution: we are an established organization that provides recognized certification and accreditation • People: the students who embody the Ashworth community • Motivated to improve their lives: students attend Ashworth to enhance their lives by achieving a career goal, learning a vocation/hobby, or serving as a role model to others. MISSION Empower students to achieve their aspirations through flexible, convenient, affordable, and highly relevant educational programs • Empower: enable students to take control of their lives • Students: individuals who have taken the proactive step to study and formally engage in learning • Aspirations: strong desire, longing, or aim • Flexible: adaptable curriculum that allows students to study anywhere and at their own pace • Convenient: easily accessible and easy to use • Affordable: quality courses at a relatively low price that provide great value • Highly relevant: pertinent content and subject matter that aligns well with realworld skills and knowledge needed in the workplace • Educational Programs: courses that enable students to learn in their areas of interest

HSSH1.1-120901

10

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Academic Year, Holidays, Information, Hours of Operation ACADEMIC YEAR Students may enroll in James Madison’s programs at any time of the year. There are no set class start dates, and students do not have to wait until the beginning of a new session or new semester. All courses offered are flexible and self-paced, with students setting their own schedules within certain maximum allowable time frames per semester and/or program. HOLIDAYS James Madison is closed on the following holidays: •

New Year’s Day

•

Memorial Day

•

Independence Day

•

Labor Day

•

Thanksgiving Day

•

Day after Thanksgiving

•

Christmas Eve

•

Christmas Day

INFORMATION The following information may be used to James Madison High School. Students should provide their name and student number on all communications with Ashworth staff. Mailing Address: James Madison High School 6625 The Corners Parkway Norcross, GA 30092 E-mail:

[email protected]

Web site:

www.jmhs.com

Community Web site:

www.ashworthcommunity.com

Registrar’s Office: E-mail:

[email protected]

Fax (for forms, etc.):

770-417-3030

Fax (for transcripts):

770-729-8578

HSSH1.1-120901

11

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Phone Guide Department

Phone Number

Student Services

1-800-224-7234

Attendance Line

770-729-8400 Ext: 5211

Main

770-729-8400

issions (nonstudents)

1-800-362-7070

Fax Destination Guide FAX NUMBER

DEPARTMENT

TYPES OF FAXES

770-729-8578

EDUCATION

HIGH SCHOOL TRANSCRIPTS

770-417-3030

EDUCATION

DEGREE AND HIGH SCHOOL VERIFICATIONS

770-729-9389

EDUCATION

SEMESTER EXAMS MGA Lessons College transcripts Transcript waiver letters Homeschool portfolios Life/Work exams

770-729-7299

STUDENT SERVICES

770-729-0961

STUDENT SERVICES

MULTIPLE-CHOICE EXAMS In-school deferments CAREER VERIFICATIONS Financial information Shipment waiver letters Name change verification

770-729-7290

BUSINESS SERVICES

MILITARY Special groups

HOURS OF OPERATION Academic Advisement 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. (Monday – Friday) Eastern Standard Time Student Services 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. (Monday – Friday) Eastern Standard Time 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Saturday) Eastern Standard Time

HSSH1.1-120901

12

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Technology Requirements All Students should have access to the internet to submit exams, participate in course discussions and manage their studies. While the courses have a simple word processor, we recommend that you have one to use outside of the course. MINIMUM HARDWARE AND OPERATING SYSTEM • Intel Pentium or Celeron, or AMD Sempron 1.6 GHz or faster •

1 GB RAM or more

•

Windows 7, Windows 2000, XP, or Vista

•

Sound card, microphone, and speakers

SOFTWARE • Internet Explorer 8.0 or higher or Firefox 2.0.0.3 or higher •

Adobe Flash Player 10.0 or higher

•

MS Word 2000 or higher or a word processor that can create files with the following extensions: .doc (MS Word 97 through MS Word 2003), .docx (MS Word 2007), or a standard .rtf (rich text format)

•

Adobe Reader 7.0 or higher (ed from the Internet)

INTERNET CONNECTION AND E-MAIL • A reliable broadband Internet connection, either cable or DSL of at least 1000 Kbps for adequate audio-video quality •

An e-mail address that will accept all e-mails, including attachments, from the domain name ashworthcollege.edu

•

Note: Students are presumed to receive the messages sent to designated e-mail addresses. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that messages from James Madison High School are not blocked and that the mailbox is not too full to receive messages.

TECHNOLOGICAL COMPETENCY • Ability to use e-mail to correspond •

Ability to access, create, and save documents in MS Word or standard.rtf (rich text format)

•

Ability to browse the Web

HSSH1.1-120901

13

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

ISSIONS APPLICATION PROCESS Students may follow the steps below to enroll in James Madison programs. 1. Complete an application online or by phone. a. Apply online – The online application process is simplified to reduce processing time. The online application can be accessed from our Web site, http://www.jmhs.com Applicants can indicate the program level, program type, and discipline area on the online application form. b. Apply by phone any day of the year (except holidays) by speaking with an enrollment advisor at 1-800-362-7070. 2. Within 24 hours of receiving the completed enrollment application, we will provide instructions for online access to the first course and will ship the associated textbooks/course materials to the student address. 3. Students who are eligible for military benefits should a military advisor at 1-877-758-7630. ISSION REQUIREMENTS Students must be at least 14 years of age and have graduated from the 8th grade.

ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT This Enrollment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is a legally binding contract when signed by the student and accepted by James Madison at its offices in Georgia and is governed by Georgia law. The student signature on this Agreement indicates that the student has read and understood the of this Agreement, has read and understood any literature received from us, and believes that he/she has the ability to benefit from the course selected. An electronic signature is a binding signature. Prospective students are encouraged to read through the catalog and materials prior to enrolling.

HSSH1.1-120901

14

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

DIPLOMA COMPLETION TIME James Madison is a self-paced program that encourages students to set their own schedule for completing their coursework. However, we feel it is important that students set goals to average completing 1 lesson every 1-2 weeks. If a student maintains this schedule they can complete all 23 credits in 2-3 years. Of course the time student’s needs depend on the individual and we caution students to set a pace that is comfortable to them. COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE LAWS Students under the age of 18 are responsible for complying with the compulsory laws of their State. Every State has its own rules and regulations concerning attendance and James Madison is not responsible for insuring that the student is obeying them. Parents should consult with their local Board of Education to determine what steps they should follow to meet the requirements of the law. James Madison does not maintain attendance records of its students. However we are able to issue a Status letter and Transcript upon request. In order for us to issue these documents students must have complete a transcript evaluation, completed one course and current in their tuition payments.

HSSH1.1-120901

15

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Getting Started ORIENTATION James Madison hosts "live" streaming video chats 2-3 times each week in which Student Advisors orient new students on everything they need to know in order to successfully get started with their course/program. Student Advisors guide new students through activating their student , accessing their course materials, requesting transcripts, submitting exams, and learning how to best take advantage of all the resources that are available to them. The format is highly personalized and fully interactive. James Madison advisors speak to new students via streaming video, and students are able to ask questions via online chat, all of which are answered in "real time" by the advisors. James Madison’s Orientation chats are hosted within our Student Community, but are also simultaneously streamed to multiple sites such as Facebook and Twitter to reach as many new students as possible. Students who are unable to attend one of our live Orientation chats can watch the archived sessions at any time. STUDENT PORTAL The student portal can be accessed through the Ashworth Community: http://community.ashworthcollege.edu

.

The link to the student portal will be in the top right hand corner of the screen. After a student has entered the portal, they will see several useful tools to help manage their information. To access the first course of the program, click on the “Lessons” link. LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (LMS) The LMS is where all the courses of the program will be delivered. Students will complete all reading assignments, exams and projects at this site. In addition, students will be able to chat with their instructor during scheduled office hours. No additional information is required to access the LMS. COURSES All courses are delivered in two parts. Each part will have between 6-10 exams and represents a half credit. All students are required to complete Introduction to High School and Health, regardless of transfer credit earned from their previous school.

HSSH1.1-120901

16

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

EBOOKS Ebooks are delivered through the LMS using CourseSmart™. When you start your third course you will be asked to create a the first time you access the ebook. After that you will not be required to enter a again, however if you want to access your textbook outside of the LMS, you will be required to enter it.



Study Tips Just as there are certain study techniques that work better for your learning styles, there are also study environments that are more in sync with your learning style. Of course, there are general guidelines that apply to every style and that are certainly worth mentioning. No matter how hard you try, you can never learn while watching TV or talking on the phone. You may struggle through and grasp some level of learning, but you will be functioning at a level far below your potential. TOP 5 PLACES NOT TO STUDY …EVER 1.

Your Bedroom The messages received from your bedroom are sleep and relax. These are messages you do not want to battle when you are trying to be focused and alert.

2.

The Kitchen Table This is a place where people gather or come in and out of quite often. It’s a people area, NOT a study area.

3.

The Den or Family Room Far too many distractions here-- not to mention temptations such as the TV, phone, computer, and gaming systems. Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting your study place in an area that competes for your attention.

4.

A Coffee Shop or Cafeteria Save this for a social gathering with friends. There’s far too much talking, laughing, and a huge temptation for you to “people watch” instead of study.

HSSH1.1-120901

17

James Madison High School

5.

2012 Student Handbook

A Sterile, Silent, Colorless Room or Desk It is true that you do want to set up a study place where there are few distractions, but do NOT think that it has to be boring and silent or lack ambience. If you do not enjoy your study place, you will not want to spend any time there, and when you are there, it will not be a pleasant experience. That defeats the whole purpose.

So just where is the best place to study? Good question. The truth is, most good places to study are places you create for the sole purpose of studying. So, what do you need to include in this study space? TOP 5 CHARACTERISTICS OF AN EFFECTIVE STUDY SPACE 1.

Make It Comfortable Your chair should be well padded and ive (i.e., a high back office chair and a smooth top desk or an oversized library chair in your room). You do not want the kind of comfort you feel when you are lounging on the sofa or stretched out on your bed, but you do need to be free of discomfort. Also, make sure the temperature is balanced-- not too hot or too cold-- and that the air is fresh.

2.

A Well-Lit Preferably Natural Light Natural light, such as light from a window, is better than artificial light, but if you must use artificial light, that incandescent light, or soft white light, is better than fluorescent.

3.

A Well Stocked Area Don’t waste time gathering all the study materials and other items you’ll need. Instead, when you create your study area, make sure you stock it with items you will need, such as pens, pencils, paper, highlighters, books, calculators, staplers, and rulers.

4.

An Enhanced Environment It’s very important that your study place be somewhere you enjoy going. The most effective way to battle the problems of distraction, poor concentration, and low self-esteem is to improve your learning environment. Suggestions: plants, pictures, and colorful desk accessories.

HSSH1.1-120901

18

James Madison High School

5.

2012 Student Handbook

An Area Full of Positive Messages Create a positive emotional and mental environment. Surround yourself with things that carry positive messages. By themselves, they won’t do much, but they will be positive encouragements when your mind wanders and you become frustrated. Motivational posters, quotes, and reminders of your goals will serve as positive reinforcement of the value of what you are doing and how vast your potential is.

STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES It is imperative that you define your study goals and objectives. The best study goals are always: Realistic for the Time Allotted (Example: What is easily accomplished in an hour? A half hour?) Concrete and Specific (Example: Read pages 5 – 20 of the short story in the literature book, NOT Read some pages in the literature book.) Significant and Rewardable (Example: One chapter of reading in history deserves a 15 minute TV break, snack break, or phone break). Relevant to Your Priorities (Finish reviewing chapter 3 in algebra, because there is a test tomorrow is more important than doing an assignment in English that is not due until the end of the week). STUDY KEYS •

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF – your brain is a complex piece of work and has genius capacity. It takes time and effort, But if you believe in yourself, you will reach your true and full potential.

•

DISCIPLINE YOURSELF – Self control and discipline are the cornerstones to success. Self Discipline is what makes you keep going when the going gets tough, and this is how study techniques become second nature. When your self-discipline gives you the strength to maintain your study skills, this is when your true abilities will soar.

•

BE PERSISTENT – Keep on keeping on! Persistence is more important than intelligence, luck, and talent.

HSSH1.1-120901

19

James Madison High School

•

2012 Student Handbook

DIVIDE AND CONQUER – Analyze the task, divide it into smaller, separate tasks, and put the tasks in priority. Start with the first small step, complete it, and then cross it off the list.

•

BECOME AN INFORMATION FILTER – You need to learn to distinguish between what is important to and what is not. This takes practice to filter out the unnecessary information and even more practice to be confident that you have focused on the correct material.

•

PRACTICE OUTPUT AS WELL AS INPUT Think of your brain as a computer. The information you study is data INPUT. Your brain processes this information and turns it into useful information or OUTPUT. It is up to you to devise several patterns of output so information can easily be recalled.

•

DO NOT FEAR MISTAKES – Don’t be afraid to try something new just because you’re afraid you may get it wrong the first time. : take an action and if you make a mistake, review the results and identify the mistakes, decide how to do it better the next time, and then do it again-- only better.

•

USE ALL OF YOUR DIFFERENT INTELLIGENCES TO CREATE STUDY TOOLS – As you develop your own toolbox of study skills, make use of as many different intelligences as possible. Combine as many as you can as often as you can and create a study skills toolbox that empowers you in every way.

•

ALWAYS BE ACTIVE – All study, reading, and listening skills come down to one thing: You need to USE it. DO something with it. Think about it and evaluate it, and then WRITE IT DOWN.

•

PREPARE…PREPARE…PREPARE – Quality preparation makes the difference between mediocre performance and excellent grades. Prepare your study environment, your attitude, and your focus, and you’ll be amazed at the difference.

HSSH1.1-120901

20

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

STUDYING AND PARENTING One of the greatest challenges many distance learners face, though it’s not insurmountable, is studying while having to take care of small children. First of all, give yourself permission to divide your attention. pretend they aren’t there.

You can’t ignore the kids or

Both safety and love are an issue.

Let’s look at some

suggestions for making this situation work for both your children and you.

Give children quality time. Your children have the first right to your time. Make sure you do not withhold your love by ignoring them in favor of your studies. Parents who have delayed their high school education must understand that getting a diploma cannot be their highest priority. That’s not to say that you must totally sacrifice your education to child rearing, it’s just that your children come first. Television.

We do not recommend using your TV set as a surrogate babysitter.

However, with some planning you can use TV as an educational tool during the time you are studying and supervising the kids’ activities. A number of public and cable channels provide interesting, educational programming for younger children.

Give

the little ones an “assignment” to watch a program and question them afterwards on what they’ve learned. Tell them they’re going to “school” like you are. Play groups and co-op baby-sitting. Many parents find time for themselves by ing with other parents in setting up playgroups and taking turns babysitting several children at a time.

HSSH1.1-120901

21

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

A Student’s Guide to Avoiding Plagiarism Plagiarism is a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy. Whether it is intentional or not, plagiarism is cheating; it is both illegal and a breach of academic conduct. This guide briefly addresses definitions and examples of plagiarism and provides instructions on how to avoid plagiarism in your assignments. As a student you will often need to present the ideas and opinions of professionals in your own words. Your instructor/grader expects you to use the work of others in your responses; there is no way to avoid this. However, to avoid plagiarism, simply cite the work of others correctly in APA format, every time.

You should refer often

to the APA Guidelines as well as to a printed or online APA style manual. The following suggestions can be helpful in preparing your responses. AVOIDING PLAGIARISM 1. As you take notes, mark the material that is directly copied or paraphrased in a significant way, perhaps by using a different colored font or by changing the background color of the information (highlighting the information). When you finalize your paper, you can easily check to be sure that you have cited this information. 2. When you are paraphrasing information, read the information and then write it down from memory. This will help you to avoid using the sentence structure and words of others. that a paraphrase must still be cited. 3. When quoting directly, copy the person’s name that you are quoting into your notes next to the quote as you take notes and put quotation marks around the exact words that you copied. Use very few quotes in your papers, quoting only when the exact phrasing of the information is as important as the information itself. 4. Always put quotation marks around any direct statement from someone else's work (or indent and single-space extended quotations). Always give a footnote, endnote or other form of citation for this quotation. 5. Cite any paraphrase or another writer's ideas of statements. 6. Cite any thoughts you obtained from a specific source in your reading. 7. Cite any material, ideas, thoughts, etc., you received from your reading that can't be described as general knowledge. 8. Cite any summary (even if your own words) of a discussion from one of your sources. HSSH1.1-120901

22

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

9. Cite any charts, graphs, tables, etc., made by others or any you made using other's information. 10. Cite any computer algorithm you incorporate into a computer program if you did not write or create the algorithm yourself. (Excerpt from the Logger, 1995, p.12.9) 11. Consult your instructor if you have any questions regarding issues of plagiarism and academic honesty. Information Which Must Be Cited •

Another person’s idea, opinion, or theory regardless of the medium (magazine, book, newspaper, journal, song, email, lecture, TV program, movie, Web page, letter, ment, interview)

•

Any facts, statistics, graphs, drawings—any pieces of information—that are not common knowledge

•

Quotations of another person’s actual spoken or written words

•

Paraphrase of another person’s spoken or written words Information That Does NOT Have To Be Cited

•

Generally accepted facts

•

One’s own experimental results

•

One’s own experiences, observations, insights, thoughts, or conclusions about a subject

•

Common knowledge, including folklore, common sense observations, and shared information within your field of study or cultural group

APA FORMAT There are two ways to incorporate the work of others into your work: quoting and paraphrasing. Use the APA Formatting resources at the bottom of the page for additional help. Quote – called a direct quote – is the use of others’ exact words and must be enclosed in quotation marks. These citations should be presented exactly as they are written and must be attributed to the originator. Note the author names and date in parentheses in the following example. Scripts are defined as “formats for integrating visuals from a computer projections, slides, film or videotape into a presentation by one or more persons” (Newsom & Carrell, 2001, p. 374).

HSSH1.1-120901

23

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Paraphrase – or indirect quotes – is material from others’ work, but it is presented in your own words. It too must be cited as in the following example. In general, there are two types of presentations: informational and persuasive (Newsom & Carrell, 2001). Useful Resources Instructional Services (ISS): Writing Tutorial Services. (2004). Plagiarism: What it is and how to recognize and avoid it. Retrieved June 9, 2011, from: http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/pamphlets/plagiarism.shtml Purdue University: Online Writing Lab. (2004). Avoiding Plagiarism. Retrieved June 9, 2011, from: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/handouts/research/r_plagiar.html#common#common Purdue University: Online Writing Lab. (2004). APA Formatting. Retrieved June 9, 2011, from: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/ IMPORTANT TO We have access to the internet as well! The internet has made it easier for people to plagiarize but it has also made it easier for us to find out. If you copy answers or essays from the internet, we will catch it.



Student Roles and Responsibility While James Madison is here to provide all students an opportunity to learn in an online environment that is functional and easy to use, students also hold a responsibility to James Madison and their studies. All students are expected to •

Respect their peers and instructors.

•

Maintain good academic standing while at Ashworth College.

•

Follow all deadlines to ensure successful completion of courses.

•

Complete all assignments and assessments.

•

Grow academically and intellectually.

HSSH1.1-120901

24

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

EXAMS AND GRADING PROGRESSING THROUGH THE COURSE We recommend that you set aside a regular time each week to study. Your goal should be to maintain steady progress toward graduation. If you are unable to complete lesson per week, you should still set a pace that is achievable for you and stick to it. Find a pace that works well for you. Do not rush through your courses! ASSESMENTS There are assessments at the end of each unit in a course. Some courses have only a few units and some have many more. Your assessments may be multiple-choice questions, handwritten exams, essay assignments or specific projects. Important: Do not submit multiple exams all at once. Always wait on your exam results before submitting another exam. You can start studying your next lesson but it is important to know the results of your previous exam before submitting your next exam. Please note that handwritten exams are also hand graded. This means that the results will not be returned to you as quickly as with a multiple choice exam. Please allow time for your projects and handwritten exams to be processed. Under normal circumstances we are able to return the graded exam to you in 5-10 business days. GRADE CHALLENGE POLICY AND PROCEDURES James Madison High School faculty are experts within their fields of study and have the final authority for asg grades with the exception of grades that are found to be a result of arbitrary or capricious grading. If a student believes and is able to with clear and credible evidence that capricious or unprofessional grading has taken place a grade challenge may be initiated on an assignment or on a final course grade basis. The grade challenge policy provides guidance on grades within an active course and governs course final grades. Grade challenges may be made to the faculty on an individual assignment basis or submitted to the Registrar’s Office on a final course grade basis.

HSSH1.1-120901

25

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

CHALLENGES TO INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENTS WHILE A COURSE IS ACTIVE Individual lesson assessment grades are to be handled between student and faculty while a course is in session. A grade challenge must be initiated within one (1) week for individual lesson assignments (threaded discussions, multiple-choice exams, essays, etc.). The process begins with the original faculty member. The student must discuss the grade concerns with the faculty member who issued the grade. It is advisable to use correspondence through a verifiable means such as email. CHALLENGES TO A FINAL COURSE GRADE AFTER THE COURSE HAS BEEN COMPLETED The following policy and procedures apply to all final course grade challenges. The Grade Challenge Form is to be used only to challenge a course final grade. 1. If a student believes he or she received a final course grade based on capricious or unprofessional grading the student must discuss within 7 days of the final grade being posted the dispute with the faculty member who issued the grade. The correspondence must be tracked through a verifiable means such as email. 2. If a satisfactory solution cannot be found, the student may request a Grade Challenge Form from the Registrar’s Office or the form from the student portal (www.myashworth.com). The form is to be completed and submitted for review to the Registrar’s Office via email at [email protected] or by fax to 770-417-3030. 3. A Grade Challenge Form must be initiated within 21 days of the final course grade posting date. 4. After reviewing the Grade Challenge Form and ing documentation for completeness, the form will be forwarded to the Chief Academic Officer or designated representative. If ing documentation or recommendation is missing, the form will be returned to the student for completion. 5. The Chief Academic Officer may consult with the faculty member in an attempt to resolve the dispute. In most cases, the faculty member's decision is final unless the Vice President determines that extenuating circumstances warrant a grade change.

HSSH1.1-120901

26

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

6. Grade challenges may not be appealed beyond the Chief Academic Officer. All documents submitted for Grade Challenge are entered in the permanent record of student and faculty. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the necessary information to the challenge. The student’s Grade Challenge Form must include all required information as well as clearly written justification for the grade challenge to be considered. The burden of proof rests with the student to provide any additional ing documentation. Examples of necessary information include: medical verification if exception is due to illness, with copies of any documentation to substantiate the request being made, e.g. message center posts. Please Note: Upon submission of a Grade Challenge Form and any ing documents, faculty may be notified of the challenge and asked for their perspective and made aware of documents. GRADING SYSTEM Each course is graded by taking the average of the grades received for the exams and/or assignments within the course. The following point totals correspond to the following grades:

POINTS

GRADE

100-90

A

89-80

B

79-70

C

65-69

D

Below 65

F

All exams can be resubmitted once if you are not satisfied with your score. Caution: We will record your most recent attempt as your final score for the exam even if it is lower than your first attempt.

HSSH1.1-120901

27

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

GRADING CRITERIA A = Excellent. The student has demonstrated a thorough understanding of the content and skills presented in the course and consistently initiates thoughtful questions and can see many sides of an issue. The student writes logically and clearly. He or she also integrates ideas throughout the course and, as appropriate, from previously completed courses in a program. B = Good to very good. The B student is an excellent writer and maintains consistent performance and understanding of course content that goes beyond the minimum requirements. C = Satisfactory The C student demonstrates a minimal comprehension of the skills and subject matter included in the course and accomplishes only the minimum requirements, while displaying little or no initiative. D = Below average The student’s performance is barely acceptable. Assignments are late or missing and there is not even a minimal understanding or mastery of course content skills. F = Failing Quality and quantity of work is unacceptable. GRADE CHALLENGE POLICY The grade challenge policy provides guidance on grades within an active course and governs course final grades. If a student believes, and is able to with clear and credible evidence, that capricious or unprofessional grading has taken place, a grade challenge may be initiated on an assignment or on a final course grade basis. Grade challenges may be made on an individual assignment basis through the Academic Advisors or submitted to the Registrar’s office on a final course grade basis. Challenges to Individual Assignments While a Course Is Active Individual lesson assessment grades are to be handled between student and Academic Advisors while a course is in session. A grade challenge must be initiated within seven (7) days of the grade posting date for individual lesson assignments (multiple-choice exams, and essays).

The process begins with the student, who

must discuss the grade concerns with the Academic Advisors. The disputed grade will

be reviewed

and/or

re-graded

as applicable.

It

is advisable to use

correspondence through a verifiable means such as e-mail. HSSH1.1-120901

28

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Challenges to a Final Course Grade After the Course Has Been Completed The following policy and procedures apply to all final course grade challenges. The Grade Challenge Form is to be used only to challenge a course final grade. 1. If a student believes that he or she received a final course grade based on capricious or unprofessional grading, the student must make the Education Operations office aware of the grade dispute within seven (7) days of the final grade being posted.

The correspondence must be tracked through a

verifiable means such as e-mail. 2. If a satisfactory solution cannot be reached, the student must submit a Grade Challenge Form (located on the Student Portal, in this College Academic Catalog, and in the Student Handbook) to the Registrar’s office. 3. A Grade Challenge Form must be initiated within 21 days of the final course grade posting date. 4. After reviewing the Grade Challenge Form and ing documentation for completeness, the form will be forwarded to the Chief Academic Officer or designated representative.

If ing documentation or justification is

missing, the form will be returned to the student for completion. 5. The Chief Academic Officer may consult with the Education Operations staff member in an attempt to resolve the dispute.

In most cases, the staff

member's decision is final unless the Vice President determines that extenuating circumstances warrant a grade change. 6. Grade challenges may not be appealed beyond the Chief Academic Officer. All documents submitted for Grade Challenge are entered in the permanent record of the student and faculty member(s). It is the student’s responsibility to provide the necessary information to the challenge. The student’s Grade Challenge Form must include all required information as well as a clearly written justification for the grade challenge to be considered. The burden of proof rests with the student to provide any additional ing documentation. An example of necessary information includes medical verification if exception is due to illness, with copies of any documentation to substantiate the request being made, e.g., message center posts. Please note: Upon submission of a Grade Challenge Form and any ing documents, the faculty (s) may be notified of the challenge and asked for their perspective and made aware of the ing documentation. HSSH1.1-120901

29

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Academic Honesty Policy and Process Academic integrity is the hallmark of excellence and the foundation of higher education which requires honesty in scholarship, research, and all course work. Students are expected at all times to submit their own work for all assignments, to present their own work and ideas in all discussions, and to properly cite original authors and others when referring to sources used. Students can succeed in their classes and programs without violating the Academic Honesty Policy. To maintain the high quality of education provided by James Madison High School, the Faculty and istration must address any charge of a violation of academic honesty in order to preserve the integrity of the high school’s programs. At each penalty level the case is reviewed by the Academic Review Board. The due process procedures include a formal request for inquiry and research to prove or disprove the charge. A proven violation carries academic penalties. Students who violate the Academic Honesty Policy will receive a warning on a first offense, will be put on probation for a second offense, and will be cancelled from the institution on a third offense. Students may appeal the cancellation but may not appeal the warning or the probation. The result of the investigation may lead to the following disciplinary action that can include but is not limited to:

1. Warning •

Documented counseling by staff

•

Attend training workshop, write a paper on academic integrity

•

Revision and resubmission of work

•

Submission of alternate assignment

2. Probation •

Documented counseling by staff

•

Attend training workshop, write a paper on academic integrity

•

Revision and resubmission of work

•

Submission of alternate assignment

•

Fail the assignment

•

Cancelled from course, suspension from the institution

3. Cancellation •

Cancellation from James Madison High School

HSSH1.1-120901

30

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

The following violation types deserve close attention because they summarize various violations of academic honesty. This list below is not exhaustive but captures the predominant violations which occur. Students must strive to honor the regulations to preserve the integrity of their grades and degrees. PLAGIARISM AND CHEATING •

Plagiarism and cheating are acts of stealing and are types of fraud.

•

Plagiarism is an act of taking someone else’s words or ideas and using them or representing them as one’s own work. This includes not properly citing the source of the words or ideas. When students use direct quotations, they must use quotation marks and cite the relevant sources. When students paraphrase material, quotation marks are not used, but the sources still must be cited. Students must also cite sources for any use of language, ideas, theories, data, figures, graphs, programs, electronic information, or illustrations.

•

Cheating is an act of breaking rules of honest and original work. Cheating includes purchasing essays, copying another person’s assignment or paying someone to do one’s work. It also includes sharing one’s own work with another student by allowing them to copy all or part of one’s paper. Students are not permitted to receive, attempt to receive, knowingly give, or attempt to give any unauthorized assistance in the preparation of any work required to be submitted for credit as part of a course.

UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO OFFICIAL HIGH SCHOOL MATERIALS Students may not take, attempt to take, or in any unauthorized manner gain access to, alter, or destroy any materials pertaining to the istration of the educational process (including exams, grade records, answer keys, etc.). MISREPRESENTATION, FALSIFICATION OF HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC WORK

RECORDS OR

Students will not knowingly provide false information when completing High School forms or applications (including issions forms, enrollment agreements, use of false or counterfeit transcripts, etc.) or in any work submitted for credit as part of a course.

HSSH1.1-120901

31

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

MALICIOUS/INTENTIONAL MISUSE OF COMPUTER FACILITIES AND/OR SERVICES Students are strictly prohibited from the malicious or intentional misuse of computer facilities and/or services. Violations of state and federal laws (including copyright violations, unauthorized access of systems, alteration/damage/destruction or attempted alteration/damage/destruction, use for profit, etc.) or the High School’s rules regarding computer usage (including violations, damage or destruction of the system and/or its performance, unauthorized copying of electronic information, use of threatening or obscene language, etc.) will result in immediate prosecution. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS Student numbers are issued to specific people for the purpose of conducting High School business. Any abuse of these numbers (including obtaining for malicious use or attempting to obtain for malicious use, false identification or attempted false identification, etc.), shall be cause for permanent cancellation from the High School. ACADEMIC HONESTRY APPEAL PROCESS Students have the opportunity to appeal Academic Cancellation decisions through the Academic Honesty Appeal process. Forms are available through the registrar’s office or through the student portal. Follow the directions on completing the form and its submission. Submitting an appeal does not guarantee re-instatement. Your must be current prior to any appeal review. If you are reinstated, then you will remain on Academic Probation until the necessary improvements are made in your academic performance. Failing to meet the Ashworth standard may result in a second cancellation from the program. After a second cancellation as a result of academic performance, you will forfeit your right to an appeal and will remain cancelled permanently. REVOCATION OF DIPLOMA POLICY If, after a diploma has been awarded, a diploma recipient is found responsible for a violation of the Student Conduct Code involving academic dishonesty or fraud committed while a student, then James Madison High School may impose, as a sanction, a revocation of the diploma, subject to internal procedures.

HSSH1.1-120901

32

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

SHIPMENTS All courses include an ebook and everything you need to complete the course. However, some students have opted to have a printed textbook as well. The policy below applies to all students regardless if you are receiving textbooks. COURSE SHIPMENT POLICY James Madison High School ships one course at a time to a student. When approximately two-thirds of the exams/projects have been returned and ed, the next course will be made available online, if payments are current. Your transcript will need to be evaluated before you receive your third course. You may pay extra for more than one course shipped at a time. 1. To have one year’s number of courses (General = 4; College Preparatory = 5) shipped at once: a. Tuition for one year must be paid in full. b. Waiver letter must be signed that states you may not receive any refunds after the courses are shipped. 2. To have all courses shipped at once: a. Tuition must be paid in full. b. Subject review form must be reviewed by the student and returned to the school if courses are being changed. c. Waiver letter must be signed that states you may not receive any refunds after the courses are shipped. d. the school for assistance. 3. Payment for laboratory courses must be received before they can be shipped. The nonrefundable fee may be paid by charge card, check-by-phone, paper check, or by adding it to the next month’s invoice. Please the school for pricing and shipping information. You have 60 days to notify JMHS if there are any shipment errors, missing courses, or incomplete or wrong course materials. After 60 days, you will be responsible for replacement fees.

HSSH1.1-120901

33

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

SHIPMENT ERRORS If you receive a shipment that is incorrect or incomplete, please call 1-800-224-7234 for assistance. You have 60 days to notify the school. After 60 days, you will be responsible for any replacement fees. REPLACEMENT FEES If you need to replace any of your study materials, please call for assistance. Your must be current before we can reship any items. There will be a replacement fee for each item. You may have the replacement fee added to your next invoice with your tuition payment and the item will ship, if your is current. Alternatively, you may pay the replacement fee by check or charge. When the check or charge has posted to your , the item will ship. PROCESSING FEES A $50 processing fee is required when a course has been shipped to you and you decide that you want to drop the course. You cannot drop required courses, only electives. This processing fee plus any associated replacement fees are required for all dropped courses. Your must be current before you can drop a course. Please the school for assistance. The fees may be added to your next month’s invoice and the course will be dropped immediately. If you prefer to pay by a separate check or charge, the course will be dropped from your program when the check or charge is posted to your .

HSSH1.1-120901

34

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

TUITION PAYMENTS FINANCE OPTIONS Monthly Payment Plan Option Students can make a small down payment and break the remaining tuition into low, interest-free monthly payments. Each month JMHS sends a statement to the student that reflects the current balance. Students are allowed to adjust the payment amount and due date. JMHS provides students maximum flexibility by allowing them to enroll in just one semester at a time. There are no hidden fees and all textbooks are included in the tuition amount. For students making monthly payments, the first monthly payment is due one month after JMHS accepts the student Enrollment Agreement; subsequent payments are due every month thereafter. Students will be invoiced each month until their tuition is paid in full. Students who signed up for Auto Bill Pay will have their credit card or bank debited every month until their tuition is paid in full. Students are responsible for updating information should the card expire or be closed, in order to avoid late or returned-payment penalties. Students who are paying by check will have the check sent to their bank for payment electronically through the automated clearinghouse. If there are insufficient funds in the student , JMHS may resubmit the check for payment and a collection fee may be imposed. The first amounts we receive from the student in monthly payments will be credited toward the Nonrefundable Fees, istrative Fees, and/or Registration Fees. If a student fails to make any payment within 10 calendar days of its due date, JMHS may cancel this Agreement. In addition, the entire tuition obligation will become due and payable immediately and the student will no longer be entitled to any refunds unless the default is cured within 15 calendar days of our notice to the student. A late fee of $7 will be charged for each monthly payment that is not paid within 10 days of its due date. Under this Agreement, for each check, draft, or money order that is dishonored, the student will be charged a fee of $20 if such check, draft, or money order is not made good within 10 days from the date we mail the notice of such dishonor to the most recent student address shown in our records. Students must remain current with their monthly payments in order to continue to receive their course materials. Students cannot obtain transcripts or status letters if their s are past due.

HSSH1.1-120901

35

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Tuition payment must be made in U.S. funds only. Students in Canada and other foreign countries will be responsible for payment of any applicable transfer fees and customs duties. TUITION REIMBURSEMENT Some employers pay for education tuition for their employees. Students should check with their employers to see if they qualify for tuition reimbursement under the Employee Education Assistance Act, IRS Code, Section 127. PAYMENT METHODS In addition to checks and money orders, JMHS also accepts Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, and Discover®. Students can choose to pay by mail, phone, or online. •

By Mail: When the monthly statement arrives, students should include a check, money order, or credit card information, and mail the payment in the enclosed postage-paid envelope by the due date indicated on the statement.

•

By Phone: Credit card, debit card, and electronic check payments are accepted over the phone. Students should a Student Services representative at 800-224-7234 during normal business hours.

•

Online: Students can make online payments through the JMHS Student Portal at any time by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. Students should to the online Student Portal and follow the simple, step-by-step instructions.

AUTO BILL PAY Students can use a credit card to sign up for Auto Bill Pay and receive a savings on their tuition amount. E-STATEMENTS Students can sign up for eStatements via the Student Portal.

HSSH1.1-120901

36

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Schedule of Fees

Fee

Purpose of Fee

Fee Amount

Trigger

ission Fee

Students Fee for processing

$75.00

Enrolling into the HS

ission into the school. Standard

Students are charged for

Shipping/

the learning management

Technology Fee

system that s their

Program $40.00

Enrolling into the ebook only program.

program Shipping to

Students are charged for

$150.00

Enrolling into a

addresses outside

shipping course materials

one-time fee

degree program or

the continental

outside of the continental

United States

U.S.

Transcript

The first copy of a

$5.00 per

Student requests a

Request Fee

transcript is free. There will

transcript

copy of their

certificate.

be a fee for all other

transcript

transcripts requested. Portfolio

Students are charged a fee

Assessment Fee

to evaluate portfolios that

$50.00

A charge is added to the when

are submitted.

the student portfolio has been evaluated

Program Change

A student may switch

$50.00 per

Student requesting

Fee

between general and

program

a switch in

college prep at any time by

change

programs.

A late fee will be charged

$7.00 per

Student’s monthly

for each monthly payment

late payment

payment not being

paying a program transfer fee. Late Fee

that is not paid within 10

made within 10 days

days of its due date.

of its due date.

Dishonored check,

For each check, draft, or

$20.00 per

A dishonored check,

draft, or money

money order that is

dishonored

draft, or money

order

dishonored, the student will

check, draft,

order not made

be charged a fee if such

or money

good within 10 days

check, draft, or money

order

from the date JMHS

order is not made good

mails the student

within 10 days from the

notice of such

date JMHS notifies the

dishonor.

student. HSSH1.1-120901

37

James Madison High School

Registration Fee

Registration fee

2012 Student Handbook

The lesser of

Enrolling into a

(a) 20% of

degree program or

the Total

certificate and

Price listed

cancelling before

on the

completing 5% of

Enrollment

the program.

Agreement and (b) $200. Reission Fee

Students whose s

$25.00

have been canceled (but

Student requests to be reitted

have not been academically dismissed) are eligible for reinstatement or reission and will be charged a fee to do so. Replacement

There will be a fee for all

Diploma Fee

replacement diplomas

$25.00

Student requests a replacement

requested.

diploma

Refunds The refund due to the student will be the Amount Paid to Date less the Amount Owed by Student as of the date the student cancellation is accepted and processed. If the Amount Owed by Student is greater than Amount Paid To Date as of the date of cancellation, the student owes JMHS the difference and such amount is payable within 30 days. Upon cancellation, a student whose tuition is paid in full is entitled to receive all materials, including kits and equipment.

HSSH1.1-120901

38

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Refund Policy GENERAL CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY Students may cancel their program at any time.

Cancellation requests may be

submitted in any manner, but a written request is recommended. If Students Withdraw

Amount Student Owes

Within 5 calendar days of the day the student enrolls/signs this

$0 – full refund

Agreement After 5 calendar days:

Nonrefundable Fees +

If the student has not submitted any lessons

Registration Fees

If the student has submitted less than 10% of the lessons

Nonrefundable Fees + Registration Fees + 10% of Adjusted Tuition

If the student has submitted 10% or more of the lessons but less

Nonrefundable Fees +

than 25% of the lessons

Registration Fees + 25% of Adjusted Tuition

If the student has submitted 25% or more of the lessons but less

Nonrefundable Fees +

than 50% of the lessons

Registration Fees + 50% of Adjusted Tuition

If the student has submitted more than 50% of the lessons

Nonrefundable Fees + Registration Fees + 100% of Adjusted Tuition

HSSH1.1-120901

39

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Rights and Responsibilities MAINTENANCE AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS James Madison High School’s policy regarding confidentiality is in keeping with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which affords student certain rights with respect to their education records. This includes the following. 1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day James Madison High School receives a request for access 2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the student believes are inaccurate 3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits

disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. School officials are individuals or entities working for or on the behalf of the educational institution. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

As allowed within FERPA

guidelines, James Madison High School may disclose education records without consent to officials of another school, upon request, in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. 4. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged

failure

by

James

Madison

High

School

to

comply

with

the

requirements of FERPA At its discretion, James Madison High School may provide Directory Information in accordance with the provisions of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act. Directory Information is defined as that information which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.

Students may withhold

Directory Information by notifying the Registrar in writing; please note that such withholding requests are binding for all information to all parties other than for those exceptions allowed under the Act.

HSSH1.1-120901

40

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

FERPA POLICY – STUDENT RIGHT TO Buckley Amendment The Buckley Amendment, or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), is a law regarding the protection of a student’s education records.

A

postsecondary school is required to provide certain privacy protections for those education records that it does maintain.

Education records include both directory

and non-directory information. This law applies to institutions that receive federal funds through programs that are istered by the United States Department of Education.

James Madison High

School has adopted this policy as the industry standard in records’ maintenance and operations. Access to Information An “eligible student” under FERPA is a student who has reached 18 years of age or attends a postsecondary institution. In order to disclose education information about an eligible student attending James Madison High School, we would need his or her written consent to share personally identifiable information beyond the directory information. against

However, there are a number of exceptions to FERPA's prohibition

nonconsensual

disclosure

of

personally

identifiable

information

from

education records. For students who are 17 or younger, all rights regarding education records are given to the students’ parents. Internally, each James Madison High School employee’s access to a student’s education information is based on a legitimate educational interest and need to know. Education Record An education record is any record that is maintained by James Madison High School in its educational process. Transcripts or a grade report would be examples of this.

HSSH1.1-120901

41

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Directory Information FERPA does allow institutions to declare certain items to be defined as “Directory Information.”

Directory Information can be given out without the prior consent of

the eligible student or parent. For James Madison High School, Directory Information includes the following: •

Name

•

Dates of Attendance

•

Major

•

Degree Awarded, if any

•

Distinction (Honors, Dean’s List, etc)

Students may request that their Directory Information be made private. Information that has not been declared Directory Information will require a release from the student before it can be shared. Examples of Confidential Information Examples of confidential information are below, although this is not an exhaustive list. •

Grades

•

GPA

•

E-mail Address

•

Phone Number

HSSH1.1-120901

42

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

NonDiscrimination Policy James Madison High School is committed to providing an environment that is free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, or veteran status in its educational programs, activities, and/or employment practices. If any student, teacher, staff, or applicant has a question or concern regarding compliance with this policy, that person may direct the question or concern to the Director of Student Services.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT James Madison High School complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and subsequent amendments. It is the policy of James Madison High School not to exclude or deny individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in, and have access to, educational program benefits and services. The ADA does not require modifications or adjustments that would fundamentally alter the nature of the education or the learning outcomes of a course or degree program being sought, lower the academic standards, or compromise the integrity of the school, department, or program. The ADA does not require an institution to bear undue hardship which includes any action that is unduly costly, extensive, or disruptive. James Madison High School grants reasonable accommodations to qualified students with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations are granted with documented proof of the claimed disability as long as the accommodation does not compromise essential requirements of a course or a program of study, and/or does not impose a financial istrative burden beyond what is deemed reasonable and customary. To qualify for , students must complete and submit the James Madison High School Verification of Disability Form, available on the Student Portal, in this High School Catalog, and in the Student Handbook.

HSSH1.1-120901

43

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Student Identity Verification Procedures Student Identification Numbers Student numbers are issued to specific people for the purpose of conducting James Madison High School business. It is the responsibility of the student to protect the ID from other people learning of it or using it. Any abuse of these numbers (including obtaining for malicious use or attempting to obtain for malicious use, and false identification or attempted false identification) shall be cause for permanent dismissal from James Madison High School. (See Academic Honesty Policy) Student Portal Access Students are required to create a to access the Ashworth Community and Student Portal. The Student Portal is where a student can view his or her Academic and Personal records and should only be accessed by the student on the . Students should protect their from others and not share it with anyone else. School employees do not know the student’s and can only reset it upon request. If the is reset, the student will be instructed to create a new one before he or she is able to access his or her . eBooks James Madison uses CourseSmart to deliver all eBooks in its courses. Students will be required to create a separate for their eBook the first time they access their eBook . School employees do not know student s and cannot reset them. Students who forget their or need it reset will need to CourseSmart directly. E-mail James Madison will use the e-mail listed on the student’s to send Academic and School updates. These communications can be personal in nature and for this reason we recommend that students use an e-mail that is not shared with others. Student Verification If James Madison suspects that a student’s has been compromised, we may block access until we have verified the student’s identity. This process is done only to protect the student’s interest. Students are responsible for all comments, exams, and assignments posted on their . If a student believes that his or her was compromised by someone else, he or she must change the immediately and notify the school.

HSSH1.1-120901

44

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Complaint Procedures Student Complaint Policy Student complaints should be brought to the attention of the college in an informal fashion. Informal resolution includes, but is not exclusive of, communication with academic advisors, student representatives, faculty, or with a department or institution representative in question. Many issues can be resolved informally once the college is aware of the concern. It is important to keep documents and records that provide evidence of any issue. If informal steps do not resolve the issue, the next step is the formal process. After exhausting informal means to a resolution, the student can submit a Student Complaint Form to the appropriate department representative as per the instructions on the form. This form is available on the Student Portal, in this College Academic Catalog, and in the Student Handbook. To file a complaint with James Madison High School, students must submit the Student Complaint Form, preferably via e-mail, within 30 days of occurrence of the issue or event.

Complaints regarding istrative, financial, technical, student

service, or community issues should be sent to the Director of Student Services. Complaints regarding faculty/academic advisor performance, program content, program effectiveness, or library services should be directed to the Chief Academic Officer.

For complaints about grades, students should follow the Grade Challenge

Policy.

All complaints regarding harassment on the basis of gender, race, color,

religion, national origin, age, disability, or sexual orientation should be directed to the Chief Academic Officer. information is included in the Student Complaint Form, located on the Student Portal, in this College Academic Catalog, and in the Student Handbook. Upon submission of a complaint form and any ing documents, the student will be notified of any outcome of an official review and determination within 30 days after James Madison High School receives the complaint. All documents will become a permanent part of a student’s record. If the student believes that the proposed resolution was unsatisfactory, students may follow the Student Grievance Policy.

HSSH1.1-120901

45

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Student Grievance Policy A grievance may arise out of a decision reached or action taken by a member of the faculty, staff, or istration of James Madison High School. A basic grievance is that the college has violated a published policy. The Student Grievance Policy does not include grade appeals. The purpose of the Student Grievance Policy is to provide a process for an impartial review and to ensure that the rights of students are properly recognized and protected. The first step to resolve a grievance is to ensure that all informal and formal channels of resolution have been exhausted first per the Student Complaint Policy. If the student believes that the resolution received was unsatisfactory, the student may the agencies below.

Please note that these agencies require that a

complainant work with the institution first to exhaust all avenues for resolution.

Georgia state agency: Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission (NPEC) 2082 East Exchange Place, Suite 220, Tucker, GA 30084

Distance Education Training Council (DETC): DETC: online at www.detc.org.

Better Business Bureau: BBB BBB: online at www.bbb.org.

HSSH1.1-120901

46

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Termination Policy TERMINATION FOR NOT ING 8TH GRADE Students under the age of 18 must supply proof that they have ed the 8th grade and/or were promoted to the 9th grade. Students who are unable to provide proof will be unable to continue with the program; termination will be according to the contract between the student and the school. TERMINATION FOR GRADES James Madison High School strives to provide all of our students with all of the skills expected of a high school graduate. With this in mind, JMHS has adopted academic standards that we expect all of our students to maintain. Failure to meet these academic standards may result in academic termination for grades. Students who fail four or more lessons in the Introductory Course will automatically be subject to academic termination for grades. Students in the General and Career Programs are expected to earn a “C” or higher in each course. Students in the College Preparatory program are expected to earn a “B” or higher in each course. If a student falls below these standards, a JMHS Student Advisor will review the student’s performance and place the student on academic probation, require a switch to General (for College Prep students) or consider academic termination for grades. Students who are terminated for grades have the opportunity to appeal for reenrollment. If you decide to appeal, please JMHS and a letter will be sent to you defining the guidelines of a proper appeal. If you are terminated for grades a second time, no appeal for re-enrollment will be allowed. If we terminate you due to exceptionally poor academic performance, you may be entitled to a refund or you may owe the school additional tuition. This is based on the number of lessons you’ve completed and the tuition you’ve paid. Any amount you owe or are due will be determined by the Tuition Protection Agreement printed on the back of our Enrollment Agreement. The Enrollment Agreement is a contract you have signed with the school, and it follows the guidelines of the Distance Education and Training Council. Any credits earned will be awarded only when all applicable fees are paid in full. Only the school, at its discretion, can initiate the academic termination procedure.

HSSH1.1-120901

47

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

TERMINATION FOR INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT James Madison High School expects all students to communicate with the school in a courteous manner. No calls, e-mails, or written communication may be made in a profane manner. No work submitted for grading may contain profanity or be of an inappropriate subject. Parents and/or guardians may speak on the behalf of minors. Students may not impersonate their parent/guardian on the phone, or in any form of correspondence. JMHS is an educational institution. Please be sure that your e-mail address is appropriate for use in a school. If it is not, we will request that you change to one that is appropriate or to not use e-mail. Any student violating the above policies will be terminated from the program. Termination fees will be determined by the Enrollment Agreement between the student and the school. Any credits earned will be awarded only when all fees are paid in full. A transcript will not be sent until all fees are paid in full. TERMINATION FOR ACADEMIC DISHONESTY Academic dishonesty will result in the following consequences. 1.

Academic termination may result immediately.

2.

Students will not receive any credits earned with James Madison High School.

3.

A student who is terminated for academic dishonesty will be required to pay any applicable cancellation fees per the Enrollment Agreement.

4.

The student may not reenroll in James Madison High School.

HSSH1.1-120901

48

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

High School diploma programs STUDY TRACKS When you enrolled, you selected the General Diploma Program, or College Preparatory Diploma Program. All programs are aligned to the state of Georgia requirements and the Common Core Standards. 

GENERAL Track: 23 cREDITS

•

The General Track is for students who want to earn a high school diploma and intend to continue their education at a community college or technical school. Many community colleges will accept students with a general diploma. However, JMHS suggests that you the college of your choice to ask about the ission requirements. It is important to know at the beginning of your JMHS program the classes that you need, not at the end.

•

The general diploma program can be completed in two to three years if a steady work pace is set. Each student is allowed four years from the date of enrollment to finish.



College Preparatory Track: 23 creditS •

The College Preparatory Track is for students who plan to continue their education at a postsecondary institution. It offers more challenges, demands more of the high school student, and has written assignments, research projects, and more problem-solving assignments.

•

The college preparatory diploma program can be completed in three to four years if a steady work pace is set. Each student is allowed four years from the date of enrollment to finish.

In extenuating circumstances, a student may apply for a six-month extension beyond four years to complete a diploma program. Approval is at the discretion of the Academic Principal of James Madison High School.

HSSH1.1-120901

49

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

General Track

College Preparatory Track

23 Credits*

23 Credits*

Introduction To High School

Introduction To High School

Health

Health

Pre-Algebra

Algebra I

English I

English I

Vocabulary Studies

Biology

Open Elective**

Reading and Literature

American History

Spanish I

Physical Science

American History

English II

Geometry

Algebra I

English II

Personal Finance

Chemistry

Open Elective**

Spanish II

U.S. Gov. and Economics

Vocabulary Studies

Biology

Algebra II

English III

U.S. Gov. and Economics

Geometry

English III

Public Speaking

Personal Finance

World History

Physics

Earth Science

World History

English IV

Pre-Calculus

Algebra II

English IV

Open Elective**

Open Elective**

Open Elective**

Earth Science

*

Course are delivered in 2 parts, each .5 credits.

**

We have selected courses for your electives; you may choose other courses on the Student Portal using the list provided on the portal.

HSSH1.1-120901

50

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

OPEN ELECTIVES Below are courses you may choose for your elective choices. The courses in bold are the courses we have recommended and have preselected for your program. If you would like you change these selections, please visit the Student Portal and make your selection. General Track

College Prep Track

Career Track

Reading and Literature

Geography

Reading and Literature

Pre-Calculus

Spanish III

Geometry

Spanish I

Algebra II

Spanish II

Pre-Calculus

Spanish III

Spanish I

Geography

Spanish II

Chemistry

Spanish III

Physics

Geography

ing

Chemistry

Introduction to Sales

Introduction to Sales

Fitness

Fitness

Nutrition

If you plan to attend college after graduation, please consult with their registrar to get information on what courses you should take as your electives. We selected language courses based on our knowledge of what is typically expected on High School Graduates; however some programs may want you to take more science and math courses.

HSSH1.1-120901

51

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

GRADUATION GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS To earn a high school diploma from JAMES MADISON HIGH SCHOOL, you must meet the following requirements:

• •

You must complete at least five courses with JAMES MADISON HIGH SCHOOL.

•

You must all courses.

•

You must meet all of your financial obligations with JAMES MADISON HIGH

You must complete 23 credits.

SCHOOL by paying your balance in full. •

You must be enrolled in the program for more than 6 months.

GRADUATION ITEMS Upon graduation, you will receive the following: •

Diploma (usually in 2-3 weeks)

•

Unofficial transcript (usually in 2-3 weeks)

•

Ring (you will be sent information on how to order your ring as you near graduation. After you graduate, the ring will be delivered in 8-10 weeks.)

GRADUATION WITH HONORS Students who graduate with 3.0 or higher will be eligible for James Madison’s Honor Society and will receive special recognition on their diploma. GRADUATION CEREMONY Starting in 2007, James Madison began a tradition of celebrating and honoring the achievements of our graduates in a yearly graduation ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia. Every year, hundreds of students make the journey to receive their high school and career diplomas, undergraduate and graduate certificates, and associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Information on graduation is posted on the JMHS Web site early in the year for the summer celebration. Please note that the graduation date changes each year.

Students eligible to graduate must meet the graduation requirements for their HSSH1.1-120901

52

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

specific programs. In order to walk across the stage and receive their degree, diploma, or certificate, students must with JMHS, reserve a cap and gown through James Madison High School, and participate in the graduation rehearsal.



JMHS Career Services

There are at least three ways that James Madison provides career services. JMHS provides the Ashworth Career Center resources. And, the Ashworth Community is a place to connect with others who have similar career interests.

Career Search Manual See Career Search Manual available in career course materials.

Career Center http://www.ashworthcollege.edu/resources/career-center/

Career Articles http://www.ashworthcollege.edu/resources/career-center/articles/ Get tips on writing your resume and cover letter, learn the dos and don'ts of interviews, and read about exciting new career possibilities.

Career Profiles http://www.ashworthcollege.edu/resources/career-center/career-profiles/ Ever wonder what you could do with your degree? Get information on the jobs available to individuals with your education and experience.

Salary Stats http://www.ashworthcollege.edu/resources/career-center/salary-stats/ Learn your salary potential with earnings estimates based on occupations and years of experience.

Career Outlook Guide http://www.ashworthcollege.edu/resources/career-center/career-outlook-guide/ View up-and-coming career trends, learn the training and education needed, find out what workers do on the job, assess working conditions, and more.

HSSH1.1-120901

53

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Delta Epsilon Tau Honor Society hip http://www.ashworthcollege.edu/community/alumni/delta-epsilon-tau/ Graduating JMHS students who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher can be nominated for hip in Delta Epsilon Tau, an international honor society. ASHWORTH COMMUNITY JMHS offers its students and alumni access to a career job board, program, and interest-specific groups and fields within its online Community. Participation is voluntary.

Job Board http://community.ashworthcollege.edu/community/career-services/job-board

Groups http://community.ashworthcollege.edu/groups

Fields http://community.ashworthcollege.edu/community/fields

HSSH1.1-120901

54

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

Teachers and Qualifications

Sherri Billings, M.A., Kennesaw State University State of Georgia Educator Certificate GACE Skills Test I, II & III and Mathematics 022 & 023 Sherri has been working with students in all areas of math since 1999. In addition to her teaching experience, she started a satellite GED prep program and has earned a Master’s degree in Teaching Mathematics. Bryan Carver, B.S., University of Georgia State of Georgia Educator Certificate – T-4, Secondary Science grades 7-12 Bryan is one of James Madison’s original teachers and has over 10 years of teaching experience in Biology, Chemistry, Computers, Health, Marine Science, and Physical Science. Ingrid Herrmann, M.D., Guadalajara Medical School, MPH Florida International University Ingrid has over 10 years of teaching experience in Biology, Chemistry, and, in addition to her teaching Biology at James Madison, she is a College Professor of Microbiology and Nutrition at Santa Fe College. Merrol Moore, B.S., Kennesaw State University State of Georgia Educator Certificate T-4 English 6-12 Merrol has over 10 years of classroom experience teaching English and was winner of the 2009 Fulton County Schools Collaboration Award. In addition, she is a member of Sigma Tau Delta (English Honor Society), Phi Kappa Phi, and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Andy Pasarilla, M.Ed, Piedmont College State of Georgia Educator Certificate – T-6, Comprehensive Social Science Grades 7-12 Andy has distinguished himself in the classroom, receiving nominations for Teacher of the Year three times and is listed in Who’s Who among American High School Teachers. Andy has taught Geography, Economics, and American Government.

HSSH1.1-120901

55

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Leslie Retchko, M.A., Armstrong Atlantic University State of Georgia Educator Certificate Math GACE Test 022, 023 Leslie’s core belief is that every student has the ability to excel academically. She has over 20 years of experience in teaching math and is one of the original teachers of James Madison. Angela Ruff, B.S.E., Western Illinois University State of Georgia Educator Certificate, Spanish (P-12), ESOL Endorsement Angela has taught Spanish for over 20 years at all levels. She has spent time in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Peru, studying the language, and has a ion for teaching. Eric Schlegel, M.Div, Vanderbilt University State of Georgia Educator Certificate – Math (6-12) Eric has extensive experience in delivering differentiated math instruction to students utilizing a variety of assessment tools, utilization of technology, cooperative learning strategies, investigative learning activities, motivational strategies, and questioning techniques. Emily White, M.A., Miami University (OH) Certificates: RICA, CSET, CBEST Emily is also a Graduate Assistant at the University of South Carolina. She has a love for literature and is a ionate and imaginative communicator. She has taught Journalism and English in High School and College-level classes.

HSSH1.1-120901

56

James Madison High School



2012 Student Handbook

COURSES COURSE SPECIFICS The following is a list of all James Madison High School courses and whether they are required or may be chosen as an elective in the two diploma programs. JMHS will choose all of your courses and set up your program of study after your transcript has been evaluated but you will have the option to change one or several courses or leave your schedule as it is. Items you will need to provide are also listed, if applicable. You should not choose a course if you do not have or have access to the items needed. Science laboratory courses are offered for an extra fee. Students must have had or be taking the corresponding science course to be eligible to take the laboratory class. If students are going to a postsecondary institute after high school graduation, please ask if a laboratory course is required. Most colleges do require laboratory science courses. These classes are extra electives and do not count in the number of electives listed for each diploma program. Please JMHS for more information.

HSSH1.1-120901

57

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

BUSINESS AND LIFE SKILLS

ing Using examples from the business world to illustrate concepts, ing I will provide an introduction to ing before focusing on the basic ing cycle, and ing for payroll systems. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: CE021, CE022 Course Area: Business Course Type: Academic/General

Personal Finance Personal Finance explores one of the most important aspects of life planning. This course covers a variety of topics including Income Tax Planning, Consumer Credit, Insurance, Investments and Retirement planning. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: CE011, CE012 Course Area: Business Course Type: Academic/General

Introduction to Sales Sales careers enable student to not only be able to sell any product with ease, but have the confidence to approach total strangers and make a connection with them. This course is for anyone interested in a Sales career or just wants to learn skills to help in all aspects of business. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: CE021, CE022 Course Area: Business Course Type: Academic/General

HSSH1.1-120901

58

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Fitness This course teaches the importance of Exercise and Wellness. Topics include Cardiovascular Fitness, Flexibility, Body Mechanics, Diet and Weight Management. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: CE051, CE052 Course Area: Life Skills Course Type: Academic/General

Nutrition This Course will introduce student to healthy eating and what is in the food student eat. The topics that will be covered include: Nutritional Guidelines, Vitamins, Minerals, Food Safety and eating for peak performance. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: CE061, CE062 Course Area: Life Skills Course Type: Academic/General

Introduction to High School An introduction to the policies of James Madison High School and the skills necessary to be a successful distance learner. This High School Course is only offered as part of the College Prep Diploma program and the General Diploma program. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: JM011, JM012 Course Area: Life Skills Course Type: Academic/General

HSSH1.1-120901

59

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Spanish I Achieve proficiency in basic Spanish spelling, vocabulary, grammar and punctuation with the goal of engaging in simple conversations, expressing oneself in common situations, writing in Spanish and understanding Spanish dialogue. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and hand graded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: LA021, LA022 Course Area: Foreign Language Course Type: Academic/College Prep

Spanish II Intermediate study of fundamental Spanish, with emphasis on grammatical structures and conversation. Prerequisite: Spanish I. General Program elective; three language courses required for College Prep Program. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: LA031, LA032 Course Area: Foreign Language Course Type: Academic/College Prep

Spanish III Advanced study of fundamental Spanish, with emphasis on grammatical structures and conversation. Prerequisite: Two years of Spanish. General Program elective; three language courses required for College Prep Program. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: LA041, LA042 Course Area: Foreign Language Course Type: Academic/College Prep

HSSH1.1-120901

60

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

LANGUAGE ARTS English I An examination of classical and contemporary non-fiction, poetry, short stories, drama, and novels, focusing on the integration of the three fundamental disciplines of language arts: literature, grammar, and composition. Skills are developed through a series of writing assignments. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN011 and EN012 Course Area: English Course Type: General

English for Life and Work II

A continuation of English for Life and Work I, which builds on the foundations, set in the first course, through further examination of popular literature genres. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN021, EN022 Course Area: English Course Type: General

English for Life and Work III

Follows English for Life and Work II, emphasizing the analysis of American literature, including short stories, novels, non-fiction, poetry, and drama and a review of grammar, usage, and composition. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN031, EN032 Course Area: English Course Type: General

HSSH1.1-120901

61

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

English for Life and Work IV The final course in the series, including readings and study of additional selections of classical and contemporary literature. Includes review lessons in grammar and composition. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN041, EN042 Course Area: English Course Type: General

College Preparatory English I The techniques involved in the creation of various genres and styles of literature. Includes readings from myths, fables, novels, drama, and biography, with attention to the use of grammatical structures, vocabulary, and theme development. Includes essay assignments. Students read a novel and use it in a project. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN051, EN052 Course Area: English Course Type: Academic/College Prep

College Preparatory English II An examination of the genres, writing techniques, themes, and styles associated with fine literature. Emphasis is on vocabulary and writing skill development. Includes essay assignments. Students read a novel and use it in a project. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN061, EN062 Course Area: English Course Type: Academic/College Prep

HSSH1.1-120901

62

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

College Preparatory English III The literary genres, themes, and styles of American Literature. Grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills are developed through exercises and are assessed through required essay exams. Students read a novel and use it in a project. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN071, EN072 Course Area: English Course Type: Academic/College Prep

College Preparatory English IV A chronologically organized study of the genres, themes, and styles of British Literature. Literary techniques, grammar, vocabulary, and writing skills are developed through exercises and are assessed through required essay exams. Students read a novel and use it in a project.

This course includes multiple choice

exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams.

Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: EN081, EN082 Course Area: English Course Type: Academic/College Prep

Reading/Literature A study of short stories, novels, non-fiction, poetry, and drama from American and European literature. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: JM021, JM022 Course Area: English Course Type: General

HSSH1.1-120901

63

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Vocabulary Studies Study the Greek and Latin bases, prefixes, and suffixes that serve as the foundation for so much of our language. Etymological, or root, meanings of words are analyzed and compared to current meanings and usages. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: JM031, JM032 Course Area: English Course Type: Academic/General

HSSH1.1-120901

64

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

MATHEMATICS

Pre-Algebra Making the transition from concrete arithmetic to the abstract concepts of Algebra I and Geometry. This course includes multiple choice exams that can be taken online and handgraded exams. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: MA021, MA022 Course Area: Mathematics Course Type: General

Algebra I The fundamentals of algebraic and geometric problem solving are explained. Common Core standards are taught and reinforced as the student learns how to apply the concepts in real life situations Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: MA031, MA032 Course Area: Mathematics Course Type: General/Academic

Algebra II Intermediate algebra and geometry, with introductory trigonometry and algebraic concepts. Common Core standards are taught and reinforced as the student learns how to apply the concepts in real life situations. Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: MA051, MA052 Course Area: Mathematics Course Type: General/Academic

HSSH1.1-120901

65

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Pre-Calculus A foundation for success in calculus, beginning with a review of algebra, geometry, and the basics of trigonometry and upper level algebraic concepts. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. Prerequisites: Algebra II. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: MA061, MA062 Course Area: Mathematics Course Type: Academic/College Prep

General Mathematics Fundamental mathematical concepts encoming whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percents, and measurement, as well as solving and using equations. Mathematical problem-solving is integrated with real-world situations to make the exploration of math a relevant experience. Sets the stage for the study of Algebra, Geometry, and beyond. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: MA011, MA012 Course Area: Mathematics Course Type: General

Geometry An advanced course covering geometric figures, master proofs, theorems, and other geometric concepts. Prerequisite: Algebra I. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: MA041, MA042 Course Area: Mathematics Course Type: General/Academic

HSSH1.1-120901

66

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

SCIENCE Biology In-depth coverage of biology topics related to the characteristics, behaviors, growth and development, and classifications of living things. Students think critically about the earth’s natural environment and appreciate the diversity and interactions of life forms, including humans. Scientific methods related to theories and hypotheses, experimentation, and data gathering techniques are taught with a view toward realworld applications. Lab course is separate. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC041,SC042-General, SC051,SC052-Academic Course Area: Science Course Type: General/Academic

Chemistry Understanding chemical principles through experimental observations and data, and how these principles can be used to explain phenomena in daily life. Lab course is separate. Lab course is separate. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC081, SC082 Course Area: Science Course Type: Academic/College Prep

Physics Theoretical and practical physics, challenging the student to understand the realistic balance between theory and practical applications of key concepts. Lab course is separate. Lab course is separate. Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC091,SC092 Course Area: Science Course Type: Academic/College Prep HSSH1.1-120901

67

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Health Science Issues in social, mental, physical, and nutritional health, providing a foundation on which to make decisions that promote well-being. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: JM051, JM052 Course Area: Science Course Type: Academic/General

Physical Science A conceptual approach to understanding physical science concepts and how they relate to everyday life and the world around us. Lab course is separate. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC021, SC022 Course Area: Science Course Type: General/Academic

Earth Science A fascinating exploration of earth science principles and how they relate to everyday life experiences and observations, introducing fundamental concepts of geology, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC031, SC032 Course Area: Science Course Type: General

HSSH1.1-120901

68

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

SCIENCE LABS

Physical Science Lab Kit Hands-on exercises and safe experiments that demonstrate the fundamental chemistry and physics principles learned in Physical Science. Some equipment is provided, with students providing common materials found at home. Extra credit elective for either Program; additional fee required Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC20 Course Area: Science

Biology Lab Kit Development of the scientific literacy and inquiry associated with biology. The scientific method is demonstrated through various activities including analysis, dissections, and microscope probes. Some equipment is provided, with students providing common materials found at home. Extra credit elective for either Program; additional fee required Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC21 Course Area: Science

Chemistry Lab Kit A reinforcement of the principles of chemistry through laboratory experiments, emphasizing the formation of conclusions by observation...data collection, analysis, and interpretation...and manipulating apparatus. Some equipment is provided, with students providing common materials found at home. Extra credit elective for either Program; additional fee required Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC22 Course Area: Science

HSSH1.1-120901

69

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Physics Lab Kit Key principles of physics demonstrated through a variety of exercises and safe experiments. Some equipment is provided, with students providing common materials found at home. Extra credit elective for either Program; additional fee required Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SC23 Course Area: Science

HSSH1.1-120901

70

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

SOCIAL STUDIES

General World History An in-depth study of our global community’s past, emphasizing the people and events that changed past societies and how these changes affect our modern society. Additional skills learned throughout the course will culminate in one final research project. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SS051, SS052 Course Area: Social Studies Course Type: General/Academic

American History A thematic approach to the history of America, with themes drawn from the social science disciplines, provides an understanding of how past events affect us today. Additional skills learned throughout the course will culminate in one final research project. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SS031, SS032- General, SS041, SS042- Academic Course Area: Social Studies Course Type: General/Academic

American Government and Economics An in-depth examination of the political system in the United States, and how American citizens practice free enterprise to produce, exchange, and consumer goods and services in a democracy. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SS011, SS012- General, SS021, SS022- Academic Course Area: Social Studies Course Type: General/Academic

71

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

World Geography Exploration of the earth’s physical features and the humans, animals, and plants that inhabit the planet. Examine the origins and interactions of people, places, and things and discover why and how physical and human features occur and how their interactions have shaped countries and culture. Emphasis is placed on understanding and interpreting geographic and environmental data to make practical solutions for a better future. Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SS071, SS072 Course Area: Social Studies Course Type: General/Academic

College Preparatory World History An in-depth study of our global community’s past, emphasizing the people and events that changed past societies and how these changes affect our modern society.

Credits: 1 Unit Course ID: SS061, SS062 Course Area: Social Studies Course Type: General

72

James Madison High School

2012 Student Handbook

Appendix The following forms are provided here. Grade Challenge Form Student Complaint Form Transcript Request Form Additional forms can be requested by emailing: [email protected]

73

GRADE CHALLENGE FORM Please review the Grade Challenge Policy and Procedures. This Grade Challenge Form is only to be used with regard to the course final grade. Grade challenges on a final course grade must be initiated within three (3) weeks of the final grade posting date. Grade challenges may not be appealed beyond the Chief Academic Officer. The process begins with the original faculty member. The student must discuss the challenge with the faculty member who issued the grade. If a satisfactory solution cannot be found, the student may submit a Grade Challenge Form to the Registrar’s Office. After reviewing the Grade Challenge Form and ing documentation for completeness, the form will be forwarded to the Chief Academic Officer. The Chief Academic Officer consults with the faculty member in an attempt to resolve the challenge. In most cases, however, the faculty member's decision is final unless the Chief Academic Officer determines that extenuating circumstances warrant a grade change. A resolution to the situation and/or the grade change will be made in consultation with the faculty member. It is the student’s responsibility to provide the necessary information to the challenge. Examples of necessary information include: Medical verification if exception is due to illness, copies of any documentation to substantiate the request being made, e.g. e-mails. If any type of documentation or recommendation is missing, the form will be returned to you for completion. The Grade Challenge Form and accompanying documentation should be emailed to the Registrar’s Office at [email protected] or faxed to the Registrar at 770-417-3030. Please include the completed signed form and any ing documentation. Please Note: Upon submission of a Grade Challenge Form and any ing documents, faculty may be notified for their perspective and made aware of documents. STUDENT INFORMATION: Student Name: ___________________________________

Student Number: ________________

COURSE INFORMATION: Course ID: _______________________________

Section ID: _______________________________

Course Start Date: _________________________

Course End Date: __________________________

Number of Weeks in Course: _________________

Points Earned/Total Points in Course: __________

Faculty: _________________________________

Final Course Grade: ________________________

PETITION: Justification – No request will be considered without providing detailed reasons why you believe you have received an improper grade and / or why your grade should be reconsidered. Your response should reflect mastery of written communication at the appropriate level.

Student Signature ___________________________________________ Date __________________ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR JMHS OFFICIAL USE ONLY: Request Approved

Request Denied

Final Grade: __________ Action Taken and Outcome:

Chief Academic Officer Signature ______________________________

Form GCF120511

1

Date __________________

STUDENT COMPLAINT FORM Please review the Student Complaint Policy and Procedure. This Student Complaint Form is to be completed by a student who has exhausted other informal efforts to a resolution with any Ashworth College/JMHS staff. This form needs to be sent to Ashworth College in writing within 30 days of the occurrence. Additional forms are available on/through the learning management system. Student Complaint Forms and ing documents need to be directed to the appropriate email provided: • istrative issues, financial issues, technical issues, student service issues, or community issues. Send form to: [email protected] Upon submission of a Student Complaint Form and any ing documents, student will be notified of any outcome of an official review and determination within 30 days after Ashworth College receives the complaint. All documents will become a permanent part of the student’s record. If the student feels the proposed resolution is unsatisfactory, the student may follow the Student Grievance Policy. Please see our Student Grievance Policy for further information. STUDENT INFORMATION: Date: __________

Student ID: ____________

E-mail: _________________________________ Subject of Complaint: istrative ing Document Attached: Yes

Student Name: _____________________ Phone Number: ____________________

Instructional

Other

No

Complaint Information – Please provide a clear statement with detailed information of your complaint. Include information such as dates, staff whom you have worked with, reason for your complaint, etc. If more space is needed, please continue on another sheet.

Student Signature ___________________________________________

Date __________________

Student Name: ______________________________________________________________________

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR AC/JMHS OFFICIAL USE ONLY: COMPLAINT VERIFIED

COMPLAINT NOT VERIFIED

Action Taken and Outcome:

Ashworth College/JMHS Staff Signature ______________________________________

Form SCF120625

2

Date ___________

Transcript Request Form Instructions for the Student Please fill out this form and send the completed form to your previous High School If your school requires a fee to issue a transcript please include it with this form to avoid any delay.

Instructions for the School Please send an official copy of the student’s transcript listed below to: James Madison High School P.O. Box 923147 Norcross, GA 30010-3147 Please include a school profile and course description, if available. The student listed below is responsible for any fees for this service Student Name: _______________________ Student Number: JM______________ Birth Date: ___/___/_____

SSN#:_________________________

Phone #: ________________ Maiden Name or Name when attending previous School: _________________________

Name of previous School: ____________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________

State: _____ Zip:______________

Enrolled from _________ to __________

Phone: __________________

Student Signature: _________________

Date: ___/___/_____

James Madison High School P.O. Box 923147 Norcross, GA 30010-3147 Ph: 770-729-8400 Fax: 770-729-8578

James Madison High School

July 2012