In the Program of Studies you will find the information you need to make your course selections for the coming school year.  This information includes an index of courses, course descriptions, and graduation requirements.We wish to emphasize the importance of choosing courses carefully.The courses that students select are used to create the master schedule.

We suggest the following procedure to ensure that the student makes the best possible choices.

If you have any questions about any aspect of this registration process, please call the Guidance Office at 229-8734 for assistance.

1. Parents and students should read this Program of Studies carefully before choosing courses.

2. Students will be asked to list one or two alternative courses in case any of their original choices are not offered because of insufficient enrollment or conflicts.

3. Students and parents should review graduation requirements and post-high school plans with their guidance counselor to ensure that theychoose their courses correctly.
 

Index

HEALTH/WELLNESS

930 WELLNESS FOR LIFE I - GRADE 9 PE/Health
931 WELLNESS FOR LIFE II - GRADE 10 PE/Careers
Required for students who are not enrolled in a world language class
.5 credit per semester

This unified wellness course combines health and physical education.  Students will divide their time between the classroom and the gym.  This two-year program stresses active participation, decision making, principles of a healthy lifestyle, awareness of health and safety practices, and building positive relationships.  Topics include nutrition, human sexuality, substance use and abuse, personal fitness, diseases, first aid, and CPR.  A wide variety of individual and team activities provide opportunities for development of skills, a knowledge of sports’ rules, and development of sportsmanship and fair play.  Tenth graders will have a school-to-career exploration experience.
 

940 FITNESS FOR WELL-BEING
Grades 10-11
1.0 credit

Students in this course will be provided with information on how to enhance their lives through exercise and a balanced diet.  In the classroom, cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, nutrition, and weight control are among the topics to be discussed.  Physical Education classes in the gym will emphasize lifetime sports and activities including daily fitness.  Activities include hiking, bowling, adapted team games, orienteering, frisbee, and stress management.  Students will also be able to determine their own individual levels of physical fitness through a standardized fitness program.  Grades in this course are based on active participation, mastery of course materials determined through quizzes, journals, and some other written homework.  All field trips will be during the class period.
 

908 ADVANCED CONDITIONING AND FITNESS
Grades 11-12, 10th graders only with instructor approval
1.0 credit

Students in this course will learn, explain, and participate in an advanced program focusing on cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition.  Students will design individual fitness profiles and set realistic goals.  They will then plan and take part in activities that will help them reach these goals.  Grades in this course will depend on the students’ progress toward meeting their goals and mastery of course materials.  Grades will be evaluated through daily entries in a workbook, journal entries, and several quizzes.  Classes will be divided between the classroom and the gym.  Students must be self-motivated to participate fully in an individual fitness program.

811  FOODS AND NUTRITION
Grades 9-12
1.0 credit

Basic nutrition concepts and cooking skills, including the purchase, preparation, and service of foods, form the core of this offering.  Foreign and regional cooking, career opportunities, and special interest topics provide added opportunities for exploration.  Technology (including computer analysis of menus, diets and recipes, videotaping of student lab projects, and use of the Internet), field trips to various markets and restaurants, guest speakers, cooking labs, demonstrations, and taste-testing sessions provide hands-on experiences.  All experiences are subject to class size and student needs.  Homework will be dependent on the unit of study but may involve research, reading, planning, and carrying out projects/presentations, and studying for quizzes/tests.  All homework is graded and counts toward the course grade.  Class participation is a major part of the grade.  Be prepared to participate.
 

812  SKILLS FOR LIFE
Grades 10-12
1.0 credit

This course will help each student to develop a personal profile and see how personal relationships can be developed and enhanced as one becomes an independent young adult.  Topics will include setting realistic goals, exploring various lifestyles, and the many skills of the consumer, citizen, worker, spouse, friend, and parent.  The development of decision-making skills centers around careers, budgeting, housing, transportation, food selection and preparation, and parenting.  By participating in simulations, and computer projects, the student will gain skills that can be used for a lifetime.  Parenting skills will be developed by working in the Eaglet Preschool Program for a period of time.  Homework will be related to personal needs and some family involvement will be requested for areas such as budgeting, housing, insurance, etc.  Assignments will include research, interviews, discussions, projects, and reading.  Class participation is essential to this course.
 

813  CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND PARENTING
Grades 9-12
1.0 credit

Students will learn the choices parents must make prior to conceiving a child in order to meet the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social needs of the child from conception through age five.  “Baby Think It Over” (a computerized doll), research, computer/media work, and working with the preschool children in the Eaglet Preschool Program  will assist students in learning about discipline, stages of development, and crises in children’s lives.  Homework will require regular reading assignments, written observations, projects, presentations, and research work as appropriate.  One major assignment is caring for “Baby Think It Over” for a period of 3-4 days and nights with accompanying written assignments.

814  NURSERY SCHOOL I
Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Child Development
1.0 credit

This class will allow students the opportunity to apply knowledge acquired in the Child Development and Parenting course in a practical way.  Emphasis is placed on planning and working with pre-school children in the Eaglet Preschool Program operated by the department.  Each student will be involved in planning, teaching, supervising, observing, and assessing the children in various situations including story time, craft, rhythm, exercise, circle times, and outdoor activities.  Homework in this course will include reading, research, writing, and practical applications of material.  The student must have completed the Child Development course
 

815  NURSERY SCHOOL II
Grades 11&12
Prerequisite: Child Development /Nursery School I
1.0 credit

This class is a continuation of Nursery School I and will involve the student in a more supervisory role.  The students will assist in planning and carrying out lessons, developing units, carrying other public relation tasks, and acting as mentors for Nursery School I students.  There will be readings accompanied by written reports and a major project focusing on designing a child care center.  We will be using child care books, videos, and articles by professionals to discuss current topics which will prepare the student for further education and work in this field.
 

NOTE: STUDENTS MAY REGISTER FOR NURSERY SCHOOL I
OR NURSERY SCHOOL II - NOT BOTH

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OCCUPATIONAL EDUCATION

990 INTERNSHIP PROGRAM  Semester 1
991 INTERNSHIP PROGRAM  Semester 2
Grades 11 & 12
1.0 credit per semester

This program is for the student who desires to learn about a career or wants to develop specific skills related to a vocation that is not taught in the school program.  The internship arrangement is carefully structured with a written learning contract detailing the course outline and specific objectives.  Students receive credits toward graduation but do not receive monetary payment.  Interested individuals should obtain the necessary application form from their guidance counselor.
 

920 FOOD SERVICE  Semester 1
921 FOOD SERVICE  Semester 2
Grades 11 & 12
10:00 AM to 12:40 PM
2.0 credits per semester

This program is intended to provide training in all aspects of the restaurant business.  Students can expect to be involved in cooking, baking, and dining room service.  A fast food segment has been added for the second year student to gain experience in menu planning, purchasing, and management of a small operation.  The program has a one and two-year curriculum.  After completion of the program, students will have the skills to be employed in a related field or pursue further education in culinary arts or management at a post-high school facility.  Classes are held at Great Beginnings, a restaurant in the center of Great Barrington.  Through the Tech Prep agreement students can earn college credit for this course if they enroll in the Culinary Arts Program at Berkshire Community College.

914 ALLIED HEALTH CARE  Semester 1
915 ALLIED HEALTH CARE  Semester 2
Grades 11 & 12
(Students seeking R.N. training need a strong academic background)
8:30 AM - 11:15 AM
2.0 credits per semester

This course is a one or two-year program for students considering a career in the health care field.  It will provide experiences in a variety of community health care settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, dental offices, schools for the handicapped, Visiting Nurse Association, etc.  The program is geared so that graduates may be certified as Home Health Aides, seek employment in a health care facility, or continue their education in their chosen field, such as licensed practical nurse, physical therapy assistant, etc.

922 HOUSE CARPENTRY  Semester 1
923 HOUSE CARPENTRY  Semester 2
Grades 11 & 12
Location: Lee High School
8:00 AM - 11:15 AM
2.0 credits per semester

House carpentry is a specialized course offered for students who are interested in the building trades.  This program allows the student to devote a block of time for intensive study of the many aspects of the building and construction industry and practical on-the-job training.  The class will undertake large projects such as the construction of a building under the direction of the instructor and resource personnel.  Students will develop skills and attitudes which will qualify them for employment by contractors or builders.  A student’s grade will be determined by attendance and performance at the house site, as well as by periodic exams.
 

916 GREENHOUSE  Semester 1
917 GREENHOUSE  Semester 2
Grades 11 & 12
Location: Monument Mountain Regional High School
8:00 AM - 11:15 AM
2.0 credits per semester

The program provides occupational preparation and exploration in plant science and environmental fields in the following areas:  greenhouse operations floriculture, landscaping, turf management, natural resources, wildlife management.  Students in the program gain skills and knowledge through the learn-by-doing process.  Class activities in the greenhouse and outdoor areas are complemented by other selected activities during the year.
 

918 AUTOMOTIVE  Semester 1
919 AUTOMOTIVE  Semester 2
Grades 11 & 12
Location: Monument Mountain Regional High School
8:00 AM - 11:15 AM
2.0 credits per semester

This program will prepare the student with entry-level skills for employment in all phases of automotive technology.  Students are provided the opportunity to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to diagnose and repair vehicles.
 

847 A+ CERTIFICATION
Prerequisites: Grades 11 & 12, completion of at least one year of math, and a basic understanding of electrical circuit theory.  Sophomores may be admitted with the permission of the instructor.
NOTE - THIS COURSE RUNS ALL YEAR.
1.0 credit per semester

Earning A+ Certification means students possess the knowledge, skills and abilities essential for a successful computer service technician, as defined by experts from companies across the industry.  The certification also shows that the student has an understanding of customer relations skills that have been critically lacking in the computer industry.

The A+ Certification is a two part, one-year course that was developed from the CompTIA A+ Certification Objectives and is designed to prepare the student to take and pass the CompTIA A+ Certification core and speciality exam.

Part I is a detailed examination of PC hardware technology, monitors, printers, PC peripherals, LAN/WANs, safety precautions, and fundamental troubleshooting procedures needed in order to successfully repair and maintain PCs and their peripheral devices.

Part II builds a solid foundation of knowledge in DOS, Windows v3.1x, and Windows 95.  This portion of the course will start with basic processes and gradually lead the student through the more complex issues involved with supporting DOS, Windows v3.1x, and Windows 95.

The course will include lectures and practical “hands on” labs, weekly quizzes and end of chapter tests.  Tests and quizzes will be patterned after the A= Core and Speciality Certification exam.  Homework will be assigned as necessary to support learning objectives.  Project based assignments will include research and writing coincident with those required of today’s computer support professional.

848 NETWORK +  CERTIFICATION
Prerequisites: Completion of A+ Certification course, 1 year of math, and a basic understanding of electrical circuit theory.  Students who have not completed A+ Certification and desire to take the course may be admitted only with the permission of the teacher.
NOTE - THIS COURSE RUNS ALL YEAR.
1.0 credit per semester

This two-semester course covers the basic components of networking including routing, switching, integrated networks, and emerging technologies. Students will develop a knowledge in networking and communication technology to give them the foundation they need for a future in the information technology industry.

Topics to be covered include internet working fundamentals, routing, switching and network management, unified networks and emerging technologies.  The course also includes skills in communications, human relationships, and employment standards.  Students work as partners or in teams to develop their human relationship skills.

This project-based course will include lectures and quizzes to test basic understanding, hands-on activities and labs to further competency, and extension activities to challenge more able and willing students.  Homework will be assigned as necessary to support the objectives of the course.  Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to take the Network + Industry Certification Exam.
 
 

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ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES
 

941 PEER RESOURCES/COMMUNITY SERVICE
1.0 credit

Peer Resources is a class for students who want to help make their school and community better places.  Students work with the teacher to create an individualized schedule tailored to fit their strength and interests.  Areas of study for the 2000-2001 school year include Big/Little Eagles program (like Big/Little Brothers and Sisters), landscaping school grounds, volunteering at area nursing homes, editing the monthly newsletters, and teacher’s aide positions.  Students meet with the teacher to monitor progress on individual projects, as well as to work together as a class on larger events.  Grades are based on evaluations from supervising adults, weekly journals, monthly newsletter articles, and a final project.
 

859 SPECIAL  PROJECTS
Prerequisite: Grades 11 & 12 or permission of the instructor and guidance department
1.0 credit

Special projects is essentially an independent study course.  With the guidance of the instructor students choose a project, create a schedule of readings, writing assignments, and other sources of creative output.  During weekly tutorials, students report their progress, ask questions, answer questions, and receive pointed guidance.  Each marking period culminates with presentations of students’ work.  This course is exclusively designed for highly motivated students who can work independently.

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Mission Statement To Index
The Southern Berkshire Regional School District, in partnership with families and other participating citizens, welcomes all students into a challenging, lifelong commitment toward personal success and academic excellence.

The goals of this inclusive community are to teach each student to acquire skills and knowledge, apply that knowledge, make decisions, and solve problems. Students will be taught to respect and value individual responsibility, creativity and potential, and to appreciate and respect diversity. The goal is to teach students to communicate effectively with others through reading, writing, language, mathematics, the arts, science, and technology. Within a safe and trusting educational environment, the community  will help students to develop and demonstrate the skills necessary for their social and emotional well-being.

Meeting these goals will prepare students to develop a love of learning, acquire knowledge as part of a life-long process, make positive choices, and adapt to a changing world. By attaining these goals, students optimize their potential and become respectful, responsible, and productive citizens of the global society.

Expectations for Student Learning

take responsibility for his/her own behavior
value diversity.
fulfill academic expectations.
demonstrate progress towards realizing his/her academic potential.
self-initiate and persevere in learning, ask critical questions, reflect and apply knowledge, both individually and cooperatively.
show respect for self, others, and the environment.
communicate effectively through mathematics, reading, writing, speaking and active    listening,using resources from the arts, media, science and technology.
understand the concepts of personal physical fitness and good health.
contribute to a positive school culture by being actively involved in multiple aspects of    the educational community, including extra-curricular and community events.
analyze social problems from a global perspective and contributes to society as a responsible and skilled citizen by applying techniques from different social science disciplines
take pride in both individual and school accomplishments.
develop an understanding of his/her strengths and weaknesses, and will access academic and emotional supports available to him/her.
deepen his/her understanding of several subject areas by both making connections between traditional academic disciplines and identifying new directions for learning.
recognize that high standards apply to all students.develop exhibitions of his/her work.
create portfolios throughout his/her academic career which demonstrates the evolution of his/her skills and knowledge.be involved in decisions relating to their course work, school governance and policies, and feel safe, both psychologically and physically.

PRINCIPAL’S  MESSAGE To Index

To The Students of The Southern Berkshire Regional School District:

The Program of Studies is the first step in building a master schedule for the high school.  The document you have in your hand has already been reviewed and updated by teachers and department heads in the different curriculum areas.  It has also been examined by administration and guidance to ensure that the offerings are congruent with graduation requirements and the curriculum frameworks.  It is then presented to the school committee for its approval. It is now in your hands!

This is how the process will proceed from here. Along with the program of studies, you also have received a course registration form which we want you to complete and return to your guidance counselor. Discuss your choice of courses with your parents, teachers, and guidance counselor.  School staff expect your questions and look forward to helping you with your decisions.  General descriptions of all courses are listed in the Program of Studies.  Honors courses are available for all grade levels. Course syllabi available from teachers will contain specific grading procedures and course requirements.  Course registration sheets will be tallied in order to determine the number of student requests for each course.  These tallies give us the information to decide how many sections will be needed for each course we offer. For example, if there are 90 ninth grade students requiring English 9, we will need at least four sections of English 9.

Class sections are then scheduled during either the fall or spring semester. This will ensure that student selections receive the highest priority for scheduling consideration. There will always be some conflicts, especially considering the fact that 70% of the courses at Mount Everett are singletons (courses offered only one time).  All students are required to register for eight (8) courses; however, you will be asked to choose alternate choices on your course registration form.  If course conflicts occur, the alternate courses will be added to your schedule.

Many 9th and 10th grade courses are required for graduation.  There are, however, still some decisions to be made in the area of electives.  Make your choices wisely and remember to depend on teachers, parents, and counselors for advice.  We will work hard to build a strong schedule which will minimize conflicts and keep student-teacher ratios advantageous.

Best wishes,
Glenn R. Devoti, Principal
 

GRADUATION  REQUIREMENTS  To Index

Beginning with the Class of 2000, students must earn 28 credits to graduate.  Required courses include the following:

4 credits English (Must pass Competency Writing Exam)
3 credits Social Studies (One credit must be U.S. History)
3 credits Mathematics
3 credits Science
2 credits Technology
2 credits Fine or Creative Arts
1 credit Wellness
 

CLASS OF 2003 & BEYOND MUST PASS 10TH GRADE MCAS EXAMS
 

CUM LAUDE DIPLOMA    To Index

The conferring of a cum laude diploma will begin with the class of 2001.  We recognize that students will excel and achieve what we as adults choose to honor and recognize.  The intent of the cum laude diploma is to broaden the criteria which we value as a school and community.  To be awarded a cum laude diploma, students must achieve a cumulative G.P.A. of 92, participate in co-curricular or community service activities, and present an exhibition prior to graduation.  Parents, students, and staff will continue to refine this criteria.
 

HIGHER EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS  To Index

Specific entrance requirements for a college or a trade school should be checked in that institution’s catalog.  It is difficult to list the typical requirements for the wide variety of higher education programs available today.  However, a standardization of requirements has occurred for the Massachusetts State College System.  Minimum entrance requirements are:

 English-4 courses
 Mathematics-3 courses (Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry)
 Science-3 courses (including 2 courses with lab requirements)
 Social Studies-3 courses (including U.S. History)
 World Language-2 courses minimum (3 years suggested)
 Electives-From the above subjects or the arts and humanities
 or computer sciences

NOTE: Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) and Standardized Test scores are also considered.  Information is available in the Guidance Office.

COURSE LOAD    To Index

All students are required to take eight (8) credits each year.  Due to the requirements of Time On Learning (Massachusetts Reform Law), seniors must be enrolled for the entire year taking eight (8) credits.

PASS/FAIL    To Index

Seniors who are in good standing may take one of their electives on a pass/fail basis rather than a regular grading schedule.  A Pass/Fail request form must be submitted before the first quarters’ grades are issued.  See a guidance counselor to obtain a Pass/Fail request form.
 

INDEPENDENT  STUDY  To Index

A student may assume the responsibility of taking a course on an “independent study basis”. The student, principal, teacher, and guidance councelor will meet to assess:

 * the appropriateness of the request
 * the written plan of the work to be accomplished by the student under the supervision of a cooperating
    faculty member.
 * the evaluation process.

Independent Study Request forms are available in the Guidance Office.
 

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES  To Index

Resource Room (958) is available to students with I.E.Ps.  Resource Room offers assistance with academics, organization, and study skills.  Students and parents will also be kept informed of student progress on a regular basis.  This class will be offered both semesters.

Specialized Alternative Learning Environment (SALE) classes and counseling are also available to students through the Special Education Program.
 

COOPERATIVE PROGRAMS   To Index

In order to meet the needs of a diverse student body, vocational courses are available at Mount Everett and at alternative sites.   Areas of study include the following: A+ Certification, Network +, Allied Health, Food Service, Automotive, Carpentry, and Horticulture.  These opportunities are available to juniors and seniors.

DUAL ENROLLMENT    To Index

The Massachusetts Dual Enrollment Program enables juniors and seniors who have a minimum G.P.A. of 88 to take courses at a public college or university tuition-free.  We will be advised later this spring if funding is approved for the 2000-2001 academic year.  Students interested in this option should talk with a guidance counselor and complete the Dual Enrollment application form.
 

BERKSHIRE COMMUNITY COLLEGE TECH PREP ARTICULATION AGREEMENT

Students who take Keyboarding I, Introduction To Drama, or Food Service may earn college credit if they enroll in the Office Administration Program, the Theater Arts Program, or the Culinary Arts Program at Berkshire Community College.    To Index
 

COURSE  CHANGES   To Index

Changes of courses will be allowed prior to the opening of school.  However, once school commences in August, course changes will only be allowed under extenuating circumstances.

Courses dropped after the first FOUR WEEKS of each semester will result in WF (withdrawal failing) which will count as a zero in computing GPA.

PROMOTION POLICY    To Index

A student’s grade standing will be determined by whether or not it is possible for him/her to gain the necessary course credits to qualify for diploma candidacy, given the requirements as established by the School Committee.  The following minimum credits must be obtained for entrance to grades 10, 11, and 12 status:

Grade 10    7 credits
Grade 11  14 credits
Grade 12  21 credits
Required to graduate 28 credits

COURSES CARRYING  6.0 POINT BONUS:    To Index

  AP ENGLISH III  (LANGUAGE)  AP ENGLISH IV  (LITERATURE)
  AP CHEMISTRY    AP US HISTORY
  CALCULUS

The following courses will next be offered during the 2001-2002 school year:

AP BIOLOGY and AP EUROPEAN HISTORY

HONORS  COURSES   To Index

Honors courses are available in English, Social Studies, Science, and Mathematics.  Honors courses carry a weight factor of 3.0 points for grade point average, honor roll, and National Honor Society.
 

Grade Point Average:  All final grades count in computing grade point average (G.P.A)

ADVANCED PLACEMENT    To Index

Advanced placement courses carry an additional weight factor of 6.0 points for the purpose of grade point average, National Honor Society (N.H.S.), and honor roll.  However, the 6.0 points are not reflected on report cards or transcripts.  Further, the minimum passing mark for an AP course is not affected by the 6.0 points.  Thus the lowest passing mark for regular and AP courses is 70.
 
 

Mount Everett High School Staff  To Index

STAFF MEMBER AREA
Adele Berking -Teacher Project S.A.L.E
Eric Blackburn- Music/Band Director
Jane Blanchard -Caseworker Project S.A.L.E.
Carolann Boardman -Administrative Secretary
Diana Bonneville-Social Studies/Teacher Leader
Marcia Brolli-Yearbook Advisor/Language Arts/Teacher Leader
Sarah Burdsall- Physical Education/Health
Carol Castino- Interpreter for the Deaf
Jeanne Christman- Paraprofessional
Priscilla Cook-  Paraprofessional S.P.E.D
Michele Couser- Family and Consumer Sciences
Donna Crawford- Paraprofessional
Glenn Devoti- Principal
Catherine Elliott- 7-12 World Language/Teacher Leader
Marie Erwin-  7-12 Library Services
Scott Farrell- Mathematics/Science
Charles Flynn- Technology
Rennald Graber- Dean of Students
Patricia Heinsman- Guidance Counselor
Seth Hersch- Social Studies/Special Projects
Donna Hitchcock- Learning Lab Supervisor
Beth Hull- Guidance/Health Secretary
Valri Ivy- Language Arts
Joseph Katz- 7-12 Technology
Joseph Kelley- Science 9-12/Teacher Leader
Judith Kinna- Nurse
Nancy Loder- K-12 Music/Chorus
Donald Lucy- Mathematics
James MacDonald-Voc/SPED/Horticulture/Forestry/Athletic Director
David MacNeill- Media Studies
Christine Martin- 7-12 World Language
John Martin-Administrative Assistant
Kelly Milan-5-10 Physical Education
Paul O’Brien- Technology Coordinator
Eleanor O’Nei-l Secretary to Teacher Leaders
Richard Pavoni- K-12 PE/Health/Fam.& Cons. Science./Teacher Leader
Robin Perilli- Caseworker Project S.A.L.E.
David Pottle- Guidance Counselor
Alice Ramsey- Science/Technology
Peggy Reeves- K-12 Art/Teacher Leader
Angel Rote- Main Office Records Secretary
Catherine Rueger- Mathematics
Wayne Seavey- K-8 Physical Education
Janice Storti- N.H.S. Advisor/Language Arts/Teacher Leader
James Thomas- Math/Science/Tech Education/Teacher Leader
Martha Thomson- Art
Brenda Ullrich- Guidance/School Adjustment Counselor
Jeremy VanDeusen-Learning Lab Supervisor
Kathleen VanOrman- World Language/Business Education
Frank Wiles- 9-12 Resource Room
Matthew Wohl- Social Studies