The new graduation requirements come under former Gov. Jeb Bush’s A++ Plan for Education and start with ninth graders entering high school in the 2007-2008 school year. Those students are required to earn 16 core academic credits and eight elective credits in order to graduate with a standard high school diploma.
16 core curriculum credits
4 credits in English
4 credits in mathematics (one credit must be in Algebra I or its equivalent or higher)
3 credits in science (two of which must have a laboratory component)
3 credits in social studies (1 world history, 1 American history, .5 American government, and .5 economics)
1 credit in fine and performing arts
1 credit in Health Opportunities Through Physical Education (HOPE)
8 electives
4 credits in a Major Area of Interest
4 other credits that can be used for a Minor Area of Interest (3 credits), dual enrollment, remediation for FCAT, or other electives
Academic Majors offered at Putnam County High Schools 2007-2008
Crescent City Jr/Sr High School |
Interlachen High School |
Palatka High School |
Administrative Assistant |
Administrative Assistant |
Administrative Assistant |
Allied Health Assisting |
Allied Health Assisting |
Allied Health Assisting |
Applied Welding Technologies |
Computer Systems Technology |
Applied Welding Technologies |
Criminal Justice Operations |
Criminal Justice Operations |
Automotive Service Technologies |
Early Childhood Education |
Culinary Operations |
Building Construction Technology |
Teacher Assisting |
Engineering Technology |
Communication Technology |
|
Landscape Operations |
Culinary Operations |
|
Teacher Assisting |
Landscape Operations |
|
Television Production |
Teacher Assisting |
Major Area of Interest FAQs
How is the high school “major area of interest” different from a college major?
- Students are not picking their future career or their college major.
- Students are not stuck with their major the rest of their life.
- Students should consider it time to investigate what they like, or think they like.
What should be considered when choosing a major?
Students and parents should consider the student’s:
- Academic achievements
- Individual interests and talents
- Career goals
- Postsecondary goals (after high school, college and/or career)
Does a student have to complete the same major area of interest all four years to graduate?
No, students do not need to complete four years in the same major area of interest, but they must complete a major with a passing grade each year.
Can students change their major?
Students can change their major, but only at the end of the school year when they register for their classes for the following year.
Will students who complete the same major area of interest all four years receive special recognition?
Yes. This includes a platinum seal on their diploma, a platinum cord to wear with their cap and gown, and a ready-to-work certificate that states they are prepared for entry into an occupational field related to their major.
Online resources for parents and students
- High School Major Areas of Interest Listings: www.fldoe.org/APlusPlus/
- High School Graduation Requirements: www.fldoe.org/APlusPlus/
- FACTS.org: www.FACTS.org
- Bright Futures Scholarship Program: www.MyFloridaEducation.com/brfuture 1-888-827-2004
- Florida CHOICES: www.florida.access.bridges.com
For more information, contact Kirk Collier at (386) 937-9346 or kcollier@putnamschools.org.
