Academic Program
Accreditation: Benzie Central High School is accredited by the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCA). To achieve this rating a school is required to meet strict standards and undergo a school improvement process. Because NCA is the most difficult accreditation for a school to receive, this suggests that your students will get the highest quality education.
AP– Advanced Placement Courses: When a student takes an AP class, they are taking an advanced college level curriculum under the auspices of the College Board. At the end of the class they may choose to take the AP test for the course, which is scored on a scale of one through five. Most colleges and universities will give a student college level AP credit if the student scores at least three on a test. Students may take AP classes without taking the AP test. Benzie Central High School currently offers Advanced Placement courses in Calculus, Biology and Chemistry. Other AP classes are available on the internet through Michigan Virtual University.
Honors Classes: Honors classes have two significant values to students. First, they require students to learn and perform at an accelerated pace. Second, the Honors designation is recognized by college and universities in the college admission process as representing advanced coursework. As these courses become available, parents should encourage their son/daughter to take classes only if he/she is capable, motivated and looking for that ‘extra’ preparation and challenge. Our school offers Honors classes in English, mathematics and science.
Scheduling: Scheduling is the last step in the process of selecting classes. In high school, we try to build a foundation throughout the year with experiences provided our students through career exploration to spark your child’s interest as well as broaden their information base. Career units are infused into various classes and computer access to programs like CAREER CRUISING, CAREER EXPLORATIONS and CAREER FORWARD. All of these experiences should help students choose classes that are right for them. Every student will meet individually with his or her counselor to develop his/her 5-year plan. Parents are encouraged to be a part of this process and should feel free to call our counselors at any time during the year.
Freshmen Transition: Our Freshmen Transition provides an orientation experience for students who are new to Benzie Central High School. In the spring, the middle school eighth grade tours the high school and receives an introduction to what it takes to be a successful student. Then during the first few weeks of 9th grade, students learn about the opportunities that our school has to offer. Presentations cover such topics as clubs and organizations, honors and awards, academics, graduation requirements, physical plant, athletics, behavior, student support services and media services.
MME-HST: Juniors take the Michigan Merit Exam (ACT/Writing, Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies and WORK kEYS) in the spring of their 11th grade year. This experience, MME-HST (Michigan Merit Exam-High School Test) is mandated by law and is a graduation requirement. Qualifying scores make students eligible for the Promise Scholarship. Scores are reported in four levels:
· Level 1 exceeds state standards
· Level 2 meets state standards, endorsed
· Level 3 standards not met, basic endorsement
· Level 4 standards not met-not endorsed
Students earning Level 1 or Level 2 on the first four tests (Social Studies is excluded) will receive The Promise Scholarship as funded by the State of Michigan. The MME-HST can not be retaken. If the student wishes to retake the ACT portion a registration package is available in the counseling office or on line at ACT.org.
Dual Enrolling: Dual enrollment means taking a college class or classes while in high school. High school requirements, college admission requirements and state law determine participation in dual enrollment. The requirements for a student to participate in dual enrollment are as follows:
· To gain admission to NMC and other universities prior to high school graduation, a student must take the ACT or a short placement test at the college and submit a special “dual enrollment” application.
· The State of Michigan mandates that, if certain criteria are met, then a portion of the tuition and fees will be paid by the local school district.
· Participation in this program requires careful and early planning. Students and parents are well advised to discuss this option with the counselor at least a year before they intend to participate.
Co-Op/Work Study: Co-op opportunities are available through the Career Tech Center for students in vocational programs. Parents of Career Tech students are encouraged to call and talk to the counselors at Benzie Central and the Career Tech Center (231-922-6273) about opportunities available to your children.
Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships are federally registered occupational trainings during which the student learns an occupation. The Career Tech Center offers apprentice opportunities in some of their programs. Parents are encouraged to explore these options with the counseling staff at the Career Tech Center at 231-922-6273.
