In response to feedback about virtual learning at the secondary level, adjustments are being made to improve the student/teacher experience in virtual learning, promote student well-being, and provide flexible options for student schedules. These adjustments for the second semester are in addition to adjustments that went into effect for the second marking period.
In middle and high schools, schedule adjustments for second semester include opportunities to:
- Request an abbreviated schedule to lighten course load and take a course over the summer or in future semesters instead.
- Take up to two courses Credit/No Credit (also known as Pass/Fail) instead of a letter grade, in courses not specifically required for graduation.
In order to take advantage of these schedule options, students/parents will need to closely consult with their school counselor or Student Well-Being Team to make any schedule adjustments for the second semester and to ensure progress towards meeting graduation requirements and college and career plans.
Abbreviated Schedules: Middle and high school students may request an abbreviated schedule by completing MCPS Form 280-98, in close consultation with the school counselor and approval by the principal.
Credit/No Credit Courses: Middle and high school students can also consider taking up to two classes for Credit/No Credit (also commonly known as Pass/Fail) instead of a letter grade, in courses not specifically required for graduation. This requires consultation with the school counselor and approval by the principal using one of the following forms: MCPS Form 270-32, High School; MCPS Form 270-32A, Middle School
In addition to the changes noted above, students/parents/guardians will be able to retroactively apply the Credit/No Credit option in up to two courses taken during the first semester of the 2020-21 school year, under the same conditions noted on MCPS Form 270-32, (High School) or MCPS Form 270-32A, (Middle School). Please note that this option is only available in high school courses not required for graduation or in middle school content areas that do have state assessments.
- For students/parents/guardians requesting to change a letter grade to Credit/No Credit for the first semester of 2020-2021, they will be able to use MCPS Form 270-32, (High School) or MCPS Form 270-32A, Middle School, in close consultation with the school counselor for processing.
- However, students/parents/guardians are advised to wait to make any requests regarding Semester 1 until at least February 16, 2021, after report cards are received and to allow time for systems development.
In addition, MCPS will be extending the timeline to withdraw from a high school course without notation on the academic record, or declare Credit/No Credit, from the 25th day of the semester to the beginning of the second marking period of the semester.
If you have questions about your student’s schedule, please contact your school counselor.
