Frequently Asked Questions About Academic Acceleration - Advanced Programs
Federal Way Public Schools offers advanced programs and course work for all students. The district automatically enrolls students in the appropriate advanced classes when the student has demonstrated the capabilities and skills to be successful in such a class. These skills can be demonstrated on the standardized state tests in reading, writing, math and science. Students who pass these tests have proven that they have the knowledge and content understanding necessary to take advanced courses.
What is the Advanced Acceleration Policy 2191?
The Academic Acceleration – Advanced Program Policy calls for students in grades 6-12 to be automatically enrolled in advanced program courses when they have met standards as determined by state assessments.
Why was the Academic Acceleration Policy established?
We know that many more students can be successful in advanced programs with focused support and a partnership between home and school. We also know that advanced courses better prepare students for educational opportunities beyond high school.
Research shows strong evidence of benefits to students who participate in both AP courses and exams in terms of higher GPAs, credit hours earned and four-year graduation rates. A report on research into the impact of advanced program participation can be found on the Washington Post website: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/01/28/AR2007012801238.html
What is the process?
State assessment results for all students in grades 6-12 will be evaluated to determine students’ placement for thefollowing year’s courses. School staff will make the appropriate class placements.
How will I know if my student is being enrolled in advanced classes?
Students and their parents will receive a letter from the district office to congratulate them on passing the state assessment, and notifying them that the school will automatically enroll them in the appropriate advanced classes.
Which advanced courses will students be enrolled in?
Students who meet standard in either reading or writing will be automatically enrolled in the advanced option available in both English and Social Studies. Students who have met the math standard will continue to progress through the most rigorous sequence of math courses, depending on their skill level. Students who meet standard in science will be automatically enrolled in the advanced option available at their school.
Enrollment in grade 6-12 classes will depend on the advanced programs available at each school.
What if a student changes schools?
The district’s various advanced programs (Cambridge, International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement) prepare students to be successful in any advanced programs as well as at the university level.
Can students take advanced courses if they have not met standard on state assessments?
Yes. Students should meet with their school counselor or advisor to determine appropriate placement.
Can students take advanced courses if they do not have assessment data?
Yes. Some students may not have taken the Washington state assessments. Students should meet with their school counselor or advisor to determine appropriate placement.
What if I do not want my child to be in Advanced Programs?
Parents can choose to opt-out by completing the Advanced Program Refusal Form and returning it to the school. The form is available at each secondary school (grades 6-12) and on the district website at http://www.fwps.org/info/advanced/2191.pdf.
What types of focused or additional support are available to students?
Support options will vary from school-to-school. Contact your school to determine what supports are available.
What if my student is an ELL or Special Education student?
The policy applies to ELL and Special Education students, as long as advanced program enrollment doesn’t conflict with the student’s individualized education plan.
What is the deadline to opt-out of advanced classes?
Students can opt-out up to the end of the 4th week of each semester.
What do I do if my student is failing an advanced course(s)?
Students and parents can communicate with the teacher or other school staff to discuss available support options.