In order to insure consistency in grading, all teachers will use the following system of marking:

Grades are weighted for Advanced and Advanced Placement Courses.

In addition to the letter grade indicating a student's performance in the subject matter, there is a provision for a student grade in attitude and responsibility. This will be indicated by using the numerical key found on the report card.

Computing the Final Grades (Top)

A student’s final grade is computed based upon the average of four marking period grades and a comprehensive final assessment. The final assessment is an average of the mid-term exam, a performance assessment and the final exam.

The final course grades shall be the average of the four marking period grades and final examination. A student who receives an “F” for the third and fourth marking periods and is graded “F” on the final examination may be given an “F” as the final course grade regardless of the grade earned for the first two marking periods.

In order to pass a course, a student must pass two of the five grades. A student having only two of five passing grades must have one of the passing grades in the fourth marking period and the two (2) grades must average a minimum of 0.8.

In addition, if a student has three passing grades and has completed little or no work during the fourth quarter, the teacher may consult with the Principal and, upon a review of the circumstances, an “F” may be given in the fourth quarter, as well as the final grade with zero course credit.

In all cases, a student's average must equal at least 0.8 in order to receive a passing grade.

Honors (Top)

Honors are earned consistent with the following criteria:

High Honors All A’s

Honors Minimum of four A’s and no C’s

Second Honors All B’s or better (no C’s)

In addition to the letter grade indicating a student’s performance in the subject matter, there is provision for a student grade in attitude and responsibility. This will be indicated by using the numerical key found on the report card.

Make-Up Work (Top)

The responsibility for make-up work rests with the student, but the teacher will make a sincere effort to help the student become aware of what assignments were missed and when they are due. A rule of thumb is that the student will have one day for each day absent to make up work. This time should not exceed five (5) days. Make-up tests may NOT be administered during class time. The student must meet with the teacher after school with any questions regarding missed work. An incomplete grade for the quarter must be made up within two (2) weeks of the close of the marking period or will become an F. All final grades of incomplete must be resolved within the first ten (10) school days of the next school year. Students who, with valid documented reason, missed their final exam should take the exam in the summer.

Progress Reports (Top)

Progress reports for all students are encouraged. Progress reports may be issued at the midpoint of each marking period. Those who are failing, in danger of failing, or who have demonstrated a decline in learning must receive a progress report. Should a student’s academic achievement decline to the point where he/she is failing or in danger of failing at a time beyond the regularly scheduled mailing of progress reports, the teacher must issue a supplemental progress report.

Counseling Services (Top)

A student is invited to discuss any problem with his/her counselor, whether it concerns scheduling, educational, or vocational plans, or personal matters. It is wise to make an appointment in advance at the counseling office.

FLEX Program (Top)

This program, located primarily at Edison School provides a flexible program of study for students with emotional needs that require a different approach to a high school program. A full time teacher is supported by an aide, social worker and teachers from the high school.

Assistance (Top)

The District may predicate the return of a student pursuant to this policy upon the student's participation in an appropriate program for assistance or rehabilitation. Upon the student's return to school following a positive assessment, the student and family will meet with the student assistance counselor to monitor compliance with the recommended treatment program. If student and family refuse to cooperate, then the administration will be notified and the procedures will be implemented to place the student on bedside instruction. Should a recommendation for counseling or treatment be mandated, it is the parent/guardian's responsibility to pay for all treatment costs.

Additionally, the I&RS/504 team, or, where appropriate, the Child Study Team, and the student assistance counselor will help the student's adjustment upon his/her return to school.

Bergen County Satellite Center (Top)

This program provides one-half day of vocational and technical industrial/commercial arts career training, which is coordinated with the student ‘s high school schedule. All academic classes and co-curricular activities are taken at Fair Lawn High School. Any student who has completed grade nine may apply through the counseling office for admission. Reciprocity regarding discipline exists between the two schools. If a student is suspended from either school, the student is suspended from both schools for the time indicated.

Withdrawal From School (Top)

A parent’s written permission must accompany a request to withdraw. The procedure including an exit conference with Administration is accomplished through the counseling office on the day the withdrawal is affected. A transfer card or transcript will be issued only after a student has met all obligations.

Withdrawal From Courses (Top)

Students are not permitted to withdraw from courses after May 30, except when errors in scheduling have occurred.