Graduation Requirements
Each Upper School student earning a Long Trail School diploma will have successfully completed 28 academic credits in required courses and electives, based on individual interests and needs. Full year courses receive 1.0 academic credit and semester courses receive 0.5 academic credits. Those 28 total credits must include the following:
English 4.0 credits
Every student must be enrolled in an English course during every semester in the Upper School. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) courses are considered to fulfill English credits for those students who need additional English language support.
Mathematics 3.0 credits
Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in a fourth year of mathematics, and many colleges may require a fourth credit in mathematics; please consult college guidance if you have specific concerns about specific schools.
Science 3.0 credits
All Upper School students must complete Conceptual Physics in ninth grade, Chemistry in tenth grade, and 1.0 additional credit in science, usually Biology or IB Biology HL. Seniors can choose from either Advanced Environmental Science or AP Physics.
Social Studies 3.0 credits
Required courses in Social Studies include World History II (9th grade), US History I (10th grade), and 20th Century American History, typically in 11th grade or IB HL History.
Foreign Languages 3.0 credits
Students must complete at least three years of study in the same language in the Upper School. Most students complete more than three years of study.
Fine Arts 1.5 credits
Ninth grade students must complete 0.5 credits in fine arts. Students in grades 10-12 must complete additional 1.0 credit.
Enrichment “E-Classes” 4 credits
Students must complete fours years of study or participation in E-Classes. These classes are offered on Thursdays and focus on specific topics or activities. E-Classes are offered as yearly, semester, or quarterly courses.
