Parent Resource Guide 23-24
PARENT RESOURCE
GUIDE
St. Johns County
School District
2023-2024
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Table of Contents
Core Values ......................................................................................................................................................... 1
Letter from the Superintendent ............................................................................................................................ 2
Facts about St. Johns County School District ...................................................................................................... 3
School Board ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
District Department Phone Numbers ................................................................................................................... 5
School Directory .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Character Counts! Program ................................................................................................................................. 7
Social Emotional Learning .................................................................................................................................. 8
Fortify FL ............................................................................................................................................................ 9
Health Prevention Education ............................................................................................................................... 9
Enrolling Your Child in School ......................................................................................................................... 11
Parents Bill of Rights......................................................................................................................................... 12
Requesting a Change in Placement ................................................................................................................... 12
Testing ............................................................................................................................................................... 13
Reading – Our #1 Priority ................................................................................................................................. 14
What are the B.E.S.T. Standards? ..................................................................................................................... 15
Kindergarten ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
First Grade ......................................................................................................................................................... 18
Second Grade .................................................................................................................................................... 19
Third Grade ....................................................................................................................................................... 20
Fourth Grade ...................................................................................................................................................... 22
Fifth Grade ........................................................................................................................................................ 23
Advanced Academic Opportunities in Elementary School ............................................................................... 25
Middle School Years (Grades 6-8) .................................................................................................................... 26
Advanced Academic Opportunities in Middle Schools ..................................................................................... 27
Choice Program for Middle School Students .................................................................................................... 28
High School (Grades 9-12) ................................................................................................................................ 29
Advanced Academic Opportunities in High Schools ........................................................................................ 31
Advanced International Programs ..................................................................................................................... 33
Virtual Education............................................................................................................................................... 33
Programs of Choice ........................................................................................................................................... 34
Career Academies .............................................................................................................................................. 35
Promotion Requirements ................................................................................................................................... 37
Grading and Reporting ...................................................................................................................................... 39
Summer Programs ............................................................................................................................................. 40
Available Services ............................................................................................................................................. 41
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Food Service ...................................................................................................................................................... 43
Transportation ................................................................................................................................................... 46
Business and Community Partnerships ............................................................................................................. 47
Qualifications of Teachers ................................................................................................................................. 48
How You Can Participate .................................................................................................................................. 49
Homework ......................................................................................................................................................... 50
Special Services Available ................................................................................................................................ 51
What Parents Can Do to Help Their Students ................................................................................................... 52
Communication ................................................................................................................................................. 54
Home Access Center ......................................................................................................................................... 54
Additional Resources......................................................................................................................................... 55
What Happens If My Child Falls Behind? ........................................................................................................ 55
Parent Glossary .................................................................................................................................................. 56
Florida Parent Checklist .................................................................................................................................... 57
Bibliography, Links and Cited Sources ............................................................................................................. 59
Appendix ........................................................................................................................................................... 60
Middle School Course Sequence 61
High School Course Sequence 63
Graduation Requirements 66
Graduation Requirements for Florida State Assessments 69
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St. Johns County School District
Core Values
We believe that . . .
Trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship are essential to the
wellbeing of individuals and society.
All individuals have intrinsic value.
Every individual can contribute something of worth to society.
Individuals are responsible and accountable for their choices and decisions.
In order to grow and thrive, individuals need caring relationships and a nurturing environment.
Supportive family relationships are the foundation of the community.
High expectations lead to higher performance, which, in turn, empowers the individual and
strengthens society.
Continuous learning is a lifelong process that is essential to a productive and enriched life.
A safe and orderly environment is conducive to learning.
The St. Johns County School System is recognized throughout Florida for its innovative programming,
student accomplishments and professional staff. The District's success is due to its commitment to
excellence in academics plus its commitment to character development.
The Six Pillars of Character (Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship)
are found in the district’s Core Values. Individual worth and high expectations for all students are also
part of this value system.
St. Johns County schools and community partners have come together with a common approach in an
effort to say that children matter, values matter, character matters and academic excellence matters in
our community and in our country. These principles are embodied in the district’s visionary Mission
Statement:
The St. Johns County School District will inspire good character and a passion for
lifelong learning in all students, creating educated and caring contributors to the
world.
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Letter from the Superintendent
“For children, parents are the vital link
between the classroom and society.”
Dear Parents and Community Partners:
Children thrive when their environment is safe, secure, and supportive of education. Whether at home or in
the classroom, adult involvement and encouragement have an enormously positive impact on a child’s learn-
ing process. For children, parents are the vital link between the classroom and society. As Superintendent of
St. Johns County School District, I encourage you to take an active role in your children’s school career. The
Parent Resource Guide was written to assist parents in participating in the lives of their children at school.
The Parent Resource Guide:
• defines terms commonly used by educators.
• gives examples of skills your children will be taught in each grade level.
• explains what happens if your child falls behind and how s/he is assisted to catch up.
• suggests what parents as partners in the learning process can do at home.
I encourage you to use the guide as a starting point for extended communication with teachers, school and dis-
trict administrators, and most importantly, with your children. Open your children’s book bags and talk with
them about what they are learning. Review their schoolwork and talk to their teachers by phone, email or
face-to-face. Always ask questions and stay involved.
Remember that as your children grow older you may have to take the initiative to maintain communication
with your children. We know that families have the greatest influence on their children’s academic achieve-
ment in school and throughout life. When parents talk to their children about school, expect them to do well,
help them plan for college and career, and make sure that out-of-school activities are constructive, their chil-
dren tend to do well in school and in life. Students with involved parents, irrespective of income or back-
ground, are more likely to enjoy school, perform better in school, and stay in school longer.
I applaud you for making your children’s education a family priority.
Sincerely,
Tim Forson
Superintendent of Schools
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Facts about St. Johns County School District
St. Johns County
Superintendent of
Schools
SCHOOLS
18 Elementary Schools (K-5) 7 K-8 Schools
7Middle Schools (6-8)
9 High Schools (9-12)
2Alternative Centers (6-12)
2Charter Schools
2 Juvenile Justice Facilities 1 Virtual School (K-
12)
1 Technical College
The St. Johns County School District is
accredited as a quality school system by
Cogniathe, the internationally recognized
accrediting agency for K-12 schools.
Class Size (Student-Teacher ratio)
1:15.03 (PK-3)
1:17.64 (4-8)
1:18.97 (9-12)
STUDENTS
St. Johns County School District had 48,816
students as of June, 2022.
Race:
White–80.08%%
African American or Black–6.38%
Asian–5.88%
Multi-Racial – 97%
Hawaiian or Pacific Islander-0.23% Native
American or Alaskan -0.46%
Ethnicity:
Hispanic–12.52%
Non-Hispanic8-3.87%
Undeclared-3.61%
Student body-114 different countries,
79 languages Exceptional education students –
4,215 gifted students and 9081 students with
disabilities who have learning or intellectual
disabilities, emotional/behavioral or autism
spectrum disorders, speech/language, sensory,
orthopedic or other health impairments and
developmental de- lays. An additional 4023
students receive accommodations through 504
plans.
SCHOOL GRADES For the 2021-2022 school year, St. Johns County had 29 “A” schools, 7 “B”
schools, and 3 “C” schools. St. Johns County School District has received a grade of “A” each year
since 2010 and is first in the state out of 67 districts in total school accountability points for the past nine
years. For up-to-date information on school grades, see http://schoolgrades.fldoe.org/.
DISTRICT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
DISTRICT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
Florida Standards Assessment State Rankings
State Rank English Language Arts 3
3
rd
Grade
1st
7
th
Grade
1st
4
th
Grade
1st
8
th
Grade
1st
5
th
Grade
2nd
9
th
Grade
1st
6
th
Grade
1st
10
th
Grade
1st
State Rank in Math 3
3
rd
Grade
1st
6
th
Grade
2nd
4
th
Grade
1
st
tied
7
th
Grade
8
th
tied
5
th
Grade
2nd
8
th
Grade
1st
State Rank in Science (2023
5
th
Grade
1st
8
th
Grade
1st
End-of-Course (EOC) Exams (2023)
Civics
1st
Algebra I
1st
Geometry
3
rd
tied
Biology I
1st
U.S. History
1st
ACT – Readiness for College (2022) – 35% of St. Johns County graduates ready
in all four areas tested (math, reading, science and writing) com- pared to the state
average of 18%
SAT (2022) – 1127, above both the state average of 993 and national average of
1050
ACT (2022) – 22, above both state average of
20.4 and national average of 18
AP Exams (2022) –74% received college credit Graduation rate (2021-2022) –
93.3% based on the Federal graduation rate, compared to state average of 87.3%
Dropout rate (2021-2022)− 6.7%, less than the state average of 12.7%
National Merit Semifinalists (2022) – 52 seniors placed in top 1% on the PSAT
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School Board
School Board meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at the School Board Administration
Center. Workshops are held on the first and fourth Tuesday of the month. (Please check the district website for
up-to-date meeting and workshop information.)
To contact a school board member, you may call the School Board Executive Secretary @ 904-547-7510, or
e-mail a member directly.
Bartram Trail High School
Creekside High School
Cunningham Creek Elementary School
Durbin Creek Elementary
Freedom Crossing Academy
Fruit Cove Middle School
Hickory Creek Elementary School
Julington Creek Elementary School
Patriot Oaks Academy
Switzerland Point Middle School
Anthony E. Coleman Sr.
anthony.coleman@stjohns.k12.fl.us
District 2
Term: 2020-2024
Mill Creek Academy
Pacetti Bay Middle School
Picolata Crossing Elementary School
R. J. Murray Middle School
South Woods Elementary School
Timberlin Creek Elementary School
Tocoi Creek High School
Wards Creek Elementary School
Webster Elementary School
Hastings Juvenile Center
John A. Crookshank Elementary School
Gamble Rogers Middle School
Osceola Elementary School
Otis A. Mason Elementary School
Pedro Menendez High School
W. D. Hartley Elementary School
Alice B. Landrum Middle School
Allen D. Nease High School
Ocean Palms Elementary School
Palm Valley Academy
Pine Island Academy
Ponte Vedra High School
PV/PV-Rawlings Elementary School
Valley Ridge Academy
Beachside High School
First Coast Technical College
Gaines Alternative School at Evelyn Hamblen Ctr.
Ketterlinus Elementary School
Liberty Pines Academy
Palencia Elementary School
R. B. Hunt Elementary School
Sebastian Middle School
St. Augustine High School
St. Johns Technical High School
St. Johns Virtual School
Transitions School at Evelyn Hamblen Center
Juvenile Justice Center (DJJ)
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District Department Phone Numbers
Reception Desk
904-547-7500
Board Members’ Office
904-547-7510
Superintendent’s Office
904-547-7502
Chief of Staff
904-547-7520
Accountability and Intervention Services
904-547-8911
Business and Fiscal Services
904-547-7650
Career and Technical Education
904-547-4870
Community Relations
904-547-7517
Curriculum and Instruction
904-547-7541
Early Childhood
904-547-8965
English for Speakers of Other Languages
904-547-8924
Exceptional Student Education
904-547-7672
Federal Programs
904-547-8928
Food Services
904-547-8931
Guidance and Choice
904-547-7754
Head Start
904-547-8957
Human Resources
904-547-7600
Information Technology
904-547-3920
Instructional Services-Elementary
904-547-7541
Instructional Services-Secondary
904-547-7541
Instructional Resources and Media Services
904-547-3947
Leadership Development
904-547-3981
Maintenance
904-547-3707
Operations
904-547-8150
Planning and Accountability
904-547-8911
Pre-K Clinic
904-547-8958
Purchasing
904-547-8941
Risk Management
904-547-7641
RSVP/Volunteer Services
904-547-3952
Student Support Services
904-547-7724
Transportation
904-547-7810
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School Directory
BARTRAM TRAIL HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Chris Phelps, Principal
7399 Longleaf Pine Parkway, St. Johns, FL 32259-9104
904-547-8340 (Phone) 904-547-8359 (FAX)
LIBERTY PINES ACADEMY (K-8)
Donny Hoessler, Principal
10901 Russell Sampson Road, St. Johns, FL 32259-8927
904-547-7900 (Phone) 904-547-7905 (FAX)
GAMBLE ROGERS MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Brian Wilson, Principal
6250 U. S. 1 South, St. Augustine, FL 32086-7685
904-547-8700 (Phone) 904-547-8705 (FAX)
BEACHSIDE HIGH SCHOOL (9-11)
Greg Bergamasco, Principal
1070 Beachwalk Blvd, St. Johns, FL 32259
904-547-4400 (Phone) 904-547-4405 (FAX)
OTIS A. MASON ELEMENTARY (PK - 5)
Monique Keaton, Principal
207 Mason Manatee Way, St. Augustine, FL 32086-9373
904-547-8440 (Phone) 904-547-8445 (FAX)
ST. AUGUSTINE HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Travis Brown, Principal
3205 Varella Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-547-8530 (Phone) 904-547-8535 (FAX)
CREEKSIDE HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Steve McCormick, Principal
100 Knights Lane, St. Johns, FL 32259-9104
904-547-7300 (Phone) 904-547-7305 (FAX)
PEDRO MENENDEZ HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Ted Banton, Principal
600 State Road 206 West, St. Augustine, FL 32086-7968
904-547-8660 (Phone) 904-547-8675 (FAX)
ST. AUGUSTINE PUBLIC MONTESSORI
Diane Dodds, Director
7 A Williams Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-342-5350 (Phone) 904-342-5354 (FAX)
JOHN A. CROOKSHANK ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Patrick Roach, Principal
1455 North Whitney Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084-2499
904-547-7840 (Phone) 904-547-7845 (FAX)
MILL CREEK ACADEMY (K-8)
Dr. Ken Goodwin, Principal
3750 International Golf Parkway, St. Augustine, FL 32092
904-547-3720 (Phone) 904-547-3730 (FAX)
ST. JOHNS TECHNICAL HIGH SCH. (9-12)
Dr. Nigel D. Pillay, Principal
2970 Collins Ave., St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-547-8500 (Phone) 904-547-8505 (FAX)
CUNNINGHAM CREEK ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Katherine O’Connell, Principal
1205 Roberts Road, St. Johns, FL 32259-8927
904-547-7860 (Phone) 904-547-7854 (FAX)
R. J. MURRAY MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Dr. Esther Seward, Principal
150 North Holmes Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32084-0930
904-547-8470 (Phone) 904-547-8475 (FAX)
ST. JOHNS VIRTUAL SCHOOL (6-12)
Ryan Erskine, Principal
2980 Collins Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-547-8080 (Phone) 904-547-8085 (FAX)
DURBIN CREEK ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Ashley McCormick, Principal
4100 Racetrack Road, St. Johns, FL 32259-2083
904-547-3880 (Phone) 904-547-3885 (FAX)
ALLEN D. NEASE HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Lisa Kunze, Principal
10550 Ray Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081-8800
904-547-8300 (Phone) 904-547-8305 (FAX)
SEBASTIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Kirstie Gabaldon, Principal
2955 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-547-3840 (Phone) 904-547-3845 (FAX)
FIRST COAST TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Chris Force, Principal
2980 Collins Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084-1919
904-547-3282 (Phone) 904-547-3506 (FAX)
OCEAN PALMS ELEMENTARY (PK - 5)
Tiffany Cantwell, Principal
355 Landrum Lane, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082-3828
904-547-3760 (Phone) 904-547-3775 (FAX)
SOUTH WOODS ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Angela Rodgers, Principal
4750 SR 206 W., Elkton, FL 32033-3608
904-547-8610 (Phone) 904-547-8615 (FAX)
FREEDOM CROSSING ACADEMY (K-8)
Gina Fonseca, Principal
1365 Shetland Drive, St. Johns, FL 32259
904-547-4230 (Phone) 904-547-4235 (FAX)
OSCEOLA ELEMENTARY (PK - 5)
Jessley Hathaway, Principal
1605 Osceola Elementary Road, St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-547-3780 (Phone) 904-547-3795 (FAX)
SWITZERLAND PT. MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Linda Carnall, Principal
777 Greenbriar Road, St. Johns, FL 32259-8336
904-547-8650 (Phone) 904-547-8645 (FAX)
FRUIT COVE MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Kelly Jacobson, Principal
3180 Racetrack Road, St. Johns, FL 32259
904-547-7880 (Phone) 904-547-7885 (FAX)
PACETTI BAY MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Jeanette Murphy, Principal
245 Meadowlark Lane, St. Augustine, FL 32092-3467
904-547-8760 (Phone) 904-547-8765 (FAX)
TIMBERLIN CREEK ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Linda Edel, Principal
555 Pine Tree Lane, St. Augustine, FL 32092-3207
904-547-7400 (Phone) 904-547-7405 (FAX)
GAINES ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL AND THE
EVELYN HAMBLEN CENTER (K-12)
Dr. Craig Davis, Principal
1 Christopher Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084-4056
904-547-8560 (Phone) 904-547-7145 (FAX)
PALENCIA ELEMENTARY (K-5)
Catherine Goodrich, Principal
355 Palencia Village Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32095
904-547-4010 (Phone) 904-547-4015 (FAX)
TOCOI CREEK HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Jay Willets, Principal
11200 St. Johns Parkway, St. Augustine, FL 32092
904547-4260 (Phone) 904-547-4265 (FAX)
W. D. HARTLEY ELEMENTARY (K-5)
Nicole Appelquist, Principal
260 Cacique Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32086-8827
904-547-8400 (Phone) 904-547-8385 (FAX)
PALM VALLEY ACADEMY (K-8)
Zachary Strom, Principal
700 Bobcat Lane, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
904-547-4200 (Phone) 904-547-4205 (FAX)
VALLEY RIDGE ACADEMY (K-8)
Angela Fuller, Principal
105 Greenleaf Drive, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081
904-547-4090 (Phone) 904-547-4095 (FAX)
HICKORY CREEK ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Yvette Cubero-Gonzalez, Principal
235 Hickory Creek Trail, St. Johns, FL 32259-8368
904-547-7450 (Phone) 904-547-7455 (FAX)
PATRIOT OAKS ACADEMY (K-8)
Drew Chiodo, Principal
475 Longleaf Pine Parkway, St. Johns, FL 32259
904-547-4050 (Phone) 904-547-4055 (FAX)
WARDS CREEK ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Kevin Klein, Principal
6555 State Road 16, St. Augustine, FL 32092-2110
904-547-8730 (Phone) 904-547-8735 (FAX)
R. B. HUNT ELEMENTARY (K-5)
Amanda Garman, Principal
125 Magnolia Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32080-4684
904-547-7960 (Phone) 904-547-7955 (FAX)
PICOLATA CROSSING ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Brian Morgan, Principal
2675 Pacetti Road, St. Augustine, FL 32092
904-547-4160 (Phone) 904-547-4165 (FAX)
WEBSTER ELEMENTARY (PK-5)
Bethany Groves, Principal
420 N. Orange St., St. Augustine, FL 32084-0665
904-547-3860 (Phone) 904-547-3865 (FAX)
JULINGTON CREEK ELEMENTARY (K-5)
Dr. Joy Reichenberg, Principal
2316 Racetrack Road, St. Johns, FL 32259-4299
904-547-7980 (Phone) 904-547-7985 (FAX)
PINE ISLAND ACADEMY (K-8)
Amanda Riedl, Principal
805 Pine Island Road, St. Augustine, FL 32095
904-547-4300 (Phone) 904-547-4305
THERAPEUTIC LEARNING CENTER
Paulette Hudson, Director
2109 Arc Drive, St, Augustine, FL 32084
904-824-8932 (Phone) 904-824-8063 (FAX)
KETTERLINUS ELEMENTARY(K-5)
Kathy Tucker, Principal
67 Orange Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084-3565
904-547-8540 (Phone) 904-547-8554 (FAX)
PONTE VEDRA HIGH SCHOOL (9-12)
Dr. Fred Oberkehr, Principal
460 Davis Park Road, Ponte Vedra, FL 32081-7968
904-547-7350 (Phone) 904-547-7355 (FAX)
ST. JOHNS COMMUNITY CAMPUS (ARC)
Lynne Funcheon, Director
62 Cuna St., St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-209-6842 (Phone) 904-824-8063
ALICE B. LANDRUM MIDDLE SCHOOL (6-8)
Guy Harris, Principal
230 Landrum Lane, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082-3831
904-547-8410 (Phone) 904-547-8415 (FAX)
PVPV/RAWLINGS ELEMENTARY (K-5)
Dr. Jesse Gates, Principal
630 Hwy. A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082-2746
PVPV 904-547-3820 (Phone) 904-547-3825 (FAX)
Rawlings 904-547-8570 (Phone) 904-547-8575 (FAX)
FLORIDA SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF & THE
BLIND – STATE SCHOOL
Traci Cascio Snow, President
207 N. San Marco Ave. St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-827-2200 (Phone) 904-827-2325 (FAX)
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Character Counts! Program
CHARACTER COUNTS! is an educational framework for teaching universal values and a national coalition of
organizations that support each other. The result is a culture change in your school, business or organization.
CHARCTER COUNTS! improves the lives of the adults who teach it, the communities that embrace it and the
students who make better choices as a result. St. Johns County Schools adopted the CHARACTER COUNTS!
Initiative in 1998 to help students learn about the Six Pillars of Character – trustworthiness, respect, responsibil-
ity, fairness, caring and citizenship – and develop strong character traits.
Each month one of the pillars is featured:
•August – All pillars
•September – Fairness
•October – Responsibility
•November – Citizenship
•December – All Pillars
•January – Respect
•February – Caring
•March – Trustworthiness
•April – All Pillars
•May – Citizenship (Emphasis on Patriotism)
Trustworthiness Be honest Don’t deceive, cheat or steal Be reliable – do what you say
you will do Have the courage to do the right thing Build a good reputation Be loyal – stand by your family,
friends and country
Respect Treat others with respect; follow the Golden Rule Be tolerant and accepting of differences
Use good manners, not bad language Be considerate of the feelings of others Don’t threaten, hit or hurt
anyone Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements
Responsibility Do what you are supposed to do Plan ahead Persevere: keep on trying!
Always do your best Use self-control Be self-disciplined Think before you act — consider the conse-
quences Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitudes Set a good example for others
Fairness Play by the rules Take turns and share Be open-minded; listen to others. Don’t take
advantage of others Don’t blame others carelessly Treat all people fairly
Caring Be kind Be compassionate and show you care Express gratitude Forgive others Help
people in need Be charitable and altruistic
Citizenship Do your share to make your school and community better Cooperate Get involved
in community affairs Stay informed; vote Be a good neighbor Obey laws and rules Respect authority
Protect the environment Volunteer
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Fortify FL
FortifyFL is a suspicious activity reporting tool that allows students or parents to instantly relay information
to appropriate law enforcement agencies and school officials. By accessing FortifyFL at https://getforti-
fyfl.com/ or https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/blog/fortifyfl-app/, individuals can provide a description of the
threat, share pics and videos and optionally submit their contact information.
FortifyFL was created and funded by the 2018 Florida Legislature as part of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas
High School Public Safety Act. The Office of Attorney General, Department of Education and Florida
Department of Law Enforcement coordinated its development and rollout.
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Health Prevention Education
St. Johns County School District is committed to providing developmentally appropriate education and
prevention programs to all students. Strategies used in our district for delivery of prevention education at the
elementary, middle, and high school levels include classroom instruction, prevention programs, character
development, guest speakers, community agency collaboration, staff training and parent awareness.
Elementary school students receive grade appropriate health and drug prevention education, which is integrated
into the curriculum throughout the year. Middle school students learn the effects and consequences of alcohol,
tobacco, and other drug use through the various strategies listed above. As part of the required instruction for
grades 6 to 12 s.1003.42 (3) students also learn about disease prevention and abstinence based reproductive
health, which includes the transmission and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STD). In middle school
the instruction is provided in two class periods in 7
th
grade science. In high school disease prevention and
abstinence based reproductive health is taught in the required class Health Opportunities through Physical
Education (HOPE), which is a comprehensive health and personal fitness class. All instructional materials for
these courses are approved annually by the school board. Parents have the option to formally request in
writing to review the instructional materials s. 1006.29 (2) for reproductive health and disease prevention
or to exempt their child from these lessons.
Bullying prevention education is integrated into the curriculum at all grade levels and taught throughout the year
by teachers, school staff, district staff and approved community agencies. Instruction includes identifying, pre-
venting, and responding to bullying and harassment. Instruction on recognizing behaviors that lead to bullying
and harassment and taking appropriate action based on those observations is also included.
Cyberbullying and Internet Safety education are addressed through curriculum integration at all grade levels.
The state-mandated prevention education for teen dating violence abuse is taught to secondary students through
curriculum integration, presentations, and approved speakers. The characteristics of healthy and unhealthy
relationships and identifying and responding to danger signals of dating violence are included in this curriculum.
For more information on prevention resources and the district policy prohibiting bullying and harassment
including how to report bullying, please refer to the Safe and Drug Free Schools’ website at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/sdfs/.
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Enrolling Your Child in School
How old does my child have to be to attend school?
Under Florida state law, a child must be 5 years old on or before September 1 to enter kindergarten. To enter
first grade, a child must be 6 years old on or before September 1 and must have successfully completed
kindergarten.
How do I know which school my child will attend?
Our district website http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zoning/ provides a link to an Attendance Zone Locator. Our
Student Services staff can also assist you. Parents with questions about zoning are encouraged to call our office
at 904-547-7598.
How do I enroll my child in school?
You may register your child online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/student/enrollment/. For additional
information contact your zoned school.
What paperwork will I need to enroll my child?
• Three proofs of residence – A current mortgage statement, lease or rent agreement, a current utility
bill and one other current bill or statement showing your address. For more information, visit
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/student/residency.
• Health Records – Children entering a Florida public school for the first time must have an up-to-
date Florida Certificate of Immunization (HRS FORM 680) and a copy of a physical examination
done within one year of enrollment. For information about immunizations required at each grade
level, parents are encouraged to call the St. Johns County Health Department. Current
immunization requirements for SJCSD students can be found at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/health/immun-izations/.
• Birth Certificate – A certified copy of a birth certificate is required by Florida Statute 1003.21.
• Proof of Guardianship (if applicable)
• School Records – Standardized test scores, recent report cards, and school withdrawal forms are
documents that will help the school place your child appropriately. If you do not have access to these
verifications, please provide the school with the name and address of your child’s previous school
so that the necessary information can be obtained.
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Parents Bill of Rights
The state, its political subdivisions, any other governmental entity, or other institution may not infringe upon
the fundamental rights of a parent to direct the upbringing, education, health care, and mental health of a minor
child. If those entities infringe upon a parent’s fundamental right, they must demonstrate that the action is rea-
sonable and necessary to achieve a compelling state interest, and the action must be narrowly tailored and not
otherwise served by less restrictive means.
A school district will promote parental involvement in the public school system by providing access to the
child’s studies and instructional materials while recognizing a parent’s right to withdraw the child from
objectionable portions of the school’s curriculum. A resource page for parents has been created by the Florida
Department of Education to help them navigate the avenues available for them to voice concerns regarding
potentially unlawful school materials. https://www.fldoe.org/ParentalRights/
Requesting a Change in Placement
The Parent’s Role with Placement Decisions
Many factors are considered when making a placement decision for a student. The placement decision is based
on the preponderance of evidence showing how well a student is meeting the levels of performance for student
progression to the next grade level. Parents or guardians may discuss placement decisions with school officials,
provide input for consideration, and ask for an explanation of the placement. They may also review the evidence
the school used in making the placement; however, the final placement decision is made by the principal. There
is no statutory provision which allows voluntary retention.
How do I request a teacher change?
Florida Statute 1003.3101 gives a parent the right to request his or her child be transferred to another classroom
teacher based on (1) the teacher’s out-of-field certification status or (2) personal preference. This statute does
not give the parent the right to choose a specific classroom teacher. Teachers with out-of-field certification are
named on our district website 30 days before the beginning of the semester. Parents may complete a Teacher
Change Request form, which is also available on the district website and at schools. When the form is returned
to the school, the parent will be contacted to schedule a conference (required). After the conference, the principal
will either approve or deny the request with the rationale for the denial in writing. Consistent with school board
rules and in accordance with state statute (1012.28 (5) F.S.), the Superintendent has designated the principal of
the school as the final authority in the placement of students in programs or classes.
How do I obtain a school transfer?
Information regarding types of transfers can found at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/choice/.
The hardship out–of-zone transfer request process is available on the School Services website, https://www.
stjohns.k12.fl.us/schoolservices/transfers/.
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Testing
Throughout the school year, your child will take several standardized tests, including the Florida Assessment of
Student Thinking (FAST), as part of the new coordinated screening and progress monitoring system aligned to
the Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) standards. These assessments include Renaissance
Star Early Literacy for VPK, Renaissance Star Early Literacy/Reading and Star Mathematics for grades K-2,
Cambium Reading for grades 3-10, Cambium Writing for grades 4-10, and Cambium Mathematics for grades 3-
8. These assessments are administered three times per year and measure student success with the B.E.S.T.
standards. At the fifth and eighth grade levels, students also take the Statewide Science Assessment. This test
measures how well students are meeting the state academic standards in science. Students enrolled in Algebra 1,
Biology, Civics, Geometry, or U.S. History will take the corresponding state End-of-Course (EOC) assessment
and it will constitute 30% of the final grade in the course. Students with disabilities following a modified
curriculum will take the Florida Alternate Assessment (FAA) at the same grade level as their peers who
participate in the general statewide assessment program. For additional information about statewide assessments
please visit https://www.fldoe.org/accountability/assessments/k-12-student-assessment/.
The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) standardized assessments provide information about your child’s
level of success with the B.E.S.T. standards, track student progress over time, and indicate grade-level
performance with the use of achievement levels. Schools use test scores to develop plans for individual student
improvement, and test scores are helpful in identifying academic areas of challenge that may require additional
support or varied teaching methods. Test results also help identify a student’s strengths and may suggest a need
for extended learning experiences. Parents always have access to their child’s test results through the Home
Access Center (HAC).
Schools may opt for additional testing programs, and each school-specific assessment calendar can be found
on their individual school website. The district assessment calendar is also available here:
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/. For more information, please refer to the Appendix of this guide.
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Reading – Our #1 Priority
St Johns County Schools believe that reading is the most important skill taught in elementary school. Children
master six related components as they learn to read. The components of reading include:
1. Oral Language provides the foundation for literacy development involving listening and speaking
skills.
2. Phonemic Awareness is the ability to hear and manipulate the sounds of spoken language. This
includes noticing rhyme and the separate, small sounds in words (phonemes).
3. Phonics is understanding the relationships between written letters and the sounds they represent. This
knowledge allows the reader to “decode” words by translating the letters into speech sounds and
blending those sounds to form words.
4. Fluency is the ability to read with accuracy, at an appropriate rate and with proper expression. Fluent
readers are able to better understand what they read because they are able to decode and recognize
frequently used words. This allows them to read at a conversational pace.
5. Vocabulary refers to words a reader can understand and use. The more words a child knows, the better
he or she understands what is read. Knowing how words relate to each other is a building block that
leads to comprehension.
6. Comprehension is the ability to understand what one has read. This includes understanding the plot
of a story or the information in an article. It also includes the ability to recognize the central idea of an
article or being able to compare and contrast characters in a story.
For more information about how parents can promote literacy skills, go to Florida Academics.
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What are the B.E.S.T. Standards?
From the beginning of the American experience, citizens have discussed the importance of education and what
learning should be taught in school. Educational standards are the learning goals describing what students should
know and be able to do at each grade level.
Florida’s Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) Standards for English Language Arts (ELA)
and math are approved by the Florida State Board of Education and are implemented across all grades.
The Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) Standards for Math include the K-8 grade level
standards, the content standards in high school courses, and the K-12 Mathematical Thinking and Reasoning
Standards.
The Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) Standards for English Language Arts (ELA) include
the K-12 English Language Arts benchmarks specific to each grade level as well as the K-12 ELA Expectations,
which are overarching skills that run through every component of language arts.
These rigorous and relevant standards will prepare Florida’s students with the knowledge and skills they need to
succeed in college, career and life. Each B.E.S.T. Standard provides clear expectations for the knowledge and
skills students need to master as they progress through each grade and subject. Parents are encouraged to find
more information about the B.E.S.T. Standards at http://www.fldoe.org/academics/standards.
State Academic Standards are in place for the Arts, Health Education, Science, Social Studies, and World
Languages.
Parents may view all of the standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/.
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Kindergarten
In kindergarten, children learn to:
• identify and print upper and lowercase letters of the alphabet
• recognize and produce the sound of each letter
• decode and encode simple words by blending sounds
• draw, dictate, and write simple stories
• listen to and retell familiar stories
• count to tell number of objects
• understand addition as putting together and adding to, and understand subtraction as taking apart and
taking from
• identify and describe shapes and classify objects
• know the body parts associated with and function of five senses
• sort objects by observable properties such as size, shape, color, temperature (hot or cold)
• observe that things make sound vibrate
• observe plants and animals, describe how they are alike and different in the way they look and the things
they do
• describe and compare using measurable attributes
• identify, describe, analyze, compare, create and compose shapes
• understand that different things move at different speeds (motion)
• use your five senses to observe things: big, small, far, near, push, pull
• describe attributes of day and night
• describe relative location of people, places, things using positional words and map skills
• describe different kinds of jobs that people do and the tools or equipment used
• know people and events honored in holidays
Parents may view all of the kindergarten standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/ (click on “Standards, then
enter the subject and grade level).
How do I help my child?
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the SJCSD year-at-a-glance documents that
are available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• View the Parent Guide for Kindergarten English Language Arts and the Parent Guide for Kindergarten
Mathematics
• View math information http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/12087/urlt/GK_Mathematics_Flor-
ida_Standards.pdf
• View reading information at Just Read, Florida
• Communicate with the teacher – e-mail is usually best
• Look regularly at your child’s schoolwork
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
What national, state or district tests will my child take in kindergarten?
Kindergarten students participate in the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) within the first 30
days of school and again in the middle and end of the year. The FAST assessment tool is STAR Early Literacy,
which assists teachers in understanding the abilities of children entering school and targets instruction that
helps children become successful learners. STAR data assists teachers in planning curriculum and improving
school readiness programs and services for preschool-age children. Visit https://www.renaissance.com/lp/flor-
ida-k-readiness-practice/ for a better understanding of what your child will experience during the STAR Early
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Literacy assessment. This site provides a child-friendly explanation of the assessment along with a few
practice questions.
Schools have the option of using additional diagnostic assessments, as appropriate. A district assessment
calendar is available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available online
for each school.
First Grade
In first grade, children learn to:
• read independently for multiple purposes
• decode one and two syllable words by blending sounds
• encode (spell) one syllable words
• write stories, journals and lists
• read and discuss different types of literature and informational text
• represent and solve problems involving addition and subtraction facts
• understand place value and properties of operations to add and subtract
• reason with shapes and their attributes
• represent and interpret data
• explore the Law of Gravity
• demonstrate and describe various way objects can move
• identify the major parts of plants, including stem, roots, leaves and flowers
• identify the difference between living and nonliving things
• use simple maps and globes
• recognize symbols and individuals that represent American constitutional democracy
• describe the characteristics of responsible citizenship in the school community
• show respect and kindness to people and animals
• distinguish people as buyers, sellers, and producers of goods and services
Parents may view all the first grade standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/ (click on “Standards”, then enter
the subject and grade level).
How do I help my child?
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the SJCSD year-at-a-glance documents that
are available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• View the Parent Guide for Grade 1 English Language Arts and the Parent Guide for Grade 1
Mathematics
• View math information http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/12087/urlt/GK_Mathematics_Flor-
ida_Standards.pdf
• View reading information at Just Read, Florida
• Communicate with the teacher – e-mail is usually best
• Look regularly at your child’s schoolwork
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
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What national, state or district tests will my child take in first grade?
First grade students participate in the Florida Assessment for Student Thinking (FAST) assessment three times
during the year for progress monitoring and guiding instruction.
Schools have the option to use additional diagnostic assessments, as appropriate. A district assessment calendar
is available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available for each school.
Second Grade
In second grade, children learn to:
• read independently for multiple purposes
• decode and encode one and two syllable words by blending sounds
• write for different purposes (tell a story, give facts, share an opinion)
• read and discuss different types of literature, including poetry and informational text
• use simple maps, globes and models to identify places
• label on a map or globe the continents, oceans, Equator, Prime Meridian, North and South Pole
• use a map to locate the countries in North America
• recognize that people supply goods and services based on consumer demands
• classify soil types
• distinguish human body parts and their basic functions
• observe and describe major stages in the life cycles of plants and animals
• identify solids, liquids and gases
• understand how magnets work (attract and repel)
• describe ways to conserve energy
• work with equal groups of objects to gain foundations for multiplication
• use place value understanding and properties of operations to add and subtract
• relate addition and subtraction to length
• reason with shapes and their attributes
Parents may view all the second grade standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/ (click on “Standards”, then enter
the subject and grade level).
How do I help my child?
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the SJCSD year-at-a-glance documents that
are available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• View the Parent Guide for Grade 2 English Language Arts and the Parent Guide for Grade 2
Mathematics
• View math information http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/12087/urlt/GK_Mathematics_Flor-
ida_Standards.pdf
• View reading information at Just Read, Florida
• Communicate with the teacher – e-mail is usually best
• Look regularly at your child’s schoolwork
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
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What national, state or district tests will my child take in second grade?
Second grade students participate in the Florida Assessment for Student Thinking (FAST) assessment three times
during the year for progress monitoring and guiding instruction.
Schools have the option of using additional diagnostic assessments, as appropriate. A district assessment
calendar is at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available for each
school.
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20
In third grade children learn to:
Third Grade
• read independently for multiple purposes
• pre-write, draft, edit and publish different kinds of writing
• understand story structure: setting, plot and sequence of events
• begin learning to write in cursive
• use text features to understand informational text
• use simple maps, globes, charts and models to identify places
• label the states in each of the five regions and the countries and commonwealths in North America
• describe how government gains its power from the people
• explain how government was established through a written Constitution
• identify the geography, culture, environment and economics of the United States, Canada, Mexico and
Caribbean
• recognize buyers and sellers interact to exchange goods and services through the use of trade or money
• tell how weather impacts habitats
• understand ways animals and plants interact and are interdependent
• describe structures in plants and their roles in food production, support, water and nutrient transport, and
reproduction.
• demonstrate that light travels in a straight line until it strikes an object or travels from one medium to
another
• demonstrate that light can be reflected, refracted, and absorbed
• know various forms of energy and trace their flow
• understand properties of multiplication and the relationship between multiplication and division and
fluency
• use place value understanding and properties of operations to perform multi-digit arithmetic
• develop an understanding of fractions as numbers
• understand area as a concept of geometric measurement and how it relates to multiplication and addition
• reason with shapes and their attributes
Parents may view all third grade standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/ (click on “Standards”, then enter
the subject and grade level).
How do I help my child?
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the SJCSD year-at-a-glance documents that
are available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• View the Parent Guide for Grade 3 English Language Arts and the Parent Guide for Grade 3
Mathematics
• View math information http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/12087/urlt/GK_Mathematics_Flor-
ida_Standards.pdf
• View reading information at Just Read, Florida
• Communicate with the teacher – e-mail is usually best
• Look regularly at your child’s schoolwork
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
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What national, state or district tests will my child take in third grade?
Third grade students participate in the Florida Assessment for Student Thinking (FAST) assessment three times
during the year for progress monitoring and guiding instruction. Third grade students participate in the FAST in
reading and mathematics.
Schools have the option of using additional diagnostic assessments as well. A district assessment calendar is at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available for each school.
Fourth Grade
In fourth grade children learn to:
• read independently for multiple purposes
• understand the importance of plot, theme, setting, and characters in literature
• understand the overall text structure of nonfiction text
• plan, draft, revise, edit and publish stories and other forms of writing including text-based writing
• relate that the rotation of earth and apparent movements of the sun, moon, and stars are connected
• identify the physical properties of common earth-forming minerals.
• recognize humans need resources found on Earth and that these are either renewable or nonrenewable
• describe the difference between physical weathering and erosion.
• compare and contrast the major stages in the life cycles of Florida plants and animals
• trace the flow of energy from the sun as it is transferred along the food chain
• observe and describe some basic forms of energy
• analyze and describe Florida History from Pre-Columbian to Contemporary Florida
• use simple maps, globes, charts and graphs
• gain familiarity with factors and multiples
• generalize place value understanding for multi-digit whole numbers
• extend understanding of fractions and ordering
• understand the geometric concepts of angles and be able to measure angles
• draw and identify angles, classify shapes by properties of their lines and angles
Parents may view all fourth grade standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/ (click on “Standards”, then enter the
subject and grade level).
How do I help my child?
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the SJCSD year-at-a-glance documents that
are available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• View the Parent Guide for Grade 4 English Language Arts and the Parent Guide for Grade 4
Mathematics
• View math information http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/12087/urlt/GK_Mathematics_Flor-
ida_Standards.pdf
• View reading information at Just Read, Florida
• Communicate with the teacher – e-mail is usually best
• Look regularly at your child’s schoolwork
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
•
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What national, state or district tests will my child take in fourth grade?
Fourth grade students participate in the Florida Assessment for Student Thinking (FAST) assessment three times
during the year for progress monitoring and guiding instruction. Fourth grade students participate in the FAST
in reading, writing and mathematics.
Schools may also opt for additional diagnostics. A district assessment calendar is available at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available for each school.
Fifth Grade
In fifth grade students will learn to:
• read independently for multiple purposes
• understand the importance of plot, theme, setting and characters in literature
• understand the overall text structure of nonfiction text
• plan, draft, revise, edit and publish stories and other forms of writing including text-based writing
• understand the scientific process and use it to solve problems
• explain the difference between an experiment and other types of scientific investigation
• recognize and explain that science is grounded in empirical observations that are testable; explanation
must always be linked with evidence
• investigate the flow of energy through closed circuits
• distinguish between the Sun, inner and outer planets, asteroids and comets
• describe climate zones, types of precipitation, and the water cycle
• explain force and motion concepts and relationships
• compare and contrast different forms of energy
• compare and contrast properties of matter
• identify human body organs and their function
• understand civil rights and suffrage
• demonstrate an understanding of political, economic, and social aspects of daily colonial life in the thir-
teen colonies
• identify significant events, individuals, and groups that played a role in the American Revolution
• explain economic, military, and political factors which led to the end of the Revolutionary War
• study government, the economy, immigration, and education
• write and interpret numerical expressions
• perform operations with multi-digit whole numbers and with decimals to hundredths
• apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication and division to multiplication and division
of fractions
• understand concepts of volume and relate volume to multiplication and to addition.
• graph points on the coordinate plane to solve real-world mathematical problems
Parents may view all fifth grade standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/ (click on “Standards”, then enter the
subject and grade level).
How do I help my child?
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the SJCSD year-at-a-glance documents that
are available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• View the Parent Guide for Grade 5 English Language Arts and the Parent Guide for Grade 5
Mathematics
• View math information http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/12087/urlt/GK_Mathematics_Flor-
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ida_Standards.pdf
• View reading information at Just Read, Florida
• Communicate with the teacher – e-mail is usually best
• Look regularly at your child’s schoolwork
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
What national, state or district tests will my child take in fifth grade?
Fifth grade students participate in the Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) assessment three times
during the year for progress monitoring and guiding instruction. Fifth grade students participate in the FAST in
reading, writing and mathematics. In addition, fifth grade students are assessed using the Statewide Science
Assessment (SSA).
Schools may also opt for additional diagnostics. A district assessment calendar is available at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available for each school.
Advanced Academic Opportunities in Elementary School
Each school offers Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL) options: whole-grade
and mid-year promotion, subject matter acceleration, and virtual instruction in higher grade-level subjects.
Course Acceleration
Students in all grades may be eligible for course acceleration after demonstrating mastery of the current grade level
standards. When a student’s educational experience is accelerated, no guarantee is made that the entire foundation
curriculum has been mastered. This is particularly critical in math and science since topics are presented only once,
rather than being repeated year after year. Parents should carefully consider the full academic and social
ramifications of acceleration. The parent may confer with the teacher, counselor and principal to determine whether
single subject acceleration is appropriate for the individual student based on the student’s academic history, teacher
recommendation and ability to work independently. The Request for Acceleration should be completed before
November 1. Consistent with school board rules and in accordance with state statute 1012.28 (5) F.S., the
Superintendent has designated the principal of the school as the final authority in the placement of students in
programs or classes.
Middle school courses are accessible to elementary students through St. Johns Virtual School and may be
completed at home or at school. Final approval by the K-12 Gifted Program Specialist and the Director of
Guidance and Choice is required.
For additional information on acceleration options, please contact your school counselor or see the Elementary
School Student Progression Plan on the District website at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/cs/spp/.
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Whole Grade Acceleration
Whole grade acceleration or the double promotion of grade, or part of a grade, may occur when a student achieves
at an exceptionally high level. Acceleration may be considered when the student has outstanding abilities and
skills, social and emotional maturity, above grade level performance in reading and math, and is capable of
meeting other district criteria. When a child is eligible for whole-grade acceleration, parents should carefully
consider the following:
• Accelerated coursework grades become a part of your student’s permanent record.
• The student is responsible for mastering all standards in his or her current grade and is required to take
accelerated grade level FAST Assessments in English Language Arts and Math (3
rd
– 5
th
grades),
Statewide Science Assessment (5
th
grade) and Civics (8
th
grade).
• Parental involvement in the entire process of accelerated coursework is necessary for student success.
• Candidates for whole grade acceleration should have excellent study skills, be self-motivated, and be
able to work independently.
• Whole grade acceleration in elementary school will result in a student being younger than his or her
classmates. This may become a challenge for mental health, as well as athletic competition in later years.
Parents who may be interested in completing the application for the acceleration process should consult with
their child’s teacher, school counselor and the school principal. Consistent with school board rules and in
accordance with state statute 1012.28 (5) F.S., the Superintendent has designated the principal of the school as
the final authority in the placement of students in programs or classes.
Grade acceleration does not supersede the initial placement age criteria as specified in Florida Statute 1003.21:
●
To enter kindergarten, the student must be five years old on or before September 1 of the current school
year
●
To enter first grade, the student must be six years old on or before September 1 of the current school
year
Middle School Years (Grades 6-8)
At the middle school level, students are able to:
• read independently for pleasure
• read, analyze and compare various types of literature, including novels, plays, poetry, stories and non-
fiction
• write formal, multi-paragraph essays to explain and/or persuade, or compare sources, and appropriately
use proper conventions, focus, organization, and support
• complete research projects on a variety of assigned topics
• prepare and present effective oral presentations
• use integers, fractions, decimals and percentages in math
• use measurements to solve math problems in real world situations
• use empirical observations and measurements to study the natural world
• investigate key concepts in physical, life, and earth/space science
• study the history and the role of the American citizen in democracy
• use a computer to write reports, create graphs and make charts
Parents may view all the middle school standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/. (Click on “Standards”, then
enter the subject and grade level).
The middle school course catalog is available online at https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/courses/middle/.
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Middle school course sequences are available in the appendix. For middle school course requirements, please contact
your school counselor or see the Middle School Student Progression Plan at https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/cs/spp/.
How do I help my child?
• Ensure that your student completes homework assignments
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the year-at-a-glance document that is available
at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Communicate with the teacher – email may be best for general communications
• Be familiar with your child’s instructional materials
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
• Ask your child’s teachers for a syllabus or course outline
• Access the Home Access Center at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/hac to check your child’s grades, state
test scores, assignments and attendance
• Promote the importance of reading outside of the school setting
• Visit http://floridastudents.org/# for Florida Standards-based videos for English language arts, math,
science and civics
• Visit http://floridastudents.org/# for parent guides and resources for English language arts and math
• Encourage your child to participate in academic fairs, events and clubs such as the Science Fair,
National History Dayand Robotics Club. Clubs vary by school based primarily upon student demand.
What state tests will my child take in middle school?
All middle school students participate in The Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) in ELA Reading and
Mathematics. The Reading Assessment FAST test is administered three times a year. The FAST Math assessment
is also administered three times a year. The FAST measures how well a student is meeting the Florida B.E.S.T
Standards (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking). Like the FAST, this assessment measures student mastery
of the “Communicating Through Writing” standards of the B.E.S.T. ELA.
Eighth grade students will take the Statewide Science Assessment. This test measures how well students are meeting
the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards (NGSSS) in the area of science.
Eighth grade students enrolled in civics participate in the state end-of-course (EOC) assessment which constitutes
30 percent of the final grade in the course.
Students enrolled in high school courses which include a state EOC assessment must participate in the EOC which
contributes 30 percent to the final grade in the course (Algebra I Honors, , Geometry Honors, Biology Honors and
U.S. History Honors).
For information on EOC assessments, parents may go to http://www.fldoe.org/accountability/assessments/k-12-
student-assessment/end-of-course-eoc-assessments/.
The district assessment calendar is available at https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment
calendar is available for each school.
Students taking High School courses in Middle School wi11 follow the District Assessment guide
for High School.
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Advanced Academic Opportunities in Middle Schools
Each school offers Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL) options: whole-grade
and mid-year promotion, subject matter acceleration, virtual instruction in higher grade-level subjects, and the
Credit Acceleration Program. Acceleration options do not supersede the core requirements for promotion to high
school (3 English Language Arts, 3 Math, 3 Science, 3 Social Studies). Students at all middle schools may be
enrolled in high school credit-earning courses, such as Algebra I Honors, Geometry Honors, Physical Science
Honors, Biology Honors, Spanish I, or Introduction to Information Technology. Parents are encouraged to contact
individual middle schools for specific courses offered. High school credit-earning courses adhere to the high
school grading policy. Algebra I Honors, Geometry Honors and Biology Honors include required state end-of-
course exams. Grades earned in high school credit bearing courses are included in the student’s cumulative Grade
Point Average (GPA) and may be used to satisfy high school graduation requirements and Florida Bright Futures
award requirements. Dual enrollment courses are available for middle school students who are ready for college
course work.
Program specifics are available through each school’s guidance department. See your school counselor for more
information.
Advanced Course Placement Criteria
The following criteria represent consensus of all middle school and district administrators:
• Grades - A grade of “C” or better in the previous honors or advanced course OR
a grade of “A” in the previous standard course OR
• FAST- Level 4 or 5 in appropriate area and not less than a Level 3 in any area
❖ On Mathematics and reading FAST for placement in honors or accelerated mathematics classes.
❖ On Reading FAST for placement in honors or advanced English, social studies, science
or foreign language
❖ Students with level 1 or 2 on their ELA-FSA will be placed in courses that provide targeted or
intensive reading interventions and the students may not qualify for an honors level course.
• In the case of extenuating circumstances, petition may be made on a case-by-case basis to the
• principal (or designee) for review of criteria to ensure proper course placement.
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Specific math placement criteria were developed and are shown in the math course progression chart that
follows.
Teacher recommendations may be considered, but the superintendent has designated the principal as the final
authority in placement decisions.
Choice Program for Middle School Students
The St. Johns County Center for the Arts at R.J. Murray Middle School is a program of choice for rising 6
th
6
th
graders. It offers artistically gifted students a program of study designed to develop their unique talents in
the performing and visual arts within an environment that is emotionally supportive and intellectually
challenging. Students must apply and auditions are required. Application, audition and transportation
procedures apply to students requesting consideration for this program. https://www-mms.stjohns.k12.fl.us/.
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High School (Grades 9-12)
At the high school level, students should be able to perform the following:
• read independently for pleasure
• read, analyze and compare complex types of literature, including novels, plays, poetry, stories, and non-
fiction
• write papers (reports, essays and research projects) that explain and/or persuade and appropriately use
proper conventions, focus, organization, and support
• conduct research projects using a variety of sources
• prepare and present effective oral presentations
• use algebra and geometry to solve mathematical problems
• use scientific processes to solve problems
• understand biological processes of all living things
• analyze the history of the United States and the world
• define their own political beliefs based on knowledge of American democracy
• understand different economic systems in the world and how they relate to each other
• understand how financial institutions work and how to manage money
Students entering ninth grade must earn an industry certification in Information Technology. AP, IB, AICE and
18 credit diploma candidates are exempt from this requirement.
Parents may view all the standards at http://www.cpalms.org/Public/. (Click on “Standards”, then the subject and
grade level).
The high school course catalog designated by the state is available online at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.
us/cs/catalogs/.
Information about voluntary public service and eligibility requirements for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship
Program can be found at http://www.floridastudentfinancialaid.org/ssfad/bf/bfmain.htm.
The high school sequence for language arts, mathematics, social studies and science courses are available in the
appendix.
How do I help my child?
• Ensure your student completes homework assignments
• Be familiar with your student’s instructional materials
• Check recommended pacing and content standards using the year-at-a-glance documents that are available
at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
• Attend parent-teacher conferences
• Attend the school’s Open House, PTA/PTO meetings, and special events
• Become a member of the School Advisory Council (SAC)
• Visit and volunteer at the school
• Ask your student’s teachers for a syllabus or course outline
• E-mail teachers for general communications
• Use the Home Access Center at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/hac/ to check your child’s grades,
assignments and attendance
• Promote the importance of reading outside the school setting
• Visit http://www.floridastudents.org/ for Florida Standards-based videos for English language arts, math
and science
• Visit http://www.floridastandards.org/# for parent guides and resources for English language arts and math
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What state or national tests will my child be taking in high school?
All freshmen and sophomores participate in the ELA Reading Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST).
The FAST in ELA Reading is test given three times a year. This test measures how well students are meeting the
English Language Arts Florida B.E.S.T. Standards (Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking). Students will
also take the B.E.S.T. Writing Assessment in April. Like the FAST, this assessment measures student mastery of
the “Communicating Through Writing” standards of the ELA B.E.S.T.
Students enrolled in a course with a state end-of-course (EOC) assessment participate in the state EOC that con-
tributes 30 percent to the final grade in the course – Algebra 1 Honors, Algebra 1B, Geometry Honors, Biology
and U.S. History Honors. For additional information concerning assessments, visit
http://www.fldoe.org/accountability/assessments/k-12- student-assessment/end-of-course-eoc-assessments/.
The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) is a state supported exam administered free to all sophomores.
Freshmen and juniors have the opportunity to take the PSAT exam; a fee may be incurred. The PSAT functions
as an Advanced Placement test success predictor, SAT test success predictor, and is used as a qualifying test for
National Merit Scholarships for juniors. The PSAT assesses students in critical reading, mathematics and writing
skills. The results are used to advise students about advanced coursework for the purpose of earning college
credits.
What district created final exams will my child take in high school?
Students enrolled in English 3, English 3 Honors, English 4 or English 4 Honors will participate in a district-
created final exam that will be 10% of the culminating semester grade..
Grade Calculation Guide
Courses
Semester 1
Semester 2
State EOC
Final Exam
State or Third-Party
Assessment
FAST, AP, IB, AICE
Q1 = 50%
Q2 = 50%
Q3 = 50%
Q4 = 50%
n/a
n/a
No impact to course
grade
EOC -yearlong courses
Q1 = 17.5
Q2 = 17.5
Q3 = 17.5
Q4 = 17.5
30% of final
grade
n/a
n/a
District final exam
Eng 3, 3H, 4, 4H
Q1 = 50%
Q2 = 50%
Q3 = 45%
Q4 = 45%
n/a
10% of culminating
semester grade
n/a
High School courses – No
final exam
Q1 = 50%
Q2 = 50%
Q3 = 50%
Q4 = 50%
n/a
No final exam
n/a
Schools may also opt for additional diagnostic testing programs. The district assessment calendar is available at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/testing/ and a school assessment calendar is available for each school.
For additional information on high school grade averaging, grade weighting and grade calculation, see the Stu-
dent Progression Plan at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/cs/spp.
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Advanced Academic Opportunities in High Schools
Each St. Johns County high school offers Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL)
options: whole-grade and mid-year promotion, subject matter acceleration, virtual instruction in higher grade-
level subjects, early graduation, early admission to college and the Credit by Acceleration Program. These options
include both challenging academic programs recognized worldwide and advanced courses for which college
credit is awarded upon successful completion of coursework and examinations. A rigorous high school schedule
that includes advanced coursework is a major predictor for success in college. Numerous studies show that stu-
dents who have had rigorous courses (honors, AP, IB, AICE, Dual Enrollment) while in high school are prepared
for the challenges of a college education and are much more likely to earn their degree within five years.
Parents are encouraged to be involved in the course selection process. The courses you and your child select are
the first steps in preparing for the next level. As students develop their Customized Learning Paths (CLPs) with
their parents and guidance counselors, they are encouraged to consider the following opportunities for
advancement.
AICE, AP and IB courses are designed to earn college credit as well as meet high school graduation requirements.
As such, materials and discussions for these courses may reflect topics not typically included in SJCSD courses.
Due to the dual credit nature of these courses, content and materials may not be modified.
All High Schools
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
The College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) Program is a nationwide program consisting of more than 30
college level courses and exams offered at participating high schools. Subjects range from art to statistics. Stu-
dents who earn a qualifying grade of 3 or above on an AP exam may earn college credit, placement in higher level
courses or both, depending on the college or university. There is no guarantee that a college will accept credits
earned through this program.
College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)
College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams test mastery of college-level material acquired in a variety
of ways – through general academic instructions, significant independent study or extracurricular work. Students
can earn credit for what they already know by getting qualifying scores on any of the 33 examinations available.
Students are responsible for the CLEP expense and any administrative fees.
Early College Program
The Early College Program is a partnership with St. Johns River State College. Students who meet eligibility
criteria may enroll in college courses to simultaneously earn high school and college credit. The pathway pro-
vides an opportunity for the student to earn an associate degree simultaneously with their high school diploma.
Florida Statute establishes that “the Dual Enrollment program is the enrollment of an eligible secondary student
in a postsecondary course creditable toward high school completion and a career certificate or an associate or
baccalaureate degree.”
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Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment allows eligible middle and high school students to enroll in postsecondary courses. They earn
credit toward high school graduation and at the same time earn credit toward a college degree or technical
certificate. Our primary provider of dual enrollment courses is St. Johns River State College. Students are
permit- ted to enroll in dual enrollment courses on a part-time basis during school hours, after school, or
during the summer term and on a full-time basis in their junior and senior years. For a list of dual enrollment
courses that are equivalent to high school courses and satisfy graduation requirements, see
https://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/5421/urlt/AcademicList.pdf.
Dual enrollment science courses taken with a corresponding laboratory course will be awarded 1.0 high school
science credit. Dual enrollment sciences courses taken without a laboratory component will be awarded 0.5 high
school credits. Lecture and lab courses with different course numbers may be used if the lab course is
appropriate to the lecture course as identified by the post-secondary institution.
Early Admission
Early admission is similar to dual enrollment, except that qualified students enroll in college/university courses
full-time during their last year in high school. They earn credits simultaneously toward a college degree and a
high school diploma.
Honors Courses
Honors courses lay the academic foundation for advanced courses for earning college credit while in high school.
Honors courses include all those with an honors designation in the St. Johns County School District High School
Course Catalog, Preliminary International Baccalaureate (Pre-IB) and Preliminary Advanced International
Certificate of Education (Pre-AICE) courses, and St. Johns Virtual School Courses with an honor designation.
Honors Course Placement Criteria
1. Grades - A grade of “C” or better in the previous honors course OR an “A” in the previous standard
course
OR
2. FAST – Students must score a Level 4 or 5 in appropriate area and not less than a Level 3 in any area:
• Mathematics FAST for placement in honors mathematics classes
• Reading FAST for placement in honors English, social studies, science or foreign language
OR
3. PSAT – A score of 480 or higher on the appropriate assessment:
• Math score for mathematics honors class placement
• Reading and/or language for English, social studies, science and foreign languages honors
class placement
OR
4. PLAN- A score of 170 (English), 210 (mathematics) or higher on the appropriate assessment:
• Math score for mathematics honors class placement
• Reading and/or language for English, social studies, science and foreign languages honors
class placement
5. Norm Referenced Test – Students must score a stanine of 7, 8, or 9 on an appropriate assessment:
• Math score for mathematics honors class placement
• Reading and/or language for English, social studies, science, and foreign language honors
class placement
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Please Note: Students with level 1 or 2 on their ELA- will be placed in courses that provide targeted or
intensive reading interventions and the students may not qualify for an honors level course.
In the case of extenuating circumstances, petition may be made on a case-by-case basis to the principal (or de-
signee) for review of criteria to ensure proper course placement.
Advanced International Programs
Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) at Beachside High School
and St. Augustine High School
The AICE Program is a rigorous international curriculum and examination program modeled on the British pre-
college curriculum. To be considered for an AICE Diploma, a candidate must earn the equivalent of seven credits
by passing a combination of examinations at either the full (one credit) Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS) or double
(two credits) International Advanced Level (A), with at least one course coming from each of the three curriculum
areas and the “Core” course. Florida’s colleges and universities provide college credit for successfully passing
the exams. See Programs of Choice.
International Baccalaureate (IB) at Allen D. Nease and Pedro Menendez High
Schools
The IB Diploma Program is a rigorous pre-university course of study leading to internationally standardized tests.
The program’s comprehensive two-year curriculum allows its graduates to fulfill requirements of many nations’
education systems. Students completing IB courses and exams from six subject groups are eligible for college
credit. The award of credit is based on the scores achieved on the IB exams. Students can earn up to 30
postsecondary semester credits by participating in this program at the high school level. Community service is
required. See Programs of Interest.
Virtual Education
St. Johns Virtual School
St. Johns Virtual School (SJVS) offers multiple, high quality, online curriculums for grades K-12. Courses are
taught by St. Johns County teachers and students may opt to take one or more courses during the school day or
apply to the diploma granting Full Time program. SJVS can be a resource for students with limited access to AP
or other course offerings in their zoned schools. For more information, call 904-547-8081 or visit
www.stjohnsvirtual.com.
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Programs of Interest
Multi-year Programs of Choice such as Career Academies, Center for the Arts, Junior Reserve Officer Training
Corps (JROTC), and Advanced Academic Programs such as International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced
International Certificate of Education (AICE), are accessed through an application process. An out-of-zone
waiver is granted for students to attend programs outside their normal attendance zone. Please note that when a
student attends an out-of-zone school, parents/guardians are responsible for transportation of their student.
Program of Interest
High School
St. Johns County Center for the Arts
St. Augustine High School
Junior Reserve Officer Training
High School
Air Force JROTC
Bartram Trail High School
Army JROTC
St. Augustine High School
Navy JROTC
Allen D. Nease High School
Advanced Academic Programs of Interest
High School
Advanced International Certificate of Education
(AICE)
Beachside High School
Advanced International Certificate of Education
(AICE)
St. Augustine High School
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Allen D. Nease High School
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Pedro Menendez High School
Early College Program
Pedro Menendez High School
Early College Program
Tocoi Creek High School
Early Career Program
St. Augustine High School
Career Academies
High School
Academy of Hospitality and Tourism
Allen D. Nease High School
Communications Academy
Allen D. Nease High School
Stellar Academy of Engineering
Allen D. Nease High School
Design Academy
Bartram Trail High School
Information Technology Academy
Bartram Trail High School
VyStar Academy of Business & Finance
Bartram Trail High School
Academy of Global Logistics and Supply Chain
Management
Beachside High School
Academy of Information Technology
Beachside High School
Academy of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences
Beachside High School
Academy of Emerging Technology
Creekside High School
Academy of Engineering and Environmental
Sciences
Creekside High School
St. Johns County Academy of Future Teachers
Creekside High School
Academy of Architectural and Building
Sciences
Pedro Menendez High School
Flagler Health+ Academy of Future Health Care
Professionals
Pedro Menendez High School
VyStar Academy of Business & Finance
Pedro Menendez High School
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Academy of Biotechnology and Medical Research
Ponte Vedra High School
Academy of Information Technology
Ponte Vedra High School
St. Johns County Academy of Future Educators
Ponte Vedra High School
Academy of International Business and Marketing
Ponte Vedra High School
Academy of Aviation and Aerospace
St. Augustine High School
Academy of Law and Homeland Security
St. Augustine High School
St. Johns County Academy of Future Teachers
St. Augustine High School
Academy of Coastal and Water Resources
St. Johns Technical High School
Academy of Culinary Arts
St. Johns Technical High School
Academy of Innovation in the Built Environment
Tocoi Creek High School
Academy of Leadership in Emerging Technology
Tocoi Creek High School
Flagler Health+ Academy of Future Healthcare
Professionals
Tocoi Creek High School
St. Johns County Academy of Future Teachers
St. Augustine High School
Academy of Aquaculture
St. Johns Technical High School
Academy of Culinary Arts
St. Johns Technical High School
Academy of Innovation in the Built Environment
Tocoi Creek High School
Academy of Leadership in Emerging Technology
Tocoi Creek High School
Flagler Health+ Academy of Future Healthcare
Professionals
Tocoi Creek High School
Career Academies
In St. Johns County, the nine high schools offer 26 career academies aligned with the region’s high-skill, high- wage
industries. Career academies are small, personalized learning communities within a high school. Students must apply
to be part of an academy and be accepted with parental knowledge and support. Every career academy includes these
essential elements: a small learning community; a rigorous, college-prep curriculum with a targeted career theme;
relevance reinforced in each program through well established relationships with business partners; and the opportunity
to earn college credit and/or industry certifications. Many of our career academies focus on STEM (science, technology,
engineering, and math) education. STEM-driven curriculum addresses the need for greater diversity in the 21st century
workforce by transforming the typical teacher-driven classroom into a problem-solving, exploratory classroom,
requiring students to participate in authentic lessons that make connections between school, community, work, and
global enterprise. Research shows students entering career academies do better in school, have higher college
enrollment rates and earn more money than non-career academy students. If your child chooses to enroll in a career
academy, he/she may earn college credit through partners such as Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University, University
of North Florida, or St. Johns River State College - all at no cost to the student.
Florida Virtual School students, St. Johns Virtual School students and Homeschool Education students who wish to
learn more about participating in Career Academies and available Industry Certification examinations should contact
the Career and Technical Education Department at 904-547-4870.
Students who demonstrate proficiency on approved Gold Standard Career Pathway Industry Certifications for which
there is a current articulation agreement, may be eligible to receive articulated credits from post-secondary institutions
(s. 1003.02 F.S.). Eligible certifications for which there are active agreements may be found at
http://www.fldoe.org/academics/ca-reer-adult-edu/career-technical-edu-agreements/industry-certification.stml.
For more information, application process and dates to apply for an Academy, please visit
https://cte.stjohns.k12.fl.us/academies/.
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First Coast Technical College (FCTC)
Students are offered two different formats of hands-on learning through Dual Enrollment and Secondary
elective courses at FCTC by meeting the following requirements:
•
Career Dual Enrollment
o
enrolled in 9-12
th
grade; some programs are 11-12
th
grade only
o
maintain 2.0 unweighted GPA
o
submit the Dual Enrollment Admission Application with all required signatures by the deadline
o
check your email for important updates
•
Secondary elective courses
o
enrolled in 9-12
th
grade
o
complete the High School Student Registration form with required signatures for your home
school counselor to submit by the deadline
Key guidelines for successful student outcomes:
•
Students are motivated
•
Students have the ability to adapt successfully to a college environment
•
Students are accountable for their attendance
•
Students are engaged/proactive learners
For FAQ and more information on programs offered, requirements and applications, visit
FCTC.edu, https://fctc.edu/students/highschool/programs/ or your school counselor.
The promotion requirements for students in St. Johns Public Schools can be found in detailed form in the St.
Johns County School District Student Progression Plan at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/cs/spp.
Elementary School (grades K-2)
Promotion in grades K-2 is based primarily on progress in reading. Students must make satisfactory progress in
Florida’s Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) to be promoted. Each student’s reading progress
toward grade level reading achievement is determined by appropriate assessments, both teacher-made and
commercial, and teacher judgment.
Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) will be administered to kindergarten through second grade stu-
dents. This assessment will determine which students need additional instruction in reading. Each such student
shall be referred to the school’s Multi-Tier Support System (MTSS) Team or its equivalent for review of the
student’s progress and portfolio. The MTSS Team or its equivalent shall review the student’s records and deter-
mine whether the preponderance of evidence indicates that the student should be promoted.
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Promotion of Students (grades 3-5)
To be promoted in grades 3-5, a student must demonstrate mastery of grade level benchmarks in language arts,
mathematics, and science.
Student performance at a Level 1 or Level 2 on the FAST in reading, and/or Level 1 or 2 in mathematics is
considered below grade level. Students performing below grade level shall be referred to the school’s Multi-Tier
Support System (MTSS) Team or its equivalent for a comprehensive review of the student’s academic
achievement. The MTSS Team or its equivalent shall review the student’s records and determine whether the
preponderance of evidence indicates that the student should be promoted.
The principal (or designee) may recommend promotion for a student in grades 3-5 not passing the grade level
course in language arts, mathematics, or science, if the student demonstrates mastery of language arts/reading,
mathematics, and/or science by achieving a score of Level 3 or above on the FAST in reading and/or mathematics
and the preponderance of evidence indicates that the student is ready for the work of the next grade level.
In instances where curriculum has been suspended in certain core academic subjects to allow for intensive
remediation in reading and/or mathematics, the principal (or designee) makes the determination for promotion
based on demonstrated student mastery of appropriate benchmarks.
State law mandates that a grade 3 student who scores a Level 1 on the FAST in reading be retained, unless he/she
qualifies for one of six Good Cause Exemptions. For more comprehensive information on promotion and
retention, especially for grade 3 students, please refer to the elementary section of the St. Johns County Student
Progression Plan at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/cs/spp.
Florida Law, Section 1008.22 (3) Promotion requirements for third grade students:
• The requirement in Section 1008.25(5)(b): To be promoted to grade 4, a student must score a Level
2 or higher on the statewide, standardized English Language Arts assessment required under 1008.22
F.S.
• An additional option approved by the State Board of Education in Rule 6A-1.094221 (a): Scores at
or above the 45
th
percentile on the Reading SAT-10.
• Completes the portfolio assessments at or above 70% mastery.
• There are no other options approved in state law or rule for students.
If a 3
rd
grade student refuses to participate or a parent refuses to allow his/her student to participate in the state
required assessment program, the Reading SAT 10, or to complete the portfolio assessments, it will be necessary
for the student to be retained in 3
rd
grade.
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Middle School (grades 6-8)
Promotion from a school composed of middle grades 6, 7, and 8 requires that the student must successfully
complete academic courses as follows:
1. Three middle school or higher courses in language arts, which emphasize literature, composition, and
technical text
2. Three middle school or higher courses in mathematics
3. Three middle school or higher courses in social studies
a)
One of these courses must be, at a minimum, a one-semester civics education course that includes
the roles and responsibilities of federal, state and local governments; the structures and functions of
the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government; and the meaning and significance of
historic documents, such as the Articles of the Confederation the Declaration of Independence and
the U.S. Constitution. The civics course in middle school will include career and education-
planning.
4. Three middle school or higher courses in science
5. The equivalent of one class period per day of physical education for one semester of each year
6. Additionally, a career and education-planning course must be completed in either grades 6, 7 or 8
th
grade.
The course must be internet based, customizable to each student and include research bases assessment to
assist the students in determining educational and career options. 1003.4156 F.S.
A student in grades 6, 7 or 8 is considered to be below grade level if he/she scores Level 1 or Level 2 on the
Florida Standards Assessment in reading and/or mathematics.
High School (grades 9-12)
Promotion of high school students is dependent on the awarding of credit. To be classified a sophomore, a student
must have a minimum of five credits; to be classified a junior, a student must have a minimum of eleven credits;
to be classified a senior, a student must have a minimum of seventeen credits. Students may graduate early by
completing the 24 credits required for a standard diploma in less than 8 semesters or by completing the 18 credit
Acceleration Diploma option. Specific graduation requirements are available at https://www.fldoe.org/schools/k-
12-public-schools/bosss/graduation-requirements/.
Required Credits at the End of Academic-Year:
Total credits to graduate 18 or 24*
Credits to become a senior 17
Credits to become a junior 11
Credits to become a sophomore 5
Depending on diploma option selected.
Library Media
St. Johns County School District has a school library media program in each school. Each school has a link on
their website that allows parents to review the titles in their library collection. Parents may utilize the Parental
Choice Library Book Restriction Form to restrict titles their child may check out from the school library.
Each school has a School Media Advisory Committee made up of parents, community members and staff. This
committee works closely with the school to support media programing and book selections. If you are interested
in serving on this committee, please contact your school Media Specialist or Principal.
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Grading and Reporting
Report cards provide the student and the student’s parent or guardian with an objective evaluation of scholastic
achievement with indicators of progress. Report cards depict and evaluate the student’s:
• academic performance in each class or course in grades K through 5 based on examinations as well
as other appropriate academic performance items
• conduct and behavior and
• attendance, including absences and tardies
All schools use the district's approved report card as the primary means of reporting student progress. Report
cards are issued at the end of each grading period on dates adopted annually for the official school year calendar.
Grades are issued to all students in attendance. Students transferring into the district after the midpoint of a re-
porting period may be assigned grades based on records/grades from the sending school.
Students Working on Grade Level in Grades K-5
Report card grades reflect the student's progress toward meeting standards. Satisfactory grades in the general
program indicate an acceptable level of progress of most grade level standards for that point in the year.
Interim Progress Reports
Interim progress reports are issued to all students in grades 1-12 at the midpoint of each regularly established
grading period on dates adopted annually for the official school calendar. Interim reports may be done via parent
or guardian conferences as well as through reporting forms or Home Access Center (HAC).
Grading Scale for Grades 3-12
Grades
Descriptor
GPA Unweighted Value
(High School Only)
A = 90 -100
Outstanding Progress
4.0
B = 80 - 89
Above Average Progress
3.0
C = 70 - 79
Average Progress
2.0
D = 60 - 69
Lowest Acceptable Progress
1.0
F = 0 - 59
Failure
0
I = 0
Incomplete
0
Middle and High Retake and Remediation Policies
For information regarding middle school and high school retake and remediation policy, see the Student
Progression Plan at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/cs/spp.
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Available Services
Extended Day is offered at most elementary schools and K-8 schools by either the school or community agencies.
Before and after school care is available for students K-5. Please check with each individual elementary or K-8
for school program times and grades served. These programs are a community service; pricing will differ from
school to school. Contact your child’s school for details on their Extended Day Program.
Full-Service Schools
Full-Service Schools is a collaborative program with local community
partners. It is designed to promote positive mental, emotional, physical
and social health services for students and families in Full-Service
School sites. The current sites are Crookshank Elementary, Osceola
Elementary, Webster Elementary and South Woods Elementary
Schools. Services include but are not limited to counseling, health
screenings, dental services, vision evaluations with follow up, nutrition
programs, and social services referrals. For information, please contact
Student Services at 904-547-7587.
Head Start
The SJCSD Head Start Program provides high quality comprehensive services to eligible three and four-year olds.
Head Start students receive educational, dental, mental health, disabilities, health, nutrition, and family support
services. Head Start is a full school day program and is located at Crookshank Elementary, Osceola Elementary,
South Woods Elementary, Webster Elementary and FCTC. Please contact Early Childhood Services at 904- 547-
8965 for additional information.
Homeless
Children and youth who lack a fixed, regular, adequate nighttime residence are considered homeless. If due to a
loss of housing, a child must live in a shelter, motel, vehicle, or campground on the street, in abandoned buildings,
or doubled-up with relatives or friends, then he/she is eligible to receive services provided under the McKinney-
Vento Act.
For further information, contact the SJCSD Homeless Liaison at (904) 547-7589 or visit
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/homeless/.
Placement of Dependent Children of Active-Duty Military Personnel
Florida is a member of the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission
which addresses key educational transition issues encountered by children of
active military families. The purpose of the Compact is to remove barriers to
educational success imposed on children of military families including, but not
limited to, eligibility, enrollment, placement and graduation. Further information
is available from the Student Services Department at (904) 547-7598.
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Title I, Part A
Title I (Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged) is a program serving students in elementary
and secondary schools. Title I, Part A funding provides supplemental academic services to students enrolled in
high-poverty schools within St. Johns County. For more information, please call 904-547-8928. You may also access
the website at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/federal/.
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK)
The SJCSD VPK Program is available at 13 of our elementary schools and FCTC. The VPK program is a high
quality blended early childhood program that is designed to prepare our four-year olds for kindergarten. VPK is
a state funded program for all children four years of age on or before September 1 of the school year entering the
program. Children are eligible to attend VPK during the school year or during the summer prior to entering
kindergarten. VPK provides 540 hours of instruction for three hours per day from 8:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.
Monday through Friday throughout the school year. The Summer VPK Program is 300 hours of instruction.
District VPK Programs are funded with resources from Head Start, ESE, Title I and VPK. Programs at
Crookshank Elementary, Osceola Elementary, South Woods Elementary, Webster Elementary and FCTC are free
all- day programs. Another model of VPK offers extended day on a sliding fee scale at our other VPK school
sites. For more information, please contact VPK Manager Donna Fenech at Early Childhood Services at 904-547-
8959 or call your child’s home zoned school.
More Services Available to Parents:
Please contact your child’s school counselor or the school front office for information on the following:
• Mentoring services
• Student counseling services
• Academic advice for your child
• After school programs
• The school’s annual report
• An explanation of the student’s progress report and assessments results
• Promotion requirements
• Home Access Center – a web-based application that allows parents to view their child’s educational
information via a secure password-protected website. More details can be found at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/hac/. (Refer to the Home Access Center section of this document for an
overview of the program.)
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Food Service
Meal Prices for 2023-2024:
Elementary Breakfast
$1.75
Elementary Lunch
$3.25
Secondary Breakfast
$1.75
Secondary Lunch
$3.50
Extra Milk
$ .60
Adult Breakfast
$2.50
Adult Lunch
$4.75
Reduced Price Breakfast
$ .30
Reduced Price Lunch
$ .40
Menus:
Menus can be found on the St. Johns County District website, http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/food/ under the
Food & Nutrition Services Department tab.
How do students access their meal account at school?
All students will receive a personal identification number (PIN) for their meal account from their homeroom
teacher or the food service manager at the beginning of the school year. This can range from a three to five-digit
number. Your student should memorize this number and not share with any other students as this number is
directly tied to their personal account. Your student will use this PIN number until he/she leaves that school.
When the student moves to a new school within the District, a new number is assigned. Student Identification
scanners are used at some of the elementary, middle and high schools, and must be used to access their account.
Please check with your student.
Forgot your lunch money?
Negative Food Service Account Balance Policy
Elementary Schools:
• At $0 balance, no a la carte purchases are permitted. Any debt must be paid before a la carte purchases
can be made.
• When the student’s account balance reaches negative $10, the Food Service Manager will communicate
with the parent(s) or guardian via letter, email, and/or phone call. An application for free or reduced lunch
will be offered to the parent/guardian.
• Once the negative $15.00 balance is exceeded, the Food Service Manager will alert school administration
of the negative balance issue.
• A follow-up with Student Services will occur if the parent/guardian does not respond.
Middle and High Schools:
• The student will be informed when his/her account balance is less than $5.00.
• At $0 balance, no a la carte purchases are permitted. Any debt must be paid before a la carte purchases
can be made.
• When the student’s account reaches negative $10.00, the Food Service Manager will communicate with
the parent(s) or guardian via letter, email, and/or phone call. An application for free or reduced lunch will
be offered to the parent/guardian.
• Once the negative $15.00 balance is exceeded, the Food Service Manager will alert school administration
of the negative balance issue.
• A follow-up with Student Services will occur if the parent/guardian does not respond.
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You can set up an account at www.paypams.com to review student meal transactions and to manage your student’s
account balance.
.
**No student will be overtly identified as a recipient of any level of school meal benefits.
**No student will be denied a school meal because of a negative food service account balance.
A la Carte Items:
Many of the schools provide specialty, A La Carte items. These items range in price and are not included in the
paid, free or reduced priced “school lunch”. All students may purchase a la carte items with cash or by using
their lunch account.
Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application
Parents are encouraged to complete one Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application per family, including all
children in household rather than one per child. The application can be obtained online at
www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/food/free and completed online by following the link to online Free and Reduced Meal
Application. This single application for the family may be returned to any of the District Schools where parents
have a student(s)enrolled; we prefer that parents return the application to the school where their youngest child
is enrolled. The schools will be sending all completed applications to the District School Food Services Office
for centralized approval. Until the application is processed and approved by the District Food Service Office,
any meal charges will be the responsibility of the adult/guardian. The approval process can take up to ten (10)
days.
Your student(s) meal status (free or reduced) at the end of a school year will continue through the first 30 days
of the next school year. Unless a new Family Meal Application has been processed and approved by the 30
th
day of school, your student(s) meal status will revert to PAID. You may complete a lunch application at any
time during the school year.
Please note: Students attending a CEP (Community Eligibility Provision) school will not be required to
fill out an application. All students eat at no cost at those particular schools. If there is a sibling in the
household that attends a non-CEP school, then an application will need to be completed for that
student(s).
CEP schools are as follows:
• FCTC (VPK Program)
• R.J. Murray Middle
• Gamble Rogers Middle
• Sebastian Middle
• James A. Webster Elementary School
• South Woods Elementary
• John A. Crookshank Elementary
• St. Johns Technical High
• Ketterlinus Elementary
• The Evelyn Hamblen Center
• Osceola Elementary
• W.D. Hartley Elementary
• Otis A. Mason Elementary
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Prepayment for Food Items
Prepayments to your child’s meal account with a debit or credit card can be made by logging onto www.pay-
pams.com. Payment can also be received by the food service manager in the form of check or cash. If a check is
used, please indicate student’s name, student personal identification number (PIN), and contact phone number on
the check in the memo section. Prepayment is encouraged as it assists in movement of students through the line.
Food Allergies
If your child has food allergies, please provide the school nurse with a physician’s note indicating the allergies
and the appropriate substitutions that are recommended by the physician or medical authority.
Parental Restrictions
Restrictions can be placed on your student’s meal account by notifying the food service manager in writing. Once
restrictions are placed, they cannot be removed unless the parent provides the food service manager with a letter
asking for the restrictions to be removed.
Communication with Food Service Manager
The food service manager is on site prior to the school beginning their breakfast meal preparation, and departs
from the school upon completion of lunch. Inquiries regarding your student(s) meal account should be made prior
to or immediately after meal service. Please check with your school to determine the best time to contact the food
service manager in the event that you have questions.
Refunds
Refunds less than $20.00 can be issued through the Food Service Manager of your school’s cafeteria.
Refunds for amounts higher than this should be requested through the Food and Nutrition Services Department,
via email, to Jessica.mcquaig@stjohns.k12.fl.us
Account Balances
Student account balances can be obtained on the web site www.paypams.com at no charge. Your student’s ac-
count balance, either positive or negative, from the previous school year will roll into the new school year unless
a refund has been requested.
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Transportation
Guide to a Safe and Efficient School Bus Stop
General Information for Parents/Guardians
• Trust your instincts
• Alert authorities to strange vehicles or persons in vicinity of the school bus stops and/or walkways to/from
school bus stops
• Demonstrate respect for public, community, and private properties near bus stops
• Prevent children from crossing roadways between motor vehicles and golf carts
• Don’t park motor vehicles or golf carts within fifty (50) feet of intersections from any direction
• Don’t park motor vehicles or golf carts within fifty (50) feet of school bus stops from any direction
• Don’t allow children to enter/exit motor vehicles or golf carts from the roadside of the motor vehicles or golf
carts (enter/exit from curbside only)
• Don’t double park or closely stagger motor vehicles or golf carts along roadways or in the vicinity of the
school bus stops
• Don’t park motor vehicles or golf carts opposing the lawful flow of traffic
• Don’t assemble or park in any manner which impedes the safe passage of school buses to and from school
bus stops
• Assemble children at designated staging area at least twelve (12) feet from where the school bus stops, prior
to the school bus arrival
• Do not wait for the school bus to arrive to have children exit motor vehicles or golf carts, children should
wait at bus stop staging area5 minutes prior to stop time
• Please assist with being present at bus stops. Kindergarteners will not be released unless a parent is in sight
of the bus door to receive them.
• Please assist receiving children at bus stops during inclement weather
• Arrive at the bus stop at least five (5) minutes before scheduled arrival time
• Manage proper student behavior at the bus stop
• Do not allow children to approach the bus until the bus has come to a complete stop and the school bus
operator signals the children to approach the school bus
• Children crossing the roadway to board buses must obey bus operator hand signals in order to safely cross
the roadway
• Allow the school bus to leave the school bus stop before driving through the school bus stop location
• Respect the amber and red student lights on the school bus
• Manage residential subcontractors such as landscapers to ensure they don’t park in a manner which impedes
the safe passage of the school buses
• Adjust commuting times as appropriate to avoid the school buses at the bus stops and/or getting stuck behind
the school bus on the roadways
• For safety and security reasons, do not attempt to board the school bus (only eligible students and school
board employees are permitted to board the bus at the bus stop)
• Report safety or security concerns to the school authorities, law enforcement, and/or the Transportation
Department
• Any/All Cyclists must obey traffic control devices displayed by buses (the same as motorists)
The transportation code of conduct is available in the SJCSD Student Code of Conduct at https://www.sjohns.
k12.fl.us/schoolservices/conduct/.
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Business and Community Partnerships
Investing in Kids (INK!)) is the 501 (C)(3) non-profit, education foundation recognized as the direct
support organization for the St. Johns County School District. INK! Promotes academic success for all St. Johns
County public school students through innovative programs, teacher support, and classroom resources.
There’s no better way to make an impact than becoming an active advocate for public education!
Volunteer, Partner, Give!
Learn how you can help us impact students and teachers, at www.ink-stjohns.org/
or call 904-547-7120.
Volunteers In Education assists students in many ways to provide a strong school experience. Just
some of the things volunteers do include tutoring, mentoring, assisting with field trips, taking part in parent-
teacher organizations, supporting extracurricular activities, and many others. We welcome community members
to partner with the school district in these efforts. All volunteers, as well as individuals entering a school for
other reasons (attending events, teacher conferences, etc.) must have school access. This includes successful
completion of a background check performed by the school district. To fill out a school access form, go to
https://stjohns.keepntrack.com/apply. For more questions, call the RSVP/Volunteer Services Office at 904-547-
3945, or read more at https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/volunteer/.
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of St. Johns County provides meaningful
opportunities for people 55 years of age and older to assist students in their educational pursuits. RSVP volunteers
provide tutoring and mentoring services to kindergarten through 12
th
grade students, and also literacy
enhancement to preschool students. They are also available to assist not-for-profit and social service agencies with
special projects. For more information on this and other district-based volunteer programs, visit
www.rsvpstjohns.com, www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/volunteer, or call 904-547-3945.
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Qualifications of Teachers
The St. Johns County School Board works to fill St. Johns County classrooms with the most professionally
qualified and caring teachers available.
The district strives to have each teacher fully certified in all the classes/courses he/she teaches. At times, however,
it is necessary to have a teacher teach a class/course “out of field.” If this occurs, you will be notified that your
child’s teacher is currently out of field but working to become certified.
As a parent, you have the right to information regarding the professional qualifications of any teacher who is
instructing your child. You may access such information by logging on the Florida Department of Education web
site at http://www.fldoe.org/teaching/certification/index.stml selecting “Public Certification Search.” You can
look at the certificate of any Florida teacher on this site. If you do not have access to a computer, please contact
your child’s school to obtain information.
How You Can Participate
• Each school has a School Advisory Council (SAC); parents are invited to become a member of this
important group.
• Sign up as a member of your school’s Parent Teacher Association or Organization (PTA/PTO). Please
contact your school for details.
Volunteer or Mentor
To contact the School District volunteer services, call 904-547-3945. Parents may also contact the school for
volunteer information.
Take a Class at FCTC
At First Coast Technical College (FCTC) you can prepare for a new career in just one year! Visit FCTC.edu or
call (904) 547-3460 for more information.
Career Involvement (for businesses)
St. Johns County School District is committed to providing career development activities to all students from
kindergarten to adult. The goal is to provide a variety of career awareness and exploration activities while
promoting rigorous coursework and quality workplace experiences. To achieve this goal, the involvement of
business partners, community leaders, parents, students, and educators is essential. For more information, please
call 904- 547-4870.
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Community Enrichment
Enrichment opportunities that encourage and stimulate lifelong learning take place at various times throughout
the year at First Coast Technical College. Whether for personal development, job training, hobbies or fun,
qualified instructors will share their passion to bring new skills to our community. Classes will take place late
afternoons or evenings at the centrally located campus. For information or to sign-up for email updates, visit
Commu-nity Enrichment or call (904) 547-3460.
You Can Help
As a business and/or community leader, you can provide the opportunity for students to explore career options by
providing career development activities. You can choose the intensity of involvement based on the length of time
and depth of the activity.
Moderate Intensity Activities:
• Tour of Business exposes students to career opportunities at the workplace.
• Career Presenter share career goals and history with students while at school.
• Job Shadowing allows students to explore careers by “shadowing” employees at work.
• Service Learning provides students the opportunity to work at a community agency.
• Educator in the Workplace provides teachers with the opportunity to experience the skills and attitudes
needed at the workplace for classroom application.
• Mentoring provides students with one-on-one contact with a professional in a chosen career (can also be
a high intensity activity).
High Intensity Activities:
• Internships, On-the-Job (OJT) Training or Cooperative Education provide paid or unpaid class-related
work experiences.
• Apprenticeships allow students to work with an experienced journeyperson while acquiring job-related
training in a high school setting.
• Supported Employment provides work-related opportunities for disabled persons.
• Advisory Board Members serve as resources in program development and provide continuous quality
improvement.
Homework
Homework is an assignment in which the majority of the work is completed outside of the classroom in
a developmentally appropriate period of time. The function of Homework is to:
• Allow for independent practice or rehearsal
• Prepare for the introduction of new content
• Deepen knowledge or understanding
• Generate specific feedback
Homework for High School Students - Recommendations
Homework should have a specific purpose, be familiar, be relevant, and connected to the
standards. The purpose should be for students to (1) practice or rehearse, to begin (2)
preparation for the introduction of new content, or to (3) deepen knowledge and understanding
(Marzano, 2001). When homework is assigned for the purpose of practice/rehearsal, it should
be based on material with which the students are very familiar. When homework is assigned to
help prepare students for new content, the teacher should carefully explain the purpose for
homework and make connections for the student. Providing feedback on homework serves to
enhance student achievement.
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Special Services AvailabeThe mission of the St. Johns County Exceptional Student
Education (ESE)
Department is to identify exceptional students and to meet their educational needs by providing support and resources to enhance
educational opportunities so they may become productive citizens. ESE programs and services address the unique needs of students who
are gifted in kindergarten through 12th grade and those with mild, moderate and severe disabilities from age three until they graduate with a
regular diploma, or until their 22nd birthday.
ESE programs and services are designed to assist students in reaching their educational goals through the use of
instructional and behavioral approaches which are evidence-based and exemplify best practices. Technology is
also used in many creative ways to meet student needs. ESE services are available at all district schools for
students who have mild to moderate disabilities and those who are gifted. Students with more significant
disabilities and prekindergarten students with disabilities are served in cluster programs at selected sites.
Program sup- port is provided to students, parents and school personnel by program specialists based at the
district office. Stu- dents with disabilities who are not eligible for services through the ESE program, may be
eligible for an accommodations plan under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. For more information,
contact the St.
Johns County School District ESE department at 904-547-7672 or visit online: http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us
/ese.
ESOL
The St. Johns County School District English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Program functions within
regular schools and classrooms to provide eligible students with the opportunity to learn English while receiving
equal access to content instruction in the Florida Standards. Students eligible for the ESOL Program are placed
in appropriate grade level classes and courses, while itinerant ESOL teachers help Gen. Ed. Teachers use World
Class Instructional Design and Assessment English Language Development (WIDA ELD) Framework and
learning strategies to ensure comprehensible instruction. Additional digital resources are sometimes utilized. For
more information, please contact the St. Johns County School District ESOL department at 904-8924 or visit
online: http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/esol.
Gifted Program
A student is eligible for special instructional programs for the gifted if the student meets the following criteria:
1. The student demonstrates:
a. The need for a special program,
b. A majority of characteristics of gifted students according to a standard scale or checklist,
c. Superior intellectual development as measured by an intelligence quotient of two (2) standard
deviations or more above the mean on an individually administered standardized test of
intelligence.
OR
2. The student is a member of an underrepresented group and meets the criteria specified in an approved
school district plan for increasing the participation of underrepresented groups in programs for gifted
students. Underrepresented groups are students with limited English proficiency or students from low
socio-economic status families.
For more information, contact the St. Johns County School District Gifted Program Office at 904-547-7672 or
visit online: https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/ese/gifted.
Teen Parent Program
The Teen Parent Program is designed for pregnant and parenting students. Students receive comprehensive and
additional services to facilitate the completion of coursework necessary to earn a high school diploma. These
services may include childcare, health services, social services, and transportation as needed. For more
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information, contact the St. Johns County School District Student Services Department at 904-547-7587 or visit
online: https://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/ttp/.
What Parents Can Do to Help Their Students
Monitor and encourage school attendance: Regular attendance is a critical factor in school success because
students are more likely to succeed in academics when they attend school consistently. All students who have
reached the age of 6 years or who will have reached the age of 6 years by February 1 until the age of 16 years,
are required to attend school regularly. Each parent of a child within the compulsory attendance age is
responsible for their child’s attendance as required by law. School district policy regarding excused and
unexcused absences and truancy can be found on the Student Services Department website at
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/stu- dent.
Know what your child is learning: The Year-at-a-Glance is a document that informs parents and students of
the recommended pacing and content standards for selected courses. It includes the topics to be taught each quarter
and a list of instructional resources. The Year-at-a-Glance is only a recommended pacing guide; school leaders and
teachers make the final decision regarding the pacing of any program of study. The classroom teacher is always
the best source of information regarding content and pacing. The Year-at-a-Glance is supplied as a model of one
recommended path to the completion of a course. You can view the Year-at-a-Glance for elementary and
secondary core subjects at: http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/.
Know where your child can get help – Use the FloridaStudents.org website:
This site is specially designed for students and parents. It has over 2000 tutorials,
videos, and other resources to support your child’s learning in language arts, math,
science and civics. To get help on a specific concept, just click on the subject, the grade
level, and standard you need at https://floridastudents.org/#.
Read to your child: Reading is the heart of education. Read to your child daily from a book that he/she cannot
quite yet read on his/her own. For information on what to read to preschool, elementary, middle or high school
students please read The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease. A copy is available in each school library, and
many schools also have a video presentation for parents.
Stay informed: Keep up with changes and what your children should be doing at the “Just for Parents” FLDOE
website: http://www.FLdoe.org/family/.
Take your child to the library: St. Johns County has a main library located downtown, and five branches:
Anastasia Island, Bartram Trail, Hastings, Ponte Vedra Beach, and the Southeast Branch. A bookmobile regularly
visits communities located more than ten miles from a branch library. For a schedule and more information on
the St. Johns County Public Library system, go to http://www.sjcpls.org/.
Encourage writing: Writing makes thinking easy to see. Write with your child and let him/her see you writing –
shopping lists, thank you notes, to-do lists. Work with your child on his/her written assignments to add detail and
to express ideas in order.
Make math part of your language: Your home is a great place to begin to explore and "talk" mathematics with
your child. Incorporating math activities and language into familiar daily routines will show your child how math
works in everyday life. Play board games, solve puzzles, and ponder brain teasers with your child. Your child
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will enjoy these kinds of activities while enhancing his or her mathematical thinking. Point out the mathematics
involved, and have your child discuss the strategies he or she used. For more tips on helping your child succeed in
mathematics, visit the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics https://www.nctm.org/.
Make science real: Science is all around us. Involve your child in gardening, caring for family pets, trips to the
beach, looking at the stars in the night sky, conducting experiments, and other activities that can
contribute to a love of science.
Take your child on a “field study”: There are 24 miles of beaches, and lots of history
in our city. Take your child to downtown St. Augustine and surrounding historical
sites to help them imagine life long ago. Social studies opportunities sur- round us in
St. Johns County. Our community is also full of artists – painters, sculp- tors, glass
blowers, potters, and musicians. Local schools offer excellent fine arts pro- grams,
exhibits and performances for families to explore the arts together.
Get moving: Physical activity is important for good health. Walk, bike ride, surf or play ball with your child.
Make it a point to do something active with him/her daily.
Request a mentor: Mentoring is a one-to-one relationship between a caring adult and a student who could benefit
from extra help and support. Mentoring has a proven record as a powerful factor in helping students improve their
grades and self-esteem and in raising goals and expectations. Mentors serve as coaches, supporters, role models,
and advocates and work closely with teachers and school staff. Parents interested in the possibility of having a
mentor for their child should contact the school’s guidance counselor for more information.
Communication
Reading and writing: Talk to your child as often as possible. Talk about his/her day, hopes, goals, and interests.
Use interesting words as you talk. Play word games with your child.
Parent-Teacher Conferences: One of the best ways to find out how your child is doing in school is through
parent-teacher conferences. Your child’s teacher may request to schedule a conference; however, if you would
like to speak to your child’s teacher, you may call, write or e-mail the teacher to set one up. Please be flexible
when scheduling a time. Remember this is the opportunity for you to work with the teacher as a team. After the
conference, follow up. Keep in touch. Talk to your child about the conference. Stress the positive things the
teacher discussed and talk about suggestions for improvement.
Websites: There is a wealth of information on each school’s website. Get in the habit of checking it regularly for
school and district updates.
Check Home Access Center: Access at https://homeaccess.stjohns.k12.fl.us to check grade, FAST scores,
assignments and attendance. See Home Access Center for more information.
Pay attention to what comes home in your child’s backpack.
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Home Access Center
https://homeaccess.stjohns.k12.fl.us
St. Johns County School District has a web-based service, called Home
Access Center (HAC), to allow both students and parents to view
student educational information.
When using HAC, you will be able to see:
➢ A calendar of significant events (assignments due, field trips, absences, etc.)
➢ Student’s schedule of classes (not available during summer months)
➢ Detailed attendance and discipline information
➢ Homework assignments, tests and grades
➢ Current progress in each class (not available during summer months or for dual enrollment courses)
➢ Credits earned toward graduation
➢ Standardized Test Scores
➢ Emergency contact information
Parents and guardians will be required to show a photo ID at the child’s school to be granted a username and
password to HAC. Once granted a HAC account, you may use the same account to view all your children’s
information.
Students will be assigned their own HAC accounts. Account information will be distributed to students at the
school’s discretion.
Yearbook Name Change Request: A parent/legal guardian must submit a name change request, in writing, the
school principal and yearbook advisor. Due to the publication timelines, the request must be made no later than
the end of the first 9 weeks.
Additional Resources
St. Johns County School District provides year-round education by taking a course through St. Johns Virtual
School. APEX is available for grades 6-12. If you have questions, please contact your child’s school counselor.
Resources available throughout the year:
Florida Students.org - https://www.floridastudents.org/
FloridaStudents.org is provided and maintained by the Florida Department of Education and offers re-
sources from all over the web to support your learning in language arts, mathematics, science, civics,
and U.S. History with more than 800 original student tutorials.
Just Read Florida - http://www.fldoe.org/academics/standards/just-read-fl/families/
Just Read Florida is a comprehensive resource provided by the Florida Department of Education where parents
can find tips, ideas, and resources to assist them in building their child’s literacy skills from grades K-12.
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What Happens If My Child Falls Behind?
Our Multi-Tiered Support System (MTSS) is a process that provides intervention and educational support to all
students at increasing levels of intensity based on their individual academic and behavioral needs. The goal is to
recognize problems and intervene early so that students can be successful. All St. Johns County schools have
MTSS teams that use a problem-solving method to quickly identify students who need assistance and provide
necessary instruction immediately.
The MTSS process has three tiers that provide increasing levels of support:
• Tier I includes high quality instruction. The school provides all students with access to high quality
curriculum, instruction, and behavior supports in the general education classroom.
• Tier II includes additional targeted, supplemental instruction/interventions. The school provides
interventions to small groups of students who need more support than they are receiving through Tier I.
• Tier III includes intensive interventions. The school develops and implements interventions to meet
the individual needs of students.
If your child is involved in the MTSS process, his or her progress is monitored, and results are used to make
decisions about additional instruction and intervention. You will be informed and involved in planning and
providing interventions for your child. You will also receive frequent progress monitoring about how your child
responds to the interventions provided. For more information, please contact the St. Johns County School District
Accountability and Intervention Services at 904-547-8911, contact your school counselor or visit online:
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/intervention.
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Parent Glossary
Acronym
Definition
Acronym
Definition
ACT
American College Test
HAC
Home Access Center
AICE
Advanced International Certificate of Education
IB
International Baccalaureate
AP
Advanced Placement
IR
Intensive Reading
AR
Accelerated Reader
LEP
Limited English Proficient
AUP
Acceptable Use Policy
MTSS
Multi-Tiered System Support
AVID
Advanced Via Individual Determination
OLA
On-line Assessments
B.E.S.T.
Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking
POC
Programs of Choice
CAST
Curriculum Area Support Team
PSAT
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test
CBT
Computer Based Testing
PTO
Parent Teacher Organization
CC!
CHARACTER COUNTS!
PTSO
Parent Teacher Student Organization
CCRP
Comprehensive Core Reading Program
SAC
School Advisory Council
CLP
Customized Learning Path
SAT
Scholastic Aptitude Test
DBQ
Document-Based Questioning
SJVS
St. Johns Virtual School
DOE
Department of Education
SPP
Student Progression Plan
ELA
English Language Arts
VPK
Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten
EOC
End-of-Course Assessment
YAG
Year-at-a-Glance
ESE
Exceptional Student Education
YRD
Youth Resource Deputy
ESOL
English for Speakers of Other Languages
ESS
Educational Support Services
FAST
Florida Assessment of Student Thinking
FAST
Florida Standards Alternate Assesment
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Florida Parent Checklist
The purpose of the Florida Parent Checklist
1
is to support parent’s involvement in their child’s educational
progress by identifying actions and linking to resources
2
that:
▪
Strengthen the child’s academic progress, especially in the area of reading;
▪
Strengthen the child’s citizenship, especially social skills and respect for others;
▪
Strengthen the child’s realization of high expectations and setting lifelong learning goals; and
▪
Emphasize communication between the school and the home.
ACADEMIC
Support reading with age appropriate home activities.
Ensure that your child has a consistent time and place to do homework.
Ensure that your child has access to materials needed to complete assignments.
Discuss schoolwork regularly with your child.
Attend workshops on helping your child at home.
Visit the local library and encourage your child to check out books of interest.
Read to/with your child daily.
Set an example by reading in your home and discussing what you’ve read with your child.
Ask your child to explain his/her math homework.
Emphasize the importance of education and doing one’s best in school
RESOURCES:
Just Read, Families https://www.fldoe.org/academics/standards/just-read-fl/families/
FloridaShines.org https://www.floridashines.org/
FloridaStudents.org https://www.floridastudents.org/
AskALibrarian.org http://www.askalibrarian.org/
Special Education https://www.pta.org/home/family-resources/Special-Education-Toolkit
CITIZENSHIP
Teach and reinforce positive behaviors such as respect for self and others, hard work and
responsibility.
Ensure that your child has a regular routine.
Encourage your child to accept responsibility for his/her actions.
Ensure that your child is in attendance and on time to school each day.
Monitor and promote your child’s participation in extracurricular and after-school activities.
Monitor your child’s television viewing.
Reinforce the school’s behavioral expectations.
RESOURCES:
Positive Behavior Support Home Matrix
http://flpbs.fmhi.usf.edu/revision07/family/PBS%20Home%20Matrix.pdf
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Helping Your Child Become a Responsible Citizen
https://www2.ed.gov/parents/academic/help/citizen/citizen.pdf
Bullying Prevention
https://www.fldoe.org/safe-schools/bullying-prevention.stml
Engaging Youth in Service
https://youth.gov/youth-topics/civic-engagement-and-volunteering
SETTING GOALS
Express the belief in your child’s ability to be successful.
Encourage your child to set short- and long term- educational goals.
Celebrate academic accomplishments.
RESOURCES:
Financing Future Education Goals
https://www.floridashines.org/go-to-college/pay-for-college
SCHOOL TO HOME COMMUNICATION
Communicate regularly with your child’s teacher(s) in person, by phone, through email or
writing.
Prepare for and attend parent-teacher conferences and/or other individualized student
meetings, such as Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or Academic Improvement Plan
meetings.
Attend open houses, science fairs, plays and musical performances, field trips, sporting events,
curriculum nights and other school activities.
Volunteer in the school setting when possible.
RESOURCES:
The Parent-Teacher Conference
http://www.readingrockets.org/article/19308
1
Reference Florida Statute 1002.23(3). The Florida Parent Checklist must be issued each school year to all parents of students in
grades K-12.
2
Resource links related to academics, citizenship, goal-setting, and communication should be considered as a guide to
assist in the discovery of information to strengthen parental involvement.
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Bibliography, Links and Cited Sources
St. Johns County School District http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/
This website provides information on individual schools and departments, enrolling your child in school,
zoning and transfers, bus routes, prevention education, special services, School Board meeting times and
dates, Home Access Center, district calendar, middle and high school course catalogs, Student Progression
Plan and much, much more!
Florida Department of Education www.fldoe.org
First Coast Technical College (FCTC) - Community Enrichment http://fctc.edu/community/education/
The National Parent Teacher Association http://www.pta.org/
US Department of Education www.ed.gov
Immunization requirements and meningococcal disease information for SJCSD students
http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/health/immunization
Literacy skills http://www.fldoe.org/academics/standards/just-read-fl/
Next Generation Sunshine State Standards http://floridastandards.org
St. Johns County Virtual Instruction Program http://www-sjvs.stjohns.k12.fl.us
St. Johns County Education Foundation (DBA Investing in Kids (INK) www.ink-stjohns.org/
St. Johns County Public Library System http://www.sjcpls.org/
Parent and student resources, videos, etc. by grade and standard http://floridastudents.org/#
Year-at-a-Glance: Check recommended pacing and content standards using the year-at-a-glance document
that is available at http://www.stjohns.k12.fl.us/year-at-a-glance/
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Middle School Course Sequence
For Honors or Advanced Course Placement: Grade “C” or better in previous honors course, grade “A” in the
previous standard course with teacher recommendation, FAST Level 4 or 5 but not less than 3 in any area.
Language Arts
6
th
7
th
8th
Standard
M/J Language Arts I
M/J Language Arts II
M/J Language Arts III
Advanced
M/J Language Arts I Advanced
M/J Language Arts II Advanced
M/J Language Arts III
Advanced
Mathematics
6
th
7
th
8
th
Standard
M/J Grade 6 Mathematics
M/J Grade 7 Mathematics
M/J Grade 8 Pre-Algebra
Advanced
M/J Accelerated Mathematics Grade
6
M/J Accelerated Mathematics Grade 7
Algebra 1 Honors*
Algebra 1 Honors*
Geometry Honors**
Accelerated pathways require supplemental work to be completed during the summer.
Algebra 1 Honors* Must pass the FAST Algebra 1 EOC and the FAST EOC grade is 30% of the final course
grade. (Honors carries a 0.5 bonus weighting.)
Geometry Honors** Must take FAST Geometry EOC and the FAST Geometry EOC grade is 30% of the final
course grade. (Honors carries a 0.5 bonus weighting.)
Science
6
th
7
th
***
8
th
9th
Standard
M/J Comprehensive
Science 1
M/J Comprehensive
Science 2
M/J Comprehensive
Science 3
Environmental Science
Advanced
M/J Advanced
Comprehensive Science
1
M/J Advanced
Comprehensive
Science 2
M/J Advanced
Comprehensive
Science 3 or **Honors
Physical Science
Biology Honors or
Physical Science
Honors
Highly Advanced
#M/J Comprehensive
Science Accelerated
Honors 1
M/J Comprehensive
Science Accelerated
Honors 2
Co-requisite:
Algebra 1 Honors
*Biology Honors
Co-requisite;
Geometry Honors
Chemistry Honors or
Physics Honors
Required Pre-requisites:
•
# M/J Comprehensive Science Accelerated Honors 1: Concurrent enrollment in M/J Accelerated Mathematics
Grade 6 and a scaled score of at least 344 (mid-level 4) or higher on Florida State Assessment for Reading in
Grade 5 is required for enrollment. Accelerated Science 1 and Accelerated Science 2 are re-uired pre-
requisites for eligibility to enroll in Biology Honors for a middle school students enrolled in a school that
offers Biology Honors.
•
*Biology Honors: Science Accelerated Honors 1 and Science Accelerated Honors 2 are required
prerequisites for a middle school student to enroll in Biology Honors.
Students enrolled in Biology Honors in grade 8 will take the Statewide Biology End of Course Assessment
(EOC) and it will constitute 30% of the student’s grade for the year.
**Students enrolled in Honors Physical Science in grade 8 will take the Statewide Science Assessment (SSA) at the end
of the school year and should be concurrently enrolled in Algebra 1 Honors, or a higher-level math course.
***7
th
grade students in an advanced science or social studies course should participate in National History Day or
Secondary STEM Fair with a project.
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Social Studies
6
th
7
th
8th
Standard
M/J World History
M/J US History
M/J Civics and Career
Planning
Advanced
M/J World History Advanced
M/J US History
Advanced
*Middle School Computer Education Progression (Recommended)
Students can earn digital tool certificates through Middle School ICT courses.
Electives
Middle school students in SJCSD have opportunities to explore visual arts, performing arts,
physical education and STEM.
*Note: Not all courses are available at all schools.
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High School Course Sequence
For Honors or Advanced Course Placement: Grade “C” or better in previous honors course, grade “A” in the previous
standard course with teacher recommendation, FAST Level 4 or 5 but not less than 3 in any area.
English Language Arts
9th
10
th
11
th
12
th
Standard
English I
English II
English III
English IV
Honors
English I Honors
English II Honors
English III Honors
English IV Honors
AP/DE
AP English Language
and Composition
DE Composition I
AP English Literature and
Language Arts
DE Composition II
AICE
Pre-AICE English
Language
AICE English Language
AICE English
Literature 1
AICE English
Literature 2
IB
English I – Pre-IB
English II – Pre-IB
English III – IB
English IV - IB
Language Arts
Electives
Creative Writing I
Creative Writing II
Creative Writing III
Creative Writing IV,
Creative Writing V
Journalism I
Journalism II
Journalism III
Journalism IV
Journalism V Honors
Speech I
Speech II
Applied
Communications
Writing for College
Success
Reading for College
Success
Mathematics
9
th
10
th
11
th
12
th
Standard
Algebra 1*
Geometry**
Algebra 2
Mathematics for College
Liberal Arts
Algebra 2
Mathematics for College
Liberal Arts
Mathematics for Data and
Financial Literacy Honors
Honors
(0.5 bonus
weighting)
Algebra 1 Honors*
Geometry Honors**
Algebra 2 Honors
Geometry Honors**
Algebra 2 Honors
Probability/Statistics Honors
AP Precalculus
Algebra 2 Honors
AP Precalculus
Probability/Statistics Honors
Probability/Statistics
Honors
AP Precalculus
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Advanced Courses
The courses listed below carry a 1.0 bonus weighting and are typically taken in the junior and senior years after pre – requisite courses. Course
offerings vary by school. Check with your guidance counselor to determine which courses are available at your school.
AP – Advanced Placement
Precalculus
Statistics
Calculus AB/BC
DE – Dual Enrollment
College Algebra
Upper Level Math
AICE – Advanced International
Certificate of Education
IB – International
Baccalaureate
Advanced courses may require supplemental work to be completed during the summer.
Algebra 1 and Algebra 1 Honors* Must pass the Algebra 1 EOC and the EOC grade is 30% of the final course grade (Honors
carries a 0.5 bonus weighting).
Geometry and Geometry Honors** Must pass the Geometry EOC and the EOC grade is 30% of the final course grade (Honors
carries a 0.5 bonus weighting).
Science
9
th
10
th
11
th
*12th
Standard
Environmental Science
** Biology
Chemistry
Earth Space
Marine Science
Anatomy
Chemistry
Earth Space
Marine Science
Anatomy
Honors
** Biology Honors or
Physical Science
Honors or
Chemistry Honors or
Physics Honors or
Anatomy Honors
** Biology Honors or
Physics Honors or
Chemistry Honors or
Anatomy Honors
Anatomy Honors
Chemistry Honors Phys-
ics Honors
Marine Science Honors
Advanced Placement or
Dual Enrollment for the
student with appropriate
pre and co-requisites.
Anatomy Honors
Marine Sci. Honors
Physics Honors
Chemistry Honors
Advanced Placement or
Dual Enrollment for the
student with appropriate
pre and co-requisites.
Honors International
Programs
**Pre IB Biology
Pre IB Physics
Advanced Placement
Courses
**Pre AICE Biology
Pre AICE Chemistry
OR other advanced
coursework for which
student has appropriate
pre and co-requisites.
AICE, IB, Advanced
Placement or Dual
Enrollment for the
student with appropriate
pre and co-requisites.
AICE, IB, Advanced
Placement or Dual
Enrollment for the
student with appropriate
pre and co-requisites.
*A FOURTH SCIENCE IS RECOMMENDED, BUT NOT MANDATORY.
** Students enrolled in Biology, Biology Honors, Pre-IB Biology or Pre-AICE Biology take the Florida Biology End-of-Course
Assessment and it will constitute 30% of the student’s final grade.
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Science and Math Prerequisites and Co-requisites for
High School Science Courses
Course
Science Prerequisite
FAST
Prerequisite
Math Prerequisite
Math Co-requisite
Biology
Environmental Science
Biology Honors
Physical Science Honors or
Adv. 8
th
grade Science.
Geometry Honors or
higher
Chemistry
Biology
Earned a grade of at least a
C in Algebra 1
Algebra 2
Chemistry Honors
Previously earned at least a
C in Biology Honors
Earned a grade of at least a
C in Algebra 1 Honors
Algebra 2 Honors
Physical Science
Honors
Algebra 1 Honors
Physics Honors
Earned a grade of at least a
C in previous honors
science course
Earned a grade of at least a
C in Algebra 1 Honors
Algebra 2 Honors
Anatomy
Earned a grade of at least a
C in Biology course
Recommend L3 or
higher.
Anatomy Honors
Previously earned at least a
C in Biology Honors
Recommend L3 or
higher.
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Social Studies
9
th
10
th
11
th
12th
Standard
World Cultural Geography
(E)
African American History
(E)
World History (WH)
Psychology I (E)
Psychology II (E)
Sociology (E)
Contemporary History
(E)
Law Studies (E)
United States History
(USH) - EOC is 30% of
final grade
Psychology I (E)
Psychology II (E)
Sociology (E)
Contemporary History
(E)
Law Studies (E)
Economics with
Financial Literacy (ECO)
United States
Government (USG)
Psychology I (E)
Psychology II (E)
Sociology (E)
Contemporary History
(E)
Law Studies (E)
Advanced
World Cultural Geography
(E)
Humanities I Honors (E)
Humanities II Honors (E)
International Relations 2
Honors (E)
African American History
Honors (E)
Holocaust History Honors
(E)
World History Honors
(WH)
Psychology I (E)
Psychology II (E)
Sociology (E) ??
Contemporary History
(E)
Law Studies (E)
United States History
Honors (USH) – EOC is
30% of final grade
Psychology I (E)
Psychology II (E)
Sociology (E)
Contemporary History
(E)
Law Studies (E)
Economics with
Financial Literacy
Honors (ECO)
United States
Government Honors
(USG)Psychology I (E)
Psychology II (E)
Sociology (E)
Contemporary History
(E)
Law Studies (E)
Highly Advanced
AP Human Geography (E)
AICE Geography (SAHS)
(E)
AP World History (NHS)
(WH)
IB Psychology I (NHS)
(E)
AP World History
(WH)
AP European History
(E)
AICE International
History (SAHS) (WH)
AP Psychology (E)
AP United States
Government and
Politics (NHS) (USG)
IB Psychology 1
(NHS) (E)
AP United States
History (USH)
AP European History
(E)
AICE United States
History (SAHS) (USH)
AICE AS Global
Perspectives (SAHS)
(E)
AP U.S. History (NHS)
(USH)
IB History of Americas
(PMHS) (USH)
IB Psychology 1
(PMHS) (E)
IB Psychology 2 (NHS)
(E)
DE AMH (USH)
AP Capstone Seminar
(E)
AP Macroeconomics
(ECO)
AP Microeconomics
(ECO)
AP United States
Government & Politics
(USG)
AICE European History
(E)
AP Comparative
Government and Politics
(E)
AICE European History
(SAHS) (WH)
AICE AL Global
Perspectives (SAHS) (E)
IB History of Americas
(NHS) (USH)
IB Psychology 2
(PMHS) (E)
IB Psychology 3
(NHS) (E)
IB Contemporary
History (PMHS) (E)
DE POS (USG)
AP Capstone Research
(E)
E – Elective Course
WH – satisfies World History Credit
USH – satisfies United States History requirement – EOC is 30% of final grade.
ECO – satisfies Economics course requirement
USG – satisfies United States Government requirement
SAHS – AICE progression at St. Augustine High School
NHS – IB progression at Nease High School
PMHS – IB progression at Pedro Menendez High School
Additional course offerings available at each high school.
*Note: Not all courses are available at all schools.
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Graduation Requirements
Legislation
Florida students entering grade nine may choose from one of five options to earn a standard diploma. They are:
• 24-credit program*
• 18-credit, Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL) option
• Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathway
• An International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum
• An Advanced International Certificate of Education (AICE) curriculum
Florida's public high school graduation requirements are specified in:
• Section 1003.4282, Florida Statutes (F.S.), Requirements for a standard high school diploma
• Section 1002.3105, F.S., Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance Learning (ACCEL) options
More detailed information regarding the CTE Pathway option for a standard high school diploma Is
at http://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/career-tech-edu/pathways-option.stml.
*In addition to the five options available for students to earn a standard diploma listed above, Rule 6A-1.09963, Florida
Administrative Code (F.A.C.), High School Graduation Requirements for Students with Disabilities, outlines two additional
options that students with disabilities may complete. These include
• specific requirements for students with disabilities for whom the individual educational plan (IEP) has determined that
participation in the Florida Alternate Assessment is the most appropriate measure of the student’s skills and
instruction in the access points is the most appropriate means of providing the student access to the general
curriculum.
• specific requirements for a standard diploma for students with disabilities for whom the IEP team has determined that
mastery of both academic and employment competencies is the most appropriate way for the student to demonstrate
his or her skills.
For additional information on exceptional student education programs, visit the Bureau of Exceptional Student
Education web page.
For more information on local public school district graduation programs, contact the school district.
Academic Advisement Flyers - What Students and Parents Need to Know
• Academic Advisement – What Students and Parents Need to Know: Students Entering Grade 9 in 2023-2024 and
Thereafter (PDF) (Revised September 2023)
• Academic Advisement – What Students and Parents Need to Know: Students Entering Grade 9 Prior to 2023-
2024 (PDF) (Revised September 2023)
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Standard High School Diploma Designations
Students may earn one or more designations on their standard high school diploma—the Scholar designation and the
Industry Sholar designation per s. 1003.4285, F.S. Requirements are listed in the graduation requirements chart.
State Assessments for High School Graduation
Information related to statewide assessment requirements is available in Graduation Requirements for Florida's
Statewide Assessments (PDF).
Transfer Students
If a student transfers into a Florida public high school from out of country, out of state, a private school or a home
school, the student's transcript is reviewed to determine if the student is required to take a Florida end-of-course (EOC)
assessment in accordance with Rule 6A-1.09941, F.A.C., State Uniform Transfer of Students in Middle Grades and High
School.
Graduation Program Planning
FloridaShines provides an array of academic advising, career readiness and online learning resources for students and
parents. These state-funded academic advising services make it easy for high school students to prepare for college or
a career after graduation by enabling them to evaluate their progress toward high school graduation, college and
career readiness and Bright Futures scholarship eligibility. In addition, they can explore Florida's college and university
offerings (both traditional and online programs), learn about financial aid and apply for admission. Dual enrolled high
school students and those in accelerated education programs can even access online library resources used within
Florida's colleges and universities.
The Florida Counseling for Future Education Handbook (PDF) is annually updated to provide school counselors and
advisors with a comprehensive academic advising resource to guide students with planning for postsecondary
education in Florida.
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Graduation Requirement for Florida’s Statewide Assessments
Overview
According to Florida law, students must meet certain academic requirements to earn a standard high school
diploma from a public school. This means that students must pass required courses, earn a minimum
number of credits, earn a minimum grade point average, and pass the required statewide assessments.
Students who meet these requirements but do not pass the required assessments will receive a certificate of
completion, which is not equivalent to a standard high school diploma. Passing scores for the statewide
assessments are determined by the State Board of Education (SBE).
Students Graduating During the 2022–23 School Year
A student can meet assessment graduation requirements by earning the required statewide, standardized assessment score or
a concordant or comparative score. Adopted during the 2023 Legislative Session, House Bill 1537 establishes, in state law, the
concordant and comparative scores listed below that students who are in the 2022–23 graduating class, including students
using accelerated or career pathway graduation options, and adult students, may use to meet their assessment graduation
requirements if they have not yet earned the required passing score on the Grade 10 English Language Arts (ELA) assessment or
the Algebra 1 End-of-Course (EOC) assessment. These scores are also available for use by any student who entered grade 9
during the 2019–20 school year (see Tables 4 and 5).
Graduation Requirements
Grade 10 English Language Arts
The English Language Arts (ELA) assessment students must pass to graduate with a standard high school
diploma is determined by each student’s year of enrollment in grade 9. The Florida Assessment of Student
Thinking (FAST) assessments, aligned to the Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.)
Standards, are being administered for the first time in the 2022–23 school year. Students must earn a
passing grade 10 ELA Reading score in the third progress monitoring window (PM3) to meet this
graduation requirement. In accordance with section (s.) 1008.22, Florida Statutes (F.S.), all students
enrolled in grade 10 are required to participate in the grade 10 ELA assessment regardless of whether they
have a passing concordant score on file.
While the Grade 10 Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) ELA Assessment was administered
for the final time in spring 2022, it will continue to be offered during the fall and spring as a retake
administration for students who need to meet their graduation requirement. Students enrolled in
grades 11–adult education may not participate in the FAST Grade 10 ELA Reading PM3 administration;
however, in the 2023–24 school year and
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beyond, students with the Grade 10 FAST ELA requirement may satisfy it by earning an alternate passing
score on the FAST ELA Reading Retake.
Table 1 below lists the required passing score for the Grade 10 ELA assessment based on grade 9 cohort.
Table 2: ELA Assessment Requirement and Passing Score by School Year
School Year When Students Entered
Grade 9
Assessment
Passing
Score
2021–22
FAST ELA
Reading
350
1
2014–15 to 2020–21
2
FAST ELA
350
2013–14
FAST ELA
349
3
1
For the 2022–23 school year, scores for FAST assessments are linked to the 2021-2022 reporting scale, as required by
law. Students who take the FAST Grade 10 ELA Reading Assessment prior to the adoption of the passing score by
the State Board of Education will be able to use this score to meet their graduation requirement.
2
Please see the 2020–21 School Year and 2019–20 School Year sections of this document for additional information on
requirements for students scheduled to graduate in these school years.
3
In addition to the 2013–14 cohort, any student who took the assessment prior to the adoption of the passing score on the
new scale adopted by the SBE (January 7, 2016) is eligible to use the alternate passing score for graduation, which is linked
to the passing score for the previous assessment requirement.
For more information on the Grade 10 FAST ELA Reading Assessment, please see the 2022–23 FAST
Grades 3–
10 ELA Reading and Grades 3–8 Mathematics Fact Sheet.
Algebra 1 End-of-Course Assessment
The Algebra 1 End-of-Course (EOC) assessment students must pass to graduate with a standard high school
diploma is determined by when students completed Algebra 1 or an equivalent course. Students who
complete an applicable course in the 2022–23 school year are required to pass the B.E.S.T. Algebra 1 EOC
assessment. In accordance with s.1008.22, F.S., students enrolled in Algebra 1 or an equivalent course are
required to participate in the Algebra 1 EOC assessment, regardless of whether they have a passing
comparative score on file.
The FAST Algebra 1 EOC Assessment will be administered for the final time in the fall 2022 administration but
will continue to be available as a retake administration in the spring and fall for those who need to meet their
graduation requirement. Students may also meet this requirement by earning a passing score on the B.E.S.T.
Algebra 1 EOC Assessment. Once the new scale is adopted for the B.E.S.T. Algebra 1 EOC Assessment,
students with the FAST requirement will be able to use the alternate passing score on the B.E.S.T. scale.
Table 3 below lists the required passing score for the FAST Algebra 1 EOC Assessment based on when
the student first participated.
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Table 3: Algebra 1 EOC Assessment Requirement and Passing Score by First Participation
Graduation Options
• Statewide Assessment Retakes—Students can participate in the grade 10 ELA Retake or the Algebra 1
EOC assessment each time the test is administered until they achieve a passing score, and students can
continue their high school education beyond the twelfth-grade year should they need additional
instruction. Please see the Statewide Assessment Schedule page for more information on the
administration windows for these assessments.
• Concordant and Comparative Scores—A student can also meet assessment graduation requirements
by earning a concordant or comparative score as specified in Rule 6A-1.09422, Florida Administrative
Code (F.A.C.). Tables 3 and 4 show the concordant and comparative scores students may use to satisfy
assessment graduation requirements.
Table 4: Grade 10 ELA Concordant Scores
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• Scholar Diploma Designation—In accordance with s. 1003.4285(1)(a), F.S., to
qualify for a Scholar diploma designation on a standard high school
diploma, a student must earn a passing score on each of the statewide
assessments shown in Table 5.
Table 6: Passing Scores Required for a Scholar Diploma Designation
EOC
Assessment
Student Entered Ninth Grade
Geometry
Biology 1
1
U.S. History
1
2010–11 through 2013–14
X
X
2014–15 and beyond
X
X
X
1
A student meets this requirement without passing the Biology 1 or U.S. History EOC assessment if the student is
enrolled in an Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or Advanced International Certificate of
Education (AICE) Biology 1 or U.S. History course and the student:
o
Takes the respective AP, IB, or AICE assessment, and
o
Earns the minimum score to earn college credit.
The passing score for each EOC assessment is the minimum score in Achievement Level 3. Students
participating in the Biology 1 and/or U.S. History EOC assessment must earn a Level 3 on the NGSSS
scale to achieve a passing score. For the 2022–23 school year, students participating in the B.E.S.T.
Geometry EOC prior to the adoption of B.E.S.T. cut scores in fall 2023 must earn a Level 3 on the FSA
scale.
The passing score for the FSA Geometry EOC Assessment was adopted in SBE rule in January 2016.
For students who took the FSA Geometry EOC Assessment in the 2014–15 school year or in 2016 prior
to the adoption of the new passing scores, the alternate passing score is 492. Students who are eligible
for this alternate passing score may also use it as a comparative score for the Algebra 1 EOC graduation
requirement.
• Waivers of Results for Students with Disabilities—Students with disabilities working toward a
standard high school diploma are expected to participate in statewide, standardized assessments. State
law, however, provides for a waiver of statewide, standardized assessment results for graduation
purposes for students with disabilities whose abilities cannot be accurately measured by the assessments.
Pursuant to s. 1008.22(3)(d)2., F.S., “A student with a disability, as defined in s. 1007.02(2), for whom
the individual education plan (IEP) team determines that the statewide, standardized assessments under
this section cannot accurately measure the student’s abilities, taking into consideration all allowable
accommodations, shall have assessment results waived for the purpose of receiving a course grade and
a standard high school diploma. Such waiver shall be designated on the student’s transcript.” For
additional information, visit the Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services webpage.
• Alternate Pathways for ESOL Students—During the 2021 Legislative Session, s. 1003.433(3)(b),
F.S., was amended to require that, beginning with the 2022–23 school year, students who have been
enrolled in an English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program for less than two school years and
have met all requirements for the standard high school diploma except for passage of the grade 10 ELA
assessment requirement, may meet the grade 10 ELA assessment graduation requirement by
"satisfactorily demonstrating grade-level expectations on formative assessments, in accordance with
state board rule." Details are provided in Rule 6A-1.09422, F.A.C. For more information on alternate
pathways for ESOL students, please contact the Bureau of Student Achievement through Language
Acquisition at SALA@fldoe.org.
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• High School Equivalency Diploma Program (2014 GED® Test)—The high school equivalency
diploma program is designed to provide an opportunity for adults who have not graduated from high
school to earn a GED®, the only state-approved high school equivalency diploma, by measuring the
major
academic skills and knowledge associated with a high school program of study, with increased emphasis
on workplace and higher education. The state selected the 2014 GED® test as the assessment for the high
school equivalency program during a competitive process conducted in 2014. The 2014 GED® test
includes four required content area tests: Reasoning through Language Arts, Mathematical Reasoning,
Science, and Social Studies. It is a computer-based test. Passing the test may require some preparation.
Adult education programs located in school districts, colleges, and community organizations provide
instruction and the opportunity to practice the skills necessary to meet the minimum passing score of
145. The FDOE website has additional information and resources regarding the GED® test and the high
school equivalency program.
2020–21 School Year
Pursuant to FDOE Emergency Order No. 2021-EO-02, outstanding assessment graduation requirements for
seniors scheduled to graduate in spring 2021 were waived. While the requirements themselves (detailed in
this document) did not change, this specific group of students are not required to meet them if they had not
already done so. Districts were also authorized to waive Biology 1, Geometry, and/or U.S. History EOC
assessment requirements for Scholar diploma designation purposes for students expected to graduate in the
spring of 2021.
Emergency Order No. 2020-EO-0 also authorized districts and charter school governing boards to determine
promotion and final course grades in classes with state EOC exams based solely on student performance in
the course, including in instances where the student did not have a score from the EOC exam. This
authorization applied to courses students successfully completed in the 2020–21 school year.
2019–20 School Year
Pursuant to Florida Department of Education (FDOE) Emergency Order No. 2020-EO-01, the spring
administration of K–12 statewide assessments for the 2019–20 school year that were scheduled to take place
after March 16, 2020, were canceled and any outstanding assessment graduation requirements for seniors
scheduled to graduate in spring 2020 were waived. While the requirements themselves (detailed in this
document) did not change, this specific group of students are not required to meet them if they had not
already done so.
For non-seniors who were enrolled in grade 10 and/or Algebra 1 (or an equivalent course) during spring
2020 and who were scheduled to take the grade 10 English Language Arts (ELA) and/or Algebra 1 end-of-
course (EOC) assessments, Emergency Order No. 2020-EO-01 waived the requirement that these students
participate in the applicable assessment. However, these students are still required to meet these graduation
requirements by passing the applicable assessment during a future administration or by
earning the appropriate concordant or comparative score, as detailed in tables 3 and 4. These students may
participate in any ELA Retake or applicable EOC administration to meet their graduation requirement, but are
not required to do so prior to using a concordant or comparative score.
Finally, participation and 30% final grade calculation requirements for students who were scheduled to take a
spring 2020 EOC assessment were waived. However, students who need to pass the Biology 1, Geometry,
and/or U.S. History EOC assessment for Scholar diploma designation purposes must still do so to earn the
designation. These students may participate in any applicable EOC administration to meet the Scholar diploma
designation requirements.
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Helpful Resources
• For a full schedule of all statewide assessments, see the 2022–2023 Statewide Assessment
Schedule.
• An academic advisement flyer for students related to graduation requirements is
available on the Graduation Requirements page.
• The FL FAST Portal provides information about the assessments currently administered
and serves to provide valuable resources to students, parents/guardians, and educators.
• FloridaStudents.org provides student tutorials and resources for the Florida Standards.
• CPALMS.org is Florida’s official source for standards information and course
descriptions and includes helpful resources for educators and students.
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