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Class of 2007 Q&A

Counselors' responses to questions posed by parents of the Class of 2007.


As a way to help the incredibly busy counselors efficiently respond to as many parents' questions as possible, your class' Listserver Administrator Ann Bistolfo will assist them by facilitating Q&A through your Class Listserver. Please send your questions to bisto@davis.com. Ann will organize the questions, eliminate repetitions, then e-mail the counselors' responses to all subscribers via the listserver. The listserver is an appropriate forum to address general questions, not questions that involve your student's privacy. Please contact the counselors directly to address those.

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  • Q. 186 [Jun 12, 2007] Are audience members allowed to bring food or water in to Toomey for graduation?
    A. [Asst. Principal Lammon:] I just called UCD and they said No to food and water. They will have the concession stand open and they assured me they will be fully staffed and stocked.

  • Q. 185 [Jun 5, 2007] Is there enough handicapped seating on the field for all who need it?
    A. [Asst. Principal Lammon:] The procedure used is 1 person per physical challenged person. We have 300 seats reserved for this area.

  • Q. 184 [Jun 5, 2007] Is there generally enough handicapped parking?
    A. [Asst. Principal Lammon:] We have reserved 80 spaces in the Parking Structure (next to Toomey) and they have never filled up

  • Q. 183 [Jun 5, 2007] Does the parking garage at Toomey accommodate everyone coming to graduation?
    A. [Asst. Principal Lammon:] The following areas are staffed on Graduation day:
    Parking Structure (next to Toomey): 824 spaces
    Lot 14: 258 spaces
    Lot 15: 200
    Lot 25 (by the ARC Pavilion - fka Rec Hall): 709

  • Q. 182 [May 29, 2007] When will final transcripts be sent to colleges? Can we have them sent priority or express mail if necessary?
    A. [Meyer:] Transcripts are ready after all grades are sent in and about the time report cards are mailed, a couple of weeks after the end of the school year. Counselors come back for two days near the end of June to make sure all transcripts are in order. The registrar has the envelopes arranged alphabetically, so that once transcripts are approved, she can stuff and mail them without delay. Ours will be mailed by July 2, which is also when diplomas are available.

    Colleges understand the high school end-or-year process, and this is the timeline we have used every year. We will not be taking any to the post office separately for express or priority mail. They will all go first class in the envelopes addressed and with the stamps provided by students ($.41 now).

  • Q. 181 [May 21, 2007] Regarding the message on the daily bulletin for seniors to list their "outside scholarships or awards" with the Career Center, is this supposed to include merit scholarships awarded by the colleges that the seniors will be attending? (" 1. Seniors: Have you received any outside scholarships or awards? If so, please come to the Career Center and sign our "Outside Scholarships and Awards" list. All awards we are aware of will be announced at Senior Awards Night.")
    A. [Meyer:] Yes, this message pertains to seniors who received scholarships or grants from outside this school and community. The awards are read at senior awards night, and all the students stand as a group, they are not individually honored. We would, as the question indicates, read only the awards that a student is accepting -- not any from other colleges that he or she has turned down.

  • Q. 180 [May 21, 2007] What happens if our high school seniors skip classes this spring? Is there a penalty?
    A. [Meyer:] This spring is not any different from any other time in your students' schooling. The administration and teachers do not "wink" at absences or cutting, and there is no approved "senior cut day." Every counselor has just completed sending 40 to 50 letters to families of seniors who got a D or F (or more than one) on their progress reports. Some of these students have never had such a grade in their lives, and many of the grades are due to seniors deciding that class attendance simply doesn't matter in the final term of their high school careers.

    Students and parents need to understand that there may be serious ramifications and there may be consequences that are unintentional. If a student gets a D or F in a college prep class, it may jeopardize their admission to the college of their choice even if they've already been accepted. Colleges "uninvite" students every year whose grades dip dramatically, rescinding offers of admission.

    Students who believe that the school unoffficially smiles at a so-called senior cut day should be aware that it is most definitely not an acceptable activity. Students are required to be in school unless they are ill. There have been tragic accidents over decades in many parts of the country due to hijinks on such days, and we do not sanction them.

  • Q. 179 [May 15, 2007] Do "lap-sitters" (small children under the age of ???) need their own ticket for graduation?
    A. [Meyer:] Best guess/judgment is that tickets are required for those who need seats. A lap-held child would not need a ticket. Tickets are for those needing seats -- if a toddler or infant has a large carseat or something, it could mean that a seat was necessary, or the space that another person could take. We have never kept anyone out of graduation because there was not enough space.

  • Q. 178 [May 15, 2007] How long are the DHS offices are open this summer? We'll be out of town when the diplomas are ready to be picked up. Can we have a friend pick up our student's diploma?
    A. [Meyer:] Diplomas will be available starting July 2 after all final grades have come in and senior transcripts checked. There is no cut-off to pick them up; that is, students or their parents may pick up diplomas next November or later, if that's the first time someone comes in. They do not need to be picked up July 2 or even that week. We have diplomas for students years past who have never come to get them.

    The school offices will be open summer school hours during July, closing to the public earlier than during the school year. Information sent home in the senior packet says diploma pickup is 8:00 until noon during the summer. Staff works longer but the public doors are not open. Once August begins, the hours extend till about 4.

    Friends may not pick up diplomas, it must be the student or a parent. You may come after your vacation to collect your diploma.

  • Q. 177 [May 3, 2007] New scholarship announcement.
    A. [Julie Clayton, Career Center:] The newly established David Murphy Scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Davis senior this year for the first time. This $1000 scholarship will be awarded annually to a student who is an immigrant or the son or daughter of an immigrant to the United States, who is planning to continue his or her education at a U.S. college or university. Requirements for the award are that the student is a registered student in a Davis High School, has an academic record that meets the UC admission criteria by their senior year and has a demonstrated financial need. Application forms are available at the Career Center at Davis High School. Applications must be received at the DHS Career Center by Monday, May 15th at 4PM. The application includes evidence of financial need, a transcript and an essay of 250 words or less describing how this award will assist the student in achieving future goals. This newly established scholarship is named for David Murphy, the immigrant grandfather of David J. Murphy, former Davis High School Principal (1981-1987) and former Davis Joint Unified School District superintendent (1998-2007).

  • Q. 176 [Apr 27, 2007] Some details about Senior Ball:
    A. [Senior Class president:]
    1. Bid sales are only at lunch. You get them from the finance window. Today (Friday April 27) is the last day they are on sale for $55 per bid. Starting Monday, they go up to $60 per bid. A student does not need to purchase their bid with the other couples they plan to sit with, however it is recommended to make sure that you there is enough space at the table.
    2. 6 pm is when the doors open for the prom. Dinner is served at 8. The 2 hours prior to dinner is time to take pictures and settle in. But students can choose to show up later than 6 if they so desire. After 10:30 they will not be admitted in, and if they come after 8, they will not get dinner.
    3. There are no sign ups for different dinner times
    4. Again pictures are done the 2 hours prior to dinner: Lifetouch Photography will be there. No appointments needed. The student will receive a picture pamphlet when they purchase their bid that has all the available packages/options to choose from.
    5. The prom ends at 12:00
    6. There is no shuttle service available for students to get home from the ball. It is the student's responsibility to provide their own transportation. Some suggestions (if not their own personal vehicle) are the Davis Airporter Van Service, or a taxi / limo service.

  • Q. 175 [Mar 23, 2007] My daughter has been accepted to several UCs, but is considering taking a "gap" year ...in other words, wait a year before starting UC. If she does this, will she have to re-apply to UC? What would her application be based on then? Her admittance in 2007, or will she have to add what she did (such as work) in 2007-2008? Would her chances of being admitted be the same?
    A. [Meyer:] This is at the discretion of each UC's office of admission. The policy differs from campus to campus and from year to year. Some may be willing to grant a leave and postpone attendance while others may tell her simply to reapply as a new student next fall for the following year. There is not an easy, one-size-fits-all answer for deferred admission, and it is between the student and the campus she hopes to attend.

  • Q. 174 [Mar 11, 2007] My daughter is choosing to attend SCC for a few semesters and then transfer to UC.Should she still sign up for an AP exam? We are under the impression it is irrelevant (SAT's, AP's) when transferring from a JC to UC.
    A. [Meyer:] AP tests are not college entry tests. If a student gets a 3 score or above, college credit is earned EVEN at a community college. This will help make the transfer process faster. SATs are college entry tests not required for community college. This is a confusing area!

  • Q. 173 [Mar 10, 2007] Assistant Principal John Lammon has sent some information about graduation to be posted on the listserver. Mr. Lammon has been the VP for our class all three years and will be the administrator in charge of the 2007 graduation. There will be a very detailed letter about graduation (and grad night) sent to families much closer to the event, but in the meantime the following will help with your planning.
    A. This year graduation will start at 7:00 p.m. (15 minutes later than last year in hopes that it will be a hint cooler than in years past.) at Toomey Field. In addition:
    1. Tickets will be required for entrance into Toomey Field for the commencement ceremony.
    2. Students will each receive 10 tickets that will be distributed at graduation practice. If families need fewer than 10 tickets, please have your students give any extra tickets to their line chaperones or DHS staff at the conclusion of graduation practice. This will allow families that need additional ticket to have them.
    3. If you need additional tickets, a limited number of extra tickets will be distributed to students ONLY- after graduation practice.
    4. ALL STUDENTS must attend graduation practice in order to participate in the graduation ceremony.
    5. Senior graduation practice will take place on June 15th at Toomey Field from 8:30-10:30 a.m.
    6. Graduation line up at 6:30 p.m....ceremony at 7:00 p.m.

  • Q. 172 [Feb 16, 2007] How much information does the counseling office have for students who don't want to go to college next year? How about any ideas parents have on this topic? I know we're not the only family in the Class of 2007 struggling with this issue, yet I don't know where to turn. Help!!
    A. [Meyer:] IIt would depend on what the student wants to do. Some students plan a "Gap" year, traveling or in some kind of program. There is the California Conservation Association, Americorps, and things like that. There may be information on these in our Career Center, room L-10, but there is a lot on the web.

    If the student wants to find either a permanent or temporary job, these listings are less common at the high school. Just as with any job, a young adult high school graduate need to conduct his or her own job search.

    If there are other specific questions please let me know as I'm not sure this is what was asked.

  • Q. 171 [Jan 30, 2007] When do we send College Board test scores to private colleges? We were offered free score reports when signing up for the tests...but weren't sure then which colleges would be on the final list. Kids wrote their scores on the common app, but the colleges aren't asking for test scores to be sent. And it costs $9.50 per school to send them now. Yet we hear we should send test scores. What is the usual procedure?
    A. [Meyer:] In answer to your question, students should have official scores sent by either College Board or ACT (depending on which tests they took) directly by the testing agency. This should be done either at time of testing, which, as you noted is free for up to the first 4, or at the time they apply. Colleges need the official score reports, and yes, it can get pricey. We tell students this -- in the summary of applying to colleges that we hand out at workshops (and the PTA has online), we state:
    Testing Information
    Apply online at www.collegeboard.com (SAT) or www.act.org (ACT)
    Prep study books to check out are in the Career Center.
    Scores must be sent directly from ACT or College Board to colleges or universities. Request score reports online or by mail with forms available in the counseling office. Scores are not on your transcripts.
    So my recommendation would be that students be sure to have official scores sent ASAP if they haven't already done so.
    PS. ... official score reports should also be sent to UC's and in fact any college when applying.

  • Q. 170 [Jan 8, 2007] I believe we were told by the counselors, at some point, that the kids are supposed to leave the private college mid-year report forms and envelopes with the registrar, along with their transcript requests. But some of the mid-year report forms appear to require completion by the counselor even if there is no change in her recommendation since the first school report was filled out.  Are those forms supposed to be given to the registrar anyway? Or should they go to the counselor? Also, for those students who need mid-year report forms completed for a number of schools, is there any special way the materials are supposed to be organized when left for the registrar (like the big envelope that the original school report forms had to be placed in, with a checklist on the outside of the envelope)?
    A. [Meyer:] Midyear Reports - on the DHS counseling website
    If your private college or university application materials say a midyear report is required, here is the procedure:
    1. Fill out the student or applicant part of the report and sign the form.
    2. If you are using the Common Application and you are applying to more than one school with it, please prepare a copy for each college.
    3. Address and stamp (one first class stamp is enough) an envelope for each college. Leave the return address section blank.
    4. Paper clip the envelope to the midyear report, and bring all of your midyear report forms and envelopes to the counseling counter.
    5. Find your pink Transcript Request card in the blue card file and request as many official transcripts as you need midyear reports.
    6. If you have already ordered your six free transcripts or if midyear reports will put you over the six, you need to pay $2 per additional transcript at the time you make the request.
    7. Clip all your requests together to the transcript request card and put it in the basket.
    8. The timing for turning in your requests should be January 20 - February 10, 2007
    9. Please note that midyear reports go directly to the registrar, not to your counselor.
    Do not turn in your midyear report forms and stamped envelopes without the paid transcript request.

  • Q. 169 [Dec 5, 2006] While UC acceptances all take place on the same date next year, I understand that CSU campuses continually evaluate applications and accept students on an ongoing basis. Does anyone know how early the CSU's begin to send out acceptance letters? My son has applied to both UC and CSU and we are just curious to know how soon we might hear something.
    A. [Meyer:] Some CSUs have already sent out acceptance letters (or emails). Some accepted on the spot on the Veterans' Day Holiday. Others come later. The more competitive the admissions are (think Cal Poly SLO and San Diego State), the later students are likely to hear, but there are no firm dates and students may hear at any time.

    April 1st is usually the last date by which students are notified of admissions decisions, so they can make their binding choice of a college to attend by May 1st.

    By the way, not all UCs stick to the same date -- it is between March 1 and April 1, with the competitive ones, Berkeley and UCLA for example, being the last.

  • Q. 168 [Nov 3, 2006] History of Jostens with DHS graduations.
    A. [Principal Cawley:] Since 1981 Jostens & Jeffrey Lane have been part of Davis Senior High Schools graduations....
    1. Quality of the product - rich royal blue polyester fabric.
    2. Service that comes with the products... communication materials available to all students. All parents are sent post cards notifying them of order days and make-up days( because many forget to order) plus they are sent delivery statements in the Spring alerting them of their order status and delivery times. Jostens is at our DHS campus numerous times to accommodate students ordering and delivery desires.
    3. Years of successfully dealing with DHS's large student body and numerous buying demands and habits of our DHS community. Products have always been delivered successfully and with minimum school involvement.
    4. The $35.00 cap/gown/tassel cost includes $13.00 that is collected for DHS and is returned DHS each Spring. This process started under Assistant Principal Rhonda Hernandez to help with the cost of putting on the graduation ceremony (the year before DHS charged for each ticket to the graduation ceremony... this was abandoned the following year because of the hostility it generated toward DHS)
    5. Jostens supplies at no charge each year 20 free caps/gowns/tassels to free/reduced lunch students, as designated by the counseling office. The reaminder were subsidized by PTA.
    6. The Graduation Ceremony has been further dignified by the addition of attending staff members wearing faculty gowns and hoods supplied at no charge to us by Jeff Lane.
    7. Jeffry Lane supplies to DHS each year full colored foiled business cards and letterhead for office personal and calendars all FREE of charge.
    8. Each student purchasing a Class Ring receives his cap/gown/tassel FREE! We sell about 50 to 65 class rings each year.

    The "free" items about result in a savings of about $4,500.

    The cost of graduation has ranged from $14,000-$17,000 over the last few years, so Josten's assistance is very much appreciated.

    Jeff has been great to work with, and always comes through.

    Additionally, he gave us the plaques we use for the Student of the Month awards.

  • Q. 167 [Nov 2, 2006] Do transcripts from Advanced Education classes taken at Sac. City need to be sent directly from Sac City to various Colleges?
    A. [Meyer:] Advanced Education classes may be on students' high school transcripts if they are required for graduation (e.g., US History). However, when students apply to private colleges, we recommend having transcripts sent directly from Sac City to each college.

    Students should not send any transcripts to CSU or UC campuses unless the transcripts are specifically requested. Instead, students should enter all Advanced Education classes on their CSU or UC applications.

  • Q. 166 [Nov 1, 2006] College Application Update :
    A. [Meyer:] Seniors: If you are applying to private colleges, there is a secondary school report and likely letters of recommendation that are part of the application process. You must see your counselor and teachers with the required forms as soon as possible. Counselors asked for all materials by Wednesday, November 1, but will continue to see students through Monday, November 6th. Many applications have a January 1 due date, but that is effectively December 15, since the school closes for winter holidays. There is also a week at Thanksgiving during which school is closed. Students do not need to have their part of college applications submitted before asking counselors or teachers for recommendations.

    On the counseling counter are copies of instructions on how to apply to private colleges and the multi-page packet to request letters of recommendation. You may also go to www.dhspta.org where you may fill out the packet on your computer and print it. Pick up a large envelope for your counselor and complete the checklist. You will need to complete and sign the top part of application forms, request transcripts, provide stamped, addressed envelopes, and make an appointment with your counselor with all the materials, including when each college application is due.

    Please note: UCs and CSUs do not require nor accept letters of recommendation, this is only for private colleges. If you have questions, please see or email your counselor as soon as possible.

  • Q. 165 [Oct 30, 2006] How do students at DHS earn Varsity letters?
    A. 2 DHS varsity athletic coaches contacted and here is the summary of their answers:
    [Bill Gregg - cross country:] There are no formal guidelines that I'm aware of... I think it's up to each coach to set a standard for their sport.
    [Tracy Stapleton - swim & water polo:] There is not a uniform policy as far as I know. In general, you earn a letter by participating on the varsity roster for most of the season.

  • Q. 164 [Oct 27, 2006] Does anyone or a counselor know whether a student is penalized if both the SAT and ACT are sent to a college? Or if the wrong one is sent by mistake?
    A. [Meyer:] There is no penalty. Colleges don't mind if students take both and they will take either. Usually they take whichever is highest. No problem at all to send both! Not to worry.

  • Q. 163 [Oct 24, 2006] Do we send SAT scores to each and every UC my daughter is applying to? And, just to clarify, is it true we don't send high school transcripts to any of them?
    A. [Meyer:] Yes and Yes: send SAT scores to every UC getting an application. Do not send high school transcripts to any UC now. In rare cases, a campus will ask for a transcript or other supplemental information as part of their random verification process. Otherwise, the lengthy online academic record is what they use. A final transcript showing the completion of high school goes to the one UC campus a student will attend (or to any other college where a student is enrolling). Students will tell the registrar where to send this final transcript before graduating.

  • Q. 162a [Oct 24, 2006] Do you know if the caps are sized?
    A. [Sharron Lake, Secretary to Asst. Principal John Lammon:] Caps are adjustable.

    Q. 162b. When will Jostens be on campus?
    A. [Sharron Lake, Secretary to Asst. Principal John Lammon:] Jostens will be on campus at lunch on Thursday (12:10 ­ 12:53) and Friday (12:12-12:57). After school on Thursday Jostens will have four stations set up to help accommodate parents and students while they place orders. They will be on campus Thursday evening (5:30-?)

    Q. 162c. Our daughter is out of town this week. Is there an alternative for ordering a gown?
    A. [Sharron Lake, Secretary to Asst. Principal John Lammon:] There will be a make up day in December (TBA) or parents can mail the order form to Jostens directly.

    Q. 162d. I would like to know EXACTLY what the rules are for graduation attendance. EXACTLY what kind and color of gown must the kids wear? (Is it different for girls and guys?) Does it HAVE to be from Jostens?
    A. [Sharron Lake, Secretary to Asst. Principal John Lammon:] This year students from Student Government are requesting that graduates wear different colors for boys and girls. In years past, all graduates have worn blue. For this years graduation Mr. Cawley has approved Student Government’s request. Females will wear white and males will wear blue for graduation ceremonies.
    A. [Principal Mike Cawley:] The senior class officers polled the senior class and decided to wear either White or Blue gowns at graduation, they can wear what ever color an individual wants to wear...boys can wear blue or white, and girls can wear blue or white....

    Q. 162e. Is there any reason that they can't wear one borrowed from someone who graduated last year?
    A. [Sharron Lake, Secretary to Asst. Principal John Lammon:] For male students it would not be a problem, but for the females we did not have white last year. [See #162d for more recent information.]

    Q. 162f. ... to some of us it's a lot of money, even if we don't qualify for free lunch.
    A. [Sharron Lake, Secretary to Asst. Principal John Lammon:] We would like everybody to participate but it’s not mandatory and graduates can pick up their diploma during the summer.

  • Q. 161 [Oct 23, 2006] re: Yearbook ordering?
    A. [Meyer:] As yet this year there has been no advertised sale of yearbooks. Mr. Ted Fontaine is the yearbook teacher. He may be emailed at tfontaine@djusd.k12.ca.us or students may check with the yearbook room pd 5, A-7.

  • Q. 160 [Oct 23, 2006] How to fill in college applications for kids who took Algebra 1 or college prep language in the 7th or 8th grade?
    A. [Meyer:] For kids who took Algebra 1 in 7th or 8th grade (and possibly Geometry), and for kids who took a college prep language in 7th or 8th grade, those two subject areas include grade level options earlier than grade 9. When the student is on that screen, the options are there.

  • Q. 159 [Oct 23, 2006] I was also wondering if the UC applications require an official transcript with the application, since my son has not yet submitted those.
    A. [Meyer:] No, do not send transcripts to UC schools.

  • Q. 158 [Oct 23, 2006] re CSU: Is it standard practice to go ahead and send official transcripts right away rather than wait 10 weeks?
    A. [Meyer:] Many CSUs request official transcripts in this way. Students should not send transcripts to any public university in California unless/until they are requested.

  • Q. 157 [Oct 23, 2006] UC application information.
    A. [Meyer:]  For students who went to a junior high school in Davis and then Davis Senior High School and are applying to UCs:

    The UC application asks for where a student spent 9th grade, and the junior high schools (Harper, Emerson, Holmes) are not listed. However, the DSHS a-g course list of UC approved courses includes all the college prep classes from grade 9 at the junior high schools. So students should indicate that they attended DSHS for grades 9-12, including grade 9, and then they can select courses by subject area from the dropdown list.

    Their 9th grade year was 2003-04
    10th  = 2004-05
    11th = 2005-06
    12th = 2006-07

    Once all this is entered, a student may select classes in each subject area, each year.

  • Q. 156 [Oct 18, 2006] Are cap and gown required to go through the graduation ceremony?
    A. [Meyer:]  Yes, caps and gowns are required to participate in graduation. They may be purchased even up to the very last minute of lineup to march in, though that's not the ideal. We have scholarships to help students who are on free or reduced lunch; students may check with counselors. Many people have donated gowns (and some caps) back to the school for re-use; students sometimes want to keep their hats. Families often have one gown that multiple children have graduated in.

  • Q. 155 [Oct 17, 2006] We received an email about a month ago stating that caps & gowns would need to be ordered Oct. 16, 17 & 18th, and that more info would be sent home.  I haven't seen any further info.  Is Tuesday Oct. 17th still the day to try on caps & gowns from 5:30 to 7:30?  If so, where is that taking place?
    A. [Meyer:] The Jostens info on caps and gowns will be distributed after the senior group photo on Thursday [Oct. 19] morning in the gym. There will be other opportunities later. The dates you included below were early tentative dates that have been changed.
    A. [Asst. Principal Lammon:] I just spoke with our Jostens representative and wanted to give you the up-to-date information:
    1. On Thursday, October 19th, Seniors will have their Panoramic Pic taken by Lifetouch in the new Gym at approximately 9:15 a.m. Immediately following the photo, Jeff Lane, our Jostens representative, will pass out and discuss the Graduation packet as well as order procedures. Additional packets will be available in the main office Thursday, October 19th.
    2. Order dates: Jostens will be on site at DHS:
    • Thursday, October 26th (during lunch and after school in the quad; as well as 5:30-7:30 in the student entrance west of the admin building [that's the one between the admin bldg and the library]
    • Friday, October 27th (during lunch and after school)
    POST CARDS WILL BE GOING OUT IN THE MAIL TODAY FROM JOSTENS.

  • Q. 154 [Oct 12, 2006] ParentConnect is great, but the main problem is that so few teachers seem to use it. I wonder if there is any plan in the district to encourage or require teachers to use it?
    A. [Meyer:]  Yes, there is a plan to get all teachers on it. Right now it's voluntary, but they are definitely moving to have all teachers on. It's new and it's a time of transition, and we appreciate and apologize for the frustration as we work out getting it universal. I don't know the timeline, or I'd include that too.

  • Q. 153 [Oct 11, 2006] My son is working on the online application for UC and has run into a problem.  When he tries to select 7/8th or 9th grade to enter courses, it won't allow him to do so.  Has anyone tried this yet, and if so, can you you tell us how to get around this problem? Thanks.
    A. [Meyer:]  The only classes acceptable to enter for 7th and 8th grade are language other than English
    and math, starting with Algebra. 9th grade should allow the student to enter all college prep classes, by subject area. First the student lists schools since 9th grade and dates of attendance. Then, she/he indicates which academic years were for each grade level. On the next screen, the student would select grade level, then subject area, then click "go"  -- and if DSHS info has been entered, he/she can select the courses taken from our UC course list in each area, each academic year. But other than foreign language and math, UC does not want 7th and 8th grade classes.

  • Q. 152 [Oct 10, 2006] Does DHS participate in the UC eligibility rankings by test scores and the one about local or only the statewide ones? I am not using the correct language, but UC lists three ways applicants may be eligible for admission.
    A. [Meyer:]  DSHS does participate in this, it's called Eligibility in the Local Context, or ELC  - juniors and parents sign a form authorizing it as part of the registration packet in the fall. We submit, at UC's request, our top 12% of junior transcripts based on their college GPA, at the end of the junior year.

    UC analyzes these and determines which among them are the top 4%. It then notifies these students and gives them an ELC number they can put on their UC applications. Test scores are not a part of this determination.

    Students received a letter if they qualify for ELC.

  • Q. 151 [Oct 10, 2006] UC and CSU application issue: CSIS or SSID numbers
    A. [Meyer:]  CSIS is the California Student Identification System. Gradually, the state is giving all students ID numbers to follow them to any school. This year, UC and CSU applications ask for this number, calling it SSID. It is a 10-digit number, and is NOT the same as a Social Security Number.

    We have this number in our student files, but it is Optional for both applications, and students may simply leave it blank and go on to the next screen.

  • Q. 150 [Oct 10, 2006] ParentConnect
    A. [Meyer:]  This is a statement from the district technology office:
    We are working on process the ParentConnect accounts as quickly as possible.  Currently, there are about 60 accounts waiting to be processed.  Our biggest problems are: duplicate accounts requested by parents who already have an account, a second request from the same household, address information submitted on website does not match parent/guardian information in the parent atom in SASI, request from DaVinci parent for DHS information (the system only allow parents access to information for their students primary school site)

    Duplicate requests for account or a request for a second account from the same household slow down the process for everyone because those accounts need to be processed and then deleted.

    Parents can email ParentConnect@djusd.k12.ca.us if they have forgotten their password.  If they wish to add an additional child to their existing account they can also email ParentConnect@djusd.k12.ca.us.  If their address information in SASI is incorrect, they are instructed to contact the school site.

    Please advise parents to change their password in ParentConnect as soon as possible and also to keep their email address in the system up-to-date.

  • Q. 149 [Sep 25, 2006] We recently got a mailing from Brown about their being in Sacramento for a college fair at Rio Americano High School on Oct 10. Would you find out if we are able to attend and what schools would be present?
    A. [Meyer:]  Jean Meyer responded: Brown's rep will be here at Davis to meet with students at lunch on October 10th also. We have a number of college and university representatives who make presentations with us, and many of them (as well as others who may or may not be scheduled for DSHS appearances) visit other area high schools. Some schools, like Rio Americano, may have college fair events. We won't be contacting other schools to find out their schedule of visits or events. However, if this family wishes to find out what Rio Americano's policy is on attendance at this event, I'm sure they could find out by calling Rio Americano. Our schedule of college and university presentations is available through our Career Center
    [For the most recent College Visit Schedule compiled by the Career Center, select "DHS Info" from the menu to the left, then select "College Visits."]

  • Q. 148 [Aug 15, 2006] Does anyone know the list of Health courses onlne that satisfy the DHS health requirement? Specifically, does Health 41 at BYU satisfy it?
    A. [Meyer:]  We accept health classes from accredited institutions, either high schools or colleges. Health 41 from BYU online high school is acceptable. We don't have guidelines for online classes any more than we do for courses on transcripts from students who move from out of the district -- if it's a bona fide school, we will accept the credits.

  • Q. 147 [June 5, 2006] At College Night we parents we received a copy of the DHS School Fact Sheet, 2004-2005. In reviewing it I noted that our DHS students did well in English/Language Arts, US History, Biology and generally were very well ranked as compared to other California high schools. Our DHS kids took gobs of AP classes and our graduation rates are high as are the numbers of students that we send on to UC/CSU. So what happened with Geometry? According to the Fact Sheet, not only did our students not shine, they came in BELOW the state average. How did this happen? Did the 2004-2005 year use Dr. Tom Sallee's CPM geometry book? Or are our otherwise fine students just not capable under the able instruction of our DTA teachers? There was a lot of discussion when the Sallee geometry book was adopted, with Trustee Joan Sallee abstaining from the final vote. Has there been a review and discussion of these dismal geometry results
    A. [Math teacher Mr. Ronning's response:]  The "best" math students in any school district take geometry in the 7th, 8th, and 9th grades. DHS is the only high school without 9th graders, so to compare DHS to 4 year high schools is not valid. If the 9th graders from the junior highs scores could be included, then DHS' score would dramatically change. It should also be noted that the junior highs use the CPM text and this does not seem to be negatively effecting the junior high performance.

  • Q. 146. [May 30, 2006] Must the on-line (or distance learning) Health class from BYU be completed during the summer or may it be completed any time prior to graduation? BYU gives the students a full year to complete the course.
    A. [Tessler] It may be completed anytime prior to graduation. The students do have a full year to complete it through BYU.

  • Q. 145. [May 24, 2006] When will students be notified whether or not they got into summer school? We are facing registration deadlines for other activities if our students didn't get into the summer school classes they want. Thank you!
    A. [Meyer] Students or parents/guardians may contact the summer school office: either leave a message at 757-5300 ex 280 or email summerschool7-12@djusd.k12.ca.us.

  • Q. 144. [May 19, 2006] Counselor Tessler has kindly provided the following materials from the Prviate College Workshop for web posting:

    1) How to Apply to Private Colleges/Universities (PDF, 33 KB)

    2) Student Information Packet for Letters of Recommendation (RTF, 224 KB). Students can fill in the information onscreen and print copies for their counselors and teachers.
    [Note: Some browsers may need to save the downloaded file to the computer before opening it or you may encounter a "File Not Found" error.

  • Q. 143. [May 2, 2006] I heard that a high schools API can make a difference in college admissions; two students being equal, a college will choose the student from the school with the better API score (or that at least has one.) Could Davis students be affected in this way?
    A. [Tessler] I cannot state for sure....but what I do know in talking to colleges is that they are very aware of our high API score. So, when evaluating a student, they consider what high school they came from. If a student has, for example, a 3.8, but is only in the 3rd decile ranking, they would look at the school and understand that the student is in a highly competitive high school. The 3.8 would put them in the 1st decile at other schools. Colleges do want our students based on our API ranking. They know that our students have been challenged and are well prepared for college. I have colleges tell me they always love to get our students because they know they have received an exceptional education.

  • Q. 142. [May 2, 2006] Naturally there is some concern about doing STAR makeup exams the same week as AP testing. Does DHS have some flexibility in that regard or are the test makeup dates mandated?
    A. [Tessler] The STAR dates are mandated to us by the California Department of Education. The STAR tests must be administered and completed from April 24 to May 5. The college board mandates that the AP exams must be given May 1 to May 12. This year we had to plan to test 1168 students for the STAR tests. We had 505 students sign up to take 968 AP exams. We administered the STAR tests last week so that they would not interfere with the AP exams. Since we did not reach the 95% requirement, we had to schedule make-up exams this week. Students who are taking AP exams can come anytime to the old gym to do make-up STAR tests on Wednesday from 8:55 am to 2:30 pm or Thursday from 8:55 am to 10:26 am. We are flexible in letting them come when they can. Some come in and out, based on AP exams or classroom work. I am always impressed with how cooperative our students are during this stressful time.

  • Q. 141. [May 2, 2006] Does the DHS administration also encourage teachers to give adequate consideration to college bound students who are taking STAR tests, SAT's and AP's all in the space of a week or two?
    A. [Tessler] Teachers are fully aware of the testing dates and try to coordinate their instruction so that classes run smoothly, the material is covered for the AP exams, they meet the state standards for instruction and try to remain supportive of students throughout the testing process. Teachers, support staff and students are all stressed during this time of year. On one hand they are concerned about testing; on the other they are concerned about Senior Ball. The emotional highs and lows are quite noticeable right now.

  • Q. 140. [May 2, 2006] Is the DHS AP econ course taught as separate Macro and Micro units to align with how it's done in the colleges? If so, in what order does DHS present the course first, the micro or the macro?
    A. [Tessler] We teach micro in the fall and macro in the spring. When students take economics at community college during the summer, they need to take both micro and macro to match with our course.
    Q. 140b. [May 8, 2006] May the student take just one, the macro econ, at the community college, and the other, micro, at DHS, or vice versa?
    A. [Tessler] If a student is only able to take one course at SCC,he/she may take the other at DSHS as long as there is room in the class. The AP economics course is offered at DSHS as a year long course. If a student needs just one semester to match up with the SCC course, he/she should make an apointment with his/her counselor.

  • Q. 139. [Apr 21, 2006] to what extent the DHS counseling office keeps statistics on where students have applied, are accepted and attend colleges and universities, as well as merit scholarships they have received.
    A. [Tessler] We do not keep statistics on where students have applied and are accepted to. We keep statistics on which college/university they choose to attend. That information is compiled and summarized in our school profile.

    We do not have information on past students who have received merit-based scholarships.

    Collecting this type of information would require staff that could handle this type of data collection. With clerical cuts we have experienced, this would not be anything we could handle.

  • Q. 138. [Apr 4, 2006] Are absences to visit colleges excused absences? Does it make a difference if these absences are related to recruitment by athletic departments and/or to interview with admissions? Thanks.
    A. [Tessler] When a student is visiting a college for any reason, the parent needs to contact our attendance office prior to the visit, either by phone (757-5400 x115) or by written notice, to excuse the absence. College visits for any reason are considered a cleared absence per parent. The attendance record for teachers will show "APP" which designates a parent approved absence.

  • Q. 137. [Mar 29, 2006] I tried to sign my son up( several weeks ago) for the SAT II subject tests for Davis for June 3rd for Math level 2 and Physics and was informed that only Physics was available in Davis on that date. The math level 2 was only available in a number of Sac schools on May 6th also not in Davis or Woodland. ??? Is this the case?
    A. [Tessler] The SAT will be given at DSHS on May 6, not June 3. It will be both SAT reasoning and SAT subject tests. Physics and math level 2 are among the subject tests available in Davis on May 6.

  • Q. 136. [Mar 24, 2006] Are all SAT subject tests available at DHS this spring, even the ones listed at the College Board website but without a corresponding course on our campus (like specific languages)?
    A. [Tessler] The subject II tests in Languages: Reading & Listening are only given in November every year. The languages covered are: Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Korean and Spainsh.

    In May, for Languages: Reading only, the only languages tested by Subject II tests are French and Spanish.

    In June, for Languages: Reading only, the only languages tested by Subject II tests are French, German, Modern Hebrew, Latin and Spanish. Italian is the only language not tested on this date.

  • Q. 135. [Mar 17, 2006] Does the BYU Independent Study health course meets the DHS health requirement?
    A. [Tessler] BYU offers a course entitled basic Health: Choosing to Be Healthy (HLTH41). It covers substance abuse prevention and human sexuality and is 5credits. Therefore, it may be used for our health requirement for high school graduation.

  • Q. 134. [Mar 8, 2006] If a student takes ROP Biotech WITHOUT the internship component, does it still fulfill the practical arts requirement?
    A. [Tessler] Yes.

  • Q. 133. [Mar 1, 2006] This year AP Calculus BC was only offered last period, a serious handicap for student/athletes who wish to play DHS sports and take this very fast paced class. Will Calculus BC only be scheduled 7th period next year as well, and can parents have a dialogue with the administration about this?
    A. [Tessler] The number of sections offered depends on the number of students who sign up for the course. Which period a class is taught is based on many factors including teacher availability, conflicts with other course requests, etc. Developing the master schedule is a 3 month process which is more cumbersome than anyone can imagine. We offer over 200 courses. Some are only offered one time (referred to as a singleton) and others are offered more frequently based on the number of students requesting the course. We have the responsibility of putting together a master schedule that benefits all of our students. At this time we do not know how many sections will be offered because we have not collected all of the program planners yet. After we have all the planners scanned into the computer, we begin the laborious process of developing a master schedule.

  • Q. 132. [Mar 1, 2006] Could Journalism II be re-classified as a straight English writing class elective at the option of the student? Some kids may want a ROP class for certification and others want a straight writing class for credit. Also, if Journalism II remains ROP, could our student take that 5th class at Sac City? For time planning purposes, a SCC course may work out better depending on times a course is offered. Thanks.
    A. [Tessler] The answer to both questions is no. The 5th class must be at DSHS.

  • Q. 131. [Feb 28, 2006] I understand that being on the HUB staff, i.e. Journalism II, is an ROP class. As such Journalism II is not counted as one of the 5 classes to meet DHS minimum enrollment requirements. Our student had hoped to take only 4 classes in addition to the HUB and work part time. Now with the advent of 6 classes in her senior year, she feels pressed and fears she may not be able to work. She has more than enough credits to graduate without that last class. Any advice?
    A. [Tessler] This is a state regulation we must adhere to. It will be a change for all of us next year. She will need to take 5 district classes and then can take a ROP class.

  • Q. 130. [Feb 24, 2006] Would you please provide information about taking a course at UC Davis instead of DHS? I know that students may opt to take a UCD class, but I wonder how it works. For example, does a quarter satisfy the DHS semester requirement? And since the calendars are not identical, are there other problems? And does it frequently happen that DHS students fail to get into the classes of their choice? Thank you for all your efforts!
    A. [Tessler] Students may take a course at UCD. You would first have to determine what course the student is interested in. The full tuition rate is charged, which is why most of our students do not take classes at UCD. The courses at the community colleges are free to high school students.

    It is difficult matching a class time at UCD with the DSHS schedule. We only put college courses on the DSHS transcript that are needed for high school graduation. Typically, students go to UCD to take advanced math classes. First preference is always given to UCD students, so sometimes students cannot get into the class they choose.

  • Q. 129.[Feb 15, 2006] ...My son was planning to take Health on line either from Woodland Community College or Sacramento City College, but according to the above, it won't count because community colleges are not "accredited high school program(s)" Is this a new restriction?
    A. [Tessler] The health courses offered on-line through SCC and Woodland do meet our health course requirements.

  • Q. 128. [Feb 11, 2006] Translation and interpretation of the new SAT scores.
    A. [Tessler] Parents may go to www.collegeboard.com for information about the SAT's. There is a section for parents with frequently asked questions. We do not have average scores from colleges yet since this test was used for admission purposes for the first time for the Class of 2006. Next fall, the colleges will send us information on average SAT scores based on students they admitted. We will then have an estimate of ranges students should try to obtain for colleges they are interested in. Please remember that colleges look at GPA's, SAT or ACT scores, rigor of curriculum, extra-curricular activities, special talents, leadership roles, personal essays and private colleges also look at teacher/counselor letters of recommendation. There are many variables to the college selection process.

    Note: Listserver Administrator Ann Bistolfo recently asked the authors of "Admission Matters" if they had compiled some information on how colleges are viewing the new SAT's. They did not have anything ready to go, but suggested googling the topic, and sent the following three links to get us started.

    pbs.org/newshour/extra/features/july-dec05/sat_10-26.html
    bu.edu/bridge/archive/2005/02-25/sat.html
    insidehighered.com/views/2005/05/25/marthers

  • Q. 127. [Jan 23, 2006] Could you please give us a rundown on how many and which SAT II's students should (or are recommended to) take, and when they should take them? Thank you!
    A. [Tessler] Information about the SAT II's can be obtained by going to www.collegeboard.com. The dates are the same for the SAT I. Students planning on applying to the University of California should take the SAT II tests as close to the completion of the relevant course as possible. (Ex. If taking US History, they would want to take the test in May or June, near the completion of the course.) The SAT II's may be taken at anytime. Students do not need to take the SAT I prior to taking the SAT II. The University of California requires that applicants take two SAT II's in different subject areas. (Ex. US History and chemistry; not chemistry and physics.)

    California State Universities and many private/out of state schools only require the SAT I or ACT with writing.

  • Q. 126a. [Dec 6, 2005] I know there are several limitations on what courses a student under 18 can take from a junior college while enrolled at DSHS during the school year (if it is to count toward graduation), but please expound on this one a bit. It says in the course catalog that such courses must be taken at Sac City College. Is that actually the case, or is it just that a student must confine himself or herself to Sac City if wanting the cost of the class to be "free," since the high school has an arrangement with that particular college? And whatever limitations exist, are imposed by the college system, or by DSHS? I ask because my daughter is trying to arrange her schedule to take all her DSHS classes in the morning next semester, and the rest at a junior college or online. Many of the courses which interest her are at other colleges, including Woodland Community College.
    A. [Tessler] High school students with a 2.7 GPA and above may take courses at community colleges or colleges/UC's. Students who want to take community college courses need to request an Advanced Education Application form from his/her counselor. Students who want to take a UC course need to contact Bill Heekin at UC extension at 757-8696. Students taking courses at UCD will be required to pay the full fee. Students who take courses at the community colleges do not have to pay a fee. However, students may not take a course offered at the high school. For example, students may not take US History during the school year because we offer US History AP. During the summer, we do not offer US History AP (only US History) so students may take US History at community college during the summer only (must take 2 courses to cover the one year requirement: History 310 and History 311). Limitations are imposed by the CSU/UC college system. The community college's first priority is to serve their own students. The Advanced Education Application has additional instructions.
    Clarification: Per Counselor Tessler, the 2.7 GPA required to take courses at community colleges or colleges/UC's is the "total GPA."
  • Q. 126b. [Dec 7, 2005] Thank you for the information and explanation on some of the limitations [of taking college classes during high school.] Would you please clarify whether or not classes can be taken at ANY community college (even outside Los Rios Community College district...Solano, for instance), FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT, provided they're not offered at the high school, etc.?
    A. [Tessler] Yes -- classes may be taken at any community college.

  • Class Meeting - 10/11/2005. [Posted on Oct 14, 2005]
    Please click link for the minutes plus Counselor Tessler's responses to parents' questions for a range of topics. Thanks to parent Ann Bistolfo for recording the informative meeting.

  • Q. 125. [Oct 12, 2005] Counselor Courtenay Tessler sent this to us as a sample of the UC preview days that she mentioned yesterday evening.
    A. [Tessler] "UC Riverside has TWO Preview Days at TWO locations this year:

    Saturday, October 22, 2005 at the Westin Hotel, Santa Clara
    Saturday, October 29, 2005 on the UC Riverside campus

    We've planned a special day for high school seniors, transfer students and their families to visit and learn about the UCR campus, research opportunities and variety of programs available. Please encourage your university-bound students to attend. It's a great way to meet UC Riverside professors and current students, take a campus tour, and see all that UC Riverside has to offer.

    We hope to see YOU there too!
    For more information or to make your reservation, visit the Preview Day Web site or contact the Office of Undergraduate Recruitment at (951) 827-4531.

    See you there!

    Emily Engelschall, Director
    UC Riverside Office of Undergraduate Recruitment"

  • Q. 124. [Oct 6, 2005] Where do students pick up the pictures that they ordered at registration? Some students have them, but when others have gone to where they heard they were supposed to be, there was nothing there. There hasn't been a notice in the bulletin. Also, one parent reported that it took several tries going at the time and place given in the bulletin for her son to finally get the materials for CSF registration. Can you help us with some information about this? Thank you!
    A. [Tessler] Students may pick up their pictures in the Financial Office in the Administration Building. Picture make-up day is Monday, October 10th from 7:30 - 1:00 in the MPR. Picture packets for make up day are available at the KIOSK in the Administration Building. (Robin Cole at the reception desk can direct you to the KIOSK.)

    The CSF information was in the bulletin. Carol Pearcy is the advisor. You may email her with questions regarding CSF at: cpearcy@djusd.k12.ca.us.

    The best way to know what is happening at DSHS is to read the daily bulletin which is available on our website at: http://dhs.djusd.k12.ca.us/

  • Q. 123. [Sept 24, 2005] My daughter took US History from Sac City College this summer so she wouldn't need to take it during the regular school year at DHS. Should she also take the SAT U.S. History subject test? Or does having actual college credit for the course serve the same purpose when applying to other colleges?
    A. [Tessler] For the UC system, students need to select 2 SAT II subject tests in areas they feel they will do best in. It is always recommended that the student take the SAT II at the completion of a course. College credit does not replace the SAT II's.

  • Q. 122. [Sept 24, 2005] If the student takes a college course rather than the DHS AP course, is there any reason to take the AP test in that subject?
    A. [Tessler] No, because the student has already received college credit since he took the course at a community college.

  • Q. 121. [Sept 19, 2005] Do you know if there are college fairs in this area that Davis students can attend?
    A. [Tessler] The Western Association of College Admission Counseling (WACAC) sponsors a College Fair every year, alternating between different northern California locations. (It might be in the San Jose area alternate years.) It was held at UCD in 2004, so it will return to this area in March of 2006. The location for the College Fair has not been made available to us yet.

    The National Christian College Fair will be held on Thursday, September 22 from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Berean Christian High School, 245 El Divisadero Ave. in Walnut Creek.

    The United College Action Network (U-CAN) will hold their annual Historically Black College Recruitment Fair in Sacramento on September 22 from 9 AM to 1 PM at Grant Union High School, on September 23 from 9 AM to 1 PM at Charles H. Jones Education Center and on September 24 from 9 AM to 2 PM at Valley High School.

    Private colleges visit the Sacramento area during the year. You may contact private colleges directly to find out when they will have a representative in the Sacramento area.

    The CSU/UC systems hold Preview Days to give students and parents an opportunity to explore their campuses. You may go on-line to each campus to get this information. Examples: UCSC -- Oct. 15 from 10 AM to 4 PM; UCD -- Oct 22 from 7 AM to 5 PM; Chico State University - Nov. 12 from 9 AM to 3 PM.

  • Q. 120. [Sept 15, 2005] With regards to the PSAT this October, my son is scheduled to be out of town that weekend. How does he arrange to take it at another location on a different date?
    A. [Tessler] If a DSHS student is not able to take the PSAT on October 15, the parents need to call high schools in the surrounding areas to determine if they are giving the PSAT on another test date. They then need to find out whether or not the high school has extra tests and would be willing to accommodate the student.

  • Q. 119. [Sept 15, 2005] Now that the University of California is no longer part of the National Merit Scholarship program, and probably doesn't consider National Merit finalist status to be a great asset, is it still worthwhile for juniors to take the PSAT, especially if they have already taken the SAT I?
    A. [Tessler] It is worthwhile for juniors to take the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) if they want practice in preparing for the SAT. It provides the students with an opportunity to experience what the SAT Reasoning test is like (hopefully relieving some anxiety about the test). They do receive a printout in December of their scores indicating their areas of strength and weakness. The University of California is no longer considering National Merit Scholars in their financial aid consideration. Several private colleges are still giving financial rewards to National Merit Scholars.

  • Q. 118. [Sept 13, 2005] Do we know the date of college night yet? Also, is there a time when multiple colleges across the country come and meet in one place for the students to consider? (This has usually been done at other high schools where we've lived, but I don't know what it's called and when or where it is held here.)
    A. [Tessler] Dates for all activities are located in the Student Planner. College Night will be March 2, 2006. College and university visits to DSHS will begin September 14. The first college will be Colgate University (NY).A list of college visits is available at the Career Center. It is also posted on the bulletin board at the Counseling Office.

  • Q. 117. [Sept 12, 2005] PSAT
    A. [Tessler] Juniors will be able to take the PSAT at Davis Sr. High School on Saturday, October 15 from 8:00 AM until approximately 10:45 AM. You will be receiving a postcard the first week of October explaining the process for registering for the PSAT. Sign-ups will be at lunch at the Counseling Office from October 4 - 6. The cost is $18.00 (check made payable to Davis Sr. High School).

  • Q. 116. [Sept 9, 2005] My junior student is considering a schedule change that puts him in regular English rather than honors English. Will this hurt his chances when he applies at UC's and private east coast colleges?
    A. [Tessler] This is a difficult question to answer because the answer is based on different variables. It is based on his choice of college (highly competitive or highly selective?), his personal transcript, SAT scores, extra-curricular activities, his current workload of courses, his current participation in sports, clubs, etc. He should meet with his counselor to decide what is appropriate for him. The answer to this question is very individualized (based on individual student's interests and goals). The answer would not be universal for all students. UC's range in competitiveness, just as private east coast schools do.

  • Q. 115. [Sept 1, 2005] In what grade do the kids normally take the PSAT? How many times per year is it offered? Do most kids only take it once?
    A. [Elmore] The PSAT is only offered once per year, usually in the fall. This year the PSAT will be given at DHS on Saturday, October 15. Most students do only take the PSAT once and priority for registration is given to Junior students. Junior students will receive a postcard in early October giving them instructions on how to register.

  • Q. 114. [Sept 1, 2005] My daughter is a sophomore and is interested in taking the PSAT test. If the test is on a Saturday in October however she would not be available, is there another date that this test will be offered this year? Do you know all of the dates & test sites for this year for the PSAT test? Thanks for your assistance.
    A. [Elmore] The PSAT is only offered once per year and priority is given to Junior students. The DHS test will be October 15, 2005. Juniors will receive notification in the mail about how and where to register. When a Junior student is unable to take the PSAT due to a conflict such as religious or sporting event, arrangements have been made to take the test at another site on a space available basis. Sophomore students can sign up for the SAT Reasoning Test and use this as practice.

  • Q. 113a. [Aug 22, 2005] My son submitted a schedule change to replace an elective with the job experience class. He is currently employed but the manager wants him to work more hours during the school week than I feel he can handle (20 hrs/wk). My concern is that if the schedule turns out to be non-negotiable he may lose the job as a result. If he is placed in the class and then loses his job, what options are available?
    A. [Tessler] There is only space for seniors to take the work experience class for credit. Juniors may work if they obtain a work permit, but will not receive work experience credit for this.
  • Q. 113b. What is the recommended maximum number of hours per week for a junior to work if they are enrolled in six periods?
    A. [Tessler] For 16-17 year olds, the maximum is 4 hours a day on any schoolday and 8 hours on any non-schoolday or on any day that precedes a non-schoolday.

  • Q. 112. [Aug 22, 2005] I wanted to know if students have to report the results of AP exams to colleges they apply to (especially if they didn't do so hot...).
    A. [Meyer] I called the counselor hotline at College Board. here is the response. AP scores are not automatically sent to colleges nor are they sent with SAT scores.

    When students take the APs, they may select one college to have the scores sent to at no additional charge. This will be done (no matter what year the student is at the time) UNLESS the student cancels the request in writing by June 15 following the May AP test.

    Students are not obliged ever to tell colleges about AP scores. They may enter them on college applications or not.

    To have scores sent to colleges, students may call or write the College Board, and there is a fee. The cheapest way is by phone, and in this case all AP results are sent. To withhold any particular scores, students must request in writing which scores to send and which to withhold, and this costs more than requesting by phone. It is not necessary to have scores sent to any college other than the one which the student will attend after he or she has been accepted, though students may send scores they want to during the application process.

  • Q. 111a. [Aug 22, 2005] Do local college courses taken become part of the high school record?
    A. [Tessler] College courses are placed on the transcript if they are needed for a high school graduation requirement only.
  • Q. 111b. If you send a transcript from the college to the high school, do you also have to send transcripts to colleges that you apply to?
    A. [Tessler] Yes.
  • Q. 111c. What if the course you take is not a HS graduation requirement but is a prerequisite for a higher level DHS course?
    A. [Tessler] You would need to send the transcript to DSHS so that we can make sure the prerequisite was completed. Again, it would only be placed on the DSHS transcript if it is needed for a high school graduation requirement.
  • Q. 111d. Does the grade you receive in the college course become part of your DHS GPA?
    A. [Tessler] Yes.
  • Q. 111e. Do all college courses taken during high school count toward the GPA, or only the courses required for graduation?
    A. [Tessler] Only courses required for graduation. When students send the transcripts to colleges, they will (depending on their policy) recalculate the grades including the college classes (some limit the number of AP classes they calculate into the GPA.) That is why it is so difficult to give definitive answers to some of these questions....because it depends on the college the student is applying to. Colleges do like to see that students have successfully completed some AP classes. College classes are counted the same as AP. Students can take all AP classes at DSHS and never take a college class and do just fine.

  • Q. 110. [Aug 19, 2005] Some parents understood that this year students would have their own locker to themselves, but the registrations materials indicate that students will need to share a locker. What's the story on lockers?
    A. [Tessler] We do have a shortage of lockers, so some students will need to share lockers. At registration, students will be assigned lockers. They can choose partners at that time. Once we run out of lockers, then students will be assigned to share.

  • Q. 109. [Aug 19, 2005] Are there plans to install more lockers this year? Do they hope to eventually have a locker for every student?
    A. [Tessler] We do not have any more money right now to purchase new lockers. We would eventually love for every student to have his/her own locker. I should mention that not all students want a locker. Some students prefer to share a locker with their friend. Students who drive, particularly seniors, prefer to keep their books in their car. Last year we had several lockers that were not used.

  • Q. 108. [Aug 16, 2005] What does our DHS-er need to present to demonstrate completion of the DJUSD requirement of US History taken at SCC over the summer?
    A. [Tessler] He needs to request that an official transcript be mailed to the counseling office at DSHS.

  • Q. 107. [May 27, 2005] Are there other AP classes that will have work during the summer? I am specifically interested in AP American Literature and music theory. Also, when the kids pick up the history book, will the reading assignment be with the book? Thanks.
    A. [Tessler] Our understanding is there will be instructions. In the past, the only other course that requested students to do summer reading was chemistry AP, but I haven't heard anything on that yet.

  • Q. 106. [May 26, 2005] My now-sophomore daughter requested this class [US History AP] for next year. Does this apply to her, even though we have not yet received class schedules for next year? Is the textbook for over-the-summer reading? Or is it for summer school, or this year's class, or ? Will students be notified elsewhere that they need to pick up these textbooks?
    A. [Tessler] This applies to your daughter. It is for the current sophomore students who signed up for US History AP next year. There is summer reading. There will be a notification in the bulletin. I don't know how else they will be notified. That is why I thought [we] should put it in the parent listserver. I was advised that if they signed up they will be placed in the US History AP class.

  • Q. 105. [May 26, 2005] US History (AP) textbook check out dates.
    A. [Tessler] Students who signed-up for US History AP need to check out the textbook June 2 (Thu) during lunchtime at the DSHS library (this is an exclusive time arranged for these students only). The alternate date for picking up the textbook will be June 14 (Tue) from 10 AM to 12 PM. Student must bring photo ID, (no overdues) and be on the printed verified enrollment list (if student signed up for US History AP on their program planner their name will be on this list).

  • Q. 104. [May 10, 2005] My son will be graduating in June, but he will not be 18 until September. Does he need a work permit for his summer job?
    A. [Tessler] Yes -- tell him to pick one up at the carousel in the adm. building.

  • Q. 103. [Mar 25, 2005] SCC Summer School.
    A. [Tessler] Students interested in taking courses at Sacramento City College (SCC) Summer School in Davis: Schedules are available online at www.losrios.edu, go to Davis Center. See your counselor for an advanced education application. Students must be 16 years old by the time classes start and have at least an overall 2.7 GPA. [Carol Curinga] Students planning to take US History at SCC over the summer need to be aware that they must take BOTH semesters of US History to fulfill the DHS US History requirement. These courses would be HIST 310 & HIST 311. Students planning to take Economics at SCC must take BOTH semesters Econ 302 and Econ 304 covering both macro and microeconomics to fulfill the DHS requirement. After the application is filled out and approved by the student's counselor, the student will make an appointment with a Sac City College counselor. The SCC fall schedule should be available online in mid-April. Fall classes to start August 29th.

  • Q. 102. [Mar 17, 2005] More about fall registration:
    A. [Tessler] For those of you who are trying to plan an August vacation, we have arrived at the dates for fall registration at DHS:
    - August 23, 2005 - Juniors and Seniors will turn in forms & pick up schedules
    - August 24, 2005 - Sophomores will turn in forms & pick up schedules.
    - August 29 - School starts
    If a student is unable to attend Fall DHS registration on August 23/24, then the student would go to school at 7:00 AM on the first day of school, August 29. There are usually about 200 students in this position. The line moves fast because they are well organized to accommodate these students. The students will be turning in forms, picking up their schedule, getting photos taken for student ID, etc.

  • Q. 101a. [Mar 1, 2005] Can we get an explanation of what the "total GPA" is used for, what the "state GPA" is used for, what the "college GPA" is used for, and which one is the "DHS GPA"?
    A. [Tessler] GRADE POINT AVERAGES: State GPA is unweighted and based on courses from grades 10-12 excluding P.E. Total GPA is based on all subjects taken in grades 9-12 and is weighted. College GPA is calculated on a-g college preparatory courses in grades 10-12 and is weighted.

    The UC/CSU's look at the college GPA. Private and out of state colleges have their own criteria. Some may look at the college GPA and others may look at the total GPA. State GPA is for the State of California financial aid Cal Grant program.

    • 101b. Also, when colleges talk about the "average GPA of their freshman class," what might that GPA consist of?
      A. [Tessler] When the UC/CSU's give the average GPA's of the freshman class, they are talking about the college GPA which is weighted. Out of state and private schools all calculate differently, based on their own course requirements for admission and whether or not they look at weighted or unweighted grades.

    • 101c. Does DHS use GPA's for anything?
      A. [Tessler] Students need a 2.0 GPA to be eligible for sports. Cheerleaders and dance team members need a 2.0 GPA in order to participate. The GPA's are used for scholarships. We have a range of scholarships from our community. Some do not require a GPA. Others range from 2.0 on up.

    • 101d. Which GPA does DHS use for these?
      A. [Tessler] For sports/dance -- the semester GPA's. For scholarships, it varies, depending on the criteria for the scholarship. That is why it is impossible to cover everything that might happen...there are many variables.

    • 101e. The report card seems to have only one GPA mentioned. Which one is it?
      A. [Tessler] Total GPA for that semester only.

  • Q. 100. [Feb 26, 2005] My son will be 16 soon and would like to get a part time job this summer. Does he need a work permit, and if so, how do we go about obtaining one?
    A. [From Class of 2006 Q&A archives. Courtenay Tessler has confirmed that this information is still fine, with the exception that summer school will be held this year at DSHS.]

    Q. 56. [Feb 19, 2004] Please tell me about the labor rules that apply to 16-18 year old students applying for parttime or summer jobs. What are work permits? Do 16 year olds need them? How do they obtain them? How long are they useful for? Are there any restrictions on work for teens?

    A. [Uyeda] Work permits are required by the State of California for all students who are not yet high school graduates OR not yet 18 years old, even in the summer. They are issued through the schools, and at summer school ([DSHS]this year) when schools are closed. Even students who do not attend summer school need a work permit even in the summer. The district office also issues work permits in the summer. All work permits expire the first week of school, so even students continuing in the same job need a new work permit each school year. Students who are in California only for the summer and want to work here also need work permits even though they may never attend school in California.

    Work permits are issued for specific jobs, so the application is a joint one signed by parent-guardian and prospective employer. The student must turn in the application (green) to the school and get the completed final permit (white) before he or she can begin working. The employer is subject to substantial fines for violation of rules regarding employment of minors, including hours of work and no work permit on file. We issue permits for students who are 14 and 15 (very limited work hours) and 16-17 (fewer restrictions apply).

    There are specific rules that prohibit teen employment in various industries and types of activities. Some of these are federal. The State also has regulations pertaining to youth employment which are in vehicle code, ed code, and labor laws. Many of these are spelled out on the work permit application.

    http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/CLLPamphlet2000.pdf

    This website is the California labor laws pamphlet. Applications for work permits are in the front reception area of the school Students turn them in to the attendance office when they are completed. Then they may pick up the completed work permit at the front desk.

    I should have added that work permits aren't required for occasional jobs such as babysitting or lawn care. They are also not required for students working for their parents, unless the student wants to be enrolled in Work Experience Education through the school. Students who are paper carriers are considered independent contractors and do not need work permits.

    The information above was provided by my colleague Jean Meyer.

  • Q. 99. [Feb 26, 2005] My daughter is interested in taking an English course at community college this summer. Part of this is to earn credit, but she's also concerned because she thinks she needs some extra help in learning the finer points of grammar. Obviously, if she does well, she'd like to use the course on her high school transcript or toward college. But if she doesn't do well, she'd rather not use the grade at all (realizing that in that case, she also won't be able to count the credits toward her high school graduation, or toward college credits). Does she have that option? Or once she's registered, is the grade she earns going to make it onto her high school and college record whether she wants it to or not? Does it depend on whether or not the tuition is waived? If she pays for the course, does that afford her the option of deciding after completing the course whether or not she wants to use the grade? Or is who pays for the course irrelevant?
    A. [Tessler] College courses are only put on the DSHS transcript if they are needed for high school graduation. When students apply to college, they need to indicate all classes they have taken, including college classes. Once a student has taken a college course, it will become part of his/her college transcript. A student may take a college course on an audit basis, not receiving a grade or any credits. Once a student receives a grade in high school or college, he/she may not choose to have it removed from the transcript. F and D grades can only be replaced by repeating the class. There is no relevancy to who pays for the course.

  • Q. 98. [Feb 23, 2005] It appears that we have a large number of students interested in US History as given by SCC. If the numbers are sufficiently large, a poll will tell you how many, then the District could ask SCC to schedule sufficient classes ahead of time and perhaps even hold it at Davis High for the summer. I understand that Ms. Moldenhauer is actually teaching Calculus BC via a contract with SCC. If community colleges can send instructors out to Sun City when the 20 or more seniors want a class, I think we can ask on behalf of our kids. Now should be early enough.
    A. [Tessler] We will look into this further.

  • Q. 97. [Feb 23, 2005] Some of us had understood that Spanish 5 AP did not receive the weighted grade when taken in 9th grade--either at Emerson or at Davis High. Does the new honors Spanish 4 receive a weighted grade when taken in 9th grade?
    A. [Tessler] Students do receive weighted grades for Spanish 5 AP and Spanish 4 honors taken in the 9th grade for the total GPA. They do not received weighted grades in the college GPA or state GPA because these GPA's are only calculated from 10th grade on.

  • Q. 96. [Feb 22, 2005] Clarification about when courses are weighted, for example,
    - Sophomore honors courses
    - Other honors courses taken in 9th or 10th grade or later
    - AP courses taken in 9th or 10th grade or later
    A. [Tessler] We only put honors classes from other schools on our transcript with weighted grades when they are from schools in California and the classes are designated honors on that school's UC a-g list. When the subject, such as English, is a 9th or 10th grade curriculum, the course does not get a weighted grade. If the student takes an honors or AP class in 9th or 10th grade that is on the school's UC a-g list as honors or AP level, then it will receive a weighted grade on our transcript. For example, Art History AP, calculus or Spanish 4, 5 or 6. Any AP or IB class from any school in the world will get the weighted grade point, but not honors classes (unless UC approved.)

  • Q. 95. [Feb 21, 2005] About taking US History at Sacramento City College
    A. [Tessler] Several students are asking questions about taking US History at Sacramento City College. We want to provide you with information about this choice:

    - students need to take both History 310 and 311 and will get 5 credits for each semester, weighted grade. College classes are weighted but they are not AP classes, that is a specific program.
    - students need to pick up a SCC form from the counseling office, take it home and have it signed by the parent, put in the specific classes they want, and bring it to counseling. They may drop it off and pick it up later, signed by the counselor, asserting that they have the 2.7 or higher GPA needed.
    - students apply online to SCC and register for summer school in April, once their course offerings are announced.
    - no placement test is required, just the application, including the form signed by the high school counselor and the parent, and a written statement from the student as required by SCC. They take these to SCC along with a copy of their unofficial transcript. The one given to them for program planning may be copied for this.
    There are space limitations in the classes, so students should pay attention to when it is time to sign up.
    If they have questions about Sac City, their catalog is on the web and they may call the Davis office at 747-5200.

  • Q. 94a. [Feb 21, 2005] My child took a class titled "Honors Physical Science" in her ninth grade year, at a different high school. Does this meet the requirement, or does it have to be in a specific subject such as "Chemistry" or "Physics".
    A. [Tessler] The previous high school could let you know whether or not the Honors Phyisical Science course was on the approved a-g requirement list. Each high school has their own approved courses. Our approved courses are listed on page 16 in our catalogue.
    94b. Also, are these "honors" level courses from ninth grade year weighted that way for the DHS cumulative average?
    [Tessler] We do not weight grades for 9th and 10th grade classes.

  • Q. 93. [Feb 21, 2005] If my child takes chemistry at one of the local colleges, does it satisfy the DHS requirement for a year of physical/lab science, or only one semester? Also, there seem to be at least 4 or 5 different versions of Intro Chemistry at Sac City -- do they all count? If not, how do we tell which ones DO count?
    A. [Tessler] There are several choices at Sacramento City College for chemistry. The chemistry must include a lab. The student should meet with his/her own counselor to determine which course is appropriate. One semester at SCC counts as one semester at DSHS.

  • Q. 92. [Feb 21, 2005] Should my sophomore take the SAT I or the SAT II this year as practice?
    A. [Tessler] This decision is up to the student. The majority of our students wait until November of their junior year to take the SAT I. This is the first time it is given at DSHS. The Class of 2006 had to wait until March this year because that will be the first administration of the new SAT I. The SAT II subject tests should be taken at the completion of the coursework that corresponds to the subject test being taken. For example, if a student is in chemistry now, he/she would want to take the SAT II subject test in May or June, near the completion of the course.

  • Q. 91. [Feb 11, 2005] If a student takes college level Biology, for instance, over the summer, will that count on her high school transcript as AP Biology? Will it be weighted by colleges (5.0 for an A) the way it would if she had taken it at the high school?
    A. [Tessler] If the college course is needed for high school graduation, we put it on our transcript. In this case, the college biology class would get the extra grade point since biology AP is our comparable course. If the student has already met our life science requirement, it would not be put on our transcript. In that case, the student would send a copy of the transcript to the colleges he is applying to. Most colleges would recalculate his GPA giving him the weighted grade.

  • Q. 90. [Feb 10, 2005] We have not tried to enroll at Sac City for courses in the past because I believe beginning two years ago, we had confirmed with their administration that there are restrictions for high school students. Also, our friends have tried to enroll their high school or jr. high school child into math classes at Sac City during the summer and were denied enrollment to these courses. I believe the restrictions began when state budget reductions were enacted.
    A. [Tessler] Students may take SCC courses during the summer as long as they have a 2.70 GPA and have the form which they get in counseling signed by their parent and counselor. College students are given first preference. High school students only get in if there is space available. During the school year they cannot take classes we offer here, such as US History AP. They can take astronomy, which we do not offer.

  • Q. 89. [Feb 8, 2005] Information about college level summer school courses for our students
    A. [Tessler] Students go to either Sacramento City College (majority), Sacramento State College, or UCD for college level summer classes. They would need to contact each individual college to determine what the course offerings are for summer classes.

  • Q. 88. [Feb 8, 2005] Does anyone know if a student can repeat an AP class that they took in 9th grade so that it will show up on their high school (11th grade) transcript?
    A. [Tessler] The student would only repeat the class if he/she received a D or F grade.

  • Q. 87. [Feb 8, 2005] I emailed the summer school address and never got a reply to this question. If a student is attending summer school, are they required to attend for the whole morning (two periods?) Or can they take just one 5 unit class and attend 1/2 the morning? I don't really see that clarified anywhere on the registration materials.
    A. [Tessler] They can sign up for one class (5 credits). But there would be no guarantee that the student could go in the early morning. It would depend on when the class is offered.

  • Q. 86. [Feb 5, 2005] My daughter would like to start a club at DHS. How does she go about that?
    A. [Tessler] My understanding is that no new clubs can be started for the remainder of this year. All our staff are already stretched thin being advisors. We currently have 69 clubs. Your daughter should speak with Brett Stone, student activities director about this. If it is not possible for this year, she could probably request it for next year. She would have to write up the purpose of the club, find an advisor and submit forms to student government for approval. Mr. Stone would explain the process to her. She can email him at: bstone@djusd.k12.ca.us.

  • NOTE: [Feb 1, 2005] There have been a lot of questions regarding the new SAT I and the resulting changed SAT II requirements for UC. Ms. Tessler would like everyone to know that that the chart for the a-g requirements for UC's is in the course catalogue which students will get this week. It is included in the power point, which will be on the DSHS web site this week. Parents are encouraged to go to these sites:
    - www.csumentor.edu
    - http://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/

  • Q. 85. [Feb 1, 2005] What do the UC's do if you take more than the two required SAT II's? (I don't think that the College Board will send only a partial transcript.) If they SAY that they take the top two -- do they really?
    A. [Tessler] The new SAT I includes sections on verbal, math and writing (starting with the Class of 2006, students must now take the new SAT I.) The English SAT II test you are referring to was the SAT II Writing. It was required until now. The new SAT I incorporates a section on writing, replacing the SAT II Writing subject test. Again, students select 2 subject SAT II tests that they feel most confident in. Students may take as many SAT II's as they want. The UC system will take the two highest scores, even though all the scores are sent to them. In working with admission representatives from the University of California, I can assure you that they only consider the top scores in the selection process.

  • Q. 84. [Feb 1, 2005] To clarify, I gather that this [information from the previous counselor response] means that the kids do NOT have to take the English SAT II? Should they consider doing that if their English SAT I is not so great, or isn't it relevant?
    A. [Tessler] They should re-take the SAT I. The other option is taking the ACT plus their writing test. Some students do better on the ACT. It is really not referred to as English so this is throwing me off. It is verbal and writing in the SAT I and the SAT II is Literature.

  • Q. 83. [Feb 1, 2005] My daughter transferred to DSHS from another district where a semester of geography was not a graduation requirement, as I understand it is here. She heard last year that it was possible to substitute a semester of psychology for geography in fulfilling the requirement, however, since it, too, falls under the heading of "social studies." The two hardly seem interchangeable, but is this still true?
    A. [Tessler] Yes, this is true. We do not offer geography at DSHS. A student may substitute any of the following classes: psychology IA, psychology IB, Human Geography AP, International Relations or Hispanic/Latino Histories and Cultures (Spanish 3 required.) Geography is available during summer school.

  • Q. 82. [Feb 1, 2005] When and how would you choose which SAT IIs to take, and are there any circumstances under which you would advise taking more than three? Should one always take the English, even if Math and Science are stronger subjects? Do the UC's and State Colleges all have the same requirements?
    A. [Tessler] The student needs to select his/her two strongest areas. CSU's do not require SAT II's. Some private colleges may require three SAT II's. Many have not made a final decision yet, so you would need to contact each private college to determine how many are required.

  • Q. 81. [Feb 1, 2005] How many SAT II's are required for UC admissions and in which subjects?
    A. [Tessler] For the UC system, freshman applicants must submit two SAT II Subject Tests in two different subject areas of the student's choice: history/social science, English literature, mathematics (only Math level 2), laboratory science or language other than English. The following SAT II Subject Tests can be used to fulfill this requirement: Literature, U.S. History or World History, Biology E/M (Ecological/Molecular), Chemistry, Physics, French Reading, French Reading with Listening, German Reading, German Reading with Listening, Spanish Reading, Spanish Reading with Listening, Modern Hebrew Reading, Italian Reading, Latin Reading with Listening, Japanese Reading with Listening, Korean Reading with Listening and Chinese Reading with Listening. You may always get this information by going to www.collegeboard.com.

  • Q. 80. [Feb 1, 2005] More on SAT and PSAT.
    A. [Tessler] Juniors should take the SAT I and for the UC system two SAT II subject tests. (Some private colleges may require three SAT II subject tests. That is why you need to make sure you check the requirements of each private college.) Students may also take the ACT plus the writing test instead of the SAT I. When students are seniors, they will have October, November and December to repeat any test they feel they can improve on. Most early admissions are due Nov. 1, so it is imperative that students complete the college exams in their junior year if they intend to apply for early admission to any college.

    Our juniors usually take the PSAT in October and then the SAT I in November, which is given at DSHS. Based on the results, some opt to repeat the SAT I in the spring. We give the SAT's at DSHS again in May. Our juniors usually take the SAT II subject tests in May or June. If they select June, they need to identify another location in Sacramento or Woodland to take the test.

  • Q. 79. [Jan 31, 2005] Can students take the SAT in the junior year, as a practice, and again in the senior year? I realize both scores will be taken into account, but for early applications to colleges that are due in the senior year, should they take the SAT in the junior year?
    A. [Tessler] The new SAT I will be given for the first time in March. The majority of our students wait until their junior year to take the SAT I. If sophomores are currently in a class, such as chemistry, that they want to take the SAT II subject test on, they should take this SAT II at the end of this year. Otherwise, there is no need to take the SAT's until the junior year.

    Research provided to us by college board indicates that after 3 attempts the scores actually start going down. The average improvement for a second test goes up an average of only 50 points. Our students typically improve 50 - 100 points on 2nd and 3rd administrations of the SAT. The highest leap I have seen is 200 points. One student improved her math score 200 points by studying all summer with her dad who is a math professor at UCD. Another student improved 200 words on verbal by studying vocabulary all summer (Important to note that English was his second language...first language Chinese)

    The best preparation remains doing the work required in the academic classes at DSHS. College Board has a new SAT Readiness Program including a full-length practice test for the new SAT. The new site is: collegeboard.com/student/testing/newsat/prep/prep.html.

    The counselors do not want students to get overly-stressed about the SAT because then their performance will go down. Remember, the primary determining factor for college admission remains the GPA in college prep classes. If students focus on doing their best in these classes, they will be prepared for the SAT.

  • Q. 78. [Dec 9, 2004] My son mentioned to me the other day that he is not registered for the first period for the next semester. This semester, he is in team sports and we would like him to continue with that the next semester so that he can complete his PE requirement. He was told at the beginning of the first semester that he couldn't get it in the second semester because it was full. What other options does he have? Can he sign up for something else so that the PE requirements can be fulfilled? When should he do it and where should he go to inquire?
    A. [Tessler] Students may start meeting with their counselors now to see if there are openings for second semester. Most classes are still full. They can try now, but may need to try again in January.

  • Q. 77. [Dec 2, 2004] What is the typical schedule for progress reports? Will there be another round of progress reports before the end of the quarter/semester? When might they be sent out?
    A. [Tessler] Progress grades are due from teachers next week. The progress reports will be mailed out the week of Dec. 13 - 17. Progress reports cover a six week period. Two progress reports are sent each semester. Each semester the reports that are sent are: progress report, quarter grades, progress report, semester grades.

  • Q. 76a. [Dec 1, 2004] Can year-long music classes (e.g., orchestra, band, choral classes) be dropped at the end of first semester, and a new one-semester class (perhaps Health) taken instead in second semester? My child already has a year of UC/CSU Approved Course List f credit from last year. Also, if the class is "dropped," will the student get credit for the semester of music taken?
    A. [Tessler] Yes, a year long class can be dropped but not until finals week. A new semester class can be added at that time, if available. And yes - the student will get credit for one semester of music.
    Q. 76b. [Dec 2, 2004] If a student drops a year-long music class during finals week of first semester, will the music teacher find out prior to submitting first semester grades that the student has dropped the class?
    A. [Tessler] I can understand the concern being expressed by this question and there are different ways to answer this. We try to communicate with teachers if there is a concern that can perhaps be remedied by talking with the teacher, parent and student. The music groups depend on each instrument, so it affects the entire group when someone suddenly drops. The music teachers would appreciate it if they were notified prior to a student dropping band, orchestra, etc. This gives them an opportunity to discuss the reasons for the drop with the student and sometimes situations can be resolved.

    If a class is dropped during finals, the teacher would not know that the student has dropped prior to submitting final grades unless the counselor notifies the teacher. I can assure you, if the teacher is notified, there would be a specific reason for this, which is usually one of resolution. If a student still maintains he or she wants to drop the class, this decision would not affect the grade any teacher here would give a student for the semester's work.

  • Q. 75. [Nov 17, 2004] My son dropped a class and is now in study hall. When will he be able to sign up for a spring semester class and how will we know what classes have openings? Are full year classes closed for second semester entry?
    A. [Tessler] Students may meet with their counselor at anytime to see if classes are open for next semester. There are currently not many openings. Usually more openings occur in January as we get closer to the spring semester. We don't start students in year long classes at the semester. Students can only add semester classes for spring semester.

  • Q. 74. [Nov 16, 2004] Can anyone tell me if it is possible to join school clubs late? My sophomore daughter never checked into clubs early this year due to a Fall varsity sport team. Now that is over and she would like to join something. Is there a list of clubs who will still take members? Description/contact persons?
    A. [Tessler] Yes -- a student may join a club at anytime. The student should listen to the bulletin to find out when meetings are held. She can always go to the meeting and decide later if she would like to join the club. Student government has a list of clubs and advisors. They meet in room C4 during per. 4.

  • Q. 73. [Nov 12, 2004] New SAT Readiness Program
    A. [Tessler] College Board has announced a new SAT Readiness Program that will help prepare students for the new SAT. Information about the program may be found at: collegeboard.com/student/testing/newsat/prep/prep.html.

  • Q. 72. [Oct 1, 2004] Do all or most of the colleges and universities that are visiting DHS this fall normally come to the campus each year to provide information about their programs? Also, are the current information sessions only available to junior and seniors?
    A. [Tessler] Most of the colleges on the list do come every year, but not all. The visits are mainly for juniors and seniors, but sometimes sophomores come. They just need to make sure it's OK with their teacher for them to miss class.

  • Q. 71. [Sept 10, 2004] Is the CSF application that is found on line the same one that is available at the library?
    A. [Tessler] The CSF applications are available in the library, the reception area of the administration building, rooms P13 and S7. They are due Oct. 1 at 4:00 PM. They must be turned in to Carol Pearcy, advisor, in room P13 at lunchtime or after school. Sophomores can be associate members. We are not aware of an online application. CSF applications are always due at the beginning of each school year. There is always a 3 week period of time to complete the application process. The dates always appear in the daily bulletin. Each member has to rejoin every semester based on the grades received the previous semester. In order to be a life member you must have 4 semesters of membership, one of which must be based on grades received in the senior year. All of these semesters must be semester grades received at the high school.

  • Q. 70. [Sept 29, 2004] Where can parents find more extensive written information about Pathways?
    A. [Tessler] The School to Career Pathways are thoroughly explained in the course catalogue, pages 43 - 48.

  • Q. 69. [Sept 28, 2004] About free tutoring at DHS.
    A. [Tessler] Free tutoring is now available for Math and Science at lunchtime: Monday in S-10 and Tuesday through Thursday in S-9. All students are welcome to come.

  • Q. 68. [Sept 28, 2004] What is the procedure for replacing lost student ID cards?
    A. [Tessler] Students should first go to the receptionist in the Administration Building to find out whether or not the ID card has been found and turned in. If it is not at the receptionist desk, then the student needs to go to the library and pay $5.00 for a new ID card.

  • Q. 67. [Sept 23, 2004] About the new SAT
    A. [Tessler] The new SAT will be given for the first time on March 12, 2005. Registration for the new test will begin December 2004. You may register on-line at: www.collegeboard.com. The fee has been increased from $29.50 to $41.50. The remaining test dates for the new SAT for this school year will be May 7, 2005 and June 4, 2005. The UC's will not accept the old SAT for the Class of 2006 and the Class of 2007. In addition, all applicants must complete two SAT II Subject Tests in two different subject areas: history/social science, English literature, mathematics (must be IIC), laboratory science or language other than English. The UC's will also accept the ACT Assessment plus the new ACT Writing Test. You may register on-line at: www.actstudent.org.

    The following questions and answers about the new SAT were provided by UC Admissions:

    If a student in the freshman class of 2006 take the SAT I and/or the SAT II Writing Test prior to March 2005, will these examination results fulfill the new requirement? No. Because of the changes in the SAT I, which now includes sections on critical reading, mathematics and writing, UC will expect students to take this new exam in March 2005 or later.

    If a student in the freshman class of 2006 takes the ACT Assessment prior to spring 2005, will UC accept this version of the ACT as long as the student also takes the ACT Writing Test when it is available? Yes. Since the ACT Assessment is no changing, applicants for fall 2006 admission may complete the current ACT at any time but must also complete the ACT Writing Test no later than December 2005. Applicants for freshman admission in fall 2007 and later will be expected to complete both the ACT Assessment and the Writing Test at the same sitting.

    Can a student take the SAT II Writing Test in combination with the ACT Assessment to fulfill the core examination requirement? No. UC will not accept the SAT II Writing Test as a substitution for the ACT Writing Test for fall 2006 applicants.

    Can a student meet UC's requirement by taking two SAT II tests in one discipline area - example, the United States and World History tests or the Chemistry and Biology tests? No. The examination requirement calls for the completion of two SAT II tests in two different subject areas.

    Are specific SAT II tests required for admission to certain campuses or majors? Students are urged to take relevant SAT II Subject Tests immediately upon completion of associated courses, particularly if the subject area is related to an intended major. Specific SAT II Subject Tests may be preferred for admission to certain majors. Students are urged to check campus websites for the latest testing information.

    How will the new tests be weighted in UC's eligibility index? The UC Academic Senate's Board of Admissions and Relations with Schools (BOARS) has recommended that, pending future research on the predictive validity of the different exams, the three components of the new SAT I and the two additional SAT II Subject Tests be weighted equally in the eligibility index. UC will use a concordance table to equate the new SAT I with the ACT Assessment plus the new ACT Writing Test. A new eligibility index is anticipated in spring 2005 for students entering in fall 2006.

    If a student takes the ACT or SAT more than once, will the University use the highest score? Yes. The University uses the highest scores from a single testing administration. ( This differs from the California State University system where a student may combine best verbal and math scores from multiple sittings of SAT; may combine best sub-scores from multiple ACT tests to calculate a best composite.)

    If a student takes more than two SAT II Subject Tests, will the University use the best two scores? Yes, provided that these scores represent two different subject areas.

    What about students applying to UC for the fall 2006 who are also applying to other colleges that may accept old SAT and ACT scores? These students should inquire about the testing policies for the schools they're interested in, then decide whether taking the old tests makes sense. However, UC will only accept the new tests.

    Will UC see the SAT I essay? How will campuses use the new writing score? UC has no plans to view the essays, only to use the SAT I scores.

    Will the SAT tests be longer? The total testing time for the new SAT I will be 3 hours and 45 minutes: 60 minutes for the writing section and 70 minutes each for the critical reading and mathematics sections. The old SAT I took 3 hours. Each SAT II test will still be one hour in length.

    What will students be asked to write about in the essay? Students will be asked to take a position on an issue and support it persuasively with examples from their studies and experiences. The topic will be an open-ended question that can be answered successfully in many different ways. Students won't have to have any prior knowledge about the topic to write an effective essay.

    When will the ACT Writing Test be offered? The ACT Writing Test will be offered for the first time in February 2005. It will be take 30 minutes to complete.

  • Q. 66. [Sept 22, 2004] In response to questions from the listserver about CSF, the counseling department has sent the following information.
    A. CSF is the College Scholarship Federation. Students qualify by having grades that are determined eligible by the state organization. The application has a point system with certain classes that are examined. If a student is a member by qualifying, submitting the application on time, and paying the required dues for 4 of the semesters of high school, including one in the senior year, that student is deemed a Life Member of CSF. Life Members are noted in the Graduation Program and are given a special tassel to wear on their mortarboards.

    There is no automatic scholarship money given to members, but there is a scholarship for which they can apply. Membership in itself does not denote anything to competitive colleges, because virtually every student who qualifies for a UC is eligible for CSF.

    The club meets regularly at the high school and their activities include many hours of volunteering and community service. It is a great leadership opportunity for those students who are in the top positions; a presidency of this organization would be something that colleges would consider in examining a student's leadership experience. Students may become life members by qualifying and paying dues but are not required to be active members in the club.

    We also have the National Honor Society which is similar to CSF. Students must do outside volunteering to be a member of this organization; there are no inactive members.

    Neither organization has special classes or workshops that are not available to the general student body.

  • Q. 65. [Sept 10, 2004] After many attempts to fix her schedule, my 10th grader just got a free period. What is the difference between a free period and study hall? Can she go to study hall? Can she leave campus-if not, where is she supposed to go? Can she still try to get a class or is it too late for this semester?
    A. [Tessler] When a student is in study hall, she must go to a specific room every day. Attendance is taken. No credit is given for study hall. When a student is eligible for a free period, she does not need to check in with anyone. She may go to the DSHS library, the public library, or leave campus.

    The last day to add a class was September 3 (noted in Student Planner). The last day to drop a class is October 29 (noted in Student Planner). Students may make schedule changes to spring semester until February 4, 2005 (noted in Student Planner). We recommend that students wait until November - January since many classes are still closed. Whenever a student meets with his/her counselor, he/she can ask the counselor to check on the availability of classes for spring semester.

  • Q. 64. [Sept 10, 2004] I would like to see in writing the dress code for the high school. It was referred to in the information about suspensions but I have not been able to find a written policy. Thank you.
    A. [Tessler] The "Dress Policy" can be found in the Student Planner on page 14:
    "The guidelines are simple and sensible. Apparel should:
    • Cover front and back, top and bottom.
    • Be free of any image or depiction of drugs, alcohol, sex, tobacco, and/or anything illegal.
    • Be free of any image or depiction associated or affiliated with gang activity.
    • Be safe in, and not distracting to, the learning environment."

  • Q. 63. [Sept 10, 2004] Does the restriction on cell phones during lunchtime extend to the parking lots and the sidewalks in front of the school? What about those same areas for students who have finished school after fifth or sixth period? Finally, do teachers have the authority to permit students to make a call from their classrooms if they deem it urgent?
    A. [Tessler] Students may not use cell phones in the parking lots or after periods 5 or 6, since school is still in session. They may use cell phones after period 7 since school is over and this will not disrupt classes. Students may use cell phones on the sidewalks. Teachers are always encouraged to use their discretion and good sense, so it would depend on the individual student situation and the teacher's determination as to whether or not the matter is urgent.

  • Q. 62a. [Feb 10, 2004] This [earlier counselor] response [about peer tutors] is interesting in that it differs somewhat from what we heard at the recent PTA meeting. There it was stated that the time for tutoring would be set by the two students involved -- which also seems to infer a one on one relationship. I also got the impression that the tutor would be matched with the student based on skills and need--and that this was arranged by the teachers; also that tutoring for both math and science would be available. Could we have a clarification?
     Q. 62b. [Feb 10, 2004] What does my son (who is taking Calculus) need to do if he would like to provide peer tutoring in math?
    A. [Tessler] Let me clarify the tutoring services we provide at DSHS. The peer tutors are students who get paid by PTA to provide tutoring in math during lunchtime Monday through Thursday. Some of the tutors may also be able to assist students with chemistry or physics questions. The program is provided in one of the science rooms. Mr. Raymond is starting to hire peer tutors. A student interested in being a peer tutor may contact Mr. Raymond in room S-9. This program will begin in two weeks. The exact starting time and location will be announced in the bulletin. The tutoring services are provided on a drop-in basis. The student may certainly work with any tutor.

    Third and B also offers tutoring assistance. They try to match the student with a UCD student. The UCD students do not start back until October, so the program will not be available until then. If interested, you may go to Third and B and complete a request for tutoring. You need to state the times the student is available and what assistance the student needs. Third and B staff will then try to match your student with a UCD student who can tutor him/her in the specific subjects stated, such as chemistry, algebra II, Spanish, etc.

    Our science and math teachers have times they are available to work with students. Some are available at lunchtime and others have a specific day after school. When you attend Back to School night next Monday, September 13, 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, the teachers will let you know when they are available and how to contact them.

    The Davis Joint Unified School District also compiles a list of tutorial services as a public service to assist parents in finding a tutor within the Davis community. This list is available at the counseling office.

  • Q. 61. [Sep 7, 2004] Could you tell us the current policy, enforcement and discipline regarding the use of cell phones at the high school? Can students use them on campus AFTER school? Between classes? At lunchtime?
    A. [Asst. Principal Loper] Board policy prevents cell phones from being turned on or visible at any time during the entire instructional day. They may be used after 7th, but not at lunch, break or passing periods. (It is likely that the tardy problem would increase if cell phones were permitted.)

    Consequences for violation:
    #1: phone confiscated, picked up by student at end of day.
    #2: phone confiscated, parent makes appt to pick up phone from VP.
    #3: parent/student conference, ban on cell phone use at school, possible subsequent suspension for defiance of school policy.

    As we've become more and more dependant upon these phones, people almost forget we got along quite nicely without them. They are a considerable disruption. Last week, when I was going into classes to introduce myself and discuss policy, right as I was mentioning cell phones, one went off!

  • Q. 60. [Sep 7, 2004] I have heard a number of concerns and questions about the current state of the P.E. and athletic facilities at the high school, and I passed our concerns on to the administration. Here is their response. --Ann
    A. [Tessler] We are thrilled to have all of the modernization work being accomplished at DSHS, but "construction" has not been easy on any of us. The construction crews are working as quickly and efficiently as they can. Girls will not have PE lockers until November 9. Then it will be the boys' turn to be without PE lockers until January 13. Students will have to keep PE clothes in their school lockers until the construction work is completed.

    The following is the modernization schedule:

    Project Completion Date
    1. Metal Shop
    2. Educated Eatery
    3. Humanities
    4. Weight Room and Dance Room
    5. Ag Room
    6. C Building Teacher Offices
    7. Boys' Locker Room
    8. Girls' Locker Room
    9. Art Room    		 September 10
    September 3
    November 19
    October 1
    November 20
    December 17
    January 13
    November 9
    TBA


  • Q. 59. [Sep 3, 2004] How does my student arrange for peer tutors? Is there a sign-up booth in the counseling office? Please advise how the system works.
    A. [Tessler] Peer tutors are available for math. The PTA pays students to provide tutoring. This has not started yet. I will let everyone know when it starts. It is available Monday through Thursday during lunchtime. The student simply goes to the room where it is offered.

  • Q. 58. [Aug 31, 2004] How many units of credit a student can get for a summer PE session? Will there be PE courses offered in the summer of 2005?
    A. [Tessler] Students were able to earn 5 credits at summer school. The decision as to whether or not PE will be offered next summer will be made in January.

  • Q. 57. [Aug 31, 2004] My 10th grader is pushing hard to drop PE this year. Obviously, we would need to make this request very soon.
    What are the disadvantages of doing so?
    Is there any way that he can make this up, other than in summers? Are there any waivers for Varsity athletes? It seems ridiculous that he would spend hours on the soccer field and not satisfy the PE requirement, at least for the semester that he doing that sport.
    A. [Tessler] It is highly recommended that 10th grade students take PE. The majority of students in our PE classes are sophomores. A student may wait until he or she is a junior or senior to take PE. Usually juniors and particularly seniors are not happy taking PE because they are in classes with mostly sophomores. PE has been offered in summer school. There is no alternative way to make up PE. Two years of PE (20 credits) are required for high school graduation. Participation in varsity sports does not count toward the PE requirement.

  • Q. 56. [Aug 25, 2004] My sophomore daughter wants to drop a class and add something else in that period. Since she only gets one chance with the counselors to make schedule changes (Aug 27, 30 or 31 according to the information handed out at registration), is there some place she can see all the courses in all the periods for both semesters so she can prioritize her options? I'm afraid she'll go into the counselor, not be able to determine what are the best options, and then her time will be up and she'll be stuck in a class that isn't right for her.
    Also, can the parent come to the appointment with their student?
    A. [Tessler] The parent may come to the appointment with the student. We will not know until the student is actually sitting with us which classes are open. We pull up the period (ex. Per. 3) and the student can see the classes that are open. We try to make it work for the student. Sometimes this means switching another class to a different period.

  • Q. 55. [Aug 25, 2004] Does the high school give credit for classes taken in the summer Academic Talent Search program at Cal State U Sacramento? If not, do they at least recognize it on their high school transcripts? And if they do recognize it, do you just have a transcript sent from ATS to the school? Thanks for any help you can give.
    A. [Tessler] No, we do not give students credit for these classes. We do not make a notation on the transcript. This is something the student would write on his/her college application for an extra-curricular activity ... if the program was attended 9-12th grade.
    [Aug 26, 2004] I just found out that the only way we put the Academic Talent Search on the transcript is if the student needs the course for high school graduation. This is rarely the case. Students need to be aware that although the Academic Talent Search recommends 5 credits, we will not give this amount. The student only receives 35 hours of instruction, which is not an entire semester class time. We give 2.5 credits for 35 hours of class instruction.

  • Q. 54. [Aug 24, 2004] My incoming sophomore has already lost his temporary student body card. What should he do?
    A. [Tessler] The lost cards are being taken to the library. He can check there. They will direct him what to do next. We already have many ID cards that were lost.

  • Q. 53. [Aug 23, 2004] Daughter came back from registration stating that Health was no longer a required class. Is this fact or fiction?
    A. [Tessler] This is fiction. Health is one of our graduation requirements. Glad you checked this out.

  • Q. 52. [Jun 4, 2004] To request a schedule change, does one sign up before hand OR just go and queue up on Monday the 7th?
    A. [Tessler] I am glad this question was asked, because it gives me an opportunity to clarify the schedule change process. I know this can be a stressful experience for our incoming sophomores. Most students will be able to get the changes they want, but some will be disappointed. We make sure that each student has the academic classes he/she needs for graduation from high school. We cannot guarantee elective or physical education choices.

    On June 7, incoming sophomore students need to come to the counseling counter starting at 3:30 PM. Students sign up to see a counselor and are given a time when this will occur. We can see 25 students per hour. The first 25 students will be seen between 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM. The next 25 will be asked to return at 4:30 PM and so on. We will continue this process until 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM. We are requesting that students only make one appointment for a change due to the large number of students and our desire to serve everyone.

    If a student cannot be seen on June 7, he/she will have to return on June 23. Due to the large number of students we see, we cannot answer other questions during this time. Students need to come prepared knowing exactly what changes are needed with alternate choices in mind.

    Five counselors are available to work with students. Please understand that each student has approximately 10 minutes. Depending on the requests, some students take only a few minutes and some take longer than 10 minutes.

    Please be assured that we will eventually be able to see each student. We sincerely try our hardest to give each student the schedule he/she wants. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this stressful time for all of us.

  • Q. 51. [Jun 4, 2004] If a student got a class (video or photography) but did not get the prerequisite Art Survey-will the video or photography class count? Will they have to change their schedule once the school realizes the error?
    A. [Tessler] Yes, the schedule will have to be changed when the error is caught. It would be better for him to come now and correct his schedule.

  • Q. 50. [Apr 23, 2004] My son will be entering 10th grade in the fall. He needs to change his summer school class request from World Civ to Health (to accommodate a change in the time his swim team will meet, which we just found out). Changing the summer school class will necessitate a course request change in his 10th grade school-year schedule. Where do we begin? Should I e-mail a counselor with the requests, or make an appointment?
    A. [Tessler] First, you need to contact summer school to determine if the class change can be made. The email address is: summerschool7-12@djusd.k12.ca.us

    If the change can be made, complete the DSHS change form available at the junior high counseling office. The 9th grade counselor will then forward the change form to DSHS counseling office.

  • Q. 49. [Apr 21, 2004] First of all, I think that many parents understand that there is an "orientation" aspect to registration day, and I believe there have been orientation-type activities at sophomore registrations in the past. What "orientation" activities might occur on August 19, and is there a way for students to substitute that experience?
    A. [Tessler] There will not be "orientation" activities this year. We tried different activities for 2 years, but they did not work out well. The students are just interested in getting their schedules, having their picture taken and seeing their friends.

  • Q. 48. [Apr 21, 2004] What does "registration" include and can it all be done on the first day of school? New students who can't be there might feel better knowing they haven't "missed out."
    A. [Tessler] Registration is turning in the emergency form, paying for the fees for the student body card, having the ID picture and school picture taken and picking up the schedule of classes, which lists the room numbers and teacher names. We usually have around 200 students who come the first day at 7:00 AM. The line moves quickly.

  • Q. 47. [Apr 21, 2004] Is there any possibility of having a registration or orientation session before school ends in June or the same week school opens in August? Families of students attending summer school feel unnecessarily squeezed by having registration take away a full week of their summer (especially divorced families who have to share those weeks.)
    A. [Tessler] No, there is no possibility of having registration before school ends or the same week school opens in August. Registration involves photographers and having staff assigned to monitoring the process. Staff have other commitments the first week of school. At the end of school, we are concentrating on graduating the Seniors.

  • Q. 46. [Apr 21, 2004] If a student is away at camp, can the parent pick up the class schedule in his place? If not, why not?
    A. [Tessler] No, parents may not pick up the schedule. We need the student here to have the ID picture taken.

  • Q. 45. [Apr 13, 2004] What will happen if a student is away on vacation during orientation in August?
    A. [Tessler] If a student cannot be here for "registration," (we do not refer to it as orientation) he/she needs to go to the MPR the first day of school at 7:00 AM. This is when the student picture is taken and the student is given his/her schedule.

  • Q. 44. [Mar 2, 2004] Can you tell us any more about the Cosmos Math and Science Camp? Where do we go for information?
    A. [Tessler] The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a chance for students to take courses taught by leading professors and researchers at the UC campuses. It is a 4 week residential summer program. It is offered at the University of California campuses at Davis, Irvine and Santa Cruz. The cost is $1,212.00. For detailed information, go to the following website: www.cosmos.ucdavis.edu.

  • Q. 43. DSLC Update
    A. [Feb 19, 2004, Pam Mari, DSLC Director] To all families in receipt of the postcard announcing modification of the DSLC program:

    While last minute changes are sometimes stressful, please keep in mind that we are making changes that parents and students have requested. We believe that these changes have already helped about 40 families to make their decisions with a high degree of confidence. We appreciate the support and understanding of all who have thanked us for the changes, despite the short-term confusion it may have caused.

    We'd like everyone to know that we paid first class postage to get the cards delivered last Saturday, or Tuesday at the latest. Even then, we realized that some planners would simply be late and changes would continue into next week. With the arrival of the cards on Wednesday and even Thursday, the current deadline of Friday makes for frayed nerves. We will continue to work with families for as long as it takes to resolve any issues. Counselors are supportive and fully informed.

    All inquiries regarding the DSLC program should be emailed directly to pmari@djusd.k12.ca.us. I am returning them as fast as I possibly can, as well as referring them to others so that responses are timely. Thank you all very much. It is an exciting time for our students!

  • Q. 42. [Feb 18, 2004] Changes for DSHS planners are accepted through Feb. 19 at the high school-- in person, by email, or?
    A. [Tessler] By email to me or they can come to DSHS counseling counter and submit a change form (available here or at the junior highs).

  • Q. 41. [Feb 18, 2004] Are applications for DSLC closed, and can changes to those planners still be accepted through Feb. 19? Should that be done at the high school or the junior highs?
    A. [Tessler] We will continue to accept applications to DSLC until we have the maximum of 200 students. For those who have already applied, changes need to be to us by tomorrow also. The same procedure would follow for DSLC as for DSHS.

  • Q. 40. Cisco certification
    [Feb 18, 2004, Jan Meizel, Teacher] Cisco has changed their certification procedures (They did this while the course catalogue was being published).

    Students can now receive a certification after the second semester and then after the fourth semester, they may take another certification exam for the CCNA.

    They may also wait and take only the CCNA exam.

    Sorry for the confusion.

  • Q. 39. Foreign Language Requirements.
    [Feb 18, 2004, Tessler] After discussing this with UCD Freshman Admissions office, it became clear that we need to make parents and students aware of the highly competitive nature of admissions for the UC system. Currently most students applying for admission to the University of California are completing the recommended years of language (3) and math (4), not just meeting the minimum requirements. The UC/CSU's require a minimum of two years of high school foreign language. The UC's recommend three years of high school foreign language. The key here is understanding that your student is competing with thousands of other students for admission, so if he/she intends to apply to a UC, it is preferable that he/she complete 3 years of the same foreign language in high school.

    Private schools are different. Some require 3 years of foreign language, not just 2 years. Some require that a student is in foreign language every year of high school. That is why it is so important to start researching colleges now to make sure your student meets the eligibility requirements for each college he/she wants to apply to.

    When I asked if a student who is in Spanish 3 in grade 7 has met the UC requirement, I was advised that this would only be acceptable if it was a high school level course which means it would have to appear on the DSHS transcript with credits. Since we do not give high school credit for courses taken at the junior high school, this would not count. If the student feels he/she is proficient in Spanish in grades 7 or 8 and does not want to take additional courses in high school (9-12), the student can validate that he/she has met the foreign language requirement by: taking the SAT II in Spanish receiving a score of 520 or higher or taking an AP exam in Spanish and receiving a score of 3 or higher.

    The UC's and CSU's require at least one of the years of foreign language be taken in high school (high school starts at 9th grade, which is why 9th grade classes appear on our DSHS transcript). If a student is in Spanish 2 in 9th grade, this would validate 2 years. If the student is in Spanish 3 in 9th grade, this would validate 3 years.

    The UC/CSU's really expect that the students take foreign language in high school (9-12) in order to be competitive. If a student just validates the foreign language requirement, this means there are fewer courses taken above and beyond the minimum a-g requirements. This means students would not get extra points for foreign language.

  • Q. 38. [Feb 18, 2004] My daughter has some questions about the ROP Nursing Class:
    • 38a. Are the 10 units completed during 1 or 2 semesters?
      [Tessler] They are completed the same semester.
    • 38b. It sounds like 5 units are class based during school hours and 5 units are clinically based after school...is this correct?
      [Tessler] Yes, students have to complete hours at a nursing home in order to apply for the state certification.
    • 38c. Does this clinical time count towards the 100 hours needed for CNA certification, or do students do this on top of the required school hours?
      [Tessler] This is what the clinical time is. This is in addition to the class time.
    • 38d. And do these 100 hours need to be completed during the semester as well?
      [Tessler] Yes
    • 38e. Overall, what is the time commitment of this program outside of the classroom?
      [Tessler] Students usually complete the hours on Saturdays. She can ask the teacher about other arrangements.

  • Q. 37. [Feb 18, 2004] If my child is questioning some of her choices (a week was such a short time to make these decisions), when can she request changes?
    A. [Tessler] We are accepting changes through tomorrow, Thursday. After that, students may request a change form from their junior high. We can only make changes from that point on if there is space in the classes.

  • Q. 36. [Feb 18, 2004] Will the students be receiving tentative schedules before school ends this year?
    A. [Tessler] We do not know yet when the schedules will be available.

  • Q. 35. [Feb 17, 2004] On page 15 of the DHS Course Catalog, Honors Points, there is a notation at the top of the page that:
    "Maximum of 8 extra points allowed for approved honors courses. A maximum of 2 of these units can be completed in 10th grade."
    Could you please explain further? Does this include AP courses or is this limited to Honors courses? Does this limit the total number of AP/honors that may be taken? How do points and units correlate?
    A. [Tessler] These points are for minimum eligibility for admission to a CSU/UC. Different campuses use different grade point averages to determine admission. Some cap at 4.0. Check individual campuses for further information. This includes AP and honors courses (English 10 honors does not earn an extra grade point because it is a sophomore level class). This does not limit the number of AP/honors courses that may be taken. Units are equal to credits. Students earn 5 credits for a semester class. (One unit equals one class, which for us is 5 credits.)

  • Q. 34. Update from DSLC:
    [Feb 13, 2004, Pam Mari, DSLC Director] We have made several important modifications to the Davis Small Learning Community program as a result of feedback from parents, students, counselors, and teachers asking for more flexible scheduling options. If you need to make course request changes related to this information, please go to the counseling office at your school or DHS for assistance. The modifications are as follows:

    1. In order to offer incoming sophomores an additional period for DHS courses, the previously required DSLC Graphic Art (year) course is now optional. This allows students to take up to three DHS courses. (ex; PE, foreign language, science, music, drama, etc.)

    2. In order to offer incoming juniors an additional period for DHS courses, the previously required DSLC Health and Psychology courses are now optional. This allows students to take up to three periods for DHS courses.

    3. DSLC students may take the DSLC Human Development (health/psychology), and Graphic Design (year) courses as electives at any grade level.

    4. The Research and Communications course qualifies as the practical art for DSLC/DHS graduation.

    See course options and course sequence.

  • Q. 33. [Feb 12, 2004] The catalog states that prerequisites for Photography and Video & Filmmaking are Art Survey or "Basic Art 8-9th Grade."
    --Does passage of Ceramics/Sculpture (One Semester Grade 9) and Art/Ceramics (Two Semesters Grade 8) satisfy the "Basic Art 8-9th Grade." prerequisite for Photography and Video & Filmmaking?
    --If not, would passage of (1) Art: Drawing, (2) Computer Graphics and Animation and (3) Making Movies: iMovie, offered at Cal State University Sacramento Academic Talent Search and each recommended for one unit of High School credit, satisfy the prerequisite either independently or in conjunction with the 8th and 9th grade classes referenced above?
    A. [Tessler] I discussed these questions with our art department. I was advised that the prerequisite is Art Survey. Art Survey is offered during summer school.

  • Q. 32a. [Feb 11, 2004] Do Chemistry and Chemistry in the Community prepare students equally well for other science classes such as AP Chemistry, AP Biology or ROP Biotechnology?
    A. [Wayne Raymond, Chemistry Teacher] Probably Chemistry is a slightly better preparation for AP Chem, but ChemCom might be slightly better preparation for Biotechnology. But either of the two chemistry courses is adequate preparation for any one of the three mentioned.
  • 32b. [Feb 17, 2004] Another question, does this mean they need to take Chemistry or Chemistry in the Community before they take AP Chemistry?
    A. [Tessler] This is a recommendation, but not a requirement.

  • Q. 31a. [Feb 11, 2004] Could you please clarify where (or to whom) the small learning community applications are to be submitted on Friday? I understand the letter of recommendation can be mailed to the address given, but am a bit confused where the general application is submitted.
    A. [Tessler] Students may turn in the applications to their counselors at their junior highs.
  • 31b. What is the deadline to get the recommendation letter in for the DSLC?
    A. [Tessler] We prefer Feb. 13, but will accept up to Feb. 20.

  • Q. 30a. [Feb 11, 2004] My 9th grade son has applied for the Small Learning Community (filled out his planner and written his essay) for 10th grade. We will not find out if he is enrolled until March. If he is not accepted into the program, will he be able to hand in an amended planner without penalty?
    A. [Tessler] Yes
  • 30b. Or will he be scheduled into mainstream DHS classes on an availability only basis?
    A. [Tessler] We will make sure he gets the core classes he requests. Electives are always dependent on availability and what period they are offered.

  • Q. 29. [Feb 10, 2004] For 11th grade Honors American Literature, it states that the prerequisite is either an A in English 10 or a B in English 10 Honors. But for English 10 Honors, it seems to say that you need an A in your previous 9th grade English class, honors or not. Is this a typo? And, if not, when/why was this decision made?
    A. [Tessler] For English 10 Honors, a student must have an A grade in English 9. We do not offer English 9 honors.

  • Q. 28a. [Feb 10, 2004] Concerning the practical arts course in drafting, how specific is it to automobile design since it is listed right below auto courses?
    A. [Tessler] The course does not cover automobile design. Refer to the course description on page 30.
    • 28b. How technical a course is it for someone interested in drawing and architecture?
      A. [Tessler] It is an introductory course and it is the prerequisite course for architectural design.
    • 28c. If our son does not feel it is a good fit with his interests, may he substitute another course?
      A. [Tessler] If there is availability in another course.
    • 28d. If he were to complete a semester, but not the whole year, will it still satisfy the one semester practical arts requirement?
      A. [Tessler] Yes.

  • Q. 27. [Feb 10, 2004] About the small school, we don't have enough information about it to have signed our son up for it. If we change our minds after we attend the Wednesday information meeting, would it be too late to change his preference for next year?
    A. [Tessler] It would not be too late. We would need to make the changes by Friday, Feb. 13.

  • Q. 26. [Feb 10, 2004] Do seniors get preference in electives? That is, are the senior schedules filled before they move on to the juniors, with the sophomore schedules being the last?
    A. [Tessler] Seniors get preference and are loaded first into the computer. Juniors are loaded secondly. Sophomores are loaded third.

  • Q. 25. [Feb 10, 2004] Pages 24 and 50 in the catalog conflict. One page says two years of internetworking are needed for an industry certification, and the other says one year. If two years are needed, kids would have to take programming (C++/Java) in 10th grade, and they were told rop is for 16 yr olds (plus it's a schedule nightmare).
    A. [Tessler] I will get clarification on this and respond later. [Update: See answer to Question 17a]

  • Q. 24a. [Feb 10, 2004] I would like to get a second look at the question and answer below. My child is in Spanish Immersion 3 (7th grade.) From the answer below, am I to assume that he has satisfied the UC language requirement?
    A. [Tessler] I have contacted UCD regarding this and will give you the answer as soon as possible.
    • 24b. Does it matter what his grade is?
      A. [Tessler] He must have a C grade or higher.
    • 24c. I always thought a student would have to continue to at least 8th grade for the language to count.
      A. [Tessler] Waiting for UCD response.
    • 24d. If a student has successfully completed Spanish 3 in grades 7 or 8, does that meet UC requirements... or does a third year of language need to show up on their high school (9-12) transcript?
      A. [Tessler] Yes, it counts as 3 years. We will put this on the transcript to verify that the class was taken, even though the grades do not count. The student needs to let his/her counselor know so that this language course can be added to the transcript. (Please wait on this until October when things are less hectic for the counselors.)"
    • 24e. [This question is a follow-up, Feb 12, 2004] Sorry to have to belabor the question here, but when UCD looks for a C or higher does that include a C-? Or does it have to be a solid C? (I know when I attended UCD a "pass/no pass" minimum was a C-.)
      A. [Response from UCD Freshman Admissions regarding C- grades] Pluses and minuses are not considered when reviewing high school grades. This is why students are instructed in the application to write only the grade exclusive of the + or -. You will also notice that pathways does not allow for the plus and minus grades on reporting high school courses. For college courses reported on the application, +/- grades are considered and must be reported, especially when a C- is below a 2.0 GPA.
      A. [Tessler] The response I gave you was from the UC system. Some CSU's will not accept C- grades in certain courses. Students will have to check with each CSU campus they are applying to in order to find out whether or not the C- grade is acceptable. Also, students would have to check with private schools if they are applying to any.
    • 24f. I always thought a student would have to continue [taking a language] in at least 8th grade for [it] to count.
      A. [Tessler, Feb 18, 2004] The following response was written after consultation with the UCD Freshman Admissions office:
      In most cases the students from Spanish Immersion go on to take foreign language in high school and really should in order to be competitive. Courses taken in 7th and 8th grade in foreign language may be validated by taking a higher level language in grade 9, such as Spanish 3. There are other options where these students can get the credit/validate for their language skill. They may take an AP test or the SAT II in the language.

  • Q. 23. [Feb 10, 2004] If we receive information now that indicates we have chosen the wrong class for our student, and his planner is already turned in, what should we do?
    A. [Tessler] You may email me with the changes you need made now. We need you to do this by Friday, Feb. 13. Subsequently, if changes need to be made, we have forms at the junior high counseling offices. We will try to honor your requests.

  • Q. 22. [Feb 9, 2004] If you take and pass Chemistry as a sophomore, can you subsequently take Chemistry AP?
    A. [Tessler] Yes.

  • Q. 21. [Feb 9, 2004] My child is taking Biology in 9th grade, and wants to take Chemistry in summer school to prepare herself for AP Chemistry in 10th grade. I would like her to consider applying for the Cosmos Math and Science Camp this summer, as vet/human medicines happens to be her area of interest. Since she can only take either the summer school or the Science Camp this summer, what is your advice regarding the timing of these choices?
    A. [Tessler] This is her decision. The Cosmos program has been very beneficial to our students. We encourage students to look at all three years in terms of what they want to complete academically as well as activities that allow them to explore various career options.

  • Q. 20. [Feb 9, 2004] WHY are the students trying to take World Civ during the summer? Is it easier or is the sophomore year too overburdened or something?
    A. [Tessler] It depends on the individual choices students are making. Some want to be in a music class and a language class and cannot fit everything into their schedule. Some students have a difficult time keeping up with the reading in English and World Civilization classes. They prefer to take one of these classes in the summer to lighten their academic load. There is no right or wrong answer to this. It is about individual preferences.

  • Q. 19. [Feb 7, 2004] Does summer school after 9th grade count for UC grades (i.e., when does 10th grade start since UC only takes into account 10th and 11th grade grades).
    A. [Tessler] Yes, summer school after 9th grade is considered 10th grade.

  • Q. 18. [Feb 7, 2004] If a student has successfully completed Spanish 3 in grades 7 or 8, does that meet UC requirements... or does a third year of language need to show up on their high school (9-12) transcript?
    A. [Tessler] Yes, it counts as 3 years. We will put this on the transcript to verify that the class was taken, even though the grades do not count. The student needs to let his/her counselor know so that this language course can be added to the transcript. (Please wait on this until October when things are less hectic for the counselors.)

  • Q. 17. [Feb 7, 2004] My son is interested in learning computer languages. He would like to take computer programming (C++/Java) and then internetworking Levels 1 or 1 and 2 depending on how it fits into his three year schedule. He will be taking college prep and advanced placement courses, but likes the idea in the course catalog of taking an "industry exam" to become a technician so that he might have this as a summer job at college (he is thinking pretty far in advance, but this is his biggest question). Is only one year of internetworking required for the eventual exam, and is this course designed for his intentions?
    A. [Tessler] This is the correct sequence of courses to take. The students receive a certificate from CISCO after one year. When 2 years are completed, students may take the industry examination to become a certified network technician. Refer to page 24.
  • 17a. [This question is a follow-up] Pages 24 and 50 in the catalog conflict. One page says two years of internetworking are needed for an industry certification, and the other says one year. If two years are needed, kids would have to take programming (C++/Java) in 10th grade, and they were told rop is for 16 yr olds (plus it's a schedule nightmare).
    A. [Feb 12, 2004, Jan Meizel] Cisco has recently changed their system of certification.
    After two semesters, a student may now take an exam and get the "Introductory" certificate.
    After the 4th semester, they may take a second exam and the 2 together give them the CCNA.
    or
    After the 4th semester, they can take the CCNA exam (no "introductory")
    This information is new as of this month.

  • Q. 16. [Feb 7, 2004] Is there a listserver for the Davis Small Learning Community?
    A. [Tessler] Go to the website at: http://www.djusd.k12.ca.us/DavisSmallLearningCommunity/. You may email questions at this website and the answers will be posted. (Please be patient due to the large number of questions being asked at this time.)

  • Q. 15. [Feb 7, 2004] If I can't find the answers to my questions on the website, where may I submit them?
    A. [Tessler] Submit them to the principal, Pam Mari at: pmari@djusd.k12.ca.us.

  • Q. 14. [Feb 7, 2004] (The following question relates to the DSLC. Can you answer it or should it be forwarded elsewhere?)
    My student is currently in Geometry. He was planning on taking Algebra 2 next year, but the "lowest" level math class at DSLC is Algebgra2/Trig. In the course prerequisite information, it indicates that an A or B in Algebra and Geometry is required, or teacher signature. Well, he didn't get the A or B in those classes. If his teacher does not think he is ready for the Alg2/Trig level, what are his options? Does he then take Algebra outside of the DSLC? He has written down the Alg2/Trig class on his pink planner, but we're not sure that is the right option.
    A. [Tessler] Mr. Lege, math instructor, is aware of this situation for some students. Questions related to math should be emailed directly to: slege@djusd.k12.ca.us.

  • Q. 13. [Feb 6, 2004] If a student is taking Lab Science I in 9th grade and wants to take all three AP science courses, how can she do this? --Will Lab Science I fulfill a science requirement without Lab Science II?--Can an AP science be taken concurrently with Lab Science II?
    A. [Tessler] If a student is in Lab Science I he/she must also take Lab Science II. It then meets the requirement for one year of a life science and one year of a physical science for DSHS and the UC/CSU system. After she has completed the Lab Science I & II sequence, she can take AP classes if she meets the other prerequisites. Students may take two science AP classes in any year.

  • Q. 12. [Feb 6, 2004] If a student is taking Biology in 9th grade, does he have to take Chemistry in 10th grade, or can he take Lab Science I, even though it means repeating some of the same material?
    A. [Tessler] Biology is the traditional science path leading to chemistry. Lab Sci I and Lab Sci II is an integrated curriculum covering biology, chemistry and physics. A student selects one sequence or the other. Please refer to page 7 in the course catalogue. A student should not take chemistry in the 10th grade if they have not completed the math prerequisite. Refer to page 36.

  • Q. 11. [Feb 6, 2004] If a student takes Chemistry during summer school, does he still have to take a science class in the fall (10th grade)? What should he write on his planner?
    A. [Tessler] No, just if he wants to. If he does not choose to take a science class as a sophomore, he would just leave this blank. Be sure to write chemistry on the bottom of the planner where it asks what summer school class is planned.

  • Q. 10. [Feb 6, 2004] How can students doing extensive PE outside of school be excused from the second year of PE required in high school?
    A. [Tessler] They cannot be excused. Two years of PE classes is a state requirement.

  • Q. 9. [Feb 6, 2004] Please explain how an AP class works.
    A. [Tessler] AP stands for Advanced Placement. It is a program of the College Board. Please refer to page 41.

  • Q. 8. [Feb 6, 2004] Is it better to take 3 years of a foreign language and fewer AP classes, or 2 years of a foreign language and more AP Classes?
    A. [Tessler] They are not mutually exclusive. The UC's recommend a 3rd year of foreign language. AP classes are optional.

  • Q. 7. [Feb 6, 2004] If Algebra 2/Trig is completed in the 9th grade, are additional math courses needed to fulfill the high school graduation requirement or CSU/UC requirements?
    A. [Tessler] Two years of math in high school is required, so the student would need one more year of math for high school graduation. The UC system recommends a 4th year of math. We encourage students to take math all 4 years of high school.

  • Q. 6. [Feb 6, 2004] Does one year of band in 9th grade definitely satisfy the fine arts requirement for DHS and UC?
    A. [Tessler] Yes.

  • Q. 5. [Feb 6, 2004] Regarding taking World Civ in summer school:
    • 5a. What is the work load and difficulty?
      A. [Tessler] Read summer school application on page 2 with the arrows.

    • 5b. Is it too much to cover in six weeks?
       5c. Is it a good idea to take this class to decrease the workload in 10th grade?
      A. [Tessler] Base this decision on the individual needs of the child.

    • 5d. If World Civ is taken in summer school, does the student still have to take a social studies class in 10th grade, or can an elective be substituted?
      A. [Tessler] No, they can then select an elective course.

    • 5e. What percentage of students who sign up for World Civ in summer school can usually be accommodated?
      A. [Tessler] In the past, they have been able to accommodate all students. We do not know how many students will request this, so we cannot give you an accurate answer for next summer.

  • Q. 4a. [Feb 6, 2004] We have heard from many parents that because 12th, then 11th graders have priority placement in elective classes, it is unlikely that our 10th grader could get into a popular class like photography. Is this true?
    A. [Tessler] Again, it is based on number of students who request this elective. We cannot predict what this number will be.
  • 4b. What are the chances of getting into photography in the 10th grade? --How about in 11th grade?
    A. [Tessler] See above answer. Students who request courses on the planner have a higher chance of getting the course than students who try to add it when the school year starts.

  • Q. 3. [Feb 6, 2004] I have a very specific question that would really point to my child. Is there a way I can just directly ask a counselor to preserve her privacy?
    A. [Tessler] No, because we have over 1800 students at DSHS. You need to contact your 9th grade counselor.

  • Q. 2. [Feb 6, 2004] When will 10th grade student registration and orientation be held? (Is there a date yet?)
    A. [Tessler] It will be the week of August 16. An exact date has not been set yet.

  • Q. 1a. [Jan 23, 2004] Earlier this year, my son, a current 9th grader, and I attended the information night for the school -within- a- school, small learning community program at DHS funded by the Gates foundation. My son was very enthusiastic about the new program at the end of the meeting. Although I signed up on a (paper) e-mail list for more information, I have heard nothing more about the process. In particular, I'd like to be able to formally express an interest in the program on behalf of my son. Can you let me know if there is anything else I can do?
    Q. 1b. Is there are any written information about the new technology school immediately available to parents?
    A. [Tessler] The presentation for incoming sophomore parents about the new Small Learning Community High School will be the same evening as the parent nights. It will be from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM on February 3rd or 4th in Humanities Hall at Davis Sr. High School. The program philosophy, methodology and courses will be explained during this presentation. The website and listserver for questions is being set up now. [Update: DSLC website is available]

  • From Counselor Courtenay Tessler [Jan 15, 2004]:

    We are doing program planning earlier this year, due to the opening of the new junior high school. We will be meeting with students at Emerson and Holmes on Feb. 2 to distribute the course catalogue, program planners and summer school applications. We will explain to the students the procedures for signing up for classes at DSHS.

    The parent nights will be Feb. 3 (Holmes) and Feb. 4 (Emerson) at 7:15 PM in Humanities. If parents cannot attend the designated evening, they may come to the alternate evening.

    An information presentation about the new technology high school will be the same evenings at 6:00 PM in Humanities for parents interested in learning about this small learning community.

    A letter containing this information is being mailed to 9th grade parents today.

    The program planners will be due on Feb. 9. It is extremely important that everyone adhere to the deadlines because we need to plan for the opening of the new junior high school.

    Many questions will be answered at the parent nights. If parents have questions about program planning for next year, I would prefer that they wait to ask until after the parent night, since many questions will be answered then. They should also read the course catalogue first. Then I can clarify remaining questions.

    If they have procedural questions, they can ask now.