Educational Programs

What is Advanced Placement?

Advanced Placement is a program run by the College Board that allows high school students to take college-level curriculum and examinations, which earn a student college credit and/or qualify them for more advanced classes when they begin college.  These courses are designed to provide students with the experience of an introductory-level college class while still in high school.  For a high school course to be designated as an Advanced Placement course, the course must be audited by the College Board to ascertain that the course satisfies the Advanced Placement curriculum.  

Advanced Placement Courses Offered at Avonworth High School: 

• AP Biology
• AP Chemistry
• AP Physics
• AP Calculus (AB)
• AP Calculus (BC)
• AP Statistics
• AP English Language & Composition
• AP English Literature & Composition
• AP United States History

What is College in High School?

College in High School is a partnership between Avonworth High School and a college or university, which allows a student the opportunity to earn both high school class credit and college credit, all within a high school course.  These courses provide students with the opportunity to get a jump on their college education and earn college credits while still in high school at a price that is a fraction of the cost of college tuition.  Students also gain confidence by experiencing college-level coursework in a comfortable, familiar educational environment.  College in High School courses generate credits from the institution associated with the specific course that may be recognized and transfered to colleges and universities around the world.  

College in High School Courses offered at Avonworth High School: 

Ninth grade is a pivotal time in a student’s life. At Avonworth, students experience high school for the first time with some specific structures and programs to provide needed support. With a team of similar core teachers, collaboration can occur to best meet student needs. In the 9th grade, all students will take a semester long seminar course to further explore career paths and the habits of mind needed to be a successful high school student. The schedule and a developed advisory program enhance the freshman experience and prepare students to excel through their high school years. 

9th Grade Academy Student Expectations

1. Be a good 'lope.
   Avonworth High School students follow the Golden Rule. In class, be an active part of the discussion. Show
   your school pride and do your best. Help others whenever possible.
   • Follow the Golden Rule
   • Be an engaged, active learner
   • Community pride
   • Help classmates
      
2. Be prepared for class.
   High school students organize their materials to be sure that all required resources are brought to class. This includes your charged Chromebook which is carried in your case with its charger. Successful high school students regularly complete their homework. Studying for tests and quizzes is important to review what you have learned. Preparation for tests and quizzes will make sure you can finish these assessments in one class period.
   • Studying for assessments
   • Homework completed before the start of class
   • Bring your learning materials to class
   • Be sure your Chromebook is charged and carry your charger in your case
      
3. Be sure to use technology appropriately.
   When using your technology in class, students should be using acceptable websites for educational purposes. Students should only use cell phones and headphones when their use is approved by the teacher. Successful high school students regularly check online classroom resources such as Edline and Google Classroom to be sure assignments have been completed. Think before your print to reduce wastepaper.
   • Cell phones and headphones should be away unless allowed by the teacher
   • Check online classroom resources to be sure assignments are completed
   • Check Edline regularly to be sure assignments are completed
   • Use acceptable websites for educational purposes
   • Think before you print
      
4. Be a high school student.
   In high school, your grades matter. If you do not do well, you risk re-taking your Freshman courses again next year. Your high school transcripts are now part of your current record. Do your best each and every day. Seek help from your teachers or mentor if you start to struggle with assignments or organization.
   • Detentions are after school
   • Grades matter and you must pass your classes
   • Transcripts are now part of your current record
   • School rules will be followed
   • Taking tests or quizzes; Tests are to be completed in one class period

A.W. Beattie Career Center is an extension of nine school districts located in northern Allegheny County.  The career center offers multiple programs to provide students an educational experience to be college and career ready after high school graduation. The programs fulfill elective credit requirements for 10th, 11th and 12th grade students. Seniors who attend A.W. Beattie participate in the NOCTI exam, which awards industry certifications and college credits based on test results.

Students who attend A.W. Beattie receive hands-on, real world experiences. Students in the career center's Carpentry, Building Construction and HVAC programs design and build houses to local municipality specifications to be sold to the public. Students in the Culinary Arts and Pastry Arts program prepare food for and manage a restaurant that is open to the public Wednesdays and Thursday for breakfast and lunch. Qualified cosmetology students work in a salon open to the public. Qualified students throughout the career center have co-op and clinical opportunities to work in local businesses and non-profits.

For more information, visit the A.W. Beattie Career Center webpage.