top of page
There's more than one path to High School Graduation.
Costanoa requires fewer credits for High School Graduation, and we also take a different approach to academic evaluation.
Costanoa does not use grades, but instead awards variable credits to students based on productivity, effort & quality of work.
This system starts with "points", with one point earned for each class period of on-task learning. Advisory is a longer class period, so one class period of on-task learning in advisory equals 1.3 points. Teachers may give fractions of points. Fifteen points = 1 credit.
​
More on Credits:
-
Credits are primarily awarded for student learning that is assessed, not just for work completion.
​
-
When assigning credits, teachers aim to be consistent with colleagues & within each class, yet responsive to individual student needs & ability levels.
​
-
A student should typically earn five credits in a semester & six for advisory.
​
-
Students who voluntarily complete homework may earn more credit.
​
-
Credits are motivators for students & will be used as such by teachers.
​
-
Advisors will inform the principal if a student may earn more than 35 credits in one semester.
Other requirements:
-
English Language Arts Portfolio
-
Senior Project
​
​
Note on grades: When students need detailed academic information for scholarship applications or insurance discounts, we will add a narrative evaluation to the credit report.
Schedule
Our day.
Costanoa has a shorter day to give students a more manageable classroom commitment, and to allow for a more flexible life/work balance.
bottom of page