Why the Foundation + Endorsement(s) Plan?

​

Students are able to earn one or more endorsements as part of their graduation requirements. Endorsements consist of a related series of courses that are grouped together by interest or skill set. They provide students with in-depth knowledge of a subject area. ​ Students must select an endorsement in the ninth grade. Students earn an endorsement by completing the curriculum requirements for the endorsement, including 4 credits in both math and science and 2 additional elective credits.

​

Endorsements

• STEM

• Business & Industry

• Public Service

• Arts & Humanities

• Multidisciplinary Studies

​

Enhancements

Additionally, a student may earn the Distinguished Level of Achievement and/or a Performance Acknowledgment for outstanding performance.  The Distinguished Level of Achievement must be earned to be admitted to a Texas public university under the Top 10 percent automatic admission law.

​

Distinguished Level of Achievement

To best prepare yourself now for the transition to post-high school education  or quality workforce training, choosing and taking the right classes is essential. The Distinguished Level of Achievement will ensure the best preparation for your future.

 

Why it matters

The Distinguished Level of Achievement opens a world of educational and employment opportunities for you beyond high school. The Distinguished Level of Achievement will:

• Allow you to compete for Top 10% automatic admissions eligibility at any Texas public university;

• Position you among those first in line for a TEXAS Grant* to help pay for university tuition and fees; and

• Ensure you are a more competitive applicant at the most selective colleges and universities.

 

What it means

The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires more math and more science than the Foundation High School Program. The Distinguished Level of Achievement requires:

• A total of four credits in math, including Algebra II;

• A total of four credits in science; and

• Successful completion of an endorsement in your area of interest.

 

Advantages

• Opportunity to earn an endorsement in an area of interest

• More college and university options

• More financial aid options

• Better preparation for college-level coursework at community/technical colleges and universities

• Opportunity for immediate enrollment in classes related to your chosen field of study

• Strong foundation to successfully complete an industry workforce credential or college degree

​

*Must be financially qualified

​

Performance Acknowledgement

A student may earn a performance acknowledgement on the student’s diploma and transcript for outstanding performance in one of the following areas:

• Dual Credit

• Earning an associate degree while in high school

• Bilingualism and biliteracy

• On an Advanced Placement (AP) test

• On an International Baccalaureate (IB) exam

• On the PSAT,SAT, ACT or ACT-Plan Test

• Earning an industry-based license or certification

​