Purpose

The purpose of the credit flexibility option is to develop learners who plan their own learning, including learning objectives connected to academic content standards, and a plan whereby they will attain those objectives outside of the traditional classroom. This procedure provides for personalized educational options for students in which they will identify, acquire, and demonstrate mastery in a given content area to earn graduation credit. Credit Flex shifts the focus from the "seat time" associated with classroom instruction to performance and the demonstration of subject area competency.

Rigor and Intensity

Credit Flex is a student-initiated program that allows students to earn graduation credit as they pursue academic interests outside of the traditional course offerings. In order to make this experience as worthwhile and meaningful as possible, ACPA's Credit Flex team is prepared to engage students in work that is both rigorous and intense in terms of accountability, responsibility, and ownership. Demonstration of mastery will be determined through a serious reflection process that will challenge students to critically examine their overall product. Credit Flex is a challenging but worthwhile commitment and should be considered if students are committed to rigorous work outside of traditional high school academic pursuits.

Application Process

Credit Flexibility Pre-Applications can be submitted online via the school's web site by clicking on the link at the bottom of this page. A student must submit the Pre-Application 10 days before the start of the term during which he or she plans to participate. The Pre-Application will be reviewed by ACPA's Credit Flex Committee and an interview with each prospective credit flex student will follow this review. Within 5 school days after the initial interview, each student will be notified of the Committee's recommendation. If a Pre-Application and subsequent interview fail to satisfy the Committee's expectations for rigor and intensity, or fail to state a credit flex project that fits within ACPA's designed program, the Committee will offer suggestions and solutions to enable the student to edit and re-submit his or her application in order to meet ACPA's expectations. Once approved, the student will meet with ACPA's Credit Flex Committee to discuss the next steps to pursuing flexible credit.