Graduation Requirements

High school graduates earn, on average, over $7,000 more per year than individuals without a diploma.

                                                                                    U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Although "graduation" from Spiral Academy is not a requirement, some students may desire to receive a Graduation Diploma for High School, Intermediate (Junior High or Middle School), or even Elementary School.  To graduate from Spiral Academy and receive a diploma students must meet the minimum requirements listed below.

It is the joint responsibility of students and parents/guardians to ensure that students meet the core academic expectations and develop those talents and interests over the years of school.

Achievement in content standards as demonstrated by mastery of the curriculum which may include, but is not limited to, daily assignments, the Colorado Student Assessment Program, home learning assessments, and student participation in, and completion of, assigned projects.

High School Requirements

(Grades 9 through 12)

The Spiral path to a high school diploma is not a one-size-fits-all program.  There are four study paths to reach graduation day.  These are: Individualized Education Plan, Career Preparation, College Technical Preparation, and College Preparation.  See chart below.

One Carnegie unit is given for successful completion of one year's study of one college preparatory or academic subject in high school. This usually equates to 180 hours of instruction or study activity per unit and 90 hours per half unit. Some colleges refer to these as “academic units.”

It's not required that each full unit of study be the same subject matter for the entire credit.  For example: one year, or one credit of English may consist of several lesser units awarded for sub-area of study such as a quarter unit (1/4 credit) of Southern Literature, English Literature, American Poets, and Science Fiction. Quarter credits represent approximately 45 hours of study.

For high school gradation requirements of each state in the USA, see the Education Commission of the States

The study path for intermediate school graduation shall include a minimum three years of: English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, including civics, geography, history, and economics.

Students will also expand their talents and interests through an exploratory/electives program that provides instruction in content standards. As determined by family, this exploratory/electives program may include any combination of the following courses: visual arts, music, technical education, world languages, physical education, health, consumer and family studies, computer/keyboarding/business, and other appropriate intermediate level course of study.

Elementary School  Requirements (Grades K through 5)

The study path for elementary school graduation shall include a minimum basic or foundation subject areas of: English language arts (including reading and writing), mathematics, science, and social studies (including civics, geography, and history).

Students will also expand their talents and interests through an exploratory/electives program that provides instruction in content standards. As determined by family, this exploratory/electives program may include any combination of the following courses: visual arts, music, world languages, physical education, health, consumer and family studies, computer/keyboarding, and other appropriate elementary level course of study.

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Graduation Requirements

3 Credits
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, OR

Algebra I, Technical Math I & II, OR

Integrated Mathematics I, II, & III

4 Credits
Algebra I & II, Geometry, and higher level math course with Algebra II as prerequisite; OR

Integrated Mathematics and a credit beyond Integrated Mathematics III

3 Credits
Physical Science, Biology, Earth/ Environmental Science

2 Credits

Not required

3 Credits
Key boarding, and two computer electives

3 Credits
1 Health and 2 Physical Education

 Recommend at least one credit in an arts discipline for

those not in an arts education pathway

2 Elective Credits

Examples of electives include JROTC, CAP Cadet Programs,

and other courses that are of interest to the student.

Parents must sign graduation application affirming that the student is ready for graduation.

Required only for students less than 21 years of age at the time of graduation

NOTE: Colorado requirements for home schooled students included: civil government of Colorado and the United States (with the contributions of minority groups); honor and use of the flag; effects of alcohol and drug use with emphasis on the nonuse by school age children, and their illegality; and federal constitution no later than seventh grade and into high school