High School Transition Newsletter
SY: 24-25
Rising Freshman from GVMS
Dear Rising Freshman and Parents,
How quickly the middle school years fly by! We just welcomed our students back to school and now we are busy preparing for them to take the next steps in their academic journey. The transition to high school marks a new chapter, filled with opportunities for growth, learning and new experiences for both students and their parents. High school brings a greater sense of independence and responsibility. Students will have the chance to explore a wider range of subjects, join various clubs, try out for a team, and make new friends.
While the change might feel overwhelming at times, remember that it is okay to ask for help. The teachers, counselors and staff at the high schools are there to support you. Stay organized, manage your time well and don't be afraid to step out of the comfort zone. Embrace this new adventure with an open mind and positive attitude.
The counselors here at GVMS have been working with students all year to help prepare them for a successful start to their high school journey. We have included in this newsletter the information recently shared with the 8th grade students regarding Virginia Diploma requirements and course selection for next year. As middle school counselors, we are not familiar with all of the nuances of high school scheduling. We encourage families to check the high school's website or the canvas page for Rising Freshman (student's may not yet have received the invite).
Now it is your time to fly high hawks!!
The GVMS Counseling Department
All Other Rising Freshman - Class of 2029
If you will be attending another PWCS high school outside of the three listed above, please reach out to your GVMS counselor.
Advanced Studies Diploma
The advanced studies requires 26 credits for completion. There is also a world languages component for this particular diploma.
Standard Diploma
The standard diploma requires 22 credits for completion.
Verified Credits
Both the standard diploma and the advanced studies diploma require the same 5 verified credits.
A verified unit of credit for graduation is based on a minimum of 140 clock hours of instruction, successful completion of the requirements of the course, and achievement of a passing score on the End-of-Course (EOC) Standards of Learning (SOL) test or additional test for that course as approved by the Board of Education. A verified unit of credit is earned when:
- The course is passed in which a Standards of Learning (SOL) test is administered; and
- The end-of-course SOL test is passed.
Students must complete five verified units of credit for the Standard and Advanced Studies Diplomas. Students entering a Virginia public school during the 11th grade or at the beginning of the 12th grade have reduced SOL requirements.