Secondary School Program Requirements

General Requirements (Grades 9-12)

The instructional program for secondary grades, 9-12, shall include the required subjects listed below for a school year of at least 175 instructional days.

American History - One year of American history and government shall be required in a comprehensive course which includes instruction in the importance of voting, the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship, the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence.

English - Four years of English instruction shall be required in a comprehensive program which includes reading comprehension, literature, written, listening and oral communication skills, the structure and uses of the English language, and research and reporting skills.

Fine Arts A year of fine arts instruction shall be required which may include art, music, forensics, or drama. Fine arts may be provided through separate or integrated study and may include an awareness, appreciation, or performance of the art form.

Health Education - One-half year of health education shall be required. Health education shall include instruction in community health, consumer health, environmental health, family life, growth and development, nutritional health, personal health including mental and emotional health, prevention and control of disease and disorders, safety and accident prevention which may include cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and substance use and abuse, including the effects of alcohol, stimulants, and narcotics upon the human system. Due to the life-threatening nature of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), it is recommended that AIDS prevention education be included in the comprehensive health education program.

Mathematics - Two years of mathematics instruction shall be required. It is highly recommended that all students have exposure to basic algebraic concepts and skills. Algebra is viewed as a gateway subject that helps students to a better understanding of the technological world in which they live. Algebraic skills are and will continue to be a prerequisite to a diverse and broad range of courses and occupations.

Physical Education - One year of physical education instruction shall be required. Physical education instruction shall be designed to promote physical well-being, self-esteem, self-awareness, sportsmanship and interpersonal skills. This requirement may include but not be limited to: physical fitness, fundamental motor skills and patterns, adaptive physical education, individual and group sports. Physical education may include special physical education, movement education and motor development.

Science Two years of science instruction shall be required, including one year of laboratory study.

Social Studies - One year of social studies instruction shall be required, which may include instruction in economics, geography, history, political science, government, sociology, anthropology and psychology.

Computer Skills - Each student shall be required to demonstrate proficiency in the use of computers. Proficiency shall mean experiences with computers that include loading, operating, and applying fundamental skills. This may include word processing, keyboarding, developing a data base, accessing data, and using software. This requirement may be satisfied in grade 7 or 8.

Maine Studies - One-half year of Maine studies instruction shall be required if not taken in grades 6,7, or 8. Instruction shall include Maine history and geography, the natural, economic and industrial resources of the state, and the cultural and ethnic heritage of the state.