The AHS A2Z Parent Handbook is a comprehensive resource for AHS families. The information is arranged alphabetically. Immediately below is a list of the contents where you can click the link to go directly to a topic of interest. Otherwise scroll on down to find what you are looking for.

The information in the A2Z Handbook comes from the school and other sources. It is maintained by PTSA volunteers. If you know of any corrections or would like to suggest additional topics, please email AHS.PTSA@yahoo.com.

Updated: November 14, 2009

Contents

Absence Reporting - When Your Child is Absent
Academic Performance Index (API)
Albany Education Foundation
Albany Music Fund
AP and Honors Classes
Athletics Boosters
AUSD District-Wide Committees
Board of Education - AUSD School Board
Bookroom
Calendar - AUSD and AHS School Calendars
Campus Cruisers
Career Day
Clubs
College Admissions Testing
College Planning
Communication - Find out what is going on at the school
Community College Classes - Concurrent Enrollment
Complaint Policy - See Problem Resolution
CONNECT - A Small Learning Community
Contact Us - AHS Contact Information
Cougar - The Cougar Newspaper
Counseling Office
Course Catalog - Course Selection - Class Change Policy
Daily Bulletin
Dances
Department Chair Council
District Offices - Albany Unified School District (AUSD)
Dress Code - Appropriate Dress Policy
EDSET: Environmental Design, Science, Engineering and Technology Pathway
eMail Lists
English Language Learner (ELL) Classes
Exit Exam – California High School Exit Exam
Food Service on Campus
Fundraising Organizations and Programs
Graduation Requirements
Homework Policy
Honor Code
Instructional Improvement Council (IIC)
Job Shadow Day
Leadership Class (under Student Government)
Library
MacGregor High School
Math Proficiency Exams
Mental Health Services
Open Campus (Lunch Only)
Planner - Student Planner
PTSA
PTSA Fundraising Programs
Problem Resolution - Process for Addressing Problems
ROP
Renewal Program - Ninth Graders
Schedules - Bell Schedules - The Block Schedule - The Master Schedule
SchoolCARE
SchoolLoop
School Site Council
Section 504 and ADA
Special Education
Sports
STAR Testing
Student Government - ASG (Associated Student Government)
Teacher Staff Contact Info
University Entrance Requirements
Visitors on Campus
Web Sites - AHS and AUSD Web Sites
WriterCoach Connection

Absence Reporting - When Your Child is Absent
To inform the office that your child is absent or to clear an absence, call 558-2600, 24 hours a day. If no one is available, please leave a detailed message.

Unexcused absences are reported to parents by a recorded phone message. The Attendance Policy allows one week for a parent to clear an absence from the time the student returns to school. After this time, the teacher is under no obligation to provide make-up work for the student (exceptions may be negotiated with the teacher, but there is no right on the part of the student to be allowed to make up work that has not been excused in a timely manner). Within a given grading period, a student with five or more unexcused absences may receive no better than a D grade for that period. The reason for this policy is to develop responsible behavior on the part of students to clear absences and to prevent an unreasonable burden on a teacher by a student wishing to make up old and untimely work at the end of a grading period.
Monitoring Your Student's Attendance: If you become aware that your son/daughter has an excessive number of tardies or unexcused absences, the Attendance Office can help you monitor the situation. Call Gail Harada in the Attendance Office (558-2600) Friday afternoon after 3:30 pm and she can give you information about your student's tardies and unexcused absences for the week.
Pre-planned absences (family trips, etc): When you plan to take your student out of school for more than a few days, please inquire with his/her counselor about an instructional plan for the time absent and consider reimbursing the school district for lost ADA at a rate of $25 per day.

More details are on the Attendance Policy page under Student Resources. This includes more information about what qualifies as an excusable absence, making up work and bringing doctor's notes.

Academic Performance Index (API)
The API is a measure of academic performance and growth of schools. It is a numeric index (or scale) whose purposes are to measure the growth of a school's academic performance from one year to the next, and to rank schools annually based on their performance levels. The interim statewide API performance target for all schools is 800. A school's growth is measured by how well it is moving toward that goal. Schools that do not meet or exceed growth targets may be identified for participation in intervention programs. To look up Albany's API report, go to api.cde.ca.gov.

Albany Education Foundation
The Albany Education Foundation (AEF) is a community-based fundraising organization for Albany schools. AEF raises funds throughout the year and provides classroom resources at all Albany school sites to support educational programs. AEF funds science and math materials and equipment, field trip transportation, books for libraries and classrooms, software, musical instruments and repair, art materials and more. Since AEF is a tax-exempt non-profit organization, contributors are strongly encouraged to get matching funds from their employers for donations. Additional information is available from Diane McNenny at 527-8476 or email info@albanyeducation.org or visit albanyeducation.org

Albany Music Fund
The Albany Music Fund (AMF) is a parent group that provides financial and other support for choral and instrumental music programs throughout the District. AMF seeks to continue the tradition of offering fine music instruction to every child in AUSD who wants it. At AHS, the AMF has its own chapter to meet the specific needs of the high school music program. The AHS chapter supports the AHS instrumental music programs and the Digital Recording Studio by funding equipment and programs not paid by AUSD or other funding sources. AMF also supports student participation in music competitions (by carpooling, for example). Fundraising activities include concert refreshment sales and Groove Fest. To join the AMF AHS chapter, see their website. http://albanymusicfund.org/

AP and Honors Classes
AHS offers both Advanced Placement and Honors classes. Students interested in applying to highly competitive colleges and universities can gain advantage from taking these advanced classes, and in the case of AP classes, may be able to gain college credit. Parents of students who are interested in taking these classes are advised to talk with their counselor during the freshman year. All AP courses have prerequisite courses that must be taken before enrolling in the AP class.
Both AP and Honor courses (except sophomore Honors Math) provide an extra bonus grade point when calculating student grade point averages (i.e., an A is counted as 5 rather than 4 points, a B as 4 points and a C as 3 points). AHS students are also allowed and encouraged to enroll in local community college courses during the school year (see Concurrent Enrollment). Community college courses that are transferable to UC are considered Honors level courses. Students will be required to send separate transcripts from community colleges when applying to universities. The AHS Counseling Department encourages students to take community college courses for enrichment, not replacement of AHS courses.

Advanced Placement (AP)
The AP Program gives high school students an opportunity to take college-level courses and exams, and to earn credit and/or advanced placement for college. The Advanced Placement Program is administered by the College Board (www.collegeboard.com). AHS offers the following AP classes: English, French, Spanish, Calculus, Statistics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Art History, Studio Art, Computer Science, and Comparative Government. In order to receive college credit for an AP course, students must take and pass the AP exam for that course. The fee for each exam is paid by the student. The AHS Course Catalogue describes the AP courses and their prerequisites, and explains the application and admission process.

Honors Classes
Honors Classes are advanced classes that are not AP classes, but for which the UC system allows an extra grade point if the student is in grade 11 or 12. AHS offers the following Honors classes:

• English 3 (grade 11)-Prerequisites: Grade of A in English 1 and 2; qualifying test at end of English 2; complete required reading and essay assignments during summer.
• Geometry/Algebra 2 (grades 9 and 10)-Prerequisites: Grade B or better in 9th grade math class, pass math proficiencies, and recommendation from previous math teacher; students must also complete a set of math problems over summer. (Extra grade point NOT available for this class.)
• Pre-Calculus (grade 11)-Prerequisites: Grade B or better in Algebra 2, pass math proficiencies, and teacher recommendation.

Athletics Boosters
One of the most important ways you can show your support for the athletic program at AHS is by joining the Athletics Boosters. Last year, the parents of AHS athletes raised funds totaling over $100,000, plus contributed hundreds of hours of volunteer time fixing and maintaining facilities, staffing events, driving athletes to games, and participating in the AUSD process to advocate for sports programs and keep the sports programs at AHS viable. The Athletics Boosters work closely with coaches and school administrators to provide support to our teams for uniforms, equipment, transportation, trophies, and other team expenses.
Booster publicity encourages fan attendance at Varsity and JV games, and their sports clothes, noisemakers, and decals put AHS colors in the grandstands. The Boosters fundraise through membership donations, selling PE uniforms and Cougar Paws for the Wall of Honor, and other means.
Boosters meets monthly, date to be determined at 7 p.m. in the AHS Library, watch the eTree for announcements. See the Boosters webpage (under Athletics on the AHS website) or contact any team coach for more information. Join us and come to a meeting if you think it's important to continue supporting athletics at AHS and would like to be a part of the effort.

• Wall of Honor - Cougar Paws: The Wall of Honor is the commemorative wall in the first floor hallway of AHS. The wall consists of metallic paws in an antique bronze finish with an engraved message of your choice. The Paws are available in either a five-inch or ten-inch size with up to six lines of engraving. The Athletics Boosters accept the donations and facilitates the production of the Cougar Paws. Your donation is credited to the program of your choice (i.e., the Athletics Boosters, AHS Library, PTSA, Choir, Band, Theater, Art, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, cross country, football, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, track-and-field, volleyball, wrestling or golf). Please designate on your donation check which group you are supporting. If no designation is indicated, your donation will be applied to the Athletics Boosters general fund that supports all high school athletic teams. Order forms are available in the AHS Main Office or see the website above.

AUSD District-Wide Committees
There are several advisory committees set up by the School Board or Superintendent to provide input in specific areas. A few of them are:

• Budget Advisory Committee: The Budget Advisory Committee is a District-wide standing committee with representatives from all stakeholders in the District. Its purpose is to review the District's budget, share the information with constituent groups, and generate recommendations for Board consideration in the budget development process. Members serve in rotation for a one to two year term. Responsibilities for members include attending meetings, sharing information with their representative group, and representing the interests of all programs and services for the District as a whole. The Committee is advisory in nature and does not have decision-making responsibilities. Please e-mail comments, ideas, or questions to the Superintendent.
• Athletic Advisory Council: The Athletic Council oversees and makes recommendations regarding the AUSD Athletic Program for 6th through 12th grades. The Council establishes common guidelines and administrative responsibilities for coaches, assesses and gives input into athletic budget issues, assesses the AUSD Athletic Program, acts as a recommendation body to the AUSD, and facilitates communication regarding athletic issues. Reviews Title IX complianc
• Bond Oversight Committees: Committees for each voter-approved bond to ensure they are used as intended.
• Other Committees include Curriculum Advisory Committee, Wellness Committee, and Visual and Performing Arts Committee. Committees may change from year to year. There is also some additional information on the District website  HERE.

Board of Education – AUSD School Board
The Albany Unified School District (AUSD) Board of Education (or “School Board”) establishes and approves school district budget and policy, hires the Superintendent, provides oversight of the schools in their educational mission, and approves hiring of administrators, teachers and classified staff. The Board usually meets at 7:30pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month, at the Community Center at Marin and Masonic. See the AUSD website at: http://ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/ for agendas, minutes, and contact information for members of the Board. Board meetings are broadcast on the Albany cable TV channel and webcast live and archived (see Albany Channel 33 website).

Bookroom
The AHS Bookroom, in addition to keeping track of all the school text books, handles the student fund accounting and free lunch applications. Julie Salas, the accountant, handles all money related to student activities, class funds, and library fines. She also assembles the Daily Bulletin.

Calendar – AUSD and AHS School Calendars
The District School-Year Calendar is available on the District website at: http://ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/
There is also a calendar of significant dates and activities at the High School available on the AHS website (monthly calendar on left of home page - click arrows to see future months).

Campus Cruisers
Parents or other adult community members volunteer to walk the campus at lunch time to encourage good behavior, to watch for people who don't belong on campus, and to keep the hallways moving. Newcomers are always welcome. For information, contact the Principal.

Career Day
Career Day at Albany High provides an opportunity for students to select three to four careers and jobs that they are interested in learning about. The presenters are approximately 50 adults from varied occupations, with many parents among them. They come to spend an entire morning at the school. All students in the school, including Special Ed, participate in Career Day, so over the course of four years students can expect to hear 12-16 presentations. Some careers represented at past Career Days include physicians, attorneys, theater, FBI agents, graphic designers, car mechanics, bakers, the Peace Corps, musicians, psychologists, police officers, and dentists. The aim is to have a mix of occupations/careers including those that may not require extensive education beyond a High School diploma as well as those that require an advanced degree. To help out contact the Career Coordinator.

Clubs
A variety of clubs are found on campus. Each club has a mission statement and a faculty advisor. Students can learn about and join clubs on Club Rush Day in September or attend any club meeting announced in the Daily Bulletin. Some of the clubs include: Asian Student Union, Black Student Union, Mountain Biking Club, Novel Writing Club, Leo Club, The Cave (spirit group), LGBT Club, Theater Club, Culinary Arts Club, EarthTeam…

College Admissions Testing
SAT: The Scholastic Aptitude Test, or SAT, is comprised of the SAT Reasoning Test (formerly SAT I), and the Subject Tests (formerly SAT II). The SAT I Reasoning Test measures verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities that develop over time. The SAT Reasoning Test includes Critical Reading, Mathematics, and Writing sections. Most colleges, including the UC and CSU systems, require the SAT I Reasoning Test (or ACT) scores for admission. The SAT II Subject Tests are one-hour, primarily multiple choice tests that measure knowledge of a particular subject (e.g., Literature, Spanish, Math, Biology). As many as three SAT II tests may be taken at a single sitting. UC requires Subject Tests in two areas, but will not accept the Math Level 1 test. Many colleges also require SAT II Subject Tests. Please refer to the College Board website, www.collegeboard.com, for more details.

ACT: The American College Test (ACT) Assessment is accepted by almost all colleges and may be taken instead of the SAT. It is designed to assess high school students' general educational development and their ability to complete college-level work. The tests cover four skill areas: English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. A new optional Writing Test is required by the UC System and many other universities. For more information on the ACT, pick up a catalogue in the Counseling Office or go to the ACT web site, www.act.org.
PSAT: For many students, the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) is the first official step on the road to college. It also gives students a chance to enter the competition for National Merit Scholarship Corporation scholarship programs. The PSAT is administered at AHS in October each year. Juniors receive first priority in the sign-ups. Sophomores may apply for any open spaces remaining, but only juniors are eligible for National Merit Scholarship consideration.

• National Merit Scholarship Program: High scorers who qualify as Semifinalists and meet academic and other standards to advance to the Finalist level are considered for college undergraduate scholarships. The NMSC also conducts competitions for Special Scholarships sponsored by corporate and business organizations through this program. The NMSC sends scholarship applications to candidates for scholarships offered in the Merit and Achievement Programs through their high schools.
• Other Programs: The following programs can help certain students who take the PSAT, and who qualify for participation, prepare for college. The National Hispanic Recognition Program provides the names of academically talented students who identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino on the PSAT to colleges that may recruit them and offer financial aid. The National Achievement Scholarship Program offers a free college advisory and referral service for juniors who indicate that they are African American students and who plan to attend two-year or four-year colleges. The Telluride Association offers scholarships to gifted juniors for summer seminars in the humanities and social sciences. For more information about these programs, go to www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/about/scholarships.html.

College Planning
AHS Counselors are available to assist students with planning for college and other post-high school options. There is a wealth of information about college entrance requirements, testing, and college and career options in the Counseling Office section of the AHS website. The latest issue of Future Focus, their monthly newsletter, is also there with information on everything from upcoming college fairs -and- events to job, volunteer -and- internship opportunities. In addition, the college and career center in the Library has a large collection of reference materials.
Also see  the Counseling Office section and University Entrance Requirements, below.

Communication – Keep in touch with the school
We are continuing to work on improving communication among all the members of the school community. Some of the ways you can be in touch and learn about what is going on at the school are:

• AHS News eTree - daily email service
• SchoolLoop - an on-line communication tool including news on the web site and daily emails.
• Watch for weekly “From the desk of...” messages from the Principal or Assistant Principals. These will be available on the website, sent on the eTree and posted at the school. 
• Attend PTSA Meetings - including Principal's report with time for Q-and-A  

Community College Classes – Concurrent Enrollment
In some cases, students are permitted to take courses at local community colleges in addition to their regular program at AHS. Interested students must complete a Concurrent Enrollment form available in the counseling office. The counselor and Principal have to sign it in order to be enrolled. In general, requests will be honored if the requested course is not provided to students at AHS. There is more information HERE in the Counseling Office section of the website.

CONNECT - A Small Learning Community
CONNECT is a collaboration between several departments at AHS that integrates project-based lessons into the core curriculum. The program seeks to create meaningful small learning communities combining rigorous academics, technology education, and the creative arts to prepare students to be active participants in a complex global society.
The program started with Juniors in the 2007-08 year and included Juniors and Seniors in 2008-09. It is intended as a two-year sequence. The students take their English, History/Government-Econ and Art/Tech Classes together. The teachers collaborate to provide an integrated curriculum across all three classes. Senior year students will choose a focus and design senior projects and work with community partners outside the school. The initial project is partially supported by a state grant.
Program Goals:

• Empower Students to become academically prepared, culturally literate global citizens
• Create a safe, supportive environment where students can take risks and challenge themselves
• Teach students the necessary skills to use 21st century technology ethically and effectively
• Foster deeper relationships among members of the school and community

Contact Us – AHS Contact Information

High School Teachers and Staff: Updated AHS staff phone and e-mail information is available HERE on the AHS website.  If you have trouble reaching a teacher through voicemail or email, call the main office (558-2500) and ask to have a message placed in the teacher's box. To reach a voicemail extension call 558-2500 and follow the prompts.
District Staff: Please go to http://ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/ or phone 510-558-3750.

Cougar – The Cougar Newspaper
The Cougar is the AHS student newspaper, written and published monthly throughout the school year by the Journalism class. It contains articles on what is happening at the high school, in academics, sports, arts and entertainment, and socially, and includes interviews, opinion pages and more. The paper is distributed free to students, or for $35 you can purchase an annual subscription and have The Cougar mailed to your home. You may subscribe at the website or send a check and your name and address to Mr. Purdom at the school. The Cougar has an online version available at http://albanyhighcougar.com/.

Counseling Office
Counselors

• Counselors are assigned to individual students based on an alphabetical division of the student body. For the current assignments see “Meet the Counselors” under “Counseling Office” on the AHS website.
• The counselors provide information about graduation requirements, college admissions and other post-graduation options. They are available to facilitate communication among students, teachers, parents and other members of the school community. They provide personal assistance to students in crisis and help families with referrals for further individual and family support when appropriate. If difficult family circumstances arise during the school year, such as an illness or loss in the family, counselors can help communicate such important information to teachers.
• When a student or parent has a specific question about a class or a grade, it is always best to first contact the teacher directly. If assistance is needed in continuing a dialog, counselors can step in and help.
• Students can arrange to see their counselor by coming to the Counseling Office and making an appointment. Parents can call the counseling office secretary at 558-2650 to schedule an appointment with their child's counselor. It is rare for the counselors to have unscheduled time; therefore, drop-in visits to the Counseling Office are not recommended.
• The Counseling Office secretary, Margarita Dominguez, can often answer students' and parents' questions. Requests for transcripts and work permits should go directly to her. Ms. Dominguez can be reached at 558-2650 or 558-2515. For questions related to tutoring and career development, please contact Becca Burns through the secretary at 558-2650.
• The Counseling Office is generally staffed from 7:40 am to 4:00 pm.

Counseling Office Resources

• Resources located in the Counseling Office are available for both students and parents to look at and check out for a few days. They range from popular college/financial aid/scholarship guides and specific college catalogs to free handouts. This is a good place to start your college/career research before you go out and purchase these same guides in the bookstores. Through the AHS Future Focus and Senior Bulletin monthly publications, the counseling department provides information and a calendar of upcoming events regarding college representative visits, evening presentations, special programs, the college application process and workshop dates, scholarship listings, and test dates. These publications and many important forms used in the college application process are available on this site in the counseling section. (Be sure to include the underscore between counseling and office.) College catalogs and handbooks are also available in the College and Career Center in the library.
• For all grade levels, and especially for junior and senior families, be sure to look into purchasing The College Application Handbook for Juniors and Seniors These handbooks, updated yearly, are available in the counseling office for $10.00. This handbook is extremely helpful and full of practical advice for anyone interested in attending college and understanding the college application process. It includes information on both 2-year and 4-year colleges.

Course Catalog - Course Selection
The Course Catalog describes all classes offered at AHS, and is available through the Counseling Office and on the AHS website here. Students typically select courses in the Spring for the following school year. Counselors make presentations outlining courses available, graduation requirements and sign-up procedures. Parents are asked to sign-off on the course selection form before it is turned in.
Schedule Change Policy
In order to provide a stable and consistent learning program for our students, AHS has enacted the following schedule change policy:

1. Changes in student’s schedules must be with parental approval and may be made only during the first ten days of the fall semester and the first five days of the spring semester. No scheduling changes will be permitted for the first two days of school.
2. Any student/parent initiated schedule change must be requested in writing on the appropriate form. This form (petition) is available in the counseling office and must be signed by appropriate teachers, and then a parent.
3. After two (2) weeks of the fall semester and one (1) week of the spring semester only teacher/administrator initiated changes will be allowed.

 
Daily Bulletin
The AHS Daily Bulletin contains announcements for students, including listings of upcoming events, club meetings and schedule changes. The bulletin is posted around the school and read in the morning. It is also distributed on the AHS News eTree.

Dances
There are several dances during the school year. Typically, for all students, a welcome back dance in September, the homecoming dance in October, Winter Ball in January and a Spring dance in April. There is also the Junior-Senior Prom in May. A Dance Agreement signed by both the student and a parent/guardian, is required to purchase a ticket. All students are required to pass a breathalyzer check administered by a school staff member before entering the dance. Students may bring non-AHS guests to certain dances with prior approval. See the Guest Application for requirements. Forms are available on the AHS website under Student Resources.

Department Chair Council
The Department Chair Council serves as an advisory to site administration regarding implementation of curricular elements of the School Site Plan and other school-wide programs. It provides leadership to the faculty to facilitate implementation of the School Site Plan and State and District curriculum programs. It's purpose is:

• Recommend Department budgets to the Principal
• Ongoing evaluation of the educational program of the school
• Participate in interviews and hiring decisions for new department members.
• Recommend to site administration, the School Site Council, and the Instructional Improvement Council any school-wide initiatives and/or course changes to improve student achievement.

District Offices – Albany Unified School District (AUSD)
http://ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/
904 Talbot Avenue, Albany, California 94706  Phone: 510-558-3750
District Office Hours: Monday through Thursday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Friday: 8:30 am to 3 pm
Note: For use/rental of facilities, initiate the process by contacting the site directly and obtaining a form there.
Go to http://ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/ for links to the individual schools and their contact information.

Dress Code – Appropriate Dress Policy
Students are expected to be appropriately dressed in keeping with the school educational environment. The specific policy is on the Student Conduct web page under Student Resources on the AHS web site.

EDSET: Environmental Design, Science, Engineering and Technology Pathway
The EDSET program is a two-year course sequence for Juniors and Seniors that includes core experiences in the environmental sciences, history, government, economics; computer-aided design courses, community service and career exploration placements; and a culminating senior design project. It is designed to provide a variety of options for students to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to help design and build environmentally sensitive products, manufacturing procedures, food and housing systems, urban and regional planning, and remediate previously damaged ecosystems. Students will gain an awareness of the impacts of design and design decisions on the environment and on people's health and safety. Contact the Counselors for more information.

eMail Lists
AHS News eTree
Have you ever wished you knew more about what was going on at the high school every day, but couldn't pry anything meaningful out of your teenager? The PTSA offers the AHS News eTree, an e-mail service that gives parents the information they need—everything from deadlines for trips, yearbook orders, and AP test sign-ups, to club meeting times, dance information, college/career events, lunch time events and more. Items on the list include the AHS daily bulletin and PTSA news, special issues affecting AHS under consideration by the District or School Board, and parent volunteer needs.
The list is moderated by parent volunteers. To contact them send email to AHSnews-owner@yahoogroups.com. This is an announcement-only group, not a dialog group. Only messages dealing with AHS and the AUSD in general will be posted (exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis). When sending an e-mail for posting on the eTree, please send the exact text that you want posted, including a subject line (messages may be edited). No fancy formatting or attachments. The message will be forwarded to everyone on the eTree. Membership in the PTSA is appreciated but not required.

To subscribe: send a blank email to AHSnews-subscribe@yahoogroups.com You will receive a confirmation message from Yahoo! Groups – be sure to reply to that message to complete your subscription. You should receive a “welcome” message when you are done. Make sure your junk mail or spam blocker settings will allow the messages. Contact the moderators (above) if you have any problems or questions.
To unsubscribe: send email to AHSnews-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
To post a message: email it to AHSnews-owner@yahoogroups.com All messages are reviewed by the moderators.
The group website with archives is: groups.yahoo.com/group/AHSNews You may also subscribe at this website by clicking JoinThisGroup.

AHS Community Bulletin Board
The AHS Community Bulletin Board is an e-mail discussion group through which the AHS community can exchange all types of information, thus allowing the AHSNews eTree to remain the vehicle for official school, PTSA and AHS support organizations' announcements. It also serves as a place to post information about community programs and parenting support resources. Discussion of any topic may be solicited through the bulletin board as long as it is respectful, constructive, and related to AHS. AHS PTSA requests that parents, staff and students not be named in discussions on this bulletin board. Those wishing to post an anonymous message may contact the coordinator at ahscommunitybulletinboard-owner@yahoogroups.com.

To subscribe: send email to ahscommunitybulletinboard-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
To unsubscribe: send email to ahscommunitybulletinboard-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
To post a message: e-mail it to ahscommunitybulletinboard@yahoogroups.com
Message archives at Yahoo: groups.yahoo.com/group/ahscommunitybulletinboard

Albany Schools Discussion Group
The Albany Schools mailing list on Yahoo promotes communication between all parents, teachers, PTSA/PTA members, and school board members. Anyone on the list can ask questions, make comments, and respond to anything pertaining to the Albany schools.

To subscribe: send email to albanyschools-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
To unsubscribe: send email to albanyschools-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
To post a message: e-mail it to albanyschools@yahoogroups.com
To view message archives at Yahoo!: groups.yahoo.com/group/albanyschools

English Language Learner (ELL) Classes
The goal of ELL classes is to enable students who are English language learners to function in mainstream classes, and to provide substantive content from works written in English. Because ELL classes take students representing a wide range of English ability, each class is specifically geared to its students. Classes include reading of poetry, essays, newspapers and literature, as well as vocabulary development, practice for the SAT and lots of writing—including reports, research papers and creative writing. Students who speak little English take the ELL class instead of a regular English class; however, a few advanced students take ELL in addition to a regular English class.
There are both school and District English Learners Advisory Committees (ELAC/DELAC). At the school they advise the Principal and staff on matters relating to English Learners, including representatives to the District committee (DELAC). DELAC gives input on the District Master Plan and advises the Board on related matters. Contact the Principal or District Special Services at 510-559-6535.

Exit Exam – High School Exit Exam
All California students in the Class of 2006 and beyond must pass the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) in order to graduate from high school. The test is administered beginning in 10th grade, and students may take it repeatedly until they pass it. The CAHSEE is given in March and again in May and covers English/Language Arts and Math.

Food Service on Campus
Food Service is available at AHS before school from 7:30-8:30 am, during break, and during lunch. The food service team has teamed up with the California Alliance of Family Farmers, (CAFF caff.org ) to use agriculture from local, sustainable, organic farms in the Growers Collaborative whenever possible. At AUSD we strictly adhere to district, state and federal school lunch nutrition policy, which shapes our menus.
The lunch menu changes daily and is published in the Daily Bulletin. There is a separate page on the AHS website with more information about food service at AHS.
Our program will always be evolving to meet the nutritional needs and tastes of our wonderful ethnically diverse student population at AUSD. We will also continue to consult with students, parents and school staff to make the food service program at AUSD a model for all schools. Feel free to contact Executive Chef, Clell Hoffman at choffman@ausdk12.org with your input.

Fundraising Organizations and Programs
There are several organizations that support our school by raising funds to fill general or specific needs. Each of these has a more detailed entry elsewhere in this document.

AHS PTSA - among its many contributions is providing funding for site-specific needs including mini-grants for student or staff projects. The budget is discussed at the monthly meetings. Webpage HERE
Athletics Boosters - Supports AHS athletic teams. See webpage HERE
SchoolCARE - district-wide support group that provides funding to fill the gap between regular budget funds and the actual needs of our students. See www.albanyschoolcare.org
Albany Education Foundation - non-profit, district-wide organization dedicated to helping Albany classroom teachers by providing them with grant funds for various classroom projects or materials. albanyeducation.org
Albany Music Fund - supports the music programs in all Albany schools. albanymusicfund.org

Graduation Requirements – High School Graduation Requirements
Students must complete 220 credits to graduate including classes listed below. Each regular class is 5 credits per semester or 10 credits for a year.

English: 40 Credits
One (1) year 9th grade English 1
One (1) year 10th grade English 2
One (1) year 11th grade English 3 (or Eng. 3 Honors)
One (1) year 12th grade English electives
Social Studies: 30 credits
10 credits in World History, 10 credits in US History, 5 credits in US Government, 5 credits in Economics.
Mathematics: 20 credits
10 credits in Algebra plus 10 credits in any other Math class
Science: 20 credits
10 credits of Life Science, 10 credits of Physical Science
Physical Education: 20 credits
One (1) year 9th grade, one (1) year 10th grade
P.E. credits (2.5 per sport) may be satisfied by participating in AHS inter-scholastic sports beginning in 10th grade. (Credits from sports participation do NOT count toward total credits required for graduation).
Fine Arts: 10 credits
Any art, music, or drama combination for 10 credits.
Applied Arts: 10 credits
Any technology-based courses for a total of 10 credits
Identity, Health and Society (9th grade): 10 credits (Beginning for Class of 2010)
Passing score on the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE)

See the Course Catalog and other information about course selection on the Counseling Office pages.

Homework Policy
Homework is regularly assigned in most classes. There is no single homework policy; each teacher has procedures or guidelines that should be provided to students at the beginning of the year. See the Student Planner or the Absence Procedures entry on the Student Resources page for information about receiving homework during a prolonged absence.

Honor Code - Academic Honesty Guidelines
The Honor Code asks students to acknowledge their responsibility in the learning process. In addition, the purpose of this code is to institutionalize a procedure for dealing with students who cheat or who copy work. It provides administrative support for teachers in their efforts to encourage students to do their own work. More information is on the Academic Honesty and Discipline pages in the "Students" section on the AHS web site.

Instructional Improvement Council (IIC)
The IIC serves as an advisory body to site and District administration and Board of Education in areas of curriculum, instruction, and staff development. It recommends approval/disapproval of new courses and curricular initiatives.
It's purpose is to provide an open forum for students, parents, and school staff to ask questions, discuss, reflect upon, and consider issues within its domain of responsibility. Within the context of school-wide and district priorities, the IIC may establish short and long-term goals and propose methods for implementation of those goals.
The IIC accepts new course proposals from parents and community members. View the course approval protocol + timeline and IIC meeting minutes on the AHS website HERE.

Job Shadow Day
Job Shadow Day is for Juniors. They spend a day shadowing workplace mentors as they go through a normal day on the job, and thus get a firsthand look at how the skills learned in school are put into action in the workplace. Students often become more motivated to learn once they see the relevance of their class work, while schools can begin to build partnerships with businesses that can enhance the educational experiences of their students. Parent and community volunteers play a critical role in this; watch for eTree announcements.

Library
There are some 12,000 books, approximately 37 periodical subscriptions, a subscription to a full-text on-line magazine database, a career center, and 25 networked computers with Internet access and presentation software: Word, Excel, Power Point, and more in this heavily-used library. In addition to its use for whole class sessions, any individual student can use the library to read, check out books and magazines, work at a computer, do homework, and get help with research or reading needs. For more information, including the hours of operation see the Library web page on the AHS website. You may also contact the AHS Library at 558-2528 or e-mail the Librarian at  AHSLibrary@albany.k12.ca.us 

MacGregor High School
MacGregor High School (559-6570, http://mghs.ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/), located at 720 Jackson Street, is a continuation school, where students can enroll to continue their education despite being over age and under credit for their grade levels. MacGregor serves approximately 50 students, and is considered a necessary small high school. The school pays particular attention to students who have had credit and/or attendance problems, those whose work schedules preclude them from attending the comprehensive high school, and those whose life and/or personal situation disallows them from fitting into the structure of a large school setting. According to the 2000 annual report on MacGregor, “We are committed to providing a program that will lead to a high school diploma for every student. In a safe and secure environment, every student will be given the support necessary to develop self-esteem, personal growth, career readiness, and a sense of community responsibility. MacGregor's uniqueness comes in the personal attention that is paid to each student by every staff member.”

Math Proficiency Exams
The math department gives proficiency exams as part of end-of-year final exams for the purpose of placing math students in a class for the next year. Students who do not score high enough to be moved up to the next level must either take a summer school class or repeat the class. Students who take a math class during the summer and wish to move up to the next math level can take a proficiency exam in late August. These are announced on the AHSNews eTree.

Mental Health Services
Shelly Ball, LCSW, oversees mental health services at AHS, including consultation to school staff and parents, mental health clinical services for students and families, a peer helping program and consultation to the required freshman class Identity, Health and Society. Shelly supervises masters, doctoral and post-graduate level interns who provide crisis intervention, brief and long term therapy to students. She also trains and supervises the 22 student peer helpers, who provide peer education and counseling to other students at AHS. Parents, teachers and students concerned about any student can contact Shelly confidentially. She can be reached by phone at 558-2526 or at sball@ausdk12.org.

Open Campus (Lunch Only)
AHS is an open campus at lunch only, and is closed at all other times. Once students arrive on campus they are expected to remain on campus (except for lunch) unless prior arrangement is made with the Attendance Office by a parent or guardian. Students who do not have a class first or last period may study in the library or be off campus but they may not hang around in the hallways.

Planner – Student Planner
Each year planners are available for students to use for organizing their work and activities during the school year. The planner is available for a nominal fee on Registration Day and in the Bookroom after that. Students are encouraged to find a system that works for them for keeping track of their assignments and the planner is an excellent tool for this. Students should not rely exclusively on SchoolLoop for this. In addition to the planning/calendar sections it includes the school vision statement and goals, AHS policies, bell schedule, college checklists for college-bound juniors and seniors, and the discipline policy. (Much of this information is also on the Student Resources and Counseling Office pages on the AHS website.)

PTSA
The AHS PTSA supports and assists the High School and its students in many ways, including financial support, coordinating activities and volunteers, Parent Education, and providing communications links (such as the AHS News eTree). The PTSA works closely with the school to respond to site-specific needs, and provides mini-grants to student groups and staff for projects specifically benefiting students. In May 2006 the Association officially became a PTSA and students and parents now work together in most of the officer positions. PTSA encourages parents to get involved by volunteering in whatever way they can. There are many volunteer options, on-going or one-time events, some during school hours and others that can be done at your convenience. Watch for calls for assistance on the eTree or contact the Volunteer Coordinator.
Meeting Time and Location
The AHS PTSA meets on the first school-day Monday of each month at 7:00pm in the AHS Library. Typically, meetings feature a program or discussion of a major issue  and  a business meeting with reports from officers and chairs. Meetings include a report from the principal with an opportunity to ask questions. The AHS teaching staff also regularly sends a representative to meetings. Information on upcoming PTSA meetings is distributed on the AHS News eTree.
For more Information...
To join the PTSA and for a list of officers and additional information visit this page. Contact the officers by sending email to: AHS.PTSA@yahoo.com. Paper mail can be delivered to the PTSA box in the school office.

PTSA Fundraising Programs
Fundraising is a vital and integral part of the AHS PTSA's work. The PTSA sponsors numerous programs with these funds to enhance the experience of AHS students. The PTSA has provided funding for such things as The Cougar newspaper, Day on the Green, a portable sound system, Challenge Day, Homecoming, Career Day, earthquake supplies, teachers' luncheons, senior luncheon, senior grad night, scholarships, and campus beautification. In addition to collecting membership dues, the AHS PTSA runs the following fundraising programs:

• eScrip/Safeway: eScrip is great source of funds for us at no cost to you, particularly if you are a Safeway shopper. Be sure your Safeway Club Card is connected. Register any or all of your existing debit and credit cards for use in the program. Participating merchants will make contributions to the PTSA based on purchases made by you, just by using the cards you have registered. Local participating merchants include Safeway, Andronico's, Whole Foods, Macy's, and more. Sign up, view the list of participating merchants, and view your purchases online at www.escrip.com, or contact our Scrip Coordinator (info below).
• Lucky's: Lucky store has a program through the Save-Mart SHARES Card. Contact our Scrip Coordinator (below) to get a SHARES card.
• Schoolpop: Up to 18% of online purchases made through the Schoolpop site at merchants such as Gap, LL Bean, Lands' End, Eddie Bauer and 250 others is returned to your chosen school. In addition, you can register your ATM/Debit or credit cards with Schoolpop at www.schoolpop.com or by calling 800-456-1032. Register for AHS PTSA, Account #0141934. Thereafter, when shopping online, access Schoolpop.com, then click on the merchant's logo to place your order. When you use your registered cards, up to 10% of your purchases comes back to the PTSA.

If you are already registered in any of these programs, but are new to AHS, remember to contact eScrip or Schoolpop to change schools. Questions? Contact our Scrip Coordinator, Helene Class at 526-4902 or heleneclass@comcast.net. More families participating means more funds donated to the AHS PTSA. Your support of these programs is vital!

Problem Resolution – Process for Addressing Problems
First, parents should contact the student's teacher to set up a parent/teacher conference by:

• Calling the teacher's extension and leaving a voicemail message;
• E-mailing the teacher; or
• Sending a written note to be placed in the teacher's box.
• If parents do not receive a response within a reasonable time, they should contact the Counseling Office or the Principal. The message will be relayed to the teacher.

If the problem cannot be resolved satisfactorily by the parent, student and teacher, the next step is to go to the student's counselor, an Assistant Principal, or the Principal. For special circumstances, a Student Study Team will be arranged to discuss how to work together to support the student. Student Study Team meetings include the parent, an administrator, the counselor and the student's teachers. Parents should contact their student's counselor to explore possible alternatives.

District Complaint Policy - When parents have tried diligently to resolve a problem and failed, the Albany Unified School District has a formal complaint procedure.
The Albany public complaint policy is as follows:
Any person or group having an interest in the schools of this District shall have the right to present a request, suggestion, or complaint concerning district personnel, the program, or the operations of the District. At the same time, the board has a duty to protect staff from harassment. It is the intent of this policy to provide the means for judging each public complaint in a fair and impartial manner and to seek a remedy where appropriate. (BP 1310)
The complete procedure (AR 1310, revised April 1998) with detailed explanations of each step and expected outcomes is available in the AUSD Office. A general outline of the complaint procedure is:

• Matters specifically directed to a staff member should be first addressed to that person for prompt discussion. A reasonable explanation or action, in the purview of the employee's authority, should follow.
• If the matter cannot be satisfactorily resolved, the matter should be forwarded to the site principal.
• If the matter cannot be resolved at this level either, a written request for a conference with the Superintendent should be submitted at the district office. This letter should include all information requested on the Public Complaint Form, available at the AUSD office and included at the back of this Handbook.
• If the matter is resolved during the conference with the Superintendent, the School Board shall be advised of the resolution.
• If the matter is not resolved by the conference, a written request for a hearing should be sent to the School Board.

ROP
The Regional Occupational Program (ROP) is a state-funded, accredited program providing career-related training as an integral part of high school education. While the primary goal is for students to be employable immediately after graduation, the classes also prepare students for more advanced studies at the college level if they wish to continue. Each ROP class includes a unit on job-finding skills, and should result in a portfolio of student work. ROP teachers are expected to have recent work experience in a related field, and to meet regularly with an advisory body of industry representatives to stay current on skills and technology. Industry contacts further enrich the class by providing career speakers and opportunities for field trips, job shadowing, internships, and part-time work. ROP classes are limited to juniors and seniors or to students at least 16 years old. Albany High is part of the Contra Costa County Office of Education ROP program. Currently, AHS offers ROP classes in Computer Web Design, Computer/Network Technician, Digital Recording Studio, Graphic Design, Digital Photography, Journalism, Sports Medicine, Yearbook and Video Production. For further information, ask the AHS Counseling Office for the ROP handbook, and check the ROP web site at: www.cccoe.k12.ca.us/rop.

Renewal Program - Ninth Grade
The purpose of this program is to help freshmen get on the track to academic success. Ninth graders are divided into renewal teams (Ren Groups) with the same teachers for the core courses (English, math, and health). The teachers have a common prep period each day, which allows them to compare notes, develop coordinated curriculum and monitor students more closely, as well as to meet as a team with parents when necessary. Each Renewal group works on at least one large integrated project, with math, health, and English components. Past renewal projects have included studies of environmental issues in an election year, flight experiments; and debates on various bioethical issues. Details are subject to change for 2008-09.

Schedules – Bell Schedules – The Block Schedule
Albany High School operates with a “modified block schedule”. In this schedule, each class will typically meet three times a week - once weekly for 52 minutes (Mondays), and twice weekly for 95 minutes. The block schedule provides several advantages over the traditional school schedule. It allows for uninterrupted, increased time for in-depth study, higher level thinking, and intensive student involvement in the learning process. It increases the opportunity for more individualized and personal attention. It decreases the number of classes to prepare for in a 24 hour time period, and reduces the number of books and preparations for each block school day. The benefits for both teachers and students are the ability to utilize a wider variety of teaching strategies, more teacher-student contact time, less wasted time in transition from class to class, less fragmentation of instruction, more time for academic support, and increased opportunity for team teaching within departments and across disciplines.

Advisory - A feature of our schedule is twice weekly, 40-minute advisory periods. These periods allow for regular homeroom activities, student government, extra tutorial time, meeting with teachers and additional study time. Students can even run make-up miles for PE class. Attendance in advisory periods is mandatory.

The bell schedule is on the website under Parent Resources.

SchoolCARE
SchoolCARE is a non-profit volunteer-run organization which raises funds to support educational services at all Albany public schools and fill the gap between regular budget funds and the actual needs of our students.. At AHS, SchoolCARE works with parents, teachers, students and administrators to identify and prioritize needs each year. The major annual fundraising campaign takes place in the spring. For more info or to contribute visit www.AlbanySchoolCARE.org or find an envelope in any school office.

SchoolLoop – A Communication Tool
The school is using an internet communications tool called SchoolLoop. It provides a means for students and parents to have access to current information on homework and grades through a website and optional daily emails. For 2009-10, most teachers will be participating in SchoolLoop and there will be many updates to the capabilities and user interface. Grades are updated at least every three weeks. Homework assignments are posted at the teacher's discretion.

Parents and students can sign-up at http://albanyhs.schoolloop.com/ . You will need your student's ID number which is a five-digit number found on report cards and the Student ID Card.

SchoolLoop provides access to a lot of detailed information that hasn't been available in this form before. We still expect students to be responsible for keeping track of and completing their own assignments. Some students have been concerned that parents will micro-manage with all this information and not let them develop these skills and their independence. That is a family matter and it is suggested that each family have a discussion about how they will use it.

School Site Council
The Site Council (SSC) is established per Education Code 52852 and 52853. It is responsible for developing an annual school plan and budget to facilitate school-based program coordination. Particular attention is paid to meeting the individual needs of each student.

• Its membership is the Principal, four teachers, one classified employee, three parents and/or community members and three students.

Its purpose includes the following:

• Curricula, instructional strategies and materials responsive to the individual needs and learning s of each pupil;
• Instructional and extra-curricular services to meet needs of ELD, exceptional needs, educationally disadvantaged, and gifted and talented students;
• Staff development program for school personnel related to school goals,
• Ongoing evaluation of the educational program, including progress on the WASC Action Plan,
• Other activities and objectives as established by the council.

This is part of the shared governance structure, designed to ensure representation of all stakeholders in the decision making processes. More information, including Site Council meeting minutes, is available under Parents Resources on the AHS website.

Section 504 and ADA
Federal laws require schools to make accommodations for certain students. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, protects any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. Accommodation must be provided for students protected under section 504.

Special Education
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) applies to children ages 3-21 who are determined by a multidisciplinary team to be eligible within specified categories of disability and who need education and special services. IDEA requires the development of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for the student. Parents who need additional information about any of these programs should contact the Counseling Office.

Sports

Boys' sports:
Fall: Cross Country, Football
Winter: Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling
Spring: Baseball, Track-and-Field, Swimming, Golf, Tennis

Girls' sports:
Fall: Cross Country, Tennis, Volleyball, Golf
Winter: Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling
Spring: Softball, Track-and-Field, Swimming

More information on sports is available on the AHS website under Athletics, including schedules, the sports handbook, and some of the forms needed.

STAR Testing
AHS students in grades 9 through 11 must take the state standardized “STAR” Test each spring, though the California Education Code allows a student's parents or guardian to request in writing that he or she be excused from any or all parts of the test. The areas of testing for high school students are reading, writing, mathematics, history/social science and science The test takes about five hours altogether, and is administered over a period of four days. Each student's school and parents or guardian will receive the individual results. Individual results are confidential, kept in the student's cumulative file with other confidential data. Individual STAR results should not be seen as a valid assessment of student proficiency in specific subject areas. However, they can be used along with other standardized assessments, grades, and test scores to monitor the student's academic progress. Individual results are merged to prepare grade level reports by subject area for each school, district, county and the state.
Cumulative test results are published on the Internet. See star.cde.ca.gov for links to current and prior years' STAR scores for AUSD schools.
Although parents may choose to exempt their child from the STAR tests, they should be aware that student exemptions may affect the AHS school ranking, attendance results and ultimately the extra money AHS receives from the state. AHS encourages students to participate in the STAR program. Due to State budget issues the scholarship portion of this program has been canceled.

Student Government - ASG (Associated Student Government)
The ASG is the student leadership body that represents the students at AHS. The general student body elects its members, including President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Historian, and Commissioners for each of the following: Arts, Athletics, Clubs, Elections, Publicity, Spirit, Technology, Diversity, and Community Outreach. The ASG also consists of elected student representatives that work with the Instructional Improvement Committee, the School Site Council, School Board, and the PTSA. The ASG is responsible for the multitude of student activities at AHS, and manages the Class Councils and Student Clubs. Sometimes also called the ASB.
Class Councils (Senior, Junior, Sophomore, Freshman)
The Class Councils are leadership bodies made up of a President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer for each class. Each class elects its own Council, with members responsible for student activities related to their respective class.
Leadership Class
The Leadership Class consists of ASG members and Class Council members. In recent years it has been a full separate class but for 2009-10, due to budget considerations, it will meet during advisory. It supports the student activities program at AHS. The class focuses on defining leadership, building communication skills, setting goals, organizing a balanced budget, building group work skills, resolving conflicts, creatively solving problems, establishing successful meetings, managing time and stress, and exploring personal growth.

University Entrance Requirements
To be admitted to a campus of the University of California (U.C.) or California State University system (CSU) as a freshman, you must meet these three requirements of admission:

• The Subject Requirement of a-g courses (minimum 15 core classes)
• The Scholarship Requirement (Grade Point Average)
• The Examination Requirement: SAT Reasoning Test or ACT. UC also requires two SAT Subject Tests.

Minimum Subject Requirements
Students must complete the high school courses listed below with a grade point average defined by the Scholarship Requirement. This sequence of courses is also known as the a-g subject requirements. Students must take 15 units of high school courses to fulfill the subject requirement, seven units of which must be taken in the last two years of high school. (A unit is equal to an academic year, or two semesters, of study.) To be acceptable to the universities, the course must appear on a list certified by the high school principal as meeting the university's minimum admissions requirements. This list is posted in the Counseling Office and is available on the high school counseling web site.

• History/Social Science - Two years of history/social science, including one year of world history, cultures and geography; and one year of US history or one-half year of U.S. history and one-half year of civics or American government.
• English - 4 years required of college preparatory English.
• Mathematics - 3 years required, (4 recommended). 3 years including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II.
• Laboratory Science - 2 years required, (3 recommended). 2 years of Laboratory Science, for UC in at least 2 of these three 3 areas: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. CSU requires one Biological Lab Science and one Physical Science.
• Languages Other Than English - 2 years of the same language other than English (3 recommended). American Sign Language is acceptable.
• Visual and Performing Arts - 1 year (one year-long course).
• College Preparatory Electives - 1 year required in addition to those required in a-f above, chosen from the following areas: Visual and Performing Arts, History, Social Science, English, Advanced Mathematics, Laboratory Science and Languages Other Than English.

More information is available on the Counseling Office web pages.

Visitors on Campus
In accordance with state law, any person visiting the school grounds including parents and guardians, during school hours must first report to the Main Office. Permission must be granted to be on the grounds and/or to conduct any business and/or to see any teacher or student. No student visitors are allowed.

Web Sites – AHS and AUSD Web Sites
The AHS Web Site at http://albanyhs.schoolloop.com/ contains a lot of information about the high school, including the daily bell schedules, faculty and staff listings, information from the counseling office about college admissions, AHS courses + other issues, student conduct code, and much more.
The Albany Unified School District's web site is at http://ausd.ca.schoolloop.com/. The site contains links to District Information including the Board of Education, Curriculum + Instruction, Special Services, support groups, and each school site including Albany High School and MacGregor High School.

WriterCoach Connection
The WriterCoach Connection program pairs parent and community volunteers with AHS ninth graders, one-on-one in English classes, helping with writing assignments. You don't have to be a writer to be a coach; volunteers come from all backgrounds and you'll be fully trained to work with your students. If you would like a direct hand in helping AHS students succeed and can commit an hour or two during the school day about two or three times per month, writer coaching is for you. To volunteer, contact Peg Healy at 524-6230 or Teresa Barnett at 526-6748 or ahssitecoord@yahoo.com. Find out why writer coaches come back to the program, year after year! For general info see www.writercoachconnection.org.

Addendums (to be included in printed version when available):

Dance Agreement and Guest Application: See the Students section of AHS website.
Appropriate Dress Policy: See Student Conduct web page.
Discipline Information: See the Students section pages.
AHS and Vision Goals: On AHS website here.
PTSA Membership Form See PTSA page.

The AHS PTSA is assisting in producing this document. Please send any comments, suggestions or corrections to: AHS.PTSA@yahoo.com