What is the GIS Program?

The GIS Program is a special program for highly able students with a systematic and accelerated focus on Global and International Studies for our school system’s most capable students with demonstrated learning potential in the areas of social studies, English, and world languages.

Where will the GIS Program be housed?

Leonardtown High School

What grade levels will be included in the GIS Program?

GIS will began with Cohort  I in the fall of 2009 with two ninth grade classes. Cohort 2 will enter ninth grade fall of 2010

Who attends the GIS Program?

Any student who is grade appropriate can apply but there are criteria to determine our most eligible and likely to succeed students for this specialized program.

What will the future years of the GIS Program look like?

There is a planned and purposeful expansion of the GIS Program to include additional grade levels each year until it encompasses Grades 9-12.

Who should I contact if I have additional questions about the program?

Questions should be directed to the Department School Administration by phoning Janis Taylor, Supervisor of School Improvement and Strategic Planning, at 301-475-5511 extension 120.

Why GIS? Why now? Why at Leonardtown High?

SMCPS recognizes the need to provide an advanced program focusing on English and Social Studies for some of our growing learners. Availability of several world language courses, as well as active student government and service learning programs, make Leonardtown High School an ideal setting for this unique program of study.

What is the structure of the academic day? How does this program differ from the program of studies available at our home school?

The daily schedule is still under development but it is not vastly different from the existing schedule and structure at your home high school. The significant difference is the daily, rigorous, above level content and the stringent emphasis on the infusion of global content, resources, and perspectives into the curriculum.

Cumulative Grade Point Average Requirement:

Students must obtain at least a 3.0 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

Advanced Course Requirements:

Students must complete at least 12 credits of their high school program in advanced courses at the certificate of merit, Advanced Placement, or Honors level.

Advanced Placement Requirements:

Students must complete at least 3 advanced placement courses in English, Social Studies, and/or World Languages, one of which must be Social Studies and one in English. A score of three or higher on each of these Advanced Placement exams is required.

General High School Requirements:

Students must complete the High School Assessments, as applicable; fulfill the Student Service-Learning requirement; and meet the Maryland University System Entrance Program sequence.

Special Note Regarding the World Language Requirement:

Students must successfully complete through Level 3 of a world language and obtain 4 world language credits in total in order to meet program requirements. Level 1 credit may be earned in the eighth grade with a passing grade in a world language. However, the grade from middle school does not factor into the grade point average (GPA), quality points, or the class rank.

Will transportation be provided? How long will my child by on the school bus?

Yes, bus transportation will be provided. Students will be transported to and from the GIS program each day. Detailed transportation information will not be fully available until students are selected and enrolled in the GIS program. If you were accepted into the program and received the transfer document, there is no formalized schedule at this time. After finalizing the acceptance lists, we will provide you with a transportation plan. Parents may also choose to transport their children to and from the GIS program if that is more convenient.

What is the long-term plan for my child, the GIS Program? Do we have to reapply every year?

GIS is designed to expand each year with beginning programs in the ninth grade. Each year, additional grades will be added. During the 2010-2011 school year, grade 10 will be added to the GIS Program. Your child will not need to reapply when transitioning from one grade level to the next.

What is our family commitment to the GIS Program?

Your family commitment is for one school year at a time.

When will the selection of students for GIS be made?

The appliation process begins in March each year. Students and their families will be notified in  April. At that point, there will be more information and specific orientation nights, transportation information, opportunities to meet the teacher(s), etc. available to accepted students.

What about school based extracurricular activities such as sports, dances, intramurals, clubs, and civic/service groups?

GIS students may participate in any extracurricular event taking place at Leonardtown High School.

Are special education students eligible for participation in the GIS program?

Yes, all students are eligible to apply to the GIS program. Appropriate accommodations and modifications will be made to address an IEP carrier enrolled in the GIS program.