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Computer Science and Biomedical sciences.

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Computer Science and Biomedical sciences.

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Can I take Computer Science and Biomedical sciences in the same year?
Yes, Computer Science is categorized as Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.  Biomedical Science is categorized as a health science.

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What if you didn't have the time to do volleyball in middle school but you want to do it high school. Is it still possible?

Sure, you can always try out for the team!  Good luck!

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How do I do soccer in highschool? Is there a boys soccer option on the choice sheet? I only saw girls soccer. 

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How do I do soccer in highschool? Is there a boys soccer option on the choice sheet? I only saw girls soccer. 

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I am not sure why boys soccer is not on the choice sheet.  This would be a good question for you to ask your high school counselor tomorrow or Friday during your McNeil registration meeting

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do i have to complete all spanish classes after i complete 1 and 2

No, After you have completed Spanish 1 and II, you can choose to go on and complete all Spanish classes.  But it is not required.

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How dose double block work?
Double block means that you would have that class for two class periods, not one.  So it will take the space of two class periods on your schedule.

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I plan on taking Video Production, but I’d like to know if we will be able to use cameras or if we are just learning about it. If you don’t have this info, can u appoint me to the video production teacher or someone who might have an answer? Thanks!

When I last taught there, students were using equipment and filming all the time, but I cannot speak for the virtual environment. You can reach out to Ms. Slavnik, the AV teacher at Ivana_Slavnic@roundrockisd.org.

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when are tryouts?

Tryout info. can be found on the McNeil Swim website in the "News" section, listed under the "About" section: https://mcneilswimdive.swimtopia.com/

You can always feel free to email Coach Foss, who is hilarious by the way, at Johnny_Foss@roundrockisd.org.

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Since this was the weirdest 8th grade year in recent history, how do you KNOW if you should take an advanced class or not? If you choose a regular class, will you able to switch into an advanced class if it is way too easy? If you start off "on level" will you be ill prepared to TAKE advanced classes the following year?

This is a great question and it is absolutely unique to each individual. Here's what I can tell you, the typical recommendation is that a student takes at least one advanced class provided he/she/they typically perform well in that subject area and is not reading below grade level. The recommendation is no more than two advanced classes for the typical student so that he/she/they is able to maintain a healthy work/life balance--however, keep in mind that this is just a baseline. There are students who take more, and students who take none or less. Asking your core teachers for their input in regards to on-level vs. Advanced is a great start.

In regards to your question about switching to advanced classes at a later point--yes it can and does happen. I taught at MHS and know students who moved to Advanced mid-year or the following year. Some were just as successful as their peers who had started in Advanced from the get-go, but there were a few who were ill-prepared. It honestly depended on the student's skill set and work ethic.

If you decide to "jump up" into an advanced class, I recommend you do it in 10th grade as opposed to waiting to make the jump your 11th/12th grade year when it's an AP class and there is a test for college credit involved.

If you are still a bit on the fence in regards to choosing Advanced vs. on-level, I'm 100% happy to schedule a Google Meet with you. We can look at your report card history, your DCA and test scores, and discuss your goals to help us figure out what's best for you to start with. My email is Marisa_Cano@roundrockisd.org and Ms. Parrish's email is Nicole_Parrish@roundrockisd.org.

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what is the difference between an academy and an endorsement?

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what is the difference between an academy and an endorsement?

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The academy is the name of the program/small learning community  at the school. The endorsement is a specific area of study/sequence of courses that would be noted on the actual high school diploma.

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what if you dont know what you want to do in college? hos do you know what academy to pick

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what if you dont know what you want to do in college? hos do you know what academy to pick

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It's perfectly normal to not know what you want to do in college. The goal of choosing an academy in high school is to help you figure what you want to study post-high school.

For example, I was in the Science Academy in high school. It was a great experience, and I learned a lot, however, going through it made me realize that my passion was actually in written communication and social sciences. I ended up studying to be an English teacher in college, and later went to grad school for Counseling.

One of the nice things about 9th grade year is that you have 4 elective slots. Lots of students decide to take intro level academy electives for multiple academies/tracks--this allows them to explore different interests and figure out which one(s) they want to focus on.

Remember, you are not "married" to your academy choice. You always have the ability to change your mind--the same goes in college and in your career. I hope this takes a little bit of pressure off. :)

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what is the advantage of taking 3 years of foreign language? i already took spanish I and II

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what is the advantage of taking 3 years of foreign language? i already took spanish I and II

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Great question! There are several to consider.
1. Most people tend to "lose" language when they don't practice it.  Keep in mind that many jobs  seek bilingual applicants, and some even give stipends to bilingual employees.
2. Some college degree tracks require students to take a foreign language, so having the continued practice helps. Not to mention, we live in a global society, and a student actively choosing to continue foreign language practice beyond what's required can make him/her stand out on a college and/or job application.
3. If you take Spanish 3, it opens up opportunities to take AP Spanish Lit and AP Spanish Language classes for college credit, provided you pass the AP exam. Earning college credit  high school can save you tons of time and money in the long run.

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for college credit you can take AP clases or dual credit courses starting in 11th grade. correct? which one do more students do and why? 

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for college credit you can take AP clases or dual credit courses starting in 11th grade. correct? which one do more students do and why? 

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Both are popular for different reasons. How about I list pros/cons of each?

AP classes: AP classes are taught by a certified high school teacher. affect your high school GPA only. If you pass the class, you get high school credit. Then, you take the AP exam in May, and you only a get college credit if you score a 3 or higher on it. However, some colleges only accept an AP exam score of 4 or 5 for certain classes.

Dual Credit classes: Dual Credit classes are typically taught by ACC professors. If you pass the class, you get high school credit AND college credit--it's not riding on one test score. However, dual credit classes affect both high school and college GPA, so if you don't do so well, it affects GPAs for both high school and college.

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What will I learn if I take Mexican American Advanced Studies?

This is a brand new class that has just been approved for next year, so the course description has not been listed in the course catalog yet.  I would suggest you ask this question to the high school counselors on Feb. 11th or 12th.  they are going to be available to answer all questions.

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Is there a way to take any of the foreign language credits over the summer or to try and test into a higher level over the summer?  I only took Spanish 1 in high school but was in duel language for several years in elementary and think i might be able to try spanish 3

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Is there a way to take any of the foreign language credits over the summer or to try and test into a higher level over the summer?  I only took Spanish 1 in high school but was in duel language for several years in elementary and think i might be able to try spanish 3

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You can take the AAPPL test this Spring to earn up to 4 world language credits.  The test can also be used as a placement guide- you will be placed into the appropriate class based on your test results.

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If i'm in tag do I have to take TAG advanced courses?  You only have to take advanced TAG classes for your designated subject areas.  You can, however, furlough for one year (which means you are taking on level course for one year instead of TAG course), or you can choose to drop services.

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I do not see a course listed in the course catalog called Biomedical Science.  I do see a course called medical microbiology.
Medical Microbiology 5602
GRADE: 11-12 PEIMS: #13020700
CREDIT: 1
Students will explore the microbial world, studying topics such as pathogenic and non-pathogenic
microorganisms, laboratory procedures, identifying microorganisms, drug resistant organisms, and emerging
diseases.
COURSE NOTE: This course satisfies a high school science graduation requirement.
PREREQUISITES: Biology AND Chemistry
Here is the link to the course catalog.  All descriptions of all classes can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14_EkeBwge-iYHOaCRcOPvFCD08jGHNB_/view?usp=sharing

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what's the difference between animal science and veterinary science?
In the RRISD High School Course Catalog, I do not see veterinary Science listed as an option.  Animal Science, as described in the course catalog: This course examines the interrelatedness of human, scientific, and technological dimensions of livestock
production. Instruction is designed to allow for the application of scientific and technological aspects of animal
science through field and laboratory experiences. This course has prerequisites.
The High School Course Catalog can be found here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1sDUvCb7x0T3WBkCy0DZ9d5wEa2nPChX1

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Hi! Another question about the ACC LOTE courses, how long of a course do we need to take for it to count as a credit?

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Hi! Another question about the ACC LOTE courses, how long of a course do we need to take for it to count as a credit?

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This is the information I received from the lead counselor at McNeil HS:  Students taking ACC LOTE classes have to take Level I at ACC, and they must take the long session (10 weeks). This summer, the long summer session in June 1-August 8.

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could I wait to take a language next year?

Yes. Just as long as you take two years of the same language before you graduate.

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If I'm interested in dual college credit, how do I know which courses equal a college credit? Is this only available through ACC?

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If I'm interested in dual college credit, how do I know which courses equal a college credit? Is this only available through ACC?

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Dual credit is offered through ACC, but some dual credit classes are offered at McNeil starting in 11th grade. Dual credit classes are noted on the choice sheet. AP courses, also offered at McNeil are another way to earn college credit, provided you pass the AP test for that course in May.

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Are we choosing one endorsement from each of the 5 areas available?

You just need one endorsement period. Some students graduate with multiple endorsements, but you only need one.

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Tech theater focuses on set design, props, scenery, costume, lighting, etc.

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Mcneil's Majestic drill team creates routines based on precision dance movements. These teams usually do not carry anything, but may use props in field production numbers. They may perform to recorded music, or the live music of an accompanying marching band.

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If i take theatre as my endorsement, would i have to take 4 years of the same theatre like Advanced theatre or could i take 2 years of Advanced theatre and 2 years of musical theatre?

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If i take theatre as my endorsement, would i have to take 4 years of the same theatre like Advanced theatre or could i take 2 years of Advanced theatre and 2 years of musical theatre?

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You would need 4 years of the same course. (See response below this one.)

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Whats the difference between Advanced Geometry and Geometry?

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Whats the difference between Advanced Geometry and Geometry?

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According to the course catalog: Advanced Geometry explores the topics of geometry developing an understanding of the structure of a mathematical system connecting definitions, postulates, theorems, logical reasoning, transformations, proof, and coordinate geometry.
Geometry is a TEKS based course that introduces geometric concepts including identifying angles and two-dimensional shapes. Students will solve everyday problems using geometry.

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How many advanced classes should a Freshman take?

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How many advanced classes should a Freshman take?

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There is no set number, that is an individual decision.  Please keep in mind that advanced classes are more rigorous and have higher expectations. It is important to determine whether or not you think you can be successful in keeping up with the rigorous curriculum of advanced courses.  And don't overload yourself.  Be careful to take classes that will give you balance in your school and personal life.  Toxic stress and anxiety are predictors of poor performance and mental health issues.

P.S. The typical recommendation for the average student is  no more than 2 advanced courses, but once again, it's. personal decision. Some students take more, and some less.

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Whats the difference between Advanced theatre and regular theatre?

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Whats the difference between Advanced theatre and regular theatre?

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Theatre I students explore basic acting techniques, technical theatre and interpretation of dramatic literature, stage movement, mime, voice and diction, improvisation, and develop audience appreciation skills.  Advanced theatre will extend the learner's knowledge of acting techniques, technical theatre, interpretation movement, mime, voice and diction, improvisation, and audience appreciation skills.  Their is an audition required for advanced theatre.

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It's an athletic team that requires long distance running.

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I had the previous question about ACC classes and I meant my LOTE, sorry I should've been more specific, and is there information about the summer courses

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I had the previous question about ACC classes and I meant my LOTE, sorry I should've been more specific, and is there information about the summer courses

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Look here in the Summer 2021 section.

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Browse upcoming course sections by academic discipline, campus, instructor, and other categories. Please note: Information about class sections and seat availability is not updated in real-time. Log into Online Services to verify course and seat availability.

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Browse upcoming course sections by academic discipline, campus, instructor, and other categories. Please note: Information about class sections and seat availability is not updated in real-time. Log into Online Services to verify course and seat availability.

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Yes, from what I was able to find on the website, it is.

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after i get my required amount of credits can i only take core classes?

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after i get my required amount of credits can i only take core classes?

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11th graders are only allowed one off period. 12th graders are only  allowed two off periods, so that means you would have to fill in those other spaces with electives even if you had already fulfilled the elective requirement. (It has to do with state education policy.)There are students who do decide to graduate early, though.

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It's where you learn how to properly strength train using weights in the weight room. Here is an article on the benefits of weight/strength training if you are interested.

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Wrestling does not have (DB) written by it, so that means it is not double-blocked. :)

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Lets say i wanted to take art l and take art ll sculpture, is that possible?

You have to complete Art 1 before you can take Art 2, which means you'll have to take Art 2 Sculpture in 10th grade--unless, of course, you are currently in Mr. G's 4th or 5th period HS Art 1 class, and finish the year with a 70 or higher--if that's the case you can take Art 2 as a freshman.

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is floral design double blocked? and can i take it as a freshman?

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is floral design double blocked? and can i take it as a freshman?

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You will notice that Floral Design is not on your choice sheet.  that is because it is not open for freshman.  the only classes open for freshman are listed on the choice sheet.  Since it is not listed on the choice sheet, I am not sure if it is double blocked or not.

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What is basketball study hall?
It is class time that allows you to work on school work during the basketball period since basketball is two class blocks, and you go to it every day for 90 minutes. Think about it--between classes, practices, 2x weekly games and tournaments, it will be helpful to have some time built in for you to stay caught up. :)

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To take the electives that I want to take in high school I'll have to take my language classes during the summer at ACC, do you have any information about that?

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To take the electives that I want to take in high school I'll have to take my language classes during the summer at ACC, do you have any information about that?

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Yes, I (Ms. Cano Vega) took ACC classes for high school and college credit when I was in high school. It saves a LOT of time and money and I wish I would have done way more than I did! Here is a link to ACC's website with more info.

P.S. When you say language, are you referring to ELA or a foreign language? I only ask because if you can read/write/speak another language fluently there is the APPPL test (and others) that allow you to receive up to 4 years of high school credit through one test examination.

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What if I play volleyball for the first season and then nothing for the next, what class period would take its place?

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What if I play volleyball for the first season and then nothing for the next, what class period would take its place?

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The class is year-long, so you would stay in the period and continue off-season workouts.

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For advanced theatre it says you have to have two years of middle school theatre, this is my first year doing theatre but I did the musical in 6th and 7th grade, does that count for anything?

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For advanced theatre it says you have to have two years of middle school theatre, this is my first year doing theatre but I did the musical in 6th and 7th grade, does that count for anything?

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This is one of those times where you would want Mr. Green and Ms. Honeycutt to email AJ, the McNeil Theatre director to sing your praises. I can't speak for AJ, but knowing him, he will most likely think that counts. He does come to see the musicals. :)

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Yes. It counts as a PE elective.

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how many PE credits do i have if i do marching band for one year?

Marching Band only takes place in the fall, so you would receive 1/2 PE credit.

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What does the slide mean by "coherent sequence of four related courses?" Like, can I earn the Arts and Humanities Endorsement by doing two years of musical theater and two years of technical theater because they are both theater? Or do I have to do four years of musical theater or four years of technical theater to earn it?

There are two theatre tracks: Performance (music theater) and Nonperformance (tech theater), so it appears you have to have 4 years of the same course  to get the endorsement. However, keep in mind that you can get multiple endorsements. Or, if you want to try both before you decide, there are some students who take tech and music theater freshman year and then choose the one they want to focus on.
https://sites.google.com/a/roundrockisd.org/mcneil-high-school-college-and-career/academics/course-selection-information

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what endorsement is the one where you get to raise an animal?

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what endorsement is the one where you get to raise an animal?

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FFA, Future Farmers of America, is the organization you join where you can raise and show Livestock. Many FFA students choose the Animal Science Program of Study that falls under the Business and Industry Endorsement because it pertains to helping them raise livestock.

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If I take Video Production for 4 years will it take care of the Business & Industry endorsement and my fine arts credit?

Takings the 4 courses in the Video Production area of study takes care of your endorsement, but it does not take care of a Fine Art. For a list of Fine Art options, look here in the Fine Arts section.

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What do we put on the choice sheet if we don't end up taking spanish if we successfully pass this year.

You can choose to leave that page blank. (Or take another language or higher level Spanish IF you want to.)

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Since I have taken spanish 1 and 2 Does that count as 1 high school credit?

As long as you passed both Spanish 1 and 2 (70 or higher),  then yes, you will have completed your high school foreign language requirement. (Isn't that cool?!) You could choose to take a higher level Spanish, or choose to take other electives instead.

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Do I still have to complete the choice sheet if I am going to another high school?

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Do I still have to complete the choice sheet if I am going to another high school?

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Yes, please do. Sometimes the other high schools request records and choice sheets from McNeil.

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Do we have to take a certain PE class to do sports?

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Do we have to take a certain PE class to do sports?

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In high school, if you play sports there is no general Athletics period like there is in middle school--in high school you simply up for the sport you want to play. If you want to play more than one sport, sign up for the one whose season comes up first. For example, if you wanted to do Football and Basketball, you would select Football on your choice sheet because it's important you are in the Football class period first because Football season starts first. Later on, after the football season ends, a counselor may change your schedule into the basketball period.

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It depends on whether or not any of your classes are double-blocked. You have 8 total spaces in your schedule. Most classes take up one space, however some classes like Football take up 2 spaces.

If you see the letters (DB) next to the class, that means it's double-blocked and takes up two spaces.

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I'm going to go to another High School next year, so do I still have to do the choice sheet? Ok sounds good.

Yes, please complete it anyway. Sometimes other high schools request choice sheets from McNeil.