High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Frequently Asked Questions
The following are questions that we frequently hear regarding the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio required for the graduating class of 2008 and beyond. As always, if you have additional questions not addressed on this web site please feel free to contact us at Decatur High School. We will do our best to answer your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project?
The State of Washington requires all students starting with the class of 2008 to have a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project. This High School and Beyond Plan requires students to look at their future beyond high school. The development of the High School and Beyond Plan begins prior to entry into Decatur and continues when students look at different careers, explore current interests and begin building the foundation for a college and job portfolio. In addition students, along with their parent/guardian discuss and choose one of three general Graduation Plans ( Plan A, B, or C). Throughout the high school years, students will use the plan to guide class choices and revise it to accommodate changing interests or goals.
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Does everyone have to complete a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project?
Yes, all students starting with the class of 2008 are required to complete a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project. The development of a High School and Beyond Plan/13th year plan is a crucial part of the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project. The graduation plan (Plan A, B or C) selected as part of the High School and Beyond Plan is a component of the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project (Master Portfolio).
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Why do I need to do this?
The High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project is a state graduation requirement beginning for the class of 2008 (WAC 180-51-061). In Federal Way Public Schools this requirement is met when students complete a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio.
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How will the schools keep track of what we have finished on the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio?
You can track your progress on Informer or Grades Online. You can also access your High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio worksheet in your Advisory.
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I’m a visual person. May I see a sample portfolio?
Yes, absolutely! Sample copies of the Decatur High School High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio were given to each advisory teacher and are available in the Career Center. You may also view the sample portfolio online: Sample Master Portfolio.
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What if I don’t submit a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio? Is there a possibility I will not graduate?
You will not graduate from Decatur High School if you fail to complete the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio.
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What If I’m in Running Start or PSSC?
All students who participate in Running Start, PSSC, or other equivalent programs are required to complete High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio and meet their building requirements. Students who intend to participate in these programs need to plan carefully to ensure completion of the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio within their school’s published deadlines.
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What if I’m an English Language Learner (ELL) Student?
ELL students who receive services will have an individualized plan detailing how each student will meet the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio requirements. Each student’s plan will be developed by a team including the student and ELL teacher(s), counselor(s), and parent/guardian(s) with the approval of the District-level representative for ELL. A building administrator will approve all plans.
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Are Students with Disabilities or 504 plans expected to complete a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio?
Students with disabilities may require accommodations and/or modifications to complete their work. Student IEP's or 504 plans will detail how each student will meet the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio requirements. The plan may include input from the student, parent/guardian(s), Special Education teacher(s), counselor and general education teacher(s) who are familiar with the student’s needs. A building administrator will approve all plans.
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What if I transfer from another school in the district?
Since the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio is a Federal Way Public Schools graduation requirement, students will still be required to complete all requirements when transferring from one high school to another within the District.
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I’m new to the district do I have to complete a High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio?
Students who transfer into Federal Way Public Schools from another district and are given senior, junior, sophomore, or freshman standing at their new school, will be required to complete the High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio. Students who transfer into Federal Way Public Schools from another district, whose transcripts reflect that the student has completed a High School and Beyond Plan and a Culminating Project at their former school, may be exempted from completion of the Federal Way Public School's High School and Beyond Plan/Culminating Project Master Portfolio.
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