IHCDA-POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS
File: IHCDA
POST-SECONDARY ENROLLMENT OPTIONS
The intent of this policy is to establish the requirements for student enrollment in post-secondary courses taken before high school graduation.
Eligible Institutions
Students may take courses at eligible post-secondary institutions within Maine, which include the University of Maine System, the Community College System and Maine Maritime Academy.
The school district may allow students to take courses at private colleges or other institutions, but the school district cannot include such costs as allowable program costs. Any such requests shall be considered on a case-by-case basis to the extent that funds are available.
Student Eligibility Requirements
A student may take no more than one course per semester and two courses per academic year.
A student must meet the following criteria prior to enrolling in a post-secondary course:
[NOTE: The following are statutory requirements.]
A. Have a minimum of a “B” [or 3.0] average in his/her courses overall;
B. Meet the course admission standards of the eligible institution;
C. Provide evidence of parent/guardian approval for taking the course; and
D. Obtain approval from the principal and guidance counselor
Exceptions to Eligibility Requirements
[NOTE: The following statutory requirements are effective September 18, 1999.]
A student enrolled in grade 11 or 12 who does not meet the “B” [or 3.0] average in his/her courses overall is eligible to take a post-secondary course provided that he/she:
A. Has been assessed and received a recommendation to take the course from the school administration; and
B. Has been approved for participant in the course by the eligible institution.
Awarding of Credits
The eligible institution shall grant full credit to any student who successfully completes a course.
School districts are not required to award credit for courses taken at eligible institutions. If the MSAD #11 School Board wishes to grant high school credit:
A. The course must meet for a minimum of one semester.
B. The student must earn a passing grade in the course.
C. Attendance must satisfy the instructor’s requirements.
The Board may request that the eligible institution record and report attendance to the high school.
D. If the above criteria are met, the student shall receive the appropriate
number of high school credits for each course.
Financial Assistance
A. The Maine Department of Education shall pay applicable tuition costs for any student enrolled in a course under this policy if the eligible institution requires tuition payment.
B. The student and his/her parent/guardian are responsible for paying
for all textbooks, course fees and transportation costs.
[NOTE: While the statute obligates students to pay these costs, school districts may still choose to pay some or all of these costs. Such costs remain allowable program costs under the statute.
School District Reporting Requirements
The Superintendent shall ensure that information concerning post-secondary enrollment options is made available to parents and students.
The Superintendent shall provide an annual report to the MSAD #11 School Board regarding the number of students taking courses at post-secondary institutions and the courses taken.
Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA § 4771 et seq.
Adopted: March 10, 1994
Revised: May 3, 2007