POST -SECONDARY ENROLLMENT OPTIONS

This policy establishes 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 Vocational Technical College System and Maine Maritime Academy. Students may take courses offered through the Distance Learning Network or the Internet if such participation is approved by the post-secondary institution.

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:

     A. Have a minimum of a B average [or 3.0] 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.

A student enrolled in grade 11 or 12 who does not have a B average or 3.0 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 participation in the course by an eligible institution.

AWARDING OF CREDITS

The eligible institution shall grant full credit to any student who successfully completes a course. High school graduation credit for a course taken under this policy shall be awarded as follows:

     A. The course must meet for a minimum of one semester.
     B. The course must meet any applicable Learning Results standards.
     C. The student must earn a passing grade of at least a C in the course.
     D. Attendance must satisfy the instructor’s requirements.
     E. If the above criteria are met, the student shall receive credit based on the following: ½ credit toward graduation will be awarded for
         a 3 credit post-secondary course.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

     A. The Maine Department of Education shall pay applicable tuition costs (up to the limits of legislative appropriation) 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.

SCHOOL UNIT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

The Superintendent shall make parents and students aware of post-secondary enrollment options through handbooks or other appropriate means.

Legal Reference: 20-A MRSA §4771 et seq.
Chapter 127 (Maine Department of Education Rules)
















DATE ADOPTED: JULY 1, 2003