Academic Planning

The Guidance Department of Black River High School makes available this guide to your high school academic program. You must remember that the recommendations are general. The only true program is one that you have chosen with:

  1. Careful and resourceful consideration
  2. Your future in mind
  3. Counseling and advisement with an eye to employment trends
  4. Post secondary school prerequisites

Parents are encouraged to contact the Guidance Director with any questions or concerns about the course selection process at (802) 875-4742.

Minimum Requirements for Graduation:

26 credits will be required for the Class of 2020 through the following program:

English 4 Credits

Math 3 Credits

Social Studies 3 Credits

Science 3 Credits

Health .5 Credit

Physical Education 1.5 Credits

Fine Arts 1 Credit

Electives 10 Credits

TOTAL: 26 Credits

Students are also required to perform 40 hours of community service and to be certified in CPR/AED (training provided by the school).


Recommended Program for Competitive Colleges:

English 4 Credits

Math 4 Credits

Social Studies 4 Credits

Science 4 Credits (includes 2-3 credits of Lab Sciences)

Health .5 Credit

Physical Education 1.5 Credits

Fine Arts 1 Credit

Foreign Language 2-3 Credits (of the same language)


In order to progress to the next grade level, students must earn the following number of credits:

For Grade 10: 5 credits

For Grade 11: 12 Credits

For Grade 12: 20 Credits


Suggested Sequence of Courses:

As a school, we are committed to providing a quality education for all students through a range of courses that allow all students to meet the graduation requirements. When planning a program for your remaining years at BRHS, you should remember that the courses listed in the Course Descriptions are proposed course offerings and that selected courses are offered only in alternate years.




Specific course requirements for core classes are provided in the Course Description document attached below. Each student can carry a maximum course load of seven (7) credits each year while carrying no fewer than four (4) credits. Seniors who meet the requirements may qualify for senior privileges.