High school to shift biology to ninth grade as district revises master schedule

High school administration recommended moving biology to ninth grade next year and restructuring the master schedule to allow additional credit opportunities and more time to retest Keystone exams.

"My recommendation is to move all ninth grade students to biology for their ninth grade year," the high school principal said, explaining that earlier coursework would give students additional opportunities to retake required exams and help meet graduation pathway requirements.

Board members raised concerns that some students mature academically at different rates and that requiring Keystone-tested biology in ninth grade could disadvantage students who perform better later. A board member cautioned, "Putting a tested subject in ninth grade ... I would say, let's monitor and make sure that we're not losing ... students who might be able to pass later on."

Administrators said they will consult with IU peers about placement, monitor student outcomes, and report back. The high school also discussed adding honors-level pathways and potential online or honors physics options for students pursuing STEM tracks.