This month marks the beginning of students’ process to pick their classes for the 2026-2027 school year. Whether they are looking to challenge themselves academically or yearning to try something new, the courses they pick during the next few weeks will set the tone for their upcoming year. However, with this freedom comes the inevitable decision-making that troubles most students.
“I chose classes that intrigued me the most. Rather than following what everyone else is doing, I thought that would be the best choice,” said freshman Jackson Glenn.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when selecting courses, especially with having to schedule around required classes instead of simply picking desired subjects.
Being aware of the mandatory classes for graduation is essential to picking courses for the following year. In order to fulfill credit requirements, students are required to have a total of 22.5 units of credit total. Full-year courses earn one unit of credit, while half-year courses earn a ½ unit of credit.
There is a requirement to have four English credits, four social studies credits, three math credits, three science credits, one health credit, one arts credit, one second language credit, two physical education credits, and three elective credits. Additionally, freshmen and juniors or seniors are required to take health.
A language credit is also required, with the exception of students selecting a five-unit sequence in Career & Tech Ed or in the arts. However, three credits of world language are required, except for students exempted by the Committee on Special Education. Physical Education must also be taken and passed each semester.
In addition to overall credit requirements, course selections also affect the type of diploma a student may receive. Students may graduate with a local diploma, a Regents diploma, or an Advanced Regents diploma. A local diploma requires fewer Regents-level courses and assessments than a Regents diploma. A Regents diploma requires students to pass specific Regents exams in core subjects, including math, English, social studies, and science. An Advanced Regents diploma requires additional coursework, such as higher-level math and science credits, along with additional language credits. Diploma requirements vary based on the classes that the student is on track to take or is already taking.
Throughout the month of January, students have met with their guidance counselors in a meeting during their English classes. During this time, they filledl out a form to select their classes for the upcoming year. Students accepted or declined recommendations made by their teachers from core classes such as English, math, science, and social studies. They also chose their gym electives, first-choice electives, and backup elective options.
“This year, the scheduling process was adjusted by having counselors visit English classes to meet with students, review course options, and explain what to expect. Students receive a scheduling sheet with recommended classes and can choose to keep or change them. Counselors then enter the selections into a system, and course requests are now available on the portal for students and parents to review and edit,” said Director of Guidance Mr. Justin Arini.
Students can also meet with their guidance counselors after submitting the form to change their schedule if they made a mistake or believe that it is necessary. This will reduce the potential for errors and dissatisfaction with course choices.
Throughout the selection process, students have access to various resources to help them. One of the primary means for help includes meeting with a guidance counselor. Counselors can help understand graduation requirements, review recommendations from teachers, and answer any other questions a student may have.
“Make sure to attend your guidance appointment prepared and have a clear vision of what you want. Having backups will also help with the process. Choose electives that interest you,” said junior Jordyn Zekowski.
Students are able to contact guidance counselors by email or scheduling an appointment in the guidance suite. In addition to guidance staff, teachers are also a valuable resource when deciding what courses to take as they make recommendations to students based on their academic performance and progress in class. Students can also refer to the course catalog to help make a decision, which outlines course descriptions, credit information for classes offered, etc. The catalog allows students and their families to review course options before finalizing their selections.
In addition, the upcoming school year boasts many new course options. One of these includes AP Seminar, a foundational AP Capstone course. This class engages students in a cross-curricular study of real-world issues by exploring multiple perspectives. Students research topics of personal interest, synthesize information from various sources, and develop evidence-based arguments through collaborative and individual projects. Students can view all their options and requirements along with their descriptions in the Paul D. Schreiber Program Planning Guide 2026-2027.
Choosing courses is an important step to help students plan for both graduation and personal growth. With guidance counselors, teachers, and the course catalog, students have many resources to help with their decision. By balancing required classes and classes that interest them, students can create a schedule that is academically challenging while also trying out new interests. Thoughtful planning now can help students set the stage for a successful and exciting school year ahead.