Course Selection
High school course selection plays an important role in shaping students’ future opportunities in college and careers. At Somerville High School (SHS), students are encouraged to choose courses that balance challenge and support in a way that fits their individual needs and strengths. Because students learn best when they are interested and engaged, they have greater choice in their schedule than ever before. The goal is to help students find meaning and enjoyment in their daily learning experience, since they will spend a significant amount of time in school each day.
At SHS, students typically take seven classes at a time, with each class meeting four times per week. Students move between different classrooms and teachers throughout the day, experiencing a variety of subjects and learning environments. Some courses run for the full year, while others are semester-long. Certain courses are required for graduation, while others are elective choices that allow students to explore interests.
SHS Program of Studies
The Somerville High School Program of Studies is designed to help students and families plan a meaningful and successful high school experience. Inside, you will find important information about graduation requirements, course offerings, academic expectations, and the many opportunities available to support student growth and achievement.
This document also outlines the values that shape our school community through our Profile of a Graduate and Highlander Habits, which encourage students to become thoughtful learners, engaged community members, and prepared leaders for college, careers, and life beyond high school.
As students plan their programs, they are encouraged to explore courses that challenge their interests, build new skills, and support their future goals. Information about GPA policies, course levels, promotion requirements, and academic pathways will help students make informed decisions throughout their high school journey.
In addition, our School Counseling Department is available to support students and families with academic planning, college and career exploration, and social-emotional wellness. Together, we are committed to ensuring that every student has access to the resources, guidance, and opportunities needed to thrive.
We encourage students and families to review this guide carefully and work closely with teachers, counselors, and administrators as they build a program that reflects each student’s strengths, interests, and aspirations.
View the 2026-2027 Program of Studies
For Incoming Freshman
Classes by Grade
In 10th grade, all students continue building toward graduation by taking required core classes while also choosing electives that match their interests and goals.
Required Courses for All Students
All 10th graders must take (credits earned in parentheses):
- English 2 or ESL (5 credits)
- Math (based on your course sequence in the Program of Studies) (5)
- U.S. History (5)
- Chemistry or another science course (see Program of Studies for options) (5)
- Physical Education (2.5)
Courses Based on Student Choice or Pathway
In addition to required classes, students will also select courses such as:
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) (5 credits, if applicable)
- World Language (5)
- Electives (varies based on student interests and graduation plan)
In 11th grade, students continue working toward graduation while beginning to take more advanced and specialized courses based on their interests and postsecondary goals.
Required Courses for All Students
All 11th graders must take (credits earned in parentheses):
- English 3, AP English, or ESL (5)
- Math (based on your sequence in the Program of Studies) (5)
- Social Studies elective(s) (5)
- Physics or another science course (see Program of Studies for options) (5)
Additional Requirements (Based on Student Pathway)
- Health Education 2 (required for students not enrolled in CTE) (2.5)
- CTE Honors (10 credits / 2 blocks, if applicable) (10)
- World Language (5 credits, depending on sequence) (5)
- Electives (varies based on interests and graduation plan)
In 12th grade, students focus on completing graduation requirements while preparing for life after high school—whether that includes college, career, military service, or other pathways. Schedules are often more flexible and personalized based on each student’s goals.
Required Courses for All Students
All seniors must take:
- English 4, AP English, or ESL
Required or Strongly Recommended Courses
- Math (based on your sequence in the Program of Studies; required for most students and recommended for all)
Courses Based on Student Pathway
- CTE Advanced (20 credits / 4 blocks, if applicable)
- Physics or another science course (5 or 7.5 credits, depending on pathway)
- Social Studies elective(s) (2.5 or 5 credits)
- Physical Education (required for students not enrolled in CTE)
- World Language (5 credits, depending on sequence)
- Electives (varies based on student interests and graduation plan)
Important Dates
January, 2 weeks – dates for 2027-2028 coming soon
During classes, teachers will talk with students about the courses they are recommending. Students will be able to view these recommendations in Aspen starting January 20.
January, 1 week – dates for 2027-2028 coming soon
In English classes, Gr. 9-11 teachers will review the course selection process.
January – 2027-2028 dates coming soon
Course selection letters emailed to families.
January – February, dates for 2027-2028 coming soon
The online scheduling window is now open in Aspen for all students to enter requests. Students will now be able to see teacher recommendations in Aspen. All students will enter their course requests via Aspen after taking into consideration the following factors: discussions with their families, their academic/social needs and interests, graduation requirements, teacher and counselor recommendations, and their post-secondary plans.
January & February – 2027-2028 dates coming soon
X Block teachers will support students with course registration in Aspen.