A minimum of 50 semester credits is required each year with a minimum of 25 semester credits each semester. Fifty to 75 semester credits constitute a full scholastic program. Those wishing to register for more than 75 semester credits must petition the Academic Affairs Committee. All uncompleted correspondence work is considered part of the 75 semester credits for determining class loads.

SEMESTER UNIT OF CREDIT

A semester credit represents a class that meets the equivalent of one forty (40) minute period a day for one semester. A class that meets five times a week for a semester receives five semester credits. A total of 220 semester credits is required for graduation.

GRADING SYSTEM

Grades issued are based on a 4.00 point scale and percentages as follows:

Points Percent Points Percent

A+ = 4.00 100+
A = 4.00 94-100
A- = 3.67 90-93
B+ = 3.33 87-89
B = 3.00 83-86
B- = 2.67 80-82
C+ = 2.33 77-79
C = 2.00 73-76
C- = 1.67 70-72
D+ = 1.33 67-69
D = 1.00 63-66
D- = 0.67 60-62
F = 0.00 0-59
W 0.00

Additional grade codes may be used. These codes are used in calculating grade point averages:

S = Satisfactory*
U = Unsatisfactory*
I = Incomplete
NG = No grade
W = Withdrawn
WP = Withdrawn Passing
WF = Withdrawn Failing

*Used with interim grades only

A grade of incomplete is given when , for legitimate reasons such as illness, work, or emergencies, the student is unable to complete requirements. Full credit is given when the work is completed and a change of grade is turned into the Registrar by the teacher. Incompletes must be removed no later than two weeks from the time the incomplete is issued.

Withdrawal grades are given when a student withdraws from a course. W is given when the withdrawal takes place within the first two weeks of a course. After the first two weeks and before three weeks until the end of course, a WP or WF will be issued. Withdrawals are not allowed in the last three weeks of a semester.

GRADING PERIODS AND REPORTS

The academic year is divided into two semesters. Only the final grades issued at the end of each semester are official grades. Semester grades become part of the student’s permanenttranscript. Grade reports are sent to parents at the following intervals:
Midterm and Nine Week Grades: Student progress is reported by teachers at the 4 _ and 9 week intervals. These reports are not recorded on the transcript and are not calculated as part of the cumulative grade point average. Grade reports indicate current academic performance.
Semester Grades: Grades issued at the end of each semester are recorded as permanent grades on the student’s transcript and are part of the cumulative grade point average.CHANGE OF PROGRAMWritten permission to add or drop a class must be obtained from the student’s parent, the teacher(s) and the registrar. No student is considered enrolled in a class or dropped from a class until a properly signed Add/Drop Form is returned to the registrar. Students are usually not permitted to join a class after the second week of the semester. No class may be dropped within the last 3 weeks of a semester.

SEMESTER EXAMSThe semester test schedule provides students with the maximum opportunity to prepare for writing exams. Students are expected to take semester exams at the time they are scheduled except for illness or special request by the parent. Parents should submit a written request to the principal for their son or daughter to take the test(s) early or late. A $10 fee for each early or late test taken must be paid at the time the test is administered. E XAM PERMITSStudents will be allowed to take semester exams after showing the exam permit issued by the Business Office. Exam permits are issued to student’s whose accounts are paid in full or for which satisfactory financial arrangements have been made.

DIPLOMAS AND TRANSCRIPTS

Three diplomas are offered. Students who complete the minimum course requirements receive the general diploma. Those who complete a total of 70 credits in math and science (a minimum of 30 in one and 40 in the other) will receive an Advanced Diploma. A Vocational Diploma is available for those who complete at least 30 vocational credits.Requests for transcripts must be made in writing to the registrar by the parent of a student 17 years of age or younger and by the student 18 years of age or older. The school reserves the right to withhold diplomas and transcripts of students whose accounts are not paid. Transcripts and diplomas for students with past due accounts will be released upon receipt of a cashiers check or when a personal check clears the bank. Request for up to 3 transcripts at no charge. Additional requests will be a $3.00 fee.

CORRESPONDENCE & SUMMER WORK

All correspondence courses and summer school course work must be approved by the Academic affairs committee before credit may be applied toward graduation requirements. Requests need to be done in advance of taking course work to be assured that the credit will be accepted. Seniors enrolled in correspondence work should have all the work completed and grades received in the Registrar’s office by May 1.

EXTRACURRICULAR PARTICIPATION

Student participation in off-campus extracurricular activities will be dependant upon their grades. For this purpose we will use a 2-point system to determine eligibility. A student with 2 or more points on the last grade report will not be allowed to participate in off-campus extracurricular activities until the next grade report with less than two points is issued. D’s of any form earn 1 point and an F earns 2 points.
HONORS AND HIGH HONORSAll students with a grade point average of 3.5 or above are listed on the official honor roll at the end of each nine week and semester grading periods. Students who have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 to 3.74 graduate with honors. Those who have a GPA of 3.75 to 4.00 graduate with high honors.

CLASS STANDING

Class standing is determined by the number of credits completed based on the official transcript at the beginning of each school year as follows:

9th grade - 8th grade diploma
10th grade - 50 credits
11th grade - 100 credits
12th grade - 150 credits

In order to be considered a "four-year senior" a student must have attended DAA for eight semesters.

ELIGIBILITY FOR GRADUATION

The following criteria must be met to be eligible for graduation:

1. Must have completed or be enrolled in and passing 220 semester periods of class work.
2. Official transcripts from secondary school or schools previously attended must be recorded in the registrar’s office. In compliance with Mid-America Union Education Code, students will not be able to march at graduation without an official transcript on file.
3. Must be in attendance the second semester of the senior year.
4. The student’s account must be paid according to financial policy.
   Exceptions are subject to the approval of the appropriate committee.ACCELERATIONStudents in secondary schools should normally take four years to complete requirements in preparation for graduation. This time is necessary in order to :
   
   • Complete credits needed for graduation without exertion of undue and detrimental external and internal pressure to achieve.
   
   • Develop social, physical and emotional maturity and the breadth of experience, knowledge and wisdom to be adequately prepared for college.
   
   • Progress with other students of the same age group.A few students may benefit from an accelerated program through which they can graduate in three years. Students who desire to graduate in three years must make application in the fall of their second year. Guidelines for acceleration must be followed. These guidelines are available upon request from the principal.ACADEMIC PROBATIONStudents who consistently fail in a majority of their studies may be placed on academic probation. The student’s work program and social activities may be curtailed until satisfactory scholarship is sustained.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

The following listing indicates minimal requirements for graduation as set forth by the Mid-America Union, the State of North Dakota, and DAA. The numbers represent semester period credit.

Religion, 40*
Technology, 20 — Keyboarding (5), Word Process (5), and Vocational (5)
Math, 20
Social Studies, 30
Fine Arts, 5
English, 40
Science, 20
Work, 10
PE, 20
Electives, 15
Health, 5
TOTAL 220

A foreign language is recommended.

*10 credits required for each year in attendance. Technology requires 20 credits, of which 5 must be keyboarding, 5 computer, and 5 vocation. Remaining 5 can be additional from one of those 3.

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Course Offerings

Course listings that follow suggest courses that can be taken for each of the four years in attendance.

Freshman
Bible I
English I
Algebra I or Pre-Algebra Geometry
Keyboarding/Word Proc
Physical Science
Physical Education
Electives: Band, Choir, DAK Electives: Band, Choir, DAK
Gymnastics, ArtAuto Body 1, Gymnastics, Art

Sophomore
Bible II
English II
Algebra I or Pre-Algebra Geometry
Biology 1
World History
Physical Education
Electives: Band, Choir, DAK Electives: Band, Choir, DAK
Gymnastics, Art, Auto Body 1, Gymnastics, Art

Junior
Bible III
English III
Algebra II
U.S. History Electives: Band, Choir, DAK
Health Chemistry, Biology II,
Electives: Band, Choir, DAK, Anatomy and Physiology,
Chemistry, Biology II, Physics, Nurse Assisting,
Anatomy and Physiology, Auto Body I, II, or Vocational Ed,
Physics, Nurse Assisting, Accounting, Psychology,
Auto Body I, II, or Vocational Ed, Gymnastics, Yearbook, Ripples,
Accounting, Psychology, Art, Art, Job Shadowing.
Gymnastics, Yearbook, Ripples,
Job Shadowing.

Senior
Bible IV
English IV
Government, Economics
U.S. History Electives: Band, Choir, DAK
Health Chemistry, Biology II,
Electives: Band, Choir, DAK, Anatomy and Physiology,
Chemistry, Biology II, Physics, Nurse Assisting,
Anatomy and Physiology, Auto Body I, II, or Vocational Ed,
Physics, Nurse Assisting, Accounting, Psychology,
Auto Body I, II, or Vocational Ed, Gymnastics, Yearbook, Ripples,
Accounting, Psychology, Art, Art, Job Shadowing.
Gymnastics, Yearbook, Ripples,
Job Shadowing.

Note: Dakota Singers and Gymnastics are by audition and invitation.

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Course Descriptions

BIBLE

Bible I
10 credits
To develop an understanding of oneself by interpreting God’s revelation of Himself to man as seen in the Bible books of Genesis and Matthew and the writings of Ellen G. White. More specifically the course will look at the Bible as divine literature, creation, the origin of sin, family relationships, affirming a personal relationship with Jesus and the study of the events leading up to and including the crucifixion.

Bible II
10 credits
A basic study of Judeo-Christian church history. Specifically, students study the Exodus experience in the Old Testament, the Corinthian church in the New Testament, and Seventh-day Adventist church history.

Bible III
10 credits
An in-depth study of the books of Romans, Daniel and Revelation, including a study of various types of Bible studies, in order to make personal Bible study more meaningful.

Bible IV
10 credits
This course includes a study of Proverbs and the ways to incorporate its truths into a philosophy of life. Additional units explore careers, preparation for marriage, and witnessing. Time is also spent on one or more selected portions of scripture which are studied to find out what they tell us about the nature of God.

BUSINESS EDUCATION

Accounting
10 credits
Accounting principles are learned that will assist the student in understanding business dealings from the beginning balance sheet to the closing entries in sole proprietorship or partnerships. The skills learned are basic for entry level positions in business offices.

Keyboarding/Word Processing
10 credits
A business class in which the student learns keying and word processing skills including key location, formats of business and personal letters, memorandums, outlines, reports, mail merging, and many other word processing skills using computers and office environment software.

Computer Applications
5 credits
A one semester computer course covering topics and applications of operating systems, spreadsheets, data base, the Internet, word processing and desk top publishing. A hands on class filled with practical application and backed with theory.

ENGLISH

English I
10 credits
This course features literature written about teens, specifically for teens (Young Adult Literature). At this point, students begin to utilize the tools of grammar and sentence structure learned in elementary school. Emphasis is placed on basic paragraph structure and how to use that structure for different purposes. Students are also introduced to public speaking/stage presence through the venue of drama.

English II
10 credits
Students focus on the genre of short stories and poetry. Students will use their familiarity with these forms to model and compose their own creative pieces. This study is complemented by the practice of analytical writing and discussion developing the skills necessary to recognize and evaluate themes and form in the text.

English III
10 credits
Students gain a firm grasp on writing the basic five paragraph expository essay and a brief overview of American classical literature. Public speaking and appearance is also developed within the expository writing section.

English IV
10 credits
Students attain a brief overview of English classical literature and also emphasis is placed on the development of technical, business, and job placement communications.

Yearbook
5 credits
The purpose of this class is to produce the school yearbook. Admission to this class is limited. Registration for this class is by permission of the instructor.

SOCIAL STUDIES

World History
10 credits
A survey of the history of the world from prehistory to the present with a Christian perspective.

U.S. History
10 credits
A study of United States history from its earliest beginnings to the present time. Concentrating specifically on its formation, the events leading up to its formation and its growth.

Government
10 credits
A survey of the structure and function of the U.S. government, beginning with its formation and continuing to modern times.

Economics
5 credits
An introduction of the principles and issues of national economic functions and processes with emphasis on personal finance, monetary and fiscal policy, and funding of national programs.

Psychology
5 credits
A course surveying the wide field of psychological theory, research, and practice. The course will also focus on such areas as developmental, educational, organizational, and abnormal psychology. Regular readings will be case studies, essays and magazine articles relating to the study of behavior and of course textbook.

MATHEMATICS

Pre-Algebra
10 credits
The course includes the study of mathematical sentences, formulas, graphs, negative numbers, and informal geometry. This course is designed for those who need a strong foundation in mathematics.

Algebra I
10 credits
An introduction to algebra, surveying the language of algebra, the concept of positive and negative numbers, solving of formulas and equations and an introduction to graphing methods.

Algebra II
10 credits
Prerequisite: Algebra I. A review and expansion of the basic concepts of algebra with more emphasis on functions, progressing to solutions of quadratic equations.

Geometry
10 credits
A brief introduction to logic using geometric figures. A review of measurement of lines, planes and special figures.

Pre-Calculus/ Math IV
10 credits
Prerequisite: Algebra II and Geometry. An extensive coverage of trigonometry and pre calculus concepts progressing to the calculus concept of derivative.

FINE ARTS

Concert Band
5 credits
A performing instrumental group. Auditions will be held for placement at the beginning of the school year.

Concert Chorale
5 credits
A vocal performing group. No auditions or previous experience are required. All are welcome. The Chorale performs for churches as well as other concerts and some limited touring.

Dakota Singers
5 credits
A small vocal performing organization that tours extensively. Auditions required; reading music a must.

Bell Choir
5 credits
Instruction and practice is given in the art of playing hand bells. Bell Choir members perform for musical events.

Music Appreciation/General Music
5 credits
A course designed to expand awareness and understanding of music including music listening, music projects, and written work.

Private Lessons
1 credit
Voice, keyboard, and instrument lessons may be arranged with the music director. A fee is charged for private and group lessons. Lessons may be arranged on a semester basis.

Art
5 credits
Introduction and advanced instruction in a variety of mediums including pencil, charcoal, pastels, and paints. The class will also include three dimensional projects, composition, layout and developing murals.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education I
10 credits
A general physical education class covering skills and development in a wide range of team sports, including football, volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, floor hockey, badminton, and general physical conditioning.

Physical Education II
10 credits
A second year general physical education class that continues to develop skills and promotes participation in a wide range of team sports, including football, volleyball, basketball, softball, and general physical conditioning.

Health
5 credits
A study of the holistic approach to health with a look at physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Gymnastics
10 credits
The Gymnastics Team is a public relations arm of the Academy. The gymnastics team is chosen after a two week tryout. The team works on advanced skills with the emphasis on performance.

SCIENCE

Physical Science
10 credits
A lab course introducing principles of physics and chemistry. Students will be given the opportunity to develop skills in data collection and interpretation. Prepares students for further scientific studies in life sciences, chemistry and physics.

Biology I
10 credits
Prerequisite: Physical or Earth Science. A sophomore level life science course covering the cell, genetics, origins, diversity of life using the five kingdom classification system, an overview of human anatomy and physiology, and ecology.

Biology II
10 credits
Prerequisites: Biology 1 and either Physical or Earth Science. An elective junior/senior level life science lab course for students wanting to improve their biology knowledge and skills. Students will be introduced to a wide variety of biology research methods and skills in selected topics. Biology II is offered on even years. A lab fee is charged.

Chemistry
10 credits
Prerequisites: Biology I and either Physical or Earth Science. A junior/senior level elective lab course for students wanting to deepen their understanding of chemistry principles and broaden their chemistry lab experience. This course helps prepare students for college chemistry.

Anatomy and Physiology
10 credits
Prerequisites: Biology I and either Physical or Earth Science. A junior/senior level elective course which thoroughly surveys the anatomy and physiology of human body systems. This course provides a solid background for students considering health and medically-related study programs in college. Offered on odd years.

Physics
10 credits
A study of the physical world through classical mechanics, progressing to the study of heat, light, electrical and magnetic energy utilizing the properties of wave mechanics. Practical application is stressed in the lab setting.

VOCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION

Food Service
5 credits
A quantity food service class familiarizing students with food service occupations and food preparation. Content includes careers and opportunities in the food service industry; safety and sanitation; organization of food preparation and service areas; developing skills in quantity food preparation; menu planning and recipe selection; food purchasing; and the correlation of in-class instruction with experience in the work place to provide opportunity for the student to process and put into practice what they are learning. The student will also develop supervisory skills.

Nurse Assisting
5 credits
This is an approved training program for Nurse Aides consisting of about 90 hours of training that includes both manual skills and theory. There will be 8-12 hours clinical hours spent at a local nursing home. Students must be age 16 or above to enroll. Students will need to purchase scrubs and a watch with a second hand. At the completion of the training course, a competency evaluation will be taken by each nurse aide. Cost for the course is $350.00 and an additional $110.00 is needed to cover the cost of the final certification test fee. (These fees are pro-rated back to the student at the facility which hires them.)

Auto Body I
10 credits
This course is designed to introduce the student to the auto body industry and to help the student become familiar with the process of auto body sheet metal repairs and techniques. It will include welding and the use of hand and power tool skills on metal panels before any work will be done on damaged cars. The repair of plastic interiors and exterior parts will be included. Must have sophomore class standing to enroll. Must sign Auto Body Policies and Agreement form.

Auto Body II
10 credits
Further study and skill development on section and panel repair, component alignment, glass replacement, refinishing techniques, base coat/clear coat systems. This is a lab course with instructor assistance, where students will have a specific project from start to finish. Must have instructors permission prior to bringing vehicles into the shop. Prerequisite: Auto Body I and sign Auto Body Policies and Agreement form.

Auto Body Vocational Technology
20 credits
Further study and skill development on section and panel repair, component alignment, glass replacement, refinishing techniques and base coat/clear coat systems. This is a lab course where the student will have a specific project from start to finish and must complete a minimum of 8 hours 20 minutes of supervised lab time per week. Students must have instructors permission prior to bringing vehicles into the shop. Prerequisite: Auto Body 1, Auto Body 11 or permission from instructor and must sign Auto Body Policies and Agreement form.

Job Shadowing
5 credits
The student will have the opportunity to learn more about a career and to participate in on-the job experience with a professional in virtually any area of career interest. This course requires classroom work, on-the-job participation and independent work. The majority of class time will be working with a mentor in the business community. There will be a lab fee for travel if student is unable to provide transportation.

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