Option 1: Online Learning (The Flexible Path)

Online courses allow students to earn credit through an accredited provider while controlling the time, place, and pace of learning. This option is often used to explore courses not offered at Mason High School or to create flexibility within a student’s schedule. Online courses through Credit Flex are an alternative option; they are not an easier option than taking a course at Mason High School. It is necessary to select online providers that are adequately aligned to state standards. In addition, with the state-required, End-of-Course Assessments, the online courses must also be rigorous for students. 

Math & Science Caution: Use caution when credit flexing foundational math or science courses. These subjects are highly sequential; skipping the traditional instructional environment may lead to gaps in knowledge that make future advanced coursework significantly more difficult.

Key Policies

• Online courses require consistent effort and self-discipline. Students must stay on track and meet Mason High School deadlines regardless of the provider’s pacing.
• Courses must be from an accredited provider, and meet state standards (MHS does not endorse specific online providers)
• Final grades are recorded on the transcript exactly as reported by the provider
• Final grades are factored into GPA
• Prerequisite courses must be completed before advancing to the next course. For example, Algebra I must be finished and the transcript submitted before you are permitted to start Geometry at MHS.
• Families are responsible for all costs associated with Credit Flex. MHS is not responsible for fees paid for unapproved courses.

Financial Literacy CPR Requirement

Students credit flexing Financial Literacy must complete CPR/AED training. Official certification is not required, but you must provide evidence of completion of a CPR/AED course (such as a completion card or letter) to receive credit for Financial Literacy.

Option 2: Mastery Assessment (The Proficiency Path)

This "test-out" option is designed for students who can demonstrate they have already mastered the content of a specific high school course. Because this option is based on a single assessment, it is best suited for students who are confident in their mastery of the material.

Key Policies

• One Attempt: Students are permitted only one attempt to demonstrate proficiency via a comprehensive exam.
• The 85% Rule: A minimum score of 85% is required to receive credit.
• Ineligible Courses: Mastery Assessment is not available for courses requiring collaborative group work, such as Band, Orchestra, Chorus, Drama, or Journalism.

AP Exams as Mastery Assessment

Students may use Advanced Placement (AP) exam scores to earn credit. However, please note that AP scores are not official until July; therefore, credit cannot be applied to your transcript until the following school year. Therefore, seniors may not use their AP score to fulfill a graduation requirement. 

Avant Stamp Assessment for Foreign Language Credit

The Avant STAMP (Standards-Based Measurement of Proficiency) Assessment may be used as a Mastery Assessment option within the district’s Credit Flexibility Program for World Language courses that are not offered at Mason High School. Click here to view the key policies and procedures for utilizing this option. If Avant does not offer your language, another testing platform may be used. Please contact the credit flex advisors for approval prior to registering. 

Option 3: Individual Learning (The Custom Path)

Individual Plans are for self-starters who wish to turn independent study into academic credit.

Key Policies

To be considered for approval, plans must include:

• A detailed description of activities and learning goals
• Evidence of learning (projects, portfolios, etc.)
• A reflective journal or summary about how the plan meets the state standards for that content area
• Documentation of participation hours (record the type of activity, date, and duration)
  • Total the number of hours at the bottom of the activity log
  • Mentor or Teacher of Record signature required 

Mentor & Teacher Requirements

• A mentor is required (must be 21 or older and not related to the student)
• A Teacher of Record (TOR) may be required for academic subjects
• Final grades are assigned in collaboration with the TOR, when applicable

Progress Expectations

• Students may be required to submit progress updates throughout the experience. Failure to demonstrate adequate progress may result in reassignment to a traditional course.
• Individual Plans require careful planning and consistent documentation to demonstrate that learning meets academic standards.
• Physical Education Plans
• Students must log at least 60 hours of physical activity (signed by your mentor) to earn 0.25 credits, and 120 hours for 0.50. Students must also provide evidence (written reflection or video) showing how they met all 5 state PE standards.