Community-Based Fine Arts
Orenda Charter School students need 1 full credit in fine arts to graduate. Texas law (TAC §74.1030) allows students to earn some or all of that credit through an approved community-based fine arts program instead of a class at school. Students who qualify can earn up to one-half credit per semester this way.
Program Requirements
To count toward graduation, the community-based program must meet all of the following:
- Be approved. The program must be approved by the Superintendent and by the Texas Commissioner of Education.
- Not duplicate a school course. The program can't be a fine arts class that Orenda already offers on the student's campus.
- Cover required content. The program must teach the same state-required skills (TEKS) as the high school fine arts course.
- Meet quality standards. It must be well-organized, led by properly trained staff, and provide at least 225 minutes of instruction per week.
- Stay within credit limits. Students can earn up to one-half credit per semester, one credit per year, and four credits total across high school.
- Stay on track if discontinued. Students who stop participating mid-semester will be placed in a fine arts class at their campus to finish that semester's credit.
- Be nearby. The program location must be within a reasonable driving distance of the campus.
- Not interfere with school hours. Students may not miss any part of the school day to attend.
- Report progress regularly. Attendance and grades must be submitted at the end of each nine-week grading period.