Pecan Crossing ISD – Texas Graduation Requirements Overview

Purpose

This guide outlines the Texas state graduation requirements and the additional district-specific recommendations for Pecan Crossing ISD students. It is intended to help students and families plan a clear academic path to earn a high school diploma and prepare for college and career readiness.

1. Total Credits and Graduation Plan

Total Required Credits: 26

To graduate, students must complete courses in the following core areas:

Subject

Credit

English Language Arts

4 credits

Mathematics

3 credits

Science

3 credits

Social Studies

3 credits

Physical Education

1 credit

Fine Arts

1 credit

Languages Other Than English (LOTE)

2 credits

Technology Applications

1 credit

Health Education

0.5 credit

Electives

7.5 credits

Grades are calculated by dividing the total points earned by the total points possible.
Tip: Students should begin developing a four-year graduation plan starting in middle school or during their freshman year. This ensures proper sequencing of courses, preparation for EOC exams, and alignment with college or career goals.

2. English Language Arts – 4 Credits

DESCRIPTION
Required Courses
  • English I: Focus on reading comprehension, writing, and grammar fundamentals.
  • English II: Analysis of literature and expository writing.
  • English III: American literature, critical thinking, and argument writing.
  • English IV: Advanced or AP English options for college readiness.
Learning Goals
  • Develop clear, coherent writing and communication skills.
  • Analyze literary and informational texts critically.
  • Prepare for English I and II End-of-Course (EOC) exams.

3. Mathematics – 3 Credits

DESCRIPTION
Required Courses
  • Algebra I: Foundation for algebraic reasoning, linear equations, and inequalities.
  • Geometry: Focus on proofs, logic, spatial reasoning, and applications.
  • Algebra II: Required for college readiness, emphasizing functions, polynomials, and complex numbers.
EOC Exam

Algebra I must be passed to meet graduation requirements.

Tip: Students planning for STEM careers should consider additional math electives or Pre-Calculus/Calculus in later grades.
3. Mathematics – 3 Credits

4. Science – 3 Credits

DESCRIPTION
Required Courses
  • Biology: Core scientific principles, laboratory skills, and critical analysis.
  • Chemistry or Physics: One credit to develop an understanding of physical sciences.
  • Third Science Elective: Options may include Earth and Space Science, Environmental Science, or AP Science.
EOC Exam

Biology must be passed to meet graduation requirements.

Objective

Students will develop scientific literacy, problem-solving skills, and laboratory competencies.

5. Social Studies – 3 Credits

DESCRIPTION
Required Courses
  • World Geography: Understanding global geography, culture, and history.
  • U.S. History: Survey of American history from colonial times to the present.
  • U.S. Government & Economics: Often combined as one course covering civics and economic principles.
EOC Exam

U.S. History must be passed for graduation.

Goal

Promote civic literacy, historical analysis, and understanding of economic systems.

6. Physical Education – 1 Credit

DESCRIPTION
Options Include
  • PE courses
  • Athletics participation
  • Other approved physical activity programs
District Policy

Pecan Crossing ISD may allow waivers for students involved in competitive sports or alternative physical programs.

7. Fine Arts – 1 Credit

DESCRIPTION
Courses May Include
  • Music (choir, band, orchestra)
  • Theater or Drama
  • Dance
  • Visual Arts
Objective

Foster creativity, cultural appreciation, and collaboration skills.

7. Fine Arts – 1 Credit

8. Languages Other Than English (LOTE) – 2 Credits

DESCRIPTION
Typical Courses
  • Spanish I and II
  • Other languages depending on availability
Goal

Develop language proficiency and cultural understanding, essential for global readiness.

9. Technology Applications – 1 Credit

DESCRIPTION
Courses May Include
  • Digital Media
  • Computer Science
  • Other district-approved technology courses
Objective

Prepare students with practical skills for college, career, and everyday digital literacy.

10. Health Education – 0.5 Credit

DESCRIPTION
Content
  • Comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness education.
  • Often integrated with PE courses or offered as a standalone class.

11. Electives – 7.5 Credits

DESCRIPTION
Options Include
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses
  • Advanced Placement (AP) courses
  • Dual credit opportunities with local colleges
  • Additional credits in core subjects or specialized electives
Objective

Allow students to explore personal interests, prepare for college or careers, and supplement core knowledge.

12. End-of-Course (EOC) Exams

DESCRIPTION
State-Mandated Exams
  • English I
  • English II
  • Algebra I
  • Biology
  • U.S. History
Tip: Students should prepare early with study guides, practice tests, and support sessions offered by the district.
12. End-of-Course (EOC) Exams

13. District-Specific Guidelines (Pecan Crossing ISD)

DESCRIPTION
Four-Year Graduation Plan

Students are encouraged to map out their courses from 9th through 12th grade to stay on track.

Personalized Electives

Options in CTE, AP, and dual credit allow tailoring to career goals.

Physical Education Waivers

Available for students meeting specific activity requirements.

College and Career Readiness

Emphasis on dual credit courses, advanced math and English, and career exploration.

Academic Advising

Regular progress reviews with students and parents to ensure graduation requirements are met.

Tip: Students should prepare early with study guides, practice tests, and support sessions offered by the district.

14. Sample 4-Year Graduation Plan

DESCRIPTION
9th Grade

English I, Algebra I, Biology, World Geography, PE/Health

Electives: Art, Music, or Foreign Language

10th Grade

English II, Geometry, Chemistry/Physics, World History, PE/Health

Electives: Spanish II or Technology

11th Grade

English III, Algebra II, Advanced Science, U.S. History

Electives: CTE or AP courses

12th Grade

English IV, U.S. Government/Economics, Advanced Science, Social Studies

Final electives and dual-credit courses

Objective

Ensure students meet all credit and course requirements while maximizing opportunities for college credit, career readiness, and personal enrichment.

Tip: Students should prepare early with study guides, practice tests, and support sessions offered by the district.