Bedford High School reviews alternative credit options for student courses

The Bedford School Board convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding alternative credit options for students at Bedford High School. The meeting featured a presentation by Lisa Jacques, Dean of Student Services, who outlined proposed changes to the procedures governing how students can earn credits through external courses, particularly those offered by the Virtual Learning Academy Charter School (VLACS).

Jacques began by highlighting the increasing trend of students seeking alternative credit options, noting a 63% rise in requests for outside academic courses in early 2025 compared to previous years. She emphasized the importance of having clear policies and procedures to ensure fairness and maintain academic integrity, especially as students increasingly turn to online courses for credit.

The discussion centered around the implications of the "Learn Everywhere" law, which allows students to take courses outside traditional classroom settings. Jacques explained that while this law provides valuable opportunities for students to pursue interests not covered by the school curriculum, it also raises concerns about the rigor and grading discrepancies between Bedford High School and VLACS courses. For instance, data presented showed that 91% of VLACS students received an A in Algebra 2 honors, compared to only 48% of Bedford High School students.

The proposed changes aim to standardize how grades from alternative courses are recorded on student transcripts. Jacques recommended that grades from VLACS courses be recorded as "credit only" on Bedford High School transcripts, thereby protecting the integrity of the school's GPA system. This change is intended to prevent students from inflating their GPAs through easier online courses while still allowing them to earn credits toward graduation.

Board members engaged in a robust discussion about the potential impact of these changes on student motivation and academic rigor. Some expressed concerns that the new policy might deter students from taking valuable courses that could enhance their educational experience. Others highlighted the need to ensure that students who are genuinely motivated and capable of handling rigorous coursework are not penalized.

The board acknowledged the necessity of revisiting the treatment of Advanced Placement (AP) courses taken through VLACS, as these courses may warrant different considerations due to their rigor. The conversation underscored the importance of balancing academic integrity with the diverse needs and aspirations of students.

In conclusion, the Bedford School Board's meeting on May 12, 2025, set the stage for ongoing discussions about alternative credit options, with a focus on ensuring equitable treatment for all students while maintaining the high academic standards of Bedford High School. Further deliberations are expected as the board seeks to finalize the proposed changes and address the complexities surrounding alternative credit policies.