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Board approves 2025–26 program of studies: yearlong world history, on‑site CCP courses and new teacher pathway
Summary
The Marion City Schools Board approved changes to the Harding High School program of studies for 2025–26, including converting modern world history to a year‑long course, adding on‑site College Credit Plus (CCP) classes, new elective offerings and a Teacher Pathway Education Academy in partnership with Ohio State University‑Marion.
The Marion City Schools Board on Dec. 16 approved a revised program of studies for the 2025–26 school year that expands course offerings, restructures some core classes and creates a pathway aimed at encouraging students to enter the teaching profession.
Administrators said the notable academic changes include moving modern world history from a half‑credit to a full‑year (one‑credit) course to give freshmen a stronger foundation; adding on‑site College Credit Plus (CCP) courses that students can take at Harding High School rather than leaving campus; and offering new electives such as cinematography, poetry and world mythology. The high school will also phase in algebra 1a and algebra 1b to support students who need additional preparation.
Superintendent Jeff Murphy and curriculum staff described a new Teacher Pathway Education Academy designed as a "grow your own" approach. The pathway, developed with Ohio State University‑Marion, would let students earn up to 15 college credits while still in high school and could reduce college costs. Administrators said the district also plans to pursue state Grow Your Own teacher grant opportunities that provide tuition assistance in exchange for service commitments.
Administrators said some CCP courses are already offered off campus and that shifting them on site will depend on teacher credentialing; the district reported two CCP courses already on site, serving roughly 47 students. Staff noted the district will apply for credentialing grants and, if approved, add more on‑site CCP offerings.
Board discussion focused on the rationale for the world history change and keeping students on campus to strengthen community and reduce transportation needs. Trustees also asked administrators to examine grade‑weighting for some career or CCP courses so students aiming for selective colleges will not avoid them because of GPA concerns; staff said any weight changes would be returned to the board as amendments.
The program of studies resolution passed on a roll‑call vote at the Dec. 16 meeting.
