Policy 604.01

Basic Instructional Program

The basic instructional program shall include the courses required for each grade level by the Nebraska Department of Education.

The basic weekly instructional program of students enrolled in the elementary grades (Kindergarten through fifth grade) shall include reading and language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, health, career awareness, world languages, physical education, art, and music. Writing skills shall be incorporated in all curricular areas.

The basic yearly instructional program of students enrolled in the middle grades (sixth through eighth grade) shall include reading, language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, health, world languages, art, music, and physical education. Writing skills shall be incorporated in all curricular areas. Exploratory experiences shall be offered in career education, world languages, and technology education.

The basic instructional program of students enrolled in the high school grades (ninth through twelfth grade) shall consist of a minimum of 400 instructional units including language arts (60 units), social science (40 units), mathematics (40 units), science (40 units), world language (20 units), career education (80 units), personal health and physical fitness (20 units), and visual and performing arts (40 units). Writing skills shall be incorporated in all curricular areas. The instructional program shall include computer education.

Each instructional program shall be carefully planned for optimal benefit taking into consideration the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the board or superintendent. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent and/or designee to develop administrative regulations stating the required courses and optional courses for the elementary, middle and high school grade programs.

Legal Reference:
NDE Rule 10
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (1994)
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (1996)

Cross Reference:
102 Educational Philosophy of the District
103 Equal Educational Opportunity
104 Educational and Operational Planning
603 Curriculum Development

Adopted: October 11, 1996
Revised: August 14, 2006