The time for scheduling is now here!

Winter break is almost here, but first, it’s about that time of year when planning courses for the next academic year begins. Course selection opens for students in Synergy on Monday, December 18th. With numerous options and requirements to consider, crafting the perfect schedule may seem challenging. However, by following these simple steps and guidelines, the process can be simple.

1. Log into HCPSS.me and enter Synergy 

2. On the Home page, click on the Course Request option in the left panel. A page displays the student’s current recommendations for core classes and graduation status summary

3. To add additional requests, click the Click Here to change course requests. 

4. Search for the course to add. You can search on one or multiple fields. You can search by department, course title, course ID, or elective. The list of courses updates automatically to match your criteria. 

5. Select the Add Request or Add Alternate button to add that course to the list of requests. Requests save automatically when they are added to the list of requests. Repeat to add courses until you have seven credits in the Selected Course Requests list and three credits in the Alternate Elective Requests list. NOTE: To delete a course request, click Remove for that course.

6. Click the Click Here button to return to the course request summary page. The Graduation Status Summary table will be updated, reflecting the courses selected for next year. 

7. Review your course requests and make any adjustments as necessary. 

8. Click Lock Course Requests to submit for your school counselor to review. Once you lock your course requests, you will need to contact your school counselor to make any edits. NOTE: You will not be able to lock your course requests until you have seven credits and three alternate requests selected.

After submitting course requests, school counselors will schedule appointments with each student in the weeks following midterm exams. During this meeting, school counselors review students’ course preferences, alternates, and progress toward graduation. When considering a more challenging class, students should discuss it with the corresponding teacher and counselor. If you decide to proceed, you need to complete and submit the course placement review form on Synergy. Feel free to reach out to a teacher or counselor for any additional questions. School counselors are presenting the scheduling lessons to all 9th, 10th, and 11th graders throughout the month of December.  Beginning Dec. 18, the PowerPoint presentation with scheduling information and how to pick courses will be linked to the Student Services section of the Oakland Mills High School Website. As you choose your schedules for the upcoming year, Mrs. Fick, one of our counselors, recommends, “Make sure your schedule aligns with your future plans.” Whether it’s business, design, engineering, or another passion, ensure your course choices reflect your interests. Happy scheduling!