Current Issues is a course designed for second semester students in preparation for success on the Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT).

Students are selected by science and social studies teachers along with counselors using a variety of criteria.

Current Issues combines a condensed portion of social studies and science standards expected to be seen on the GHSGT. These standards are presented using a variety of student-friendly teaching methods.

Students rotate between the science teacher and social studies teacher every week. This gives students a chance to review more crucial material. This class has proven to be a success in the past and was also a success this year in preparing our students for the GHSGT.

To increase the students’ motivation to learn, increase students’ focus, and promote positive classroom behavior; students are rewarded for positive work habits on a weekly basis. These rewards included weekly breakfasts prior to taking weekly assessments as well as a trip to Burger King at mid-term after completing the GHSGT.

Through the aid of The Decatur County Schools’ Foundation Inc., students who fulfilled the Current Issues performance plan participated in the field trip to Flint RiverQuarium at the end of the semester. The field trip was in conjunction with a natural history unit and environmental study on the Flint River Basin and our dynamic local ecosystem. This allowed students the opportunity to make valuable connections with learning they experienced in the classroom. It also allowed them to see how their impact on the environment affects their community and future quality of life.