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What is GSE?
Golden State Examinations or GSE is a voluntary program in California
for students in middle and high schools. Through this program,
established in 1987, students can earn state recognition for academic
achievement. All GSEs test subject knowledge and application. There are
thirteen GSEs that cover:
First-year algebra, geometry, and high school mathematics
U.S. history, economics, and government/civics
Biology, chemistry, second-year coordinated science, and physics
Written composition, and reading/literature
Spanish language
Recognizing Achievement
On the GSE, students can attain one of three top levels of
achievement:
High honors
Honors
Recognition
About one out of three GSE participants earns high honors, honors, or
recognition designations each year.
Achievement on the GSE is noted on students’ permanent transcripts
and included in applications for college, universities, and military
appointments. This recognition also signals high academic achievement to
future employers.
Students whose scores fall below high honors, honors or recognition
levels face no penalty or mention of non-achievement. Although a GSE can
only be taken once, students should be encouraged to try again on other
Golden State Examinations.
Dixie and California
In the Dixie School District (DSD), students taking the first-year
algebra course are eligible to take the first-year algebra GSE. This
examination is given in May.
In 1987, GSE’s first year, 56,075 students in California took the
first-year algebra exam, and in 1999, 180,908 took this GSE. After
students enter high school in California, they have the opportunity to
take the other examinations.
Golden State Diploma
The Golden State Seal Merit Diploma was established by state law in
1996 to award a special honors diploma for outstanding academic
achievement to high school graduates. Recipients receive the Golden
State Diploma in addition to their regular high school diploma.
How is it Earned? Students must achieve high honors,
honors, or recognition on six Golden State Examinations to earn the
Golden State Diploma. Students must earn these designations on the
following exams:
U.S. history
One mathematics
One science
Written composition or reading/literature
Two Golden State Exams of the student’s choice
Questions?
You may direct questions regarding the Golden State Exam to your
child’s algebra teacher at Miller Creek Middle School or to the DSD’s
Director of Educational Services.
Miller Creek 492-3760
Educational Services 492-3703
GSE information also is posted on the Internet at
http://www.cde.ca.gov/cilbranch/sca.
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