DIP L OM A
EN DORS E ME NTS
Thornton Academy offers several endorsements to the standard
diploma to recognize effort above and beyond the basic
graduation requirements. Earning an endorsement demonstrates
a student’s motivation and engagement in learning. Students
interested in pursuing one of the endorsements listed below
should contact their guidance counselor as soon as possible
in their high school career so that each year consists of an
appropriate schedule to meet the requirements. Guidance
counselors have detailed information on the courses and
expectations for each endorsement.
ADVANCED STUDIES
Earning the Advanced Studies Diploma Endorsement involves Thornton’s
most demanding course offerings. Upon successful completion of 14 approved
AP and Honors courses, students receive an endorsed diploma recognizing
their extraordinary achievement. The approved courses are in English, Foreign
Language, History & Social Science, Math, Science & Engineering, and other
electives, encouraging a well-rounded and challenging course of study.
FINE ARTS
Students choosing to pursue a Fine Arts Diploma Endorsement will select one
of five possible strands: Dance, Drama, Instrumental Music, Vocal Music, or
Visual Art. In addition to the required 8.5 credits in approved courses, other
requirements may apply, depending on the chosen strand.
NEW MEDIA
The New Media Diploma Endorsement includes two possible strands: Digital
& Media or Publications & Communications; in either, 8.5 credits in approved
courses are required. Digital & Media focuses on Thornton’s many computer
classes and the TATV program. Aspiring journalists will find Publications &
Communications engaging. In each, students have the opportunity to explore
topics that may inform future college majors or careers in New Media.
STEM
The STEM Endorsed Diploma reflects Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Math; students must earn 11 total credits in these four areas of study. Of those
11, four must be in math, four in science, and one in technology or engineering. The remaining two credits can be selected from any STEM option. In
addition, at least two courses of the 11 must be Advanced Placement (AP) or
approved college-level dual enrollment courses. Many Biddeford Regional
Center of Technology (BRCOT) courses are considered acceptable technology
courses for this endorsement. A cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher is necessary.
STEM APPLIED
Students with a strong interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
who don’t take AP, college-level and/or Honors courses may earn recognition
with the STEM Applied Diploma Endorsement. Students must earn 7.5 total
credits in these four areas of study. Of those 7.5, three must be in math, three
in science, and one in technology or engineering. The remaining 0.5 credit can
be selected from any STEM option. In addition, at least two courses of the 11
must be Advanced Placement (AP) or approved college-level dual enrollment
courses. Many Biddeford Regional Center of Technology (BRCOT) courses
are considered acceptable technology courses for this endorsement. Finally, a
cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher is necessary to earn this endorsement.
40