Let's be honest, graduation is the ultimate goal of your time at Paschal. But if you just take your basic requirements and move on, you're missing out! If you have activities like choir that are already important to you, you want to make sure that you are able to continue doing everything you love and still get all your credits. At times, it can seem impossible, but with the right support and some determination, you can graduate at the top of your class and still do everything you love. In fact, many of our top graduates every year are involved in several activities beyond just what is required to graduate. 

Success Stories

Key Considerations
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Sydney Ozuna
Class of 2017
Music and singing have always been a major part of my life, so the decision to be in both choir and band throughout my high school career was an obvious one for me. While academics were always a priority, creative expression was just as important to me as keeping up with my schoolwork, so much that I don’t think I would have been as successful in school without it. I was in choir and band all four years of high school and was heavily involved in both as band Vice President and alto section leader for choir. Not only did these organizations provide me with a creative outlet, but also with plenty of academically and musically gifted friends. Being a committed musician while also having high academic standards takes a special kind of determination and drive, and these were the qualities that I found in many of my friends throughout my high school career. I’m currently studying Journalism at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln and am still in multiple musical ensembles as a music minor. Participating in music at Paschal taught me that I don’t have to choose between being a successful student and participating in something I love.
1. Endorsements
Did you know you can graduate on the distinguished plan with a high GPA and still take a ton of Performing Arts classes? Consider the Arts and Humanities endorsement if you want to take a lot, but Performing Arts have a place in all of the endorsements. Sometimes staying in choir helps you get multiple endorsements.

2. Know the Requirements
The state of Texas has requirements for various levels of diploma. All Paschal students are on the Distinguished Level of Achievement plan. Colleges, whether in Texas or out of state, can require whatever they want. It's all about what you need to get into the college that you want.​
Always make sure your AP and dual credit classes will get you that college credit. Some schools require certain test scores, and others even require that you take their courses, regardless of the score you received.​
Be sure to check out the first few pages of your Course Catalog for more information from FWISD.

3. Talk to People that are in the Know
Your counselor is a great resource for discovering which classes are going to serve you best. If choir is a priority, make sure they know that and they can help you find a way to make it work. Find out about Credit by Exam, especially for classes like Health and Speech!​
Your choir directors have been through this and go through it vicariously with our graduates every year. We know how and we can help.
​Research and communicate with your prospective university to make sure that those extra hard classes you're taking for college credit will transfer, and have the impact you want.