Some students are writing wizards, others excel at math; and with Credit by Demonstrated Mastery, GCS students have the chance to receive credit for some courses without completing classroom instruction. CDM has been available for students to pursue since the 2014-15 school year. 

Credit by Demonstrated Mastery (CDM) is an option which allows students to demonstrate mastery of a course’s content, getting credit and a pass/fail grade for the course by taking an assessment (Phase I) and completing an artifact (Phase II). Transitioning away from seat time, in favor of a structure that creates flexibility, allows students to progress as they demonstrate mastery of academic content, regardless of time, place, or pace of learning. 

It's all part of our focus on the individual student, personalizing their learning experiences, and highlights a move away from requiring all students to sit in a classroom to prove they understand the concepts of the course. Instead, students who can show they have mastered the standards will receive credit for that knowledge and can move on ot the next level. 

This isn't for students who are "good at" some subjects though. It is for students who can show they have a deep understanding of the content without classroom experience. Students who can accomplish receive a pass/fail grade and credit. Failed attempts at CDM are not reflected on a student’s transcript.