The A+ Schools program was established as part of the Missouri Outstanding Schools Act of 1993 to provide incentives for local high schools to raise academic expectations, reduce their dropout rate, establish relationships with the business community, and provide better career pathways to students. Students who graduate from an A+ designated high school may qualify for a state-paid financial incentive to attend any public community college or career/technical school in Missouri if they successfully meet the requirements. In addition, some four-year institutions may offer financial incentives for students who meet A+ criteria.

Rockwood voluntarily participates in the A+ Schools program as a commitment to provide all students with a rigorous education that prepares them for college, postsecondary career/technical training, and a high-wage job. It is the responsibility of all Rockwood high schools to meet and maintain all A+ requirements. The Missouri State Board of Education designates A+ status based on program review.

Rockwood high school students meeting the following requirements may be eligible for financial reimbursement (providing Rockwood high schools maintain A+ status and funds are available from the Missouri General Assembly):

• Have a signed A+ participant agreement on file at the student's high school.
• Attend an A+ designated high school for three consecutive years prior to graduation. Exemptions are available for active or retired military dependents. See your A+ Coordinator for details.
• Graduate with an unweighted, unrounded cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. (GPA will not be rounded.)
• Maintain at least a 95% cumulative attendance record in grades 9-12. (Attendance rate will not be rounded.)
• Score Proficient or Advanced on Algebra I EOC or other math test as determined by the Missouri Department of Higher Education. (This requirement is revised annually.)
• Perform 50 hours of unpaid mentoring and/or tutoring for other students in our district.
• Maintain a record of good citizenship and avoid the use of alcohol and unlawful drugs.
• Make a documented good faith effort to apply for non-payback financial aid by completing FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
• Register for Selective Service if applicable.

To maintain eligibility at the postsecondary level, students must:

• Attend a Missouri community college or postsecondary career/technical school on a full-time basis and maintain the school's satisfactory academic progress policy.
• Make a good faith effort each year to first secure all available federal financial aid (FAFSA).

The legislation requires the Rockwood School District to establish guidelines and policies to administer the A+ Schools program in a fair and consistent manner. It is the responsibility of the students and parents to read, understand, and comply with the program requirements for eligibility. More information may be found on the Rockwood School District website. Please direct any questions concerning this program to the A+ Schools Coordinator at your high school.