Student Handbook 2026-2027

MISSION STATEMENT
MISSION STATEMENT
To provide all students with “Excellence in Education”
The Fort Hamilton High School community is diligently striving to meet the academic and social/emotional challenges of the 21st century. The continual refinement of teaching and learning is the school’s focus to enhance scholastic achievement, strengthen student attendance, and promote cultural responsiveness. Our philosophy is that every member of our diverse population is capable of succeeding and realizing their potential in an encouraging, nurturing, and rigorous learning environment designed to address individual needs.
We make our large community safe and inclusive by encouraging student voice, supporting expansive co- and extracurricular activities, reinforcing high expectations, applying learning to real-life experiences, and preparing all students to be college and career ready as well as civically responsible.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL'S DESK
From the Principals Desk
September 2026
Dear Students:
Another full year at Fort Hamilton High School as we continue with a variety of classes, performances, athletic and other competitions, club activities, and social gatherings in SY2026-27. Our inclusive community remains committed to teaching and learning, and to equitably providing students with opportunities to explore and achieve academic and personal goals. Students are first at Fort Hamilton High School, and our committed staff works to prepare over 4,100 students to meet standards from New York State, New York City, and the Next Generation, and to graduate with a post-secondary plan.
The variety of classes and activities that make Fort Hamilton HS something for everyone remains a priority; students can explore and feel connected to their own culture as well as other cultures. We take pride in a stellar Performing Arts program with instrumental, vocal, dance, and drama. We also promote athletics, leadership, JROTC, mock trial, Virtual Enterprise, extensive Advanced Placement courses, and diverse clubs. We support students engaging with each other on the stage, field, and courtroom, and we celebrate individual and collective accomplishments.
Our Excellence in Education is grounded in the belief that ALL students are capable of succeeding and realizing their potential in an encouraging, nurturing, yet challenging environment. In addition to academic and extracurricular activities, students participate in a myriad of community service activities; students learn the satisfaction of giving back. At Fort Hamilton High School, we support activities that apply learning to real-life experiences. In combination, this helps students best prepare to function productively in the post-secondary world.
We maintain a healthy school tone for students to flourish, and everyone is responsible for supporting a cooperative and just community. Restorative Justice frames decision making to ensure the continuation of Fort Hamilton High School’s excellent safety record with minimum suspensions and discipline disruptions. Our school inspires all students to have positive attitudes about themselves and their school, and our school is about human relationships. Each and every member of the school community is here to assist and support you in achieving college and career readiness. This is an important time in your lives and we hope you seize the opportunity to make your high school experience a positive and productive one.
Sincerely,
Kaye Houlihan
Principal
ADMINISTRATION / ORGANIZATION
ADMINISTRATION / ORGANIZATION
Jennifer Gagnon, Assistant Principal
The Assistant Principal Organization (APO) at Fort Hamilton High School oversees the facilities, budget, staffing and legal issues. In this capacity, the APO works with the organizational team on a daily basis to ensure teachers are covered by substitute teachers in their absence, in addition to assisting with long-term absence coverages and hiring.
A larger role is overseeing the facilities of the building in conjunction with the Division of School Facilities and School Construction Authority.
Fort Hamilton’s main building was constructed in 1939 and is over 220,000 square feet. The modular units, which provide an additional 18 classrooms, were added in the late 1990s, and the natatorium (pool) in the early 1990s. Overall, the building has well over 2,000 classes each day, within three sessions, and between 500 and 900 students in physical education classes each period. Our building’s pool also serves the surrounding community and in the spring offers NYC parks Life Guard Course. This equates to many demands on our facility and the need for many repairs. More importantly, we are constantly working to improve and upgrade our facility.
The APO also oversees and manages the school’s budget. While we are the second largest high school in New York City, due to our Title 1 funding, we have the largest budget. The Principal and Assistant Principals of Administration and Supervision work closely together to organize and allocate the school’s funding after staffing needs are met (personnel is 90% of the budget). The remaining funds go to supplies and other non-personnel services. Finally, the APO consults with the principal and staff on any legal issues which may arise.
Fort Hamilton High School is a unique and special place with many opportunities for students of various interests. We have 80 clubs, 33 PSAL teams, a cheer squad, and two drama productions each academic year as well as multiple instrumental, vocal, and dance performances. In this small city we call Fort Hamilton High School, there is an enormity of interest and expertise on behalf of young people.
ARTS AND BUSINESS
ARTS AND BUSINESS
Thomas Oberle, Assistant Principal
The Arts and Business Department offers a variety of courses to both challenge and provide students an opportunity to explore and achieve in the performing arts and business. All students are required to earn a minimum of two credits (2 terms) in the arts.
The Arts and Business Department is comprised of the following departments:
- Business
- Dramatic Arts Academy
- Fine Art
- Joffrey Dance Academy
- Music (Vocal and Instrumental)
Performing Arts Audition Program
- Dramatic Arts (K17T)
- Instrumental (K17R)
- Joffrey Dance Academy (K17J)
- Vocal (K17S)
Please see the NYC DOE High School Directory or myschools application for additional information.
Business / Technology
Course offerings include:
- Computer Applications
- Entrepreneurship
- Virtual Enterprise • In this class we run a virtual business (Seniors Only)
Dramatic Arts Academy
Course offerings include:
- Acting
- Directing
- Play Production
- Stage Design
We present a minimum of two fully staged productions a year. Recent productions include Legally Blond, Gypsy, Avenue Q, the School Addition, the 25th Annual Putnam Valley Spelling Bee, In the Heights, West Side Story, Into the Woods, The Addams Family, The Prom, Little Shop of Horrors and Once Upon a Mattress. In addition, we present a Fall Play Production which has included Merchant of Venice, The Complete Works of Shakespeare, Doubt, Picasso at the Lapin Agile, The Crucible, The Miracle Worker, Arsenic and Old Lace, Green Bird, Clue and Trojan Women.
Fine Art
Course offerings include:
- Calligraphy
- Ceramics
- Design Studio
- Drawing
- Fashion
We offer the three-year Art Comprehensive Exam for Regents credit in addition to Advanced Placement art courses.
Joffrey Dance Academy
Our partnership with the Joffrey Ballet Academy is now in its 13th year. Students
are trained in the Joffrey Ballet School’s technique in both Classical Ballet
and Contemporary Dance, Jazz, Improvisation, Dance History, Dance
Composition, and Pointe. Students have performed at the Joffrey Ballet School’s annual performance of the Nutcracker. In addition, scholarships are available to study at the Joffrey Ballet School’s summer intensive program in New York City. Students audition across New York City for this prestigious program.
DATA AND COMPLIANCE
DATA AND COMPLIANCE
Jacob Baty, Assistant Principal
Schools in New York City are charged to be data driven. The role of the
Assistant Principal of Data and Compliance is to work in conjunction with the Principal and Assistant Principals of Administration and Supervision to analyze various data sets such as:
- Student Attendance Rates
- Student Classroom Performance
- Student Progress towards Graduation
- Regents Exam Results
- College and Career Readiness
School leaders need to be informed on how various subsets of courses and students are performing to make informed decisions about resource allocations, staffing, budget, programming, and instruction, and to determine what interventions are necessary to ensure all students are meeting cohort graduation requirements and are prepared for life after Fort Hamilton High School.
Additionally, the Assistant Principal of Data and Compliance identifies data trends in the school and creates target groups of students so that the school leadership is proactive in planning ways to support students in meeting cohort graduation requirements in a timely manner as well as ensuring students leave Fort Hamilton High School college and career ready.
Finally, in a school as large as Fort Hamilton High School, collecting, analyzing, and ensuring all data is presented to all stakeholders in a clear manner is essential to ensure that no student’s needs go unnoticed.
Beyond data processing and analysis, the Assistant Principal of Data and Compliance monitors that the school is compliant with all city and state mandates.
ENGLISH
ENGLISH
Denise Kritikos, Assistant Principal
Fort Hamilton High School’s English Department is committed to engaging and meeting the needs of all students. We strive to maintain a wide variety of courses ranging from the traditional survey to interdisciplinary, honors, a balanced literacy program, and elective courses. Our approach is based on flexibility, response to student aspirations and goals, with emphasis on the highest standards of scholastic excellence.
To qualify for graduation, students are required to successfully complete eight
terms of English and pass the English Language Arts Regents Exam given in January of junior year. To qualify for college and career readiness, students must achieve a score above 75. Instruction is aligned to the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards.
All classes emphasize a workshop approach to acquiring college-level skills in reading and writing, as evidenced in a portfolio of narrative, argumentative, creative, and research-based writing. The Honors program culminates in Advanced Placement English Language offered in junior year and Advanced Placement English Literature offered in senior year. All seniors who have completed the English Regents requirement have the opportunity to take a college-level selective in the senior year, in place of English 7 and English 8 such as: College and Career Writing; The Immigrant Experience; Psychology and Literature; ELA electives such as College Inquiry and Research, ELA College Aptitude (SAT and College Prep), Journalism, and Public Speaking are also offered in addition to Core English in grades 9-11.
Students with an interest and strong writing portfolio are encouraged to request Honors and Advanced Placement courses with their English teacher.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH & JROTC
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH & JROTC
Kristin LaMacchia, Assistant Principal
All students are required to take and pass seven terms of Physical Education and one term of Health. The following Physical Education classes are offered:
|
Basketball (Boys & Girls) |
Polar Bear |
|
Fitness |
Survey PE |
|
Flag Football |
Swimming & Lifeguarding |
|
Football (Advanced) |
Volleyball |
|
Golf |
Weight Training |
|
Fitness |
Yoga |
|
Adaptive Physical Education |
|
|
Fitness Activities |
JROTC PE |
In addition, with special permission from the staff, students may request
Advanced Football, Lifeguard Training and Swimming.
Every student must change into appropriate athletic attire to participate in their Physical Education class. A Fort Hamilton High School uniform is preferred. This includes a Fort Hamilton High School T-Shirt, athletic shorts/sweatpants, and sneakers. These items can be purchased at our online store – WWW.SMOOTHUSA.COM/FHHS-GYM. You can email [email protected] with any questions.
Prices are listed below.
|
Shorts |
$20.00 (on-line store) |
|
Sweatpants |
$25.00 (on-line store) |
|
T-Shirt |
$14.00 (on-line store) |
|
Long Sleeve T-Shirt |
$18.00 (on-line store) |
|
Hoodie |
$27.00 (on-line store) |
To help ensure the safe and secure use of gym lockers, the following locker room procedures must be adhered to at all times:
- Students with an assigned Physical Education class must use their FHHS photo ID to swipe into the locker rooms via the CAASS ID system.
- Only Fort Hamilton High School locks are allowed on lockers. All others will be removed.
- At your own risk, small lockers may be used for storage of Physical Education clothes.
- Students are permitted in the locker room ONLY when they have a Physical Education class.
- Books or other items are not to be brought into the gymnasium.
- The only time books or clothing may be stored in lockers is during your Physical Education class.
- For security purposes, the locker room is locked after the late bell. If you arrive late, you will not be able to change and, therefore, not be able to participate in class. During the beginning and end of each period, the locker room is monitored by an assigned teacher.
- Do not share lockers.
- Do not leave your clothes and belongings in an unlocked locker.
Army Junior ROTC
This program may be taken as an elective credit from one to four years. The program is open to all students in all grade levels. The focus of this program is to develop and foster citizenship, fellowship, and leadership. Students become experts at group dynamics as well as decision-making and role-modeling. There is a Cadet ranking and the Table of Organization includes a Commanding Officer, Executive Officer – all the way to Private – much the way our armed forces are currently structured. Uniforms are worn once-a-week and on special occasions. There are no costs for this program and there is an optional summer camp program. Special activities include robotics competition, community functions, drill competitions, honor guard, parades, and National competitions. In addition, an annual Military Ball is held to celebrate the accomplishments of our JROTC program.
INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES
INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT SERVICES
Christine Ciccarone, Assistant Principal
The ISS department’s mission is for each student to graduate with a plan. We create an educational environment that maintains high standards, assists students who need academic support, and addresses their social / emotional development. Classes are designed to parallel the general education curriculum. Instructional practice is rigorous as students are expected to achieve success on New York State assessment exams.
We provide the following educational settings to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs):
- Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETSS) - 1
- Special Class - 15:1
- Integrated Collaborative Teaching (ICT) - 12:1
Related services include hearing services, mandated counseling, occupational therapy, paraprofessional support, physical therapy, speech/language therapy, and vision services.
We also provide adapted physical education (APE), which is PE that is developmentally appropriate for an individual student. APE provides a student with specially designed Physical Education instruction and is included on a student's special education programs/services section on the IEP.
Single or double-period English classes are offered to select incoming freshmen based on ENL level in the special class setting. These classes are conducted in standards-based classroom settings, utilizing various instructional models and methodologies. In all classes, lessons are conducted to help students establish their academic goals, and rubrics are used for assessment by teachers and student self-evaluation.
MATHEMATICS
MATHEMATICS
Sarah Tazghini, Assistant Principal
The Mathematics department at Fort Hamilton High School offers a variety of courses to accommodate the needs of students at all academic levels – from classes designed to support incoming students with Algebra skills to Advanced Placement courses. Students at Fort Hamilton High School are prepared to meet the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards in Mathematics.
It is important for parents and students to know that in order to graduate from high school in New York State, a student must complete six (6) terms of mathematics (including two terms of advanced mathematics such as Geometry or Algebra II) and pass at least one academic level NYS Regents examination. To obtain an Advanced Regents diploma, students must pass three Regents examinations (Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II). Students are expected to take mathematics in all four years in alignment with College Board recommendations.
To be college and career ready, students are expected to complete three full units met (years) of mathematics: Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II and pass each respective Regents exam with at least one of the exam grades being 70% or above.
Algebra
- two-term sequence (Regents)
- two-term sequence (Regents Honors)
Geometry
- two-term sequence (Regents)
- two-term sequence (Regents Honors)
Algebra II
- two-term sequence (Regents)
- two-term sequence (Regents Honors)
Advanced Courses
- Pre-Calculus
- Advanced Placement Pre-Calculus
- Advanced Placement Calculus (AB/BC)
- Advanced Placement Statistics
- Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles
Elective Courses:
- Algebra Applications
- College Aptitude
- Computer Tech, Art, Design
- Financial Applications
- Mathematical Coding
The school’s Instructional focus is incorporated into all of the courses offered by the Mathematics department. To receive a (complete) mathematics education, students should be able to approach everyday problems employing the skills of reading comprehension, discussion, and problem-solving (computational and real world application based).
Our experience indicates that students who tend to do well in mathematics maintain excellent attendance, hone their skills through homework practice, ask questions in class when there is something that is not clear to them, and attend tutoring sessions in school when they feel they need extra support. We are fortunate to have a number of free tutoring services available to students at Fort Hamilton High School during the school day, after-school, or during Saturday Academy.
PARENT COORDINATOR
PARENT COORDINATOR
Janet Saquisili
The Parent Coordinator, Janet Saquisili, located in room 149, engages with and involves parents in the school community by working with the principal, school staff, Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), and community groups. The Parent Coordinator’s role is to provide information, answer questions, help access resources for parents and students, and work closely with the PTA and Title I Parent Committee. Answering telephone calls and meeting face-to-face with parents is a vital role to assist with any issue that may arise or if parents have concerns about their child’s education.
The Parent Coordinator is also the Language Access Coordinator. She speaks, writes, and reads Spanish. She assists with translation and interpretation service needs during PTA meetings, parent workshops, Parent-Teacher Conferences, and other events, if needed.
If you do not already have a NYCSA account, we encourage every parent to register for a NYC School Account (NYCSA). NYCSA is a valuable resource and will help you stay connected to your child’s education and more in the NYCSA portal. The Parent Coordinator will assist every parent to register. Once registered, you will have access to view your child’s program, attendance, grades, test scores and to complete DOE forms such as the Blue Emergency Contact card and more.
Our school uses the Jupiter web-app to help keep parents/guardians informed about their child's progress. Parents/Guardians can login anytime to check the child's current grades, homework, missing assignments, test scores, and to contact teachers. The Parent Coordinator will share opportunities, such as scholarships, internships, workshops, and summer jobs via Jupiter. If you do not already have a Jupiter account, we encourage parents/guardians to contact the parent coordinator. She also supervises SYEP students working at Fort Hamilton High School during the summer.
Students are provided with a DOE student account ([email protected]) which is necessary to log into our Chrome books, access grades, join Google Classrooms, and stay connected with the school. If a student needs assistance with a forgotten password or username, they should see staff in the library (room 214). Alternatively, you can also check in with your School Counselor or the Parent Coordinator in room 149.
During virtual learning, the Parent Coordinator is always available to ensure communication with parents and students. Resources for parent and student opportunities are forwarded to parents and students every week using Jupiter and DOE email.
We urge parents to take the opportunity to contact the Parent Coordinator, attend PTA meetings, partake in parent workshops, and be involved in your child’s education.
When parents and school staff work together to support learning, students:
- earn higher grades and test scores,
- enroll in higher-level programs,
- are promoted more and earn more credits,
- adapt better to school and attend more regularly,
- have better social skills and behavior; and
- graduate and go on to higher education.
The Parent Coordinator may be contacted at [email protected] or via telephone at (718) 748-1537, ext. 1457. Please visit our website www.fthhs.org for PTA meeting and parent workshop dates.
PROGRAMMING AND TECHNOLOGY
PROGRAMMING AND TECHNOLOGY
Ismail Salem, Assistant Principal
The role of the Program Office, located in room 268, is to ensure all students receive programs that keep them on-track for graduation in four years, are accurate, and are produced in a timely fashion. The Program Office works closely with various constituencies within Fort Hamilton High School to meet these goals.
The Program Office also generates various school-related reports and performs necessary program corrections. The Program Office does not create student schedules. These recommendations come from the guidance department (guidance counselors) and the respective department supervisors.
The Assistant Principal Programming and Technology is responsible to maintain all computer-related products within the building by servicing or replacing the necessary equipment.
A number of laptops are available to sign-out for student/family use during the school year to support online assignments and checking NYCSA and Jupiter. Students and families must agree to parameters for computers to be assigned for use at home.
In an effort to keep students, parents, and staff updated and informed, we maintain the school website. Please visit www.fthhs.org or FTHHS App on the app store to receive information about school events, testing dates, school closures and more.
PUPIL PERSONNEL SERVICES
PUPIL PERSONNEL SERVICES
Rosaria Mancini, Assistant Principal
Fort Hamilton High School’s Pupil Personnel Services Department (also known as the Guidance Department) is a multi-faceted department that addresses the academic, attendance, social-emotional, and college and career needs for 4,100+ students. The department’s overarching goal is to support students through targeted academic advisement and to provide all students with the social-emotional skills necessary to graduate high school within a 4-year time frame, while ensuring that students are productive individuals during and beyond the high school experience. To this end, Fort Hamilton is staffed with 22 highly trained school counselors that engage students in individualized programming and progress interviews and who conduct individual and group counseling. Students are provided with Naviance guidance lessons, a web-based College and Career exploration program, to ensure that students graduate from Fort Hamilton High School with a viable post-secondary college and/or career plan. Fort Hamilton High School students are also afforded the expertise of three highly effective College school counselors who provide targeted college and financial aid advisement as well as support school-to-career pathways via work-shadowing and internship opportunities. In addition, all school counselors conduct college and career interviews during junior and senior year, to ensure all students have considered and explored viable post-secondary options.
The Guidance department interfaces with Project Success, the school’s attendance squad, to ensure students attend school regularly and parents are informed in the event of extended absences. Additionally, the Guidance department collaborates with all Assistant Principals of Supervision and teachers to support students in meeting academic benchmarks and coordinates academic intervention services when necessary.
MINIMUM COURSE CREDIT REQUIREMENTS
|
Subject |
# of Credits |
|
English |
8 |
|
Social Studies |
8 |
|
Mathematics |
6 |
|
Science |
6 |
|
Language |
2 |
|
Art or Music |
2 |
|
Health Education |
1 |
|
Physical Education (.58 credit) |
4 (7 terms) |
|
Electives |
7 |
ELECTIVES
Based on students’ expressed interests and availability
LOCAL DIPLOMA*
(for students with an IEP)
Students have the Safety Net Option of obtaining 55-64 on Regents Exams or a Compensatory Option to earn a local diploma. The Compensatory Option allows students who obtain a minimum of 55 on the ELA and Math Regents to earn a grade of 45 on another Regents as long as there is a corresponding grade greater than or equal to 65 on another Regents exam. Students may also use the low Regents score (52-54) appeal on up to two exams, but only if the ELA and/or Math Compensatory Option is not being applied. Students with an IEP may also graduate with a local diploma by obtaining a Superintendent Determination of Graduation by earning a Safety Net or appealable score status on the English and Math Regents exams. Students with an IEP may also receive an existing credential via a CDOS credential.
*General Education students may appeal up to two Regents exams via the low Regents appeal option (60-64) and are eligible to graduate with a Local diploma. Students must show evidence of tutoring, pass all the required classes in the subject area, and have taken and failed the Regents exams under appeal at least two times. Students entitled to ENL services who first entered school in 9th grade or after may appeal to the ELA Regents with a low Regents score option of 55-59 and receive a Local diploma. Students must show evidence of tutoring, pass all the required classes in the subject area, and have taken and failed the ELA Regents at least two times.
REGENTS DIPLOMA
Regents exams required*
|
Algebra (1) |
65+ |
|
English (1) |
65+ |
|
Global History (1) |
65+ |
|
Science (1) |
65+ |
|
U.S. History (1) |
65+ |
Students who earned an exemption for any Regents exam in June and August 2023 are eligible for Regents diplomas or higher. The “WA” grade on the transcript equates to 65.
*Students may appeal via the Low Score Regents appeal (60-64) on one exam and still receive a Regents diploma. Students must show evidence of tutoring and have taken and failed the particular Regents at least two times.
Students may substitute the second Social Studies Regents with either a second Math Regents or a second Science Regents or an approved LOTE exam or a CTE approved exam or a CDOS credential. This is called a 4+1 Option.
ADVANCED REGENTS DIPLOMA
Same subject class requirements and five Regents examinations (65+) mentioned above PLUS
- An additional Regents examination in Science (65+)
- Two additional Regents examinations in Mathematics (Algebra, Geometry,
and Algebra II) PLUS
- Three years of foreign language and a Regents examination in a Foreign
language (65+) OR
- 10 credits in Art or Music and a Regents examination in Art or Music (65+)
MASTERY IN MATH ENDORSEMENT
Achieve a score of 85 or higher on each of the three required Math Regents examinations (Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II).
MASTERY IN SCIENCE ENDORSEMENT
Achieve a score of 85 or higher on any three Science Regents examinations.
Report cards, distributed six (6) times in an academic year, will indicate progress towards completing graduation requirements. The following approximate time frame is set with report card distribution:
|
Term 1: Fall (September to January) |
|
|
Marking Period 1 |
Mid-October |
|
Marking Period 2 |
Early December |
|
Marking Period 3 |
End of January (final grade for the term) |
|
Term 2: Spring (February to June) |
|
|
Marking Period 1 |
Mid-March |
|
Marking Period 2 |
Late March |
|
Marking Period 3 |
End of June (final grade for the term) |
Most courses are annualized and students will continue with the same program in the Spring term. Program changes will only be made in the Spring for seniors and/or sophomores with regard to Health and Physical Education, senior lateral College Now course changes, and/or replacing elective courses for required courses to graduate.
Students must be in a senior official class in order to participate in senior activities and must meet all graduation requirements in order to participate in graduation exercises.
GUIDE FOR PROMOTION – FALL
|
TO ENTER |
YOU MUST HAVE |
|
A Sophomore (2) Official Class |
8 credits and 1 year in High School
|
|
A Junior (3) Official Class |
20 credits and 2 years in High School AND
|
|
A Senior (4) Official Class and for Graduation |
30 credits and 3 years in High School AND
|
Note: To participate in senior activities, a student must be in a 4 homeroom by September and must be carrying a program which enables him/her to graduate in June with his/her cohort.
GUIDE FOR PROMOTION – SPRING
|
TO ENTER |
YOU MUST HAVE |
|
A Sophomore (2) Official Class |
14 credits and 1.5 years in High School
|
|
A Junior (3) Official Class |
25 credits and 2.5 years in High School AND
|
|
A Senior (4) Official Class and for Graduation |
34 credits and 3.5 years in High School
|
Note: To participate in senior activities, a student must be in a 4 homeroom by February and must be carrying a program which enables him/her to graduate in June with his/her cohort.
CREDIT RECOVERY OPPORTUNITIES
We support students to earn the credits and Regents exams required to graduate
in four years. Students who fail a course will be given the opportunity to recover the credit to stay on-track. Below are credit recovery models that are offered to students.
- 3:2 Split: Reserved for seniors with credit deficits in Physical Education. Make-up classes are added to a student’s program.
- Credit Recovery by Application: A student qualifies for this program if he/she fails a course with a grade below 65% and had an attendance rate of 66% or higher in the deficit course. Eligible students will be identified by the Credit Recovery Committee and assigned a licensed subject-area teacher who will assess the academic deficit and assign work accordingly. The teacher will meet with the student and support the student in completing the assigned work to meet the required learning standard. The work must be completed no later than the end of the term immediately following the failure.
- SBVL: Hybrid credit recovery program which includes asynchronous and synchronous work and delivered by a subject certified teacher during pres-established times and dates.
- Double-Up: Reserved for upperclassmen. Eligible students may double-up in Social Studies and English if numbers permit. An additional class is added on the student’s day program.
CREDIT RECOVERY OPPORTUNITIES
- Summer School
Students qualify for this program if they fail a core content class, a Physical Education class, and/or Health class. Eligible students must attend classes in the summer for approximately 6 weeks, 4-5 days a week. Session time ranges from 8:00 am to 2:15 pm.
Successful participation in the credit recovery opportunities outlined above will allow students to recover credit and graduate with their cohort. In addition, the course work will assist in preparing for the Regents exam if the course ends in a Regents.
COLLEGE & CAREER OFFICE
The College and Career Office is a full-service resource and counseling center designed to prepare students in grades 9-12 for post-secondary life. School counselors provide support and assist students and their families as they explore college and career choices and complete college, financial aid, and scholarship applications. Students and parents/guardians meet regularly with counselors to discuss academic performance, college and career options, curriculum choices, and standardized testing. Students in grades 9-12 complete two grade-level college tasks each year on Naviance.
Representatives from many career-based organizations, colleges, trade schools, and universities visit the College and Career Office every year to meet with students, both in small groups and at our annual College & Career Fair. Trips to various college campuses are provided for juniors and seniors as well. Parent meetings related to college and career planning and financial aid are held each term and special workshops are provided for English Language Learners and students with disabilities.
A specialized career counselor in the College and Career Office leads our school-to-career pathway as well as supports the exploration of career choices via work shadowing experiences and internships. Community and work partnerships are organized to assist students in making informed career and post-secondary decisions. Specifically, these opportunities are created to expose students to careers and solidify their intended college course of study.
The College and Career Office, located in room 101, is accessible every day from 7:20 am to 3:40 pm. Computers and resource books are available for student use. Students may visit before or after their school day or during their lunch period.
SCHOOL-WIDE GRADING POLICY
SY 2025-26 SCHOOL-WIDE GRADING POLICY
updated 2/9/2026
Our school-wide grading policy was created with a focus towards accurately evaluating students’ progress and achievement as we prepare them to meet the academic challenges of the NYSED, NYCPS, and Next Generation Learning Standards, assessments, and promotional requirements. Using the school-wide grading policy as a framework, each department develops a policy specific to the requirements of its content area. The NYCPS policy regarding attendance and grading is as follows:
Attending school, participating in class, and demonstrating understanding are all essential components of student learning, and school communities must make every effort to ensure that students attend school, with a goal of every student, every day. When students attend school consistently, they have the greatest opportunity to make progress, receive support from their teachers, and demonstrate their learning. Students’ grades must reflect the extent to which they have met the learning outcomes for their courses. Schools must not include attendance as a factor calculated into students’ academic grades.
SCHOOL-WIDE HOMEWORK POLICY
SCHOOL-WIDE HOMEWORK POLICY
Rationale:
Homework is an integral part of our educational program. It is one of the many components used to support instruction and increase student learning.
Homework helps to:
- Prepare students for future lessons
- Provide feedback to the student regarding comprehension of the material
- Provide feedback to the teacher as to the success of the day’s lesson
- Review, reinforce, and enrich skills and concepts introduced in the subject class
GENERAL INFORMATION AND STUDENT SERVICES
GENERAL INFORMATION AND STUDENT SERVICES
Attendance Policy
In the event of an absence, the student must present a signed note indicating the reason for the absence to all subject teachers. Absence notices must have the following information: student’s name, official class, OSIS number, reason for absence, and the dates of the absence(s). After all teachers have signed the note, the completed note must be brought to the student’s guidance counselor.
Attendance Squad
The Project Success House Structure addresses students’ cutting and overall attendance status, resulting in improved academic performance/scholarship. Project Success includes an attendance team, which is made up of an attendance teacher, family assistants, and school aides, monitoring daily attendance and cutting and responding to teacher attendance referrals. Through direct interfacing with the guidance offices/houses, which include assistant principal(s), guidance counselor(s), dean(s), and school aide, Project Success personnel work closely with these key staff members, assisting students in attending school on a regular basis and improving their academic performance. Project Success’ overarching goal is drop-out prevention through focused and consistent attendance outreach.
Bathrooms
Student bathrooms are available on the first floor, third floor, in the 83rd and 85th Street modules, locker rooms and student cafeteria. Student bathrooms are closed the first ten and final five minutes of each period. Students must also have a pass from their teacher if they are using the bathroom during class time. A gender-neutral bathroom is located on the 2nd floor, room 239.
CAASS
The CAASS system, a student identification card system, is located throughout the school building. ID stations are located at the main entrance, library, locker rooms, and student cafeteria. Students must swipe their ID cards to pass through these machines to gain entrance into the school and other areas of the building including the library, cafeteria and locker rooms.
Entrance Gate Procedures
There are two main entrances to the campus of the school – the 85th Street and Narrows Avenue gate and the 83rd and Narrows Avenue gate. Students can exit the building during dismissal via Exit 10, Exit 83A, Exit 83C, or Exit 85C into the module courtyard and onto Shore Road where MTA shuttle buses will be waiting to take students to 4th Avenue. Students choosing to walk should walk up 86th Street (safe corridor). Students cannot walk across the front of the campus during dismissal.
Health Office Policy
In the event of sickness or injury, a student may go to the Health Office, located in room 256, with a hand-written pass from a staff member. There, the student may rest and recover. If the student is too ill to remain in school, a phone call to the parent/ guardian or an individual listed on the Blue Emergency Card will be made and that person will be required to pick up the student from school. If the parent/guardian is unable to pick up the student from school, the parent/guardian may give verbal consent for the child to leave. If the student is not well enough to travel home, the parent/guardian or a person listed on the Blue Emergency Card must pick up the child. All incoming students must have their medical records on file along with completed immunizations. Students are expected to keep their medical records and immunization records updated throughout their high school career.
Identification Cards
All students must have a FHHS ID card with them at all times. Students must have an FHHS ID card with them in order to enter the school building. Any teacher can ask to see your ID card and students are required to present it. ID cards are also needed when taking Regents, ACT, PSAT, and SAT exams, obtaining an OMNY Card or working papers, and to gain entrance to the school, cafeteria, library and locker rooms. New school ID cards may be obtained every day in the B77 (located in the student cafeteria). The school provides one replacement ID card. A $2.00 fee is charged for further replacements.
Library
The Library Media Center is staffed by three librarians and one school aide and is open periods 1-10 for individual students and whole class instruction. To enter the library, students must swipe their FHHS student ID card. Students may work, read, use computers, or conduct research quietly. Books may be borrowed for two weeks and must be returned. The Library Media Center is equipped with a computer lab and mobile laptops labs complete with printers for student and staff use. Students and staff may access the Fort Hamilton High School website at www.fthhs.org to access links to our library’s extensive collection of subscription databases. The catalog and databases may be accessed from any internet computer in the library or at home. As funding permits, the library will be open after school until 5:00 pm to allow students access to computers, resources, and a place to study.
Violations of school rules and policies may result in a student being asked to leave the library and/or lose library privileges for a period of time to be determined by the librarians.
Meals
Universal breakfast and lunch is provided to students every day. Breakfast is served from 7:00 am to 8:50 am and lunch is served periods 3 thru 9. While meals are provided at no cost, we urge all families to complete the Meal Inquiry Form to ensure an accurate accounting of our eligibility for federal funds via Title I.
Omny Cards
OMNY Cards are distributed during the first week of the fall and spring semesters. In order to receive an Omny Card, a student must have their FHHS ID card and a cleared school book account. If a student’s Omny Card is lost or does not work, they must go to room B77 (located in the student cafeteria) and request a new one. All Omny Cards must have the student’s name written on the card.
Students who repeatedly lose their Omny Card will be asked to have a parent/guardian come up to school to obtain a new Omny Card.
Online Program - Edgenuity: We offer online courses to provide students an opportunity to recover credits needed for graduation if they fail a course and need to repeat the entire course. Eligible students must sign a contract, complete an online orientation, and initiate online course work on Edgenuity, an online instructional program aligned to NYS Next Generation Learning Standards. A subject-area teacher will support completion of online assignments no later than the end of the term.
Program Cards
Students must always have a current FHHS ID Program Card with them. Any staff member can ask to see a student’s Program Card and the student is required to present it. Duplicate program cards may be obtained in room B77 during the students lunch period or at the end of their day.
Quick Print Lab
The Quick Print Lab, located in room B77 (in the student cafeteria), is available to students during their lunch period (periods 3-9). Students have access to laptops and printers and have the opportunity to print homework assignments and other school-related documents. In addition, students may do research and work on Edgenuity (credit-recovery) assignments.
School Trips
School trips are an enhancement to instruction. All students are eligible to participate. Misbehavior or any other disciplinary action may result in a student being excluded from a school trip or activity.
Working Papers
Forms for working papers may be obtained in room 143, during a student’s lunch period. Once all documentation has been completed, working papers will be issued.
LADDER OF REFERRAL
Ladder of Referral
|
Presenting Problem |
Resource |
|
Absenteeism/Truancy |
|
|
Cutting |
|
|
Discipline |
1. Telephone call, parent letter, email correspondence by subject teacher
|
|
Homework/Tests |
1.Parent letter, telephone call, email correspondence by subject teacher 2.Tutoring, Tutorial Centers |
|
Substance Abuse |
Refer to School Counselor and inform Ms. Mancini, AP PP Room 114, ext. 1142
|
|
Learning Problems |
Guidance Referral to Ms. Mancini, AP PPS, who will refer it to a Social Worker for pre-evaluation.
|
|
Social/Emotional Problems |
Guidance Referral Form to Ms. Mancini, AP PPS
|
|
FOR CRISIS SITUATIONS:
Refer to any Full-time Counselor immediately
|
Child Abuse |
Ms. Merkel, Room 149, ext. 1453 Mr. Weiser, Room 237, ext. 2372 |
|
Severe Depression & Suicide |
School Counselor Assigned |
|
|
Teen Pregnancy |
Ms. Kornblum, Room 320, ext. 3202 |
|
|
Overdose |
Nurse, Room 256, ext. 2564 Ms. Compere, Nurse, Room 256, ext. 2562 Refer to Counselor
|
|
|
Drug & Alcohol Prevention & Intervention Counseling |
School Counselor Assigned |
|
|
Mandated Counseling |
Ms. Olivia Fleurima, Social Worker, Room 124, ext. 1241 Mr. Santiago Martinez, Social Worker, Room 124, ext. 1242 |
|
|
Ms. Crimmins, Social Worker, Room 221, ext. 2211 |
||
|
Mediation At-Risk Counseling |
School Counselors & Deans Ms. Jacquez-Sanchez, Room 149, ext. 1473 Ms. Varas, Social Worker, Room 221, Ext. 2210 |
SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY
SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY
Steven Holke, Assistant Principal
Fort Hamilton High School belongs to us all, students, staff and graduates alike. We are all Fort Hamilton. How you behave while here is a reflection of you and your parents’ values. We hope that you will take PRIDE in your environment. Listed below are guidelines for how students should conduct themselves in and around the school.
Listed below are guidelines for how students should conduct themselves in and around the school.
STUDENT RULES AND REGULATIONS
- Not attending or being late for school or class without authorization is forbidden and can affect your grades. Students must be out of the hallway by the late bell. Students cannot loiter in the hallways or staircases at any time. Students found repeatedly late to class or in the hallway after the late bell will have their homes contacted and a parent conference held.
- Leaving the building is permitted only by obtaining an early excuse pass. Students may not leave the building during their lunch period even if it is their last period of the day unless they have written permission from their parent or guardian. In limited situations, an early excuse pass may be issued by the attendance office. Students must leave only through supervised exit doors ONLY. Students leaving the school prior to the start of 9th period must use the CAASS machine located in the main lobby for approved exit. All doors are alarmed and setting off a door alarm will result in a parent conference. Loitering on or near the campus is also prohibited.
- Medical problems requiring excuse from physical education classes must be reported to the Assistant Principal, Physical Education in room 246 and to the health aide in room 256. Canes are not permitted in school unless accompanied with a doctor’s note. Students requiring the use of the school elevator must provide medical documentation to the nurse in room 256, where an elevator pass may be obtained.
- Accidents involving personal injury must be immediately reported to the nurse in room 256 and an accident report filed. Emergency home contact cards with emergency telephone numbers must be on file for all pupils. Utility bills or an equivalent must be shown to verify addresses. Change of address and home telephone number must be reported to the attendance office in room 149.
- Friends, siblings or other relatives may not visit the school, unless special authorization is given. Trespassers will be arrested. Likewise, bringing trespassers into the building will result in suspension.
- Personal property is the responsibility of the owner. Do not bring valuables to school. During physical education classes, clothing must be placed in a gym locker and secured with a school lock. Students are only permitted in the locker room during their physical education class. Students cannot use classroom lockers at any other time.
- Students will not be permitted into the building from the athletic field, or other outside class location, whether used for books or personal effects. These bags should be secured in the locker room or locked in a classroom or other pre-determined location prior to going outside for class. Students cannot use classroom lockers at any time.
- Proper attire for students is required and expected, at all times. Revealing, lewd, or and/or clothing thatdoes not provide coverage of torso, undergarments, or private parts, including see-through clothing are not permitted. Additionally, sleeveless undershirts, pajamas, and clothing that is potentially dangerous, are also prohibited.
- Hats are not permitted to be worn in the building and will be confiscated for repeated offenses. Hoods are also not to be on students’ heads while in the building and ski masks, sunglasses, and exotic contact lenses are also prohibited while in the school building.
Sweatbands, do-rags and other headgear is likewise not permitted to be worn while in school.
- In accordance with NYS Education Law §2803, all New York State schools are required to prohibit the use of personal internet-enabled devices during the school day on school grounds from entry to exit. An "internet-enabled electronic device" is defined as an electronic device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet. Examples of such devices include cell phones, smartphones, smartwatches, laptops, tablets, iPads, headphones, portable music and entertainment systems.
As such, Students will not be permitted to use or access their personal internet-enabled electronic devices upon arrival at school until they exit at the end of the school day. As a multi-session school, our official school day varies for every student, but all devices must be secured in the pouch inside a student’s bag from 7am to 4pm in the building. As such, the school day is defined as the period of time from the moment a student enters the school building until they leave the building, including during lunch or any outdoor campus activity during the school day.
Daily Procedure for Students:
Each student will receive a pouch to store their personal device(s) daily from entry to exit. Students will be responsible for having the pouch each school day while attending Fort Hamilton High School.
- Upon arrival, students must power off their device and secure all personal internet-enabled devices in the pouch provided.
- Students will store their electronic device pouch on their person for the day (i.e. backpack, handbag, or other carrying item). Students must keep the pouch that encloses the device in something other than their hand or pocket.
- After exiting the building at the end of the school day, students may remove their electronic devices from their pouches outside of the building.
- In the event that a pouch is lost or damaged, the school will engage parents to determine if a nominal fee of $10 for a replacement will be required.
- If a student does not have their pouch, the phone will be collected and held in a secure location for the day and returned by available staff at the end of the day, but students are expected to have both their Fort Hamilton HS ID and device pouch daily.
Exceptions: As required by a student’s Individualized Education Program or Section 504 Accommodation Plan, we will coordinate exceptions to the policy based on documented need. All students will be able to use school/NYCPS-issued devices during the school day for instructional purposes.
Discipline for Violation of Cell Phone Policy:
Students who remove their electronic devices from the school issued pouch prior to the end of their day and/or use their personal electronic devices in violation of any provision of NY State law, the NYCPS’s Discipline Code, or FHHS’s policies, Chancellor’s regulation and/or the NYCPS’s Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy (“IAUSP”) will be subject to discipline in accordance with the guidance interventions and disciplinary responses set forth in the Discipline Code.
These items, when removed without authorization from the school issued pouch or otherwise seen, heard, and/or used during the school day, may be subject to confiscation or other disciplinary measures and will be returned based on the following progressive discipline policy:
First offense – 1st warning and verbal reminder about the policy with directive to return the item to the school-issued pouch. Anecdotal log created.
Second offense - 2nd warning, disciplinary referral, and a parent phone call with a reminder about the policy to keep the device in the school-provided pouch. Anecdotal log created.
Third offense – 3rd warning, disciplinary referral, parent phone call, and confiscation of the item (in the school-issued pouch). At the end of the student’s instructional day, they will pick up the phone in the dean’s office. Anecdotal log created.
Fourth offense – 4th and FINAL warning, disciplinary referral, parent phone call, confiscation of the item, and a mandatory parent conference. The device in its pouch will be collected each day upon entry for a minimum of 5 days by a dean. At the end of the student’s instructional day, they will pick up the phone in the dean’s office. Students may also face loss of extracurricular privileges. Anecdotal log created.
Fifth offense - Disciplinary referral, parent phone call, confiscation of the item and a mandatory parent conference to review that the device will be collected daily upon entry for the remainder of the school year and returned at the end of each instructional day. Anecdotal log created.
Continued disregard for this state law and school policy will result in continued documented infractions and a progressive escalation of discipline in accordance with the Citywide Behavioral Expectations to Support Student Learning. In all cases the school retains the right to conduct a parent conference. As provided in the State law, a student may not be suspended solely on the grounds that the personal internet-enabled was accessed. However, repeated offenses or incidents of insubordination (i.e. refusal to surrender or store the device) may result in suspension with approval by the Office of Safety and Youth Development.
Items are available for return only during regular school hours of 8:00am to 3:45pm. Repeated violations or refusal to cooperate may result in an escalated disciplinary response.
- Every student must always have a student I.D. card with them. I.D. cards must be scanned in order to enter the building, café, library, locker rooms and for reentry into the building for after school activities. I.D. cards or temporary day passes must be handed over whenever asked by a staff member. New I.D. cards can be obtained daily in the student cafeteria, room B77, during the student’s lunch period only. Temporary I.D. passes must be obtained upon entry if student does not have their I.D. card and be carried for the entire school day. Students found in the building without an I.D. card or program card are subject to disciplinary action.
- OMNY Cards will be distributed at the start of each semester in the student cafeteria. Students must have a school I.D. in order to receive a OMNY Card and their name written on the card, as well. Student’s losing three or more OMNY Card in a semester must have a parent come up to obtain additional OMNY cards. All lost or stolen cards must be reported immediately and can only be replaced during the student’s lunch period in room B77.
- Students must scan their school I.D. card in order to enter the student cafeteria. Students may not leave the cafeteria once inside without authorization. Food and drink may not be taken out of the cafeteria. Students are not permitted in the teachers’ cafeteria. Students found cutting in the student cafeteria and causing a disruption will face disciplinary action including possible suspension. Likewise, students must follow their program and cannot go to other classes.
- Students must have an official school laminated room pass in order to be in the hallway during class time. If the laminated room pass is not available, a written pass from the teacher with the date, time, student’s name, destination, room number and teacher signature must be used. Student bathrooms are closed the first ten and final five minutes of each period. Students must have a pass in order to gain entrance into the bathroom. Students are not permitted to use staff bathrooms. Students are encouraged to use the bathrooms located in the locker rooms and cafeteria.
- Guidance counselors and grade advisors may be seen either before or after the student’s school day, lunch periods or by a pre-arranged appointment. Students may not visit support staff unless a pass is obtained from the classroom teacher.
- Tampering with safety measures or devices such as alarm systems, surveillance cameras, fire extinguishers, lights, exit signs or the telephone system will result in suspension and possible arrest. Students are not permitted to use office or classroom telephones unless it is an emergency and permission has been given by a staff member and the staff member is present while the call is being made.
- Evacuation and soft lock down drills are held regularly and require silence, good order, and obedience to the instruction of staff members. Misbehavior during drills will lead to disciplinary action. The use of cellphones, headphones, and other electronic devices is strictly prohibited during all drills.
- Cheating, plagiarism, and giving false information are prohibited. Grades can suffer greatly when you cheat on an assignment or exam. Fraud on state exams will result in cancellation of any future state exams until proper citizenship is demonstrated.
- Participation in all extracurricular activities, clubs, school trips and after school events, as well as athletic team eligibility, both varsity and junior varsity, depends upon the regulations of the P.S.A.L. and strict adherence to school and NYCPS rules and regulations. Serious infractions, fraud or a pattern of misbehavior will result in suspension from the activity or a period of probation. Additionally, students must also be in good academic standing as outlined by the PSAL and/or Fort Hamilton High School and NYCPS guidelines.
- Racial, ethnic, sexual or religious defamation is forbidden and will result in a home contact or a guidance conference or suspension. Physical or verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation, or conduct, which threatens the well-being of any student or staff member inside/outside the school or on the internet is forbidden and will result in disciplinary action and possible arrest. Sexual harassment of staff or students is strictly prohibited and may result in suspension and arrest.
- Bullying of any kind in and out of school or on the internet is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
- Smoking of any kind is not permitted anywhere in the school or on school grounds. Students found smoking in the school or on school grounds will result in disciplinary action. Cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, vapes, and lighters are prohibited in school.
- Graffiti, defacement, vandalism or destruction of school property (books, computers, desks, windows, walls, etc.) is strictly prohibited and will result in community service, suspension and possible arrest.
- Glass bottles are not permitted in the building. No plastic bottles/containers larger than 20 oz. will be permitted in the building. Skateboards and scooters are not permitted on school grounds or in the school. Balloons are also prohibited. Any of these items found in the building will be confiscated. Basketballs, footballs, soccer balls, etc. cannot be carried openly in the building and will be confiscated if doing so. These items may be picked up at room 143 at the end of the student’s school day.
- Students are prohibited from selling unauthorized items in the school building. Any students found selling any food stuffs or drinks (i.e.: soda, chips, candy, chocolate, etc.) in the building without authorization from school staff will receive a disciplinary referral and have said items confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian.
- Posting or distributing of non-authorized literature or fliers inside the school or on school property is prohibited.
- Fighting in school or on the way to or from school is prohibited and all parties involved will be suspended. Peer mediation is available in the school and should be used in order to avoid any confrontations.
- Possession of any weapons, narcotics, alcohol or other contraband is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate suspension and possible arrest. Laser pointers are strictly prohibited and if found in the school may result in suspension.
- Refusal to comply with a staff member’s request during the school day or during any after school activity, will result in appropriate penalties which include notification to parent, referral to the dean, annotation of record and other appropriate penalties which will be decided by the dean, assistant principal or principal.
- Any student accessing or using the internet through the Department of Education connections or equipment, whether from a DOE location or from a remote location using DOE hardware, software or accounts are prohibited from using such connections or equipment for other than educational purposes. Violators to this policy may be subject to disciplinary and legal action. Posting of inappropriate materials on the internet, which negatively impacts the school community is prohibited and can result in suspension. Using FHHS logo or name for personal use is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.
- Students, who are on suspension, have been suspended, have a disciplinary record, or are otherwise not in good academic or behavioral standing, may be prohibited from participating in or attending any extracurricular activities such as games, dances, shows, senior activities, etc.
- Students participating in any trip, day or overnight, are subject to all school rules and regulations, as well the Chancellor’s Regulations outlining expectations for student behavior while on school trips and any potential disciplinary action as outlined in the NYC DOE Disciplinary Code.
- Anything, which is punishable by city, state and federal law, inside or outside the school building can result in possible arrest and suspension or expulsion from school (i.e., possession of alcohol, narcotics, drug paraphernalia, explosives, weapons, assault, gambling, vandalism, tampering with fire alarm) if a nexus to school community is established. If any crimes are committed relating to school, a parent or guardian and the Department of Education will be notified.
- Students who feel that any of their rights are being violated should speak to elected officers of the student government. Unauthorized student petitions are strictly prohibited. More information on student government may be obtained in the student leadership room, located in B64.
SCIENCE
SCIENCE
Susannah O’Shea, Assistant Principal
Students must earn a minimum of six credits in science to graduate, including:
Two life science credits (Biology)
Two physical science credits (Earth & Space Science, Chemistry, or Physics)
Two additional science credits in life science or physical science
Students must pass one science regents exam required for graduation.
At Fort Hamilton High School, we have designed a comprehensive sequence of science courses aligned with the New York State Science Learning Standards to meet the diverse academic needs of all students.
|
9th year |
Regents Biology Students entering the 9th year with Regents Biology course credit and Regents Exam fulfillment will be placed in Regents Earth & Space Science Honors and then continue with Regents Chemistry in the 10th year. |
|
10th year |
Regents Chemistry or Regents Earth & Space Science |
|
11th year |
Regents Chemistry students will take Regents Physics along with AP Chemistry or AP Environmental Science, if eligible. Regents Earth & Space Science students will take any science elective. |
|
12th year |
AP Biology, AP Physics 2, if eligible or any science elective. |
|
Science Electives |
Astronomy Bio-Medical Laboratory Techniques (Bio-Med) Emergency Medical Training (EMT) Environmental Resiliency Environmental Science Forensics Microbiology Organic Molecules |
SOCIAL STUDIES
SOCIAL STUDIES
Gregory Abood, Assistant Principal
Upon graduation, students will have completed four years (8 terms) of Social Studies.
All instruction is aligned with the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards. New York State diploma requirements in Social Studies are as follows:
- Two years of Global History (9th and 10th)
- One year of United States History & Government (11th)
- One term of Economics (12th)
- One term of Participation in Government (12th)
There are a variety of additional electives students may take advantage of during their attendance at Fort Hamilton High School in order to be college and career ready. The Social Studies electives include Psychology, Sociology, and courses within the Law Institute.
Advanced Placement courses include:
- AP Government and Politics
- AP Human Geography
- AP Psychology
- AP United States History
- AP World History
The demands of the State requirements are translated into standards that all students must meet to obtain a New York State diploma. As evidence that students have met those Social Studies standards, they must pass two Regents examinations:
- Global History (at the end of 10th grade)
- United States History & Government (at the end of 11th grade)
WORLD LANGUAGES / ENL
WORLD LANGUAGES / ENL
Jill Kitchen, Assistant Principal
WORLD LANGUAGES
To be prepared for the challenges of the 21st century, all students are required to take and pass one year (2 terms) of a second language. We encourage a minimum of three years of a second language. Students must pass the third year World Languages Regents-like examination to receive an Advanced Regents Endorsed Diploma and earn six (6) World Languages credits.
|
Language |
Criteria |
|
Chinese HLA 1-6 |
Native Speakers |
|
Chinese Advanced Placement |
Equivalent of 3+ years of instruction |
|
French 1-6 |
Non-Native Speakers |
|
Italian 1-6 |
Non-Native Speakers |
|
Spanish 1-6 |
Non-Native Speakers |
|
Spanish HLA 1-6 |
Native Speakers |
|
Spanish Advanced Placement |
Equivalent to 3+ years of instruction |
*Availability subject to staffing
|
Classes |
|
Entering- ENL/ELA EES81- EES88 |
|
Emerging- ENL/ELA EES81- EES88 |
|
Transitioning-ENL/ELA EES81- EES88 |
|
Expanding- ENL/ELA EES81- EES88 |
|
Language Skills and Assessments EES41QA-EES44QA |
|
Communication Arts/ Public Speaking (Commanding Elective Year 1) |
|
Cultural Literature (Commanding ElectiveYear 2) |
English Language Learners must meet all graduation requirements including passing the ELA Regents examination. ELLs who score below Commanding (formerly Proficient) on the NYSITELL or the NYSESLAT are entitled to bilingual/ENL services until they score Commanding or Expanding and pass the ELA Regents examination. Parents may exercise the option to withdraw their child from bilingual programs, however, the child must continue to receive ENL services. Parent Program Selection forms must be completed and filed in the World Languages/ENL office. Students may not withdraw from a mandated ENL program. All ENL/HLA classes are aligned to the New York State Next Generation Learning Standards.
ACADEMIC INTERVENTION SERVICES
FORT HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL
Kaye Houlihan, Principal
ACADEMIC INTERVENTION SERVICES
TUTORING
-
NHS Tutoring
The National Honor Society (NHS) provides one-to-one tutoring in all subjects. Students are individually matched with tutors and tutoring takes place during lunch periods. Requests for tutoring may be made through the NHS Advisor in room 310.
-
Regents Prep
Regents tutoring is available, prior to the administration of the exams, within departments and towards the end of the term after-school and on Saturdays. Students can get further information about tutoring in specific subject classes. Regents preparation is offered in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Students benefit from Saturday sessions in the weeks leading up to the January and June administrations.
-
Tutoring within Departments
Teachers in the Math Department are available to tutor during lunch periods every Tuesday and Thursday in room 216. Other departments may have staff available from time to time. Students who wish to avail themselves of this service should see the Assistant Principal of the department. We also publish a schoolwide tutoring schedule each term that includes Saturday Academy.
BELL SCHEDULE
FORT HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL
Kaye Houlihan, Principal
BELL SCHEDULE
|
PERIOD |
START |
END |
DURATION |
PASSING |
|
1 |
7:20 am |
8:06 am |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
2 |
8:10 am |
8:56 am |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
3 |
9:00 am |
9:50 am |
0:50 |
0:04 |
|
4 |
9:54 am |
10:40 am |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
5 |
10:44 am |
11:30 am |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
6 |
11:34 am |
12:20 pm |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
7 |
12:24 pm |
1:10 pm |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
8 |
1:14 pm |
2:00 pm |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
9 |
2:04 pm |
2:50 pm |
0:46 |
0:04 |
|
10 |
2:54 pm |
3:40 pm |
0:46 |
0:04 |
STUDENT TIME
|
SESSION |
START |
END |
|
1-8 |
7:20 am |
2:00 pm |
|
2-9 |
8:10 am |
2:50 pm |
|
3-10 |
9:00 am |
3:40 pm |
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
No standing in the hallway during passing. Walk and talk. Lateness to class means missing work and leads to poor grades. Students who are late to class or found in the hallway after the late bell will be brought to the dean’s office.
Hats and hoods are not to be worn anywhere in the school. Personal phones and headphones, air pods, or other electronic devices are restricted.
HELP AT A GLANCE..
FORT HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL
Kaye Houlihan, Principal
Help at a glance . . .
|
Questions about . . . |
Contact |
Room # |
Ext. |
|
Advanced Placement |
Advanced Placement Coordinator |
B60 |
7601 |
|
Athletics |
Athletics Director |
246 |
2460 |
|
Attendance/Lateness/Early Excuse |
Attendance Office |
149 |
1471/1472 |
|
College and Career |
College & Career Office |
101 |
1013 |
|
College Now/College Prep Classes |
Office of the AP PPS |
114 |
1142 |
|
Consent to Photograph, Film, or Videotape a Student Form |
Office of the AP PPS |
114 |
1142 |
|
Diploma / Graduation Requirements |
Guidance Counselors |
Various |
Various |
|
Illness in School |
Health Office |
256 |
2560 |
|
Instructional Support Services (ISS) |
ISS Office |
316 |
3160 |
|
Meal Inquiry Forms |
Student Services Office |
143 |
1432 |
|
OMNY Cards |
OMNY Card Office |
B77 |
7773 |
|
National Honor Society |
National Honor Society Advisory |
310 |
3101 |
|
Parent Concerns |
Parent Coordinator |
149 |
1457 |
|
Physical Education Uniforms |
S.O. Online Store |
C-1 |
7911 |
|
Quick Print |
Quick Print Lab |
B77 |
7772 |
|
Student Activities / COSA |
Senior Advisors / COSA Office |
B64 |
7642 |
|
Student ID Card |
Student Services Office |
B77 |
7773 |
|
Tutoring Opportunities |
Department Assistant Principal |
Various |
Various |
|
Working Papers |
Office of Working Papers |
143 |
1432 |
Downloadable Student Handbook 2026-27