The cumulative overall grade point average is based on all grades received in ninth through 12th grade. A distinction is made in assigning grade points for Honors and AP (Advanced Placement) courses. An honors course receives an extra half credit point added to the weighted GPA. An AP course receives an extra point added to the weighted GPA. The weighting of grades is used to bestow graduation with honors status at Baccalaureate/Graduation. Only core academic courses are averaged into the weighted GPA. The Valedictorian award is bestowed upon the senior who has earned the highest academic weighted GPA over seven semesters. The Salutatorian award is bestowed upon the senior who has earned the second highest academic weighted GPA over seven semesters.