Our Curriculum

In Aquatic Science, students study the interactions of biotic and abiotic components in aquatic environments, including impacts on aquatic systems. Investigations and field work in this course may emphasize freshwater or marine aspects of aquatic science depending primarily upon the natural resources available to study near the school. Students who successfully complete the course will acquire knowledge about a variety of aquatic systems, conduct investigations and observations of the aquatic environment, and develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.

The purpose of this course is to provide exploratory experiences and laboratory and real-life applications in the biological sciences. Students will study the nature of science, including matter, energy, and chemical processes of life. They will understand life from the structure of cells to the structure of larger plants and animals. They will also study the behavior of organisms and the interdependence of organisms, humans, and life.

The course will cover the classification, structure, and changes of matter, atomic theory, and the periodic table. Students will also learn about bonding, chemical formulas, chemical reactions, and balanced equations. From stoichiometry to acids and bases to the dynamics of energy, this course includes everything necessary to study the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter and their applications.

Economics with emphasis on the free enterprise system and its benefits is the culmination of the economic content and concepts studied from Kindergarten through required secondary courses. The focus is on the basic principles concerning production, consumption, and distribution of goods and services in the United States and a comparison with those in other countries around the world. Students will examine the rights and responsibilities of consumers and businesses. Students will analyze the interaction of supply, demand, and price and study the role of financial institutions in a free enterprise system. Types of business ownership and market structures will be discussed, as will be basic concepts of consumer economics. The impact of a variety of factors including geography, the federal government, economic ideas from important philosophers, historic documents, societal values, scientific discoveries and technological innovations on the national economy and economic policy will be an integral part of the course. Students will apply critical-thinking skills to create economic models and to evaluate economic activity patterns. Students will also examine the knowledge and skills necessary as self-supporting adults to make critical decisions relating to personal financial matters.

In Government, the focus will be on principles and beliefs upon which the United States was founded and on the structure, functions, and powers of government at the national, state, and local levels. This course is the culmination of the civic and governmental content and concepts studied from kindergarten through required secondary courses. Students will learn major political ideas and forms of government in history. A significant focus of the course will be on the U.S. Constitution, its underlying principles and ideas, and the form of government it created. Students will analyze major concepts of republicanism, federalism, checks, and balances, separation of powers, popular sovereignty, and individual rights and will compare the U.S. system of government with other political systems. Students will identify the role of government in the U.S. free enterprise system and examine the strategic importance of places to the United States. Students will analyze the impact of individuals, political parties, interest groups and the media on the American political system, evaluate the importance of voluntary individual participation in a democratic society, and analyze the rights guaranteed by the U.S Constitution. Students will identify examples of government policies that encourage scientific research and will use critical-thinking skills to create a project on a contemporary government issue.

What comes to mind when you think of ‘marketing’? Perhaps a familiar television jingle plays in your head? Or maybe you think of those irritating sales phone calls? There’s no denying the sheer magnitude and power of the marketing industry. Every year companies spend approximately $200 billion promoting their products and services—and that’s just in the United States alone! You may be familiar with being on the receiving end marketing, but what’s it like on the other side? In Advertising and Sales Promotions, you’ll see how these marketing campaigns, ads, and commercials are brought to life and meet some of the creative folks who produce them. You’ll learn about different marketing career opportunities and discover ways to be part of this exciting, fast-paced industry.

In this course, students examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression from the past and the present from a variety of cultures. While visual analysis is a fundamental tool of the art historian, art history emphasizes understanding how and why works of art function in context, considering such issues as patronage, gender, and the functions and effects of works of art. The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop knowledge of the history and theory of art and the relationship between artist, artwork, and society. Students will research and critique periods, styles, and works of art from early civilizations through the Middle Ages. Emphasis will be placed on the role of works of art based on subject matter, theme, concept, symbolism, or allegory/metaphor.

Who do you think is the greatest artist of all time? Maybe Leonardo da Vinci? Michelangelo? Maybe a more modern artist like Claude Monet or Pablo Picasso? Or is it possible that the greatest artist of all time is actually someone whose name has been lost to history? In Art in World Cultures, you’ll learn about some of the greatest artists in the world while creating your own art, both on paper and digitally. This course explores basic principles and elements of art and teaches you how to critique different art works art. And along the way, you will get to discover some traditional art forms from various regions of the world including the Americas, Africa, and Oceania.

English I students are expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and produce final, error-free drafts. Emphasis is placed on organizing logical arguments, clearly related definitions, theses, and evidence. Students read from multiple genres including world literature, novels, poetry, and dramas.

English II continues to increase and refine communication skills. Students are expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions. They will edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and produce final, error-free drafts. In English II students practice all forms of writing such as logical arguments, expressions of opinion, and personal forms of writing. These personal forms of writing may include a response to literature, a reflective essay, or an autobiographical narrative. English II students read from multiple genres including world literature, novels, poetry, and dramas. Students interpret the possible influences of the historical context on literary work.

Over the course of U.S. history, how have African Americans helped shaped American culture? This African American History course answers that question by tracing the accomplishments and obstacles of African Americans beginning with the slave trade on up to the modern Civil Rights movement. What was it like during slavery, or after emancipation, or during the years of discrimination under Jim Crow? Who were some of the main figures who have shaped African American history? In this course, you’ll learn about the political, economic, social, religious, and cultural factors that have influenced African American life, come face to face with individuals who changed the course of history, and explore how the African American story still influences current events today.

How can we make our food more nutritious? Can plants really communicate with each other? These are just two of the questions tackled in Introduction to Agriscience. From studying the secrets in corn roots to examining how to increase our food supply, this course examines how agriscientists are at the forefront of improving agriculture, food production, and the conservation of natural resources. In Introduction to Agriscience, you’ll learn about the innovative ways that science and technology are put to beneficial use in the field of agriculture. You’ll also learn more about some of the controversies that surround agricultural practices as nations strive to provide their people with a more abundant and healthy food supply.

Have you ever strolled past a bright green cauliflower at the market and paused to ponder its unusual color? Ever wonder why “broccolini” is suddenly a thing? Well, if you find yourself curiously questioning these, and other, peculiar vegetables and wondering about the role of agriculture in the modern world, Agri science II is for you. Learn how science and technology are revolutionizing our food supply and promoting innovative ways to produce healthy plant-based foods, such as developing better hybrids and growing edible plants in challenging places. Food is our most essential resource; see how plant science will change the face of eating in the 21st century and give us the knowledge to continually improve our green thumbs.

What makes us human? Is it our ability to use language? Is it our abstract thinking skills or our use of tools and technology? In Anthropology 1: Uncovering Human Mysteries you will trace the history of homo sapiens and explore our evolutionary trail. This course offers an anthropological lens to observe our movement from cave dweller to modern human. It sheds light on how we forged our way and developed all of the things that make us human, such as our cultures, languages, and religions. We, as humans in the 21st century, are highly intelligent, innovative people with astounding technological ability—how did we get this way.

How does your culture influence you? Find out how different locations shape various cultures and, in turn, how these cultures shape people’s lives around the world—from the jungles of the Amazon to the islands of Indonesia. Anthropology II: More Human Mysteries Uncovered provides a fascinating look at this puzzle of culture. Many of our ancient cultures and languages were shaped by the geographical locations of our ancestors, and in this course, you will begin to visualize new ideas about how ancient cultures flourished through examining their views on life, death, art, and survival. In looking back and learning about cultures through the ages, we are better equipped to understand the world around us today.

The universe is truly the last unknown frontier and offers more questions than answers. Why do stars twinkle? Is it possible to fall into a black hole? Will the sun ever stop shining? Since humans first took a glimpse into the vastness of the night sky, we have been fascinated with the celestial world of planets and stars. Astronomy: Exploring the Universe introduces you to the engaging world of astronomy. By using online tools, you will examine such topics as the solar system, space exploration, and the Milky Way and other galaxies. The course also explores the history and evolution of astronomy including those basic scientific laws of motion and gravity that have guided astronomers as they made their incredible discoveries of the universe.

How is technology changing the way we live? Is it possible nature can provide all the answers to some of science’s most pressing concerns? The fusion of biology and technology creates an amazing process and offers humanity a chance to significantly improve our existence through the enhancement of food and medicine. In Biotechnology: Unlocking Nature’s Secrets, you’ll learn how this field seeks to cure such deadly diseases as cancer and malaria, develop innovative medicine, and effectively feed the world through improved systems. Learn about the history of biotechnology and some of the challenges it faces today, such as resistant bacteria and genetically modified organisms in food. You will research new biotechnologies and understand firsthand how they are forever changing the world we live.

This course is designed to teach students the kind of writing and speaking used in business, from the routine report to the long formal report. Students will learn to prepare a professional resume and how to have a successful in a job interview. Focus will also be on the legal aspects of writing official communications that touch on people’s civil rights.

Most of us have watched a sensationalized crime show at one time or another, but do we really know how things work behind those dreaded prison bars? Do we really understand all the many factors in our justice proceedings? The criminal justice system is a very complex field that requires many seriously dedicated people who are willing to pursue equal justice for all. The Careers in Criminal Justice course illuminates what those different career choices are and how the juvenile justice system, the correctional system, and the trial process all work together to maintain social order. Find out more about what really happens when the television show ends and reality begins.

Child Development prepares students to understand the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth and development of children. The course is designed to help young people acquire knowledge and skills essential to the care and guidance of children as a parent or caregiver. Emphasis is on helping students create an environment for children that will promote optimum development.

What if you could do the impossible? Engineers understand a lot of things, but the word impossible definitely isn’t one of them. Through Concepts of Engineering and Technology, you’ll learn how the momentum of science is continually propelling engineers in new directions towards a future full of insight and opportunity. This course explores the different branches of engineering and how problem-solving, sketching, collaboration, and experimentation can change the very fiber of our human lives. This ever-increasing knowledge can also lead to serious ethical dilemmas and the need to discuss where the boundaries of science lie (or even if there should be boundaries). By examining astounding engineering feats and complex ongoing issues, you, too, will begin to question whether the word impossible really exists.

We all want to look our best, but did you know there is actually a science behind cutting your hair and painting your nails? In Cosmetology: Cutting-Edge Styles, you will learn all about this often entertaining field and how specialized equipment and technology are propelling our grooming into the next century. Just like all careers, cosmetology requires certain skills and characteristics, all of which are thoroughly explored in this course. You will learn about various beauty regimes related to hair, nails, skin, and spa treatments, and discover how to create your own business model quickly and efficiently while still looking fabulous, of course.

The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop and use fundamental writing and language skills for creative expression in a variety of literary forms. Emphasis will be on development of a personal writing style. Students will analyze literary models and engage in peer review techniques.

Understanding the criminal mind is not easy. Why do certain people commit horrible acts? Can we ever begin to understand their reasoning and motivation? Perhaps. In Criminology: Inside the Criminal Mind, you will be given the rare opportunity to climb inside the mind of a criminal and examine the ideas and motivations at work. The mental state of a criminal can be affected by many different aspects of life—psychological, biological, sociological—all of which have differing perspectives and influences. You will investigate not only how these variables affect the criminal mind but also how the criminal justice system remains committed to upholding the law through diligence and an uncompromising process.

Food, glorious food! It both nourishes and satisfies us, and it brings people together through preparation, enjoyment, and celebration. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about cuisine and how your creativity and appreciation can be expressed by preparing food, Introduction to Culinary Arts is perfect for you. Learn the fundamentals of a working kitchen, and explore what it takes to develop real talent as a chef. Enhance your knowledge of the endless varieties of food, and discover the possibilities that the many spices can bring. Learning more about food preparation will certainly make everything you prepare taste better while giving you the ability to bring people together through the joy of eating.

As children, we see the world differently than we do as teenagers and adults. It is a world full of magical creatures and strange, exciting things. But what makes childhood such a wondrous time of learning and exploration? What can caregivers do to encourage this? In Early Childhood Education, you will learn more about understanding the childhood experience. Learn how to create interesting lessons and stimulating learning environments that provide a safe and encouraging experience for children. Discover how to get children excited about learning and, just as importantly, to feel confident about their abilities. Early childhood teachers have the unique opportunity to help build a strong base for their young students’ life-long education.

What does it really take to own your own business? Does the sound of being your own boss make you feel excited or anxious? Either way, Entrepreneurship: Starting Your Business will get you started in the right direction. This course explains the ins and outs of such an enterprise, giving you the confidence needed to be your very own boss. You will discover what is needed to operate a personal business from creating a plan, generating financing, and pricing products to marketing services and managing employees. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a true entrepreneur but feel daunted by the prospect, this is your chance to learn all you need to know.

This semester-length, high school elective introduces students to career opportunities and educational pathways in a wide array of environmental fields. Students examine environmental legislation and regulations, government agencies and organizations, monitoring and testing methods and requirements. They discover the relationship between environmental regulations and careers, and study the issues, history, and current status of air and water quality, soil and atmospheric conditions. In an environmentally challenged world, ESS professionals are critically important. Job outlooks and salary scales reflect this need for educated, dedicated researchers, scientists, engineers, etc.

This course is an introduction to the goals, processes, and operations of business enterprises for students. The main focus is on the functions that a company–whether a multinational corporation or a corner grocery store–must manage effectively in order to be successful. These include accounting, finance, human resource management, marketing, operations management, and strategic planning. Attention is also given to the legal environment in which businesses operate, and the importance of business ethics and corporate citizenship.

The purpose of this course is to help students develop the ability to make reasoned and ethical choices when confronted with the many complex, controversial moral dilemmas faced in today’s society. Students will become acquainted with the foundations of ethical thought and theories as well as gain an insight into the process of moral development. Students will also identify typical fallacies in flawed moral arguments. Students will also be given the opportunity, both orally and in writing, to apply the skills they acquire to real life moral dilemmas.

Do you have a flair for fashion? Are you constantly looking for new ways to decorate or design your room? If so, Fashion and Interior Design is the course for you. Explore the world of design and begin to understand the background and knowledge needed to develop a career in this exciting field. Try your hand at designing through a project-based process, learning how color, composition, and texture can all affect great aesthetics. You’ll develop the essential communications skills necessary to build a successful business and begin to develop the kind of portfolio that will lead to future career opportunities. Perhaps it’s time to get your stylish foot in the door.

Fingerprints. Blood spatters. Gunshot residue. If these things intrigue you rather than scare you, Forensic Science I: Secrets of the Dead may be for you. This course offers you the chance to dive into the riveting job of crime scene analysis. Learn the techniques and practices applied during a crime scene investigation and how clues and data are recorded and preserved. You will better understand how forensic science applies technology to make discoveries and bring criminals to justice as you follow the entire forensic process—from pursuing the evidence trail to taking the findings to trial. By careful examination of the crime scene elements, even the most heinous crimes can be solved.

Every time a crime is committed, a virtual trail of incriminating evidence is left behind just waiting to be found and analyzed. In Forensic Science II: More Secrets of the Dead, you’ll learn even more about the powerful science of forensics and how it has changed the face of crime and justice in our world. You will learn some basic scientific principles used in the lab, such as toxicology, material analysis, microscopy, and forensic anthropology and find out how scientists use everything from insects to bones to help them solve crimes. Discover how advanced techniques and methodical processes can lead to catching even the craftiest criminal. The best way to battle crime these days is not with a weapon, but with science.

Every time a crime is committed, a virtual trail of incriminating evidence is left behind just waiting to be found and analyzed. In Forensic Science II: More Secrets of the Dead, you’ll learn even more about the powerful science of forensics and how it has changed the face of crime and justice in our world. You will learn some basic scientific principles used in the lab, such as toxicology, material analysis, microscopy, and forensic anthropology and find out how scientists use everything from insects to bones to help them solve crimes. Discover how advanced techniques and methodical processes can lead to catching even the craftiest criminal. The best way to battle crime these days is not with a weapon, but with science.

Are you a gamer? Do you enjoy playing video games or coding? Does the idea of creating and designing your own virtual world excite you? If so, this is the course for you! Tap into your creative and technical skills as you learn about the many aspects involved with designing video games. You will learn about video game software and hardware, various gaming platforms, necessary technical skills, troubleshooting and internet safety techniques, and even the history of gaming. And to top it all off, you’ll even have the opportunity to create your very own plan for a 2D video game! Turn your hobby into a potential career and go from simply being a player in a virtual world to actually creating one.

We live in a technologically-advanced world where virtual reality and video games play a major role. Have you ever thought about designing your own video game? By signing up for Game Design 2, you will learn the skills needed to conceptualize, design, and fully create your very own video game. Explore various video game software and hardware, sharpen your coding skills, learn about game storylines, player progression, and algorithmic decision making. Learn to analyze player goals, actions, rewards, and challenges, among many other game play components. Utilize the 21st century skills of creativity, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and technical expertise. When you sign up for Game Design 2, you are putting yourself at the forefront of a future in technology.

This course focuses on the processes and patterns in the environment that shape human interaction with the environment, with particular reference to the causes and consequences of the spatial distribution of human activity on the Earth’s surface. Students develop multicultural understanding and use geographical concepts and skills to acquire information and systematically apply decision-making processes to real-life situations. They acquire an understanding of interrelationships between people and their environment.

Vampires, ghosts, and werewolves have lived in our collective imagination since the 18th century, and they continue to influence the world of fiction even today. Gothic Literature: Monster Stories focuses on the major themes found in Gothic literature and demonstrates the techniques writers use to produce a thrilling psychological experience for the reader. The themes of terror versus horror, the power of the supernatural, and the struggle between good and evil are just a few of the classic Gothic subjects explored in this course. Are you brave enough to go beyond the fear and find an appreciation for the dark beauty of Gothic stories.

Sometimes there are simply more questions than answers. Does life exist on other planets? How extreme is the human ability to survive? Will the issue of global warming ever be solved? Today, scientists, explorers, and writers are working to answer such questions by using extensive inquiry to find innovative solutions. Similar to such famous minds from history as Edison, Einstein, Curie, and Newton, the scientists of today are finding ways to revolutionize our lives and the world. Great Minds in Science: Ideas for a New Generation takes an in-depth look at the extraordinary work of these individuals and demonstrates how their ideas may very well shape the world of tomorrow.

The course concentrates on being healthy and focuses on physical development, mental and emotional stress, relationships, substance awareness, social disease awareness, and personal safety. The purpose of this course is to develop and enhance critical life management skills necessary to make sound decisions and take positive actions for healthy and effective living.

We know the world is filled with different health problems and finding effective solutions is one of our greatest challenges. How close are we to finding a cure for cancer? What’s the best way to treat diabetes and asthma? How are such illnesses as meningitis and tuberculosis identified and diagnosed? Health Sciences I: The Whole Individual provides the answers to these questions and more as it introduces you to such health science disciplines as toxicology, clinical medicine, and biotechnology. Understanding the value of diagnostics and research can lead to better identification and treatment of many diseases, and by learning all the pertinent information and terminology you can discover how this amazing field will contribute to the betterment human life in our future.

“Never shall I forget that night, the first night in camp, which has turned my life into one long night, seven times cursed and seven times sealed.” Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor, wrote these words about his experiences in a Nazi concentration camp. History of the Holocaust will take you through the harrowing details of anti-Semitism, the power of the Nazi party, the persecution of European Jews and other groups, and the tremendous aftermath for everyone involved in World War II. You’ll explore the causes of the Holocaust, the experiences of Jews and other individuals during this time, and what has been done to combat genocide since WWII. “For the dead and the living, we must bear witness.

Think about the best travel location you’ve ever heard about. Now imagine working there. In the 21st century, travel is more exciting than ever, with people traversing the globe in growing numbers. Hospitality and Tourism: Traveling the Globe will introduce you to a thriving industry that caters to the needs of travelers through managing hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, resorts, theme parks, and any other kind of hospitality you can imagine. Operating busy tourist locations, creating marketing around the world of leisure and travel, spotting trends, and planning tasteful events are just a few of the key aspects you will explore in this course as you locate your own career niche in this exciting field.

Lights! Camera! Action! Let’s explore the enchanting world of live theater and its fascinating relationship to the silver screen. In Theater, Cinema, and Film Production, you’ll learn the basics of lighting, sound, wardrobe, and camerawork while examining the magic that happens behind all the drama. Delve into the glamorous history of film and theater, and examine the tremendous influence these industries have had on society and culture over the years. During this unit, you’ll discuss and analyze three classic American films—Casablanca, Singin’ in the Rain, and The Wizard of Oz—to help you learn how to critique and appreciate some of the most famous dramas of all time.

This course is designed to increase students’ awareness of societal needs and to promote citizenship. Course requirements include (but are not limited to): A journal of community service experiences, a survey with a minimum of 10 questions, using the survey conduct 3 interviews with superiors and/or other community service volunteers, submit a written review of each interview, a letter from your supervisor stating the number of hours of community service performed. Students may earn up to 1 full credit. 60 hours of community service plus all of the above are required for each .5 credit. Please contact staff for paperwork.

In World Geography studies, students will examine people, places, and environments at local, regional, national, and international scales from the spatial and ecological perspectives of geography of events of the past and present. A significant portion of the course will center around the physical processes that shape patterns in the physical environment; the characteristics of major landforms, climates, and ecosystems and their interrelationships; the political, economic, and social processes that shape cultural patterns of regions; types and patterns of settlement; the distribution and movement of world population; relationships among people, places and environments; and the concept of region. Students will analyze how location affects economic activities in different economic systems throughout the world. Students will identify the processes that influence political divisions of the planet and analyze the different points of view that affect the development of the public policies. Students will compare how components of culture shape the characteristics of regions and analyze the impact of technology and human modifications on the physical environment. Students will use problem-solving and decision-making skills to ask and answer geographic questions.

From Taoism, to Islam, to Christianity, religion inevitably affects us all in some way. On one level, religion can help us commune with and honor our spiritual natures, but it can also divide people and create great strife in the world. World Religions: Exploring Diversity will explore the various characteristics of faith and introduce the fundamentals of the major religions, including Judaism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Shintoism, and Taoism. You’ll trace how these powerful faiths have influenced cultures over thousands of years and helped to shape the face of humanity. After this course, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how religion continues to affect the larger world.

This course is designed to provide the student with experience in a business environment in addition to normal class schedule. Participating students must accumulate a minimum of 128 hours of verifiable work experience. This can be done by submitting copies of your paycheck stub which indicates the number of hours worked. Course requirements include, but are not limited to, the following: A written job description, Develop a job survey with a minimum of three (3) questions, Using your job survey, conduct three (3) interview with supervisors and/or other business people. Submit a written summary of each interview, Type a one (1) page (single‐spaced) paper on a future career of your choice, Create a personal resume, Create a cover letter. Please contact staff for paperwork.