High School Elective Course Descriptions

Tracing the accomplishments and obstacles of African Americans from the slave trade through emancipation, and to the modern African diaspora, you will learn about the political, economic, social, religious, and cultural factors that have influenced African American life. In African American History, you’ll come face to face with individuals who changed the course of history and learn more about slavery, racism, and the Civil Rights Movement. You will also explore how the history of African Americans influences current events today.

We all want to look our best, but did you know there is actually a science behind cutting your hair and painting your nails? Just like all careers, cosmetology requires certain skills and characteristics. 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!

Required Materials

• PowerPoint or similar slide presentation software
• Word or similar word processing software
• (Optional) Smartphone or digital camera

Do you ever wonder about the people who commit crimes? Why do they do it and how are these cases investigated, solved, prosecuted and punished? From the theories behind criminal activity to the various types of crime, law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and the corrections process, you’ll take a deep dive into the study of crime. You’ll discover the intriguing aspects of this fascinating field and explore the many related career options. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or considering a career in the criminal justice system, this course is for you!

Are you a fashion trend follower? Are you drawn to how designers have pulled together fabrics and colors to create memorable pieces? Do you dream of designing your own line of clothing or accessories? Learn what it takes to get started in the fashion industry, from the careers available to new technology and trends reshaping the industry every day. Start creating!

Required Materials

Physical

• art supplies, such as paper, pens, colored pencils, paints, tape, glue, scissors, poster board, and markers
• sewing machine (can be electronic programmable, straight stitch, zigzag, or old-style machine; should have tension adjustment controls)
• thread
• fabric
• pattern
• pattern tools to mark on fabric, such as tailor’s chalk or pen with disappearing ink
• needle and thread for hand sewing
• measuring tape or yardstick
• raw materials to either create or modify a garment or accessory, such as fabric, buttons, and other components
• if necessary, methods to clean material, such as a dry-cleaning service, washing machine, detergent, or supplies for hand washing
• if necessary, methods to press or iron material, such as an iron, ironing board, and possibly a pressing cloth

Software

• word processing software
• slide presentation software

Other

• person who works in the fashion industry to interview

Optional

• software that allows the creation of simple art projects, such as Photoshop or Canva
• software such as Illustrator, Photoshop, or Procreate
• notebook
• phone camera or other digital camera
• audio recording device
• video recording device
• images from magazines
• index cards
• computer printer
• iron
• light box
• embroidery floss or yarn
• print fashion magazines
• calculator (can be a phone-based or web-based calculator rather than a separate device)

Fingerprints. Blood spatters. Gunshot residue. If these things intrigue you rather than scare you, then forensic science may be for you. Explore the riveting job of crime scene analysis, and learn the techniques and practices applied during a crime scene investigation, including how clues and data are recorded and preserved. Discover how technology is applied to make discoveries and bring criminals to justice.

Did you know that the world’s population could be 11 billion people by 2050? With a growing population, how do we keep everyone fed? This is where the importance of agriculture, food, and natural resources comes in! Gain a stronger sense of how we can maximize the foods and natural resources the earth provides. Learn more about agriculture’s history, animal husbandry, plant science, and natural resources, and you’ll be better prepared for your part in sustaining the world.

Required Materials

• A digital camera or camera phone
• Supplies for an experiment of the student’s choice

Whether you want to step into the wild side of veterinary medicine or just take care of loveable dogs and cats, explore how to care for domestic, farm, and wild animals, diagnose their common diseases and ailments, and learn about different veterinary treatments. If you have always been drawn to the world of our furry, scaly, and feathered friends, this is the course for you!

From tiny puddles to vast oceans, water allows for processes that impact all things around us from wildlife and the air we breathe to our health and more! In this course, you will examine the essential nature of water and how its special properties support all life on Earth. Through the lens of the Scientific Method, you will engage with scientific inquiry to study aquatic ecosystems and how water, land, and weather all work together to create unique living environments. You will also learn about scientists who were critical to aquatic science and  how to form valid and reliable conclusions from your study of water like they did. Let’s dive in and see what makes water vital to life.

Required Materials

Physical

• Art supplies
• Clear container (that can hold four cups of water)
• Egg
• Empty water bottles with lids (4)
• Marker
• Small measuring device (teaspoon, tablespoon or food scale)
• Tape
• Thermometer
• Lukewarm water (three cups)
• Table salt (three cups)
• Video recording device

Software

• Google Scholar
• Word processing software

Since the beginning of time, people have gathered around fires to tell stories of angry gods, harrowing journeys, cunning animals, horrible beasts, and the mighty heroes who vanquished them. Mythology and folklore have provided a way for these colorful stories to spring to life for thousands of years and helped humans make sense of the world. Explore how these compelling tales continue to shape society even today.

Required Materials

Physical

• Audio or video recording device

Software

• Word processing software

After you complete this course, you should have a better understanding of how physical activity can become/continue to be an important part of your overall health.  

As a student, you will be filling out a weekly physical activity log.

This course does not fill the PE requirement for graduation.

Get ready to delve into some of life’s biggest questions and begin the journey to uncovering those answers for yourself! In this course, you’ll explore the broad scope of psychology from biology’s impact on our psychological makeup to society’s impact on who we become. You’ll look closely at the changing and sometimes conflicting thoughts of researchers and scientists and how the field of psychology has changed. You’ll also explore clinical psychology and how people find treatment.

Required Materials

Physical

• Video recording device
• Audio recording device

Software

• Word processing software
• Presentation software
• Spreadsheet software

xplore exactly what’s needed to run a successful restaurant, including ordering supplies, hiring quality workers, maintaining inventory, and managing a large staff. Understanding such concepts as food safety, hygiene, customer relations, marketing, and using a point-of-sale system are crucial to being an effective restaurateur. Whether you are hoping to operate a casual sit-down eatery, oversee a fine dining establishment, or buy a food franchise, this course is the perfect first step.

Required Materials

• A digital camera or camera phone
• Ingredients and tools to make a simple food dish of the student’s choice
• Stove/grill/oven/microwave

Have you ever wondered why people act differently from one another or why some people act in more intriguing manners than others? When you view people’s behaviors as distinctive and try to figure out why they act the way they do, you are beginning to think like a sociologist!

Sociology is the study of human social relationships and how individuals interact with one another in groups. By studying sociology, you’ll gain insight into the complexities of our society. If you’re interested in understanding the world around you and making a positive difference, studying sociology is for you!

Required Materials

Physical

• Video recording device

Software

• Presentation software
• Word processing software

The word “agriculture” often evokes images of farms, fields, and livestock, and while all of these representations are correct and essential, the field of Agriculture is so much more! In Agriscience I: Introduction, you’ll explore how agriscientists play key roles in improving agriculture, food production, and the conservation of natural resources along with the technologies used to keep the field thriving.

Required Materials

Physical

• Indoor or outdoor plant

• Video recording device
• Audio recording device
• Camera
• Note taking materials (tablet, pen/paper, etc.)

Software

• Word processing software
• Presentation software
• Spreadsheet software

Optional

• A helper
• Phone

No matter what career you’re planning to pursue, excellent professional communication will be key to your success. Upgrade your abilities in speaking, listening, writing, using and reading body language, and communicating in teams and groups. Discover how to plan, create, and deliver business presentations and communicate through graphics. In no time, you’ll be communicating with confidence, stand out from your peers, and impress your employer.

Required Materials

Physical

• Video recording device
• Audio recording device
• Props for making a sandwich
• Various materials of choice for storyboarding (white board, blank paper, etc.)

Software

• An electronic repository
• Word processing software
• Spreadsheet software
• Presentation software
• An electronic communication tool (Facetime, Zoom, Google Meet, etc.)
• Various software of choice for a multimedia presentation (video editing, presentation, publishing, etc.)

Other

• A peer or family member for communicative practice
• A live or recorded unscripted conversation to watch

Optional

• Screen recording software

Writing can change the world. Think about the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and Lincoln’s 2nd In Augural Address. How have these writings shaped our country and the future? While you learn how to unleash the core of your imagination to develop your own creative writing, you’ll also explore creative writing through foundational literary works from the 18th to 20th century of Colonialism to American Gothic to Modernism, and everything in between, while evaluating original writings and their interpretations.

Do you ever wonder about the people who commit crimes? Why do they do it and how are these cases investigated, solved, prosecuted and punished? From the theories behind criminal activity to the various types of crime, law enforcement, the criminal justice system, and the corrections process, you’ll take a deep dive into the study of crime. You’ll discover the intriguing aspects of this fascinating field and explore the many related career options. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or considering a career in the criminal justice system, this course is for you!

The best way to battle crime these days is not with a weapon, but with science. Dig deeper into the science of forensics and the basic scientific principles used in the lab, such as toxicology, material analysis, microscopy, and forensic anthropology. Find out how scientists use everything from insects to bones to help them solve crimes. And discover how advanced techniques and technology can lead to catching even the craftiest criminal.

“For the dead and the living, we must bear witness.” Discover the harrowing details of the history of the rise of anti-Semitism that contributed to the start of the Holocaust and the power of the Nazi party. Learn of the persecution of European Jews and other groups, and the tremendous aftermath for everyone involved in World War II, and what has been done since to combat genocide.

Do you have a flair for designing and decorating? If so, then let’s learn how to turn your interests and skills into a career. Explore color, texture, trends, and styles over time, how homes are built, and “green” options for homes and businesses. Interior designers do it all—from planning the color scheme to choosing furniture and light fixtures—with the end goal of creating a space where people can live or work comfortably, safely, and happily.

Required Materials

Physical

• video recording device
• paper and/or index cards
• journal
• graph paper
• pen or pencil
• crayons, markers, or colored pencils (at least 12 colors)
• measuring tape
• printer and printer paper
• crafting supplies
• magazines, newspapers, or a computer with internet access to select furnishing items

Software

• word processing software
• CAD software (free download)
• spreadsheet software
• presentation software
• online virtual decoration software

Other

• some furnishing and décor items currently in your home
• an object to upcycle
• magazines, newspapers, fabric samples, and other items to include on a mood board
• friend or family member to act as an interviewer
• appropriate clothing for an interview role play

Thriving forests are an essential part of the health of the planet, from our wildlife’s ecosystem to providing humans with clean air to lumber and paper products. But forests cannot protect themselves and depend greatly on humans for conservation. Learn more about this meaningful relationship and how environmental policy, land use, water resources, and wildlife management all factor into current forestry issues. Forestry offers diverse professional opportunities, and for those concerned about the environment, it is a great choice.

Required Materials

• A digital camera or camera phone
• Approximately 1 cup of soil
• A clear glass jar with a lid
• Water to fill the jar
• A ruler or tape measure
• Marker or tape
• Supplies for an experiment of the student’s choice
• Samples of water from three different water sources
• 3 clear glass containers with lids

Renewable Technologies are becoming increasingly important as concerns about climate change, the use of fossil fuels, and population growth become foremost in the public eye. So, how do we address the world’s growing concerns about energy sources? Uncover the development of new energy technologies and explore how recent approaches to renewable technologies unlock the solution needed for a safer, cleaner, and more enduring world.

Do you know what it takes to keep an entire nation safe? It not only requires knowledge of how to handle disasters, but it also demands a cool head and tremendous leadership abilities. Learn about the critical elements of the job, such as evaluating satellite information, analyzing training procedures, assessing military engagement, preparing intelligence reports, coordinating information with other security agencies, and applying appropriate actions to various threats. Discover the requirements of our nation’s most demanding career.

After you complete this course, you should have a better understanding of how physical activity can become/continue to be an important part of your overall health.  

As a student, you will be filling out a weekly physical activity log.

This course does not fill the PE requirement for graduation.

Why do you sometimes remember complex things but forget all of a sudden where you left your shoes? Why is your personality similar or different from your siblings? Why do some things motivate you more than others? Discover how you learn and remember, the impact of stress on your emotions and mental health, and what influences your personality and emotions.

Have you ever looked at your social media feed and wondered why there is always so much fighting over social issues? Discover how social institutions like families, religion, government, and education shape our world and how collective behavior and social movements can create change. Investigate how our lives are shaped by entertainment, social institutions, and social change.

Accounting is more than numbers and spreadsheets; it’s about unlocking the secrets of financial success and understanding how to drive a company forward.

From decoding financial statements to mastering corporate ethics, real-world scenarios expose you to accounting principles and provide opportunities to apply your knowledge.

Whether you’re exploring if accounting aligns with your career aspirations or you dream of becoming an entrepreneur and want to gain a deeper understanding of managing the “books”, this course will empower you to navigate accounting and make excellent decisions.

Required Materials

Software

• Presentation software
• Spreadsheet software
• Word processing software

Optional

• Art supplies
• Audio recording device
• Graphic design software

S1:  Ever wondered how the Earth developed and exists in the vastness of space? How do the scientific laws of motion and gravity play a role in its existence? Discover answers to these questions and explore the origin of the universe, the Milky Way, and other galaxies and stars, including the concepts of modern astronomy and the methods used by astronomers to learn more about the universe.

Required Materials

Technical

• Computer with internet access
• Video recording equipment (a cell phone camera works)

Physical

• Poster board and markers/coloring utensils (optional)
• A ruler or measuring tape
• An object that can represent the sun (does not matter the size of the object)
• Other objects (8) that can represent each of the planets in our solar system
• Notecards (9) to label each object

S2:  Ready to explore our amazing and dynamic universe even further? You’ll be taken on an exciting journey through the solar system to explore the sun, comets, asteroids, meteors, life cycles of stars, and planets’ properties. Become familiar with the concepts of space travel and settlements, and what it could be like to live and work in space. 

Required Materials

Technical

• Computer with internet access and word processing capability
• Smart phone or other video recorder

Physical

• Poster board or paper for drawing a timeline (optional)
• Markers (optional)
• Binoculars
• 25 notecards
• Poster board
• Colorful markers
• 3 small balls of different-colored play dough that will act as your game pieces
• 15 toothpicks

S1:  Whether you plan on starting your own business or being in charge of one, it is crucial you understand how to keep the company compliant. Explore what it means to run an ethical business, how to keep intellectual property, technology, and e-commerce safe and protected, understand insurance and taxes, and how to have a healthy workplace environment. Keep the business safe and growing by following the law.

Required Materials

Physical

• Video recording device or cell phone
• Audio recording device

Software

• Graphic design software (like Canva)
• Slide presentation software
• Word processing software

S2:  Whether you plan to start your own business, work for an organization, or go into law, it’s essential to understand more complex legal requirements that impact business operations and decisions. This is especially true as companies grow and expand domestically and internationally. Explore the differences between criminal and civil law. Examine how state and federal regulations work to protect consumer and employees’ rights, protect society and the environment, and understand how business contracts can work to protect everyone.

Required Materials

Physical

• Audio recording device

Software

• Word processing software
• Design software (slideshow presentation software)
• Spreadsheet software
• Recording and editing software (e.g., Audacity  free version)
• Infographic creation software (e.g., Canva)

S1:  Have you ever wondered what steps take place as people as they move through the court system? The criminal justice system is a very complex field that requires dedicated people willing to pursue equal justice for all. Explore different career choices and how the juvenile justice system, the correctional system, and the trial process all work together to maintain social order.

Required Materials

Physical

• Sharpened pencil
• Two sheets of plain white paper
• Clear tape (packaging tape works best, but any clear tape will do)
• Camera or device that can take pictures
• Video recording device like a phone or camera
• Poster board
• Markers
• Pencil
• Blank sheet of paper
• One piece of sturdy paper (optional)
• Scissors (optional)
• Coloring utensils (markers, colored pencils, etc.) (optional)
• Microphone
• Headphones

S2:  Have you ever thought about a career as a police officer, an FBI or DEA agent, or any occupation that seeks to pursue justice for all? Careers in criminal justice can be found at local, county, state, and federal levels, and even in the private sector. Explore some of the various occupations in this field, while simultaneously learning how they interact with each other and other first responders. Discover various interviewing techniques to uncover the truth. Understand the importance of making ethical decisions, and how you need to keep your sense of right and wrong in check to be successful in this field.

Required Materials

Physical

• Blank paper
• Pencil/pen
• Audio recording device
• Video recording device

S1:  We depend more on the technologies we interact with every day; and we put more and more of our personal data out there online. Can all of that data really be kept “secret”? Learn about the various parts of your computer, how they work together, and how you can manipulate them to keep your data safe. Dive into the tools, technologies, and methods that will help protect you from an attack and discover the many opportunities in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity.

Required Materials

• Slide-show presentation program
• Word processing program

Software: Virtual Box: https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/downloads

In order to run VirtualBox on your machine, you need:

• CPU: Recent Intel or AMD processor
• Memory: 2+GB RAM
• Hard disk: About 4GB free hard disk space
• Supported Operating System: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Solaris and OpenSolaris.

Other Materials:

• USB memory stick (Recommended to be at least 4 GB)

S2:  Unmask the cybersecurity threats around you by understanding hackers and identifying weaknesses in your online behavior. Learn to avoid the various types of cyberattacks, including those to your social media accounts, and to predict the potential legal consequences of sharing or accessing information that you do not have rights to. Dig into these crimes in depth by taking a look at cyber forensics and other cybersecurity careers. Cybersecurity will play an increasingly larger role in our personal and professional lives in the years to come.

Required Materials

• Slide-show presentation program
• Word processing program

Software: Wireshark: https://www.wireshark.org/#download

In order to run Wireshark on your machine, you need:

• Hard disk: USB memory stick (Recommended to be at least 4 gigs)

• Memory: 2+GB RAM

• Supported Operating System: Windows, Mac OS X

Software: Virtual Box: https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/downloads

In order to run VirtualBox on your machine, you need:

• CPU: Recent Intel or AMD processor

• Memory: 2+GB RAM

• Hard disk: About 4GB free hard disk space

• Supported Operating System: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, Solaris and OpenSolaris.

Other Materials:

• USB memory stick (Recommended to be at least 4 GB)

S1:  Have you wondered how professional photographers manage to capture that perfect image? Gain a better understanding of photography by exploring camera functions and the elements of composition while putting theory into practice by taking your own spectacular shots! Learn how to display your work for exhibitions and develop skills important for a career as a photographer.

Required Materials

• Computer with:
  • Internet access
  • Slideshow program like Keynote or PowerPoint
  • Word processing program like Microsoft Word
  • Properly labeled folders to organize photo projects
• A digital camera that offers both automatic and manual control
• Appropriate camera cables
• Two friends or family members to volunteer as subjects/photo assistants
• Miscellaneous objects to use for photography subjects (ex: soccer cleat, baseball hat, or a piece of jewelry)
• Various lighting (overhead lights, table lamps, clamp lights)
• A complete, plated meal to photograph
• A tripod or household items to use as a stable tripod-like support for camera
• An image editing program (GIMP or something similar)
• Blank paper
• Colored pencils or markers
• A camera with video recording abilities (camera phone, digital camera, or computer camera)
• Props and equipment that can serve as darkroom equipment (boxes, crates, tubs, etc.)
• Various art supplies (paint, scissors, glue, posters, paper, magazines, etc.) to create original works of art
• Audio recording device (smartphone, computer program, digital voice recorder)

S2:  Let’s further develop your photography skills by learning more professional tips, tricks, and techniques to elevate your images. Explore various photographic styles, themes, genres, and artistic approaches. Learn more about photojournalism and how to bring your photos to life, and using this knowledge, build a portfolio of your work to pursue a career in this field!

Required Materials

• Computer with:
  • Internet access
  • Ability to download photo programs and applications
  • Slideshow program
  • Word processing program
  • Properly labeled folders to organize photo projects
• A digital camera that offers both automatic and manual control
• A video recording device
• Appropriate camera cables
• Several friends, family members, and peers to volunteer as subjects/photo assistants and participate in peer reviews/critiques
• Sketchbook or blank (lined or unlined) notebook
• Miscellaneous objects to use for photography subjects (soccer cleat, baseball hat, a piece of jewelry, etc.)
• Various lighting (overhead lights, table lamps, clamp lights)
• Examples of photographs you’ve taken (complete, almost complete, and incomplete)
• Access to a community of people in your area that are willing to participate in a community art project
• Ability to explore and photograph areas outside of your home (public locations, outdoor nature spaces, etc.)
• A variety of media sources (CF, SD, or DVD formats)
• Photo/image editing software
• A variety of art supplies (paint, scissors, glue, posters, paper, magazines, etc.) to communicate ideas, themes, and concepts visually without photography

S1:  Explore the fast-paced and exciting world of marketing! Learn about the role of marketing in business in addition to the basics of business management, customer service, and economics. Examine how to identify target markets, perform market research, and develop successful marketing strategies. Discover the legal and ethical considerations of business and marketing, along with the impact of government on business.

Required Materials

• Computer
• Camera for still photographs (either digital or cell phone camera)
• Video recording device with audio (computer camera, cell phone camera, etc.)

S2:  Dig deeper into the world of marketing and what it means for business success! Become a marketing mix pro by studying understanding branding, advertising, promotion strategies, and more, through real-world applications and practices. And explore the secrets of advertising and promotion. Learn about effective sales techniques and discover employment opportunities to pursue a career in this exciting field!

Required Materials

• Computer 
• Camera for still photographs (either digital or cell phone camera)
• Video recording device with audio (computer camera, cell phone camera, etc.)
• Audio recording device for podcast recording
• Access to television, magazines, radio to observe advertisements
• Friend or family member volunteer
• Various video props: telephone, calculator, pen and paper, graphs and charts, cash register (or something to represent one), purchase orders, packing slips, spreadsheet

S1:  Without a solid understanding of business and international marketing strategy, it becomes nearly impossible to be successful and stand out from the crowd. Discover how business and marketing works around the world. You’ll learn about topics such as regulations, market research, marketing plans, global trends, buying and selling internationally, and more.

Required Materials

• Computer
• Camera for still photographs (either digital or cell phone camera)
• Video recording device with audio (computer camera, cell phone camera, etc.)
• Audio recording device for podcast episode
• Access to television, magazines, radio to observe advertisements
• Friend or family member(s) to volunteer
• Calculator (phone calculator will suffice)
• 5 miscellaneous products from around the house

S2:  How does a business make money? If you said sales, then you’re right! This course explores the secrets to sales. You’ll learn expectations, best practices, sales planning, building a clientele that becomes long-term buyers, and how to stay motivated to sell, sell, sell! If sales management is your goal, you’ll learn about management styles, how to find, hire, train, motivate, and compensate your team.

Required Materials

• Computer
• Camera for still photographs (either digital or cell phone camera)
• Video recording device with audio (computer camera, cell phone camera, etc.)
• Audio recording device for podcast recording (cell phone will work)
• Access to television, magazines, radio to observe advertisements
• Friend or family member volunteer
• Various video props: telephone, calculator, pen and paper, graphs and charts, cash register (or something to represent one), purchase orders, packing slips, spreadsheet
• Poster board or large butcher paper
• Calculator or calculator app

Learn basic Spanish grammar to help build your fluency and understanding, and apply what you learn through interactive games, written practice, listening, and speaking exercises.

Strengthen your Spanish listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while experiencing the beauty and expressiveness of a language that is shared by different people and cultures throughout the world.

The purpose of this course is to provide many experiences where you can use Spanish. Completely immersed in Spanish, you will speak, listen, read, write, and collaborate with other students in Spanish in this course. You will also gain knowledge and perspectives about Spanish speaking countries and from Spanish-speaking people.

S1:  In this course, you will trace the development of these industries, dissect their dual nature, and discover what it takes to pitch, promote, and deliver on these services. You ‘ll also explore the necessary steps to chart your own career path from among the professional roles that these industries need to operate. Let’s get off the sidelines and hop into the primetime of the sporting and entertainment worlds!

Required Materials

Physical

• Audio recording device
• Video recording device

Software

• Presentation software
• Word processing software
• Spreadsheet software

S2:  Get ready to drop your spectator status for an all-access pass to enter the exciting world of sports and entertainment marketing! In this course, you’ll secure a solid foundation of effective marketing by studying the different roles and levels and how they relate to one another. Then, you’ll explore the modern marketing methods professionals use to take an event concept and make it successful. Finally, you’ll get up to speed on industry terminology and touchpoints with the help of HR. Get ready to flash that pass and gain all-star access to the stage and arena!