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High School
high school graduation

Welcome!

Our high school is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential—academically, personally, and as engaged members of their community. Our students consistently excel in the classroom, earning individual recognition in national math and writing competitions while actively participating in local government, environmental organizations, clubs, and athletics. We believe that education extends beyond the classroom, which is why students complete family and community service hours throughout all four years of high school. These experiences foster leadership, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to serving others, with service hours recognized as additional credit on each student's transcript.

high school graduation

Resources

Name
Community Service Hours Log.pdf
Family Teamwork Log .pdf
Innovations Instructions
Innovations Presentation Rubric
Innovations Time Tracker
Internship Instructions
Senior Project Essay Rubric
Senior Project Instructions
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High School Courses

    English Language Arts

    Introduction to World Literature

    Grade: 9 Length: First Semester Credit: Required English Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: This course introduces students to world literature and foundational approaches to literary analysis. Students examine texts from diverse cultures and explore how storytelling reflects cultural values, historical experiences, and human perspectives. Emphasis is placed on developing high-level reading, analytical writing, and discussion skills while building an understanding of how literature communicates universal themes across time and cultures.

    Introduction to Communication & Innovations (NNU Concurrent Credit: Speech)

    Grade: 9 Length: Second Semester Credit: Required English Credit / Concurrent Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: This course introduces students to the foundations of communication, including communication processes, theories, and the role communication plays in society. Students develop effective speaking and presentation skills while learning to incorporate research into formal and informal presentations. Through innovation-focused projects, students practice collaboration, creativity, problem-solving, and persuasive communication.

    English 10: Early American Literature

    Grade: 10 Length: Full Year Credit: Required English Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: This course examines American literature from First Nation oral traditions through Transcendentalism and Realism. Students explore how literature reflects the historical, cultural, and philosophical developments of America. In connection with Early American History, students analyze how changing values and perspectives are represented through written works. Emphasis is placed on developing advanced literary analysis skills, synthesizing ideas across texts, and producing evidence-based analytical and persuasive writing..

    English 11: Early American Literature (NNU Concurrent Credit: Introduction to Literature)

    Grade: 11 Length: First Semester Credit: Required English Credit / Concurrent Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10

    Course Description: This concurrent-credit course provides students with advanced study of literature through the lens of literary analysis. Students examine complex texts, develop skills in interpretation and critical thinking, and practice applying literary concepts to written analysis. Through college-level reading and writing expectations, students prepare for advanced coursework while deepening their understanding of how authors create meaning through language, structure, and literary techniques.

    English 11: Twentieth Century American Literature

    Grade: 11 Length: Second Semester Credit: Required English Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10

    Course Description: This course explores American literature from the period following World War I through the modern era. In connection with American History II, students examine how literature reflects changing cultural values, historical events, and societal perspectives. Students analyze how authors respond to issues such as identity, conflict, technology, and social change while developing advanced skills in literary analysis, interpretation, and evidence-based writing.

    AP English Language and Composition

    Grade: 11 Length: Full Year Credit: Required English Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 10 and teacher recommendation

    Course Description: AP English Language and Composition is an introductory college-level course that focuses on the development and application of rhetorical analysis and effective writing. Students explore how writers use rhetorical choices to communicate ideas and develop arguments. Through the study of nonfiction texts, speeches, essays, and other forms of writing, students practice analyzing perspectives, evaluating arguments, and composing evidence-based essays in preparation for the AP examination.

    English 12: British Literature & Composition (NNU Concurrent Credit: Introduction to Composition)

    Grade: 12 Length: Full Year Credit: Required English Credit / Concurrent Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 11

    Course Description: This course explores British literature from Beowulf through modern works such as Lord of the Flies. Students examine how literature reflects historical periods, cultural shifts, and evolving perspectives on humanity and society. The course emphasizes college-level writing, research, and composition skills, including evaluating sources and developing effective research practices in a modern era influenced by artificial intelligence. Students complete the Senior Project as an embedded component of the course.

    AP English Literature and Composition (NNU Concurrent Credit: Introduction to Composition)

    Grade: 12 Length: Full Year Credit: Required English Credit / Concurrent Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9–11

    Course Description: AP English Literature and Composition is an introductory college-level literary analysis course that focuses on close reading and interpretation of imaginative literature. Students develop their understanding of how writers use literary elements such as character, setting, structure, perspective, figurative language, and style to create meaning. Students engage in college-level analysis and writing while completing the Senior Project as an embedded component of the course and preparing for the AP examination.

    Mathematics

    Integrated Math 1

    Grade: 9 Length: Full Year Credit: 1 High School Mathematics Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: Integrated Math 1 combines the foundations of Algebra with integrated concepts from Geometry and Statistics. Students develop skills in solving equations with one and two variables while building an understanding of linear, exponential, radical, rational, and polynomial functions within the real number system. Students apply mathematical reasoning and problem-solving strategies to develop a strong foundation for future mathematics courses.

    Honors Integrated Math 1

    Grade: 9 Length: Full Year Credit: 1 High School Mathematics Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of 8th Grade Mathematics

    Course Description: Honors Integrated Math 1 is a fast-paced course designed for students seeking a rigorous mathematical experience. Students develop strong foundations in algebra, geometry, and data analysis through challenging problem solving, logical reasoning, and mathematical communication. Daily practice emphasizes skill development and fluency while preparing students for success in advanced mathematics courses. This course focuses on developing confident mathematical thinkers who can analyze complex problems and apply mathematical concepts in meaningful ways.

    Integrated Geometry

    Grade: 10 Length: Full Year Credit: 1 High School Mathematics Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of Integrated Math 1 or Honors Integrated Math 1

    Course Description: Integrated Geometry develops students’ understanding of geometric concepts, mathematical reasoning, and problem solving. Students explore geometric vocabulary, measurement, three-dimensional figures, angle relationships, similarity, transformations, trigonometry, probability, and statistics. Through analytical reasoning and hands-on applications, students learn to recognize patterns, justify solutions, and make connections between mathematical concepts while preparing for future mathematics courses.

    Honors Integrated Math 2

    Grade: 10 Length: Full Year Credit: 1 High School Mathematics Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Integrated Math 1

    Course Description: Honors Integrated Math 2 develops advanced algebraic and geometric reasoning through the study of functions, equations, and mathematical modeling. Students expand their understanding of exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometry, conic sections, and statistical concepts. The course emphasizes complex problem solving and prepares students for advanced mathematics coursework, including AP Precalculus.

    Integrated Algebra II

    Grade: 11 Length: Full Year Credit: 1 High School Mathematics Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of Integrated Geometry and Integrated Math 1

    Course Description: Integrated Algebra II expands students’ understanding of algebraic functions and mathematical modeling. Students study polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions while developing skills in analyzing, solving, and representing mathematical relationships. The course strengthens logical reasoning and problem-solving abilities while preparing students for advanced mathematics courses.

    AP Precalculus (NNU Dual Enrollment Math 1300, Math 1400)

    Grade: 11–12 Length: Full Year Credit: 1 High School Mathematics Credit

    Prerequisite: Honors Integrated Math 2 or Algebra II and teacher recommendation

    Course Description: AP Precalculus is a college-level course that develops students’ understanding of functions and mathematical modeling. Students explore polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions while developing advanced problem-solving and analytical skills. The course prepares students for calculus and other higher-level mathematics courses while providing opportunities for dual enrollment credit through Northwest Nazarene University.

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    Statistics

    Grades: 11–12 Length: Full Year Credit: 2 High School Mathematics Credits Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra I

    Course Description: Statistics is the study of collecting, organizing, analyzing, and interpreting data to make informed decisions. Students explore methods for representing and analyzing data, including statistical graphs, descriptive statistics, probability, sampling methods, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation, and linear regression. Emphasis is placed on understanding how statistics are used to evaluate information, conduct research, and draw meaningful conclusions from data.

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    AP Calculus AB (NNU Dual Enrollment)

    Grade: 12 Length: Full Year Credit:1 High School Mathematics Credit

    Prerequisite: Precalculus

    Course Description: AP Calculus AB is a college-level mathematics course focused on the study of limits, derivatives, integrals, and their applications. Students analyze functions and rates of change while applying mathematical concepts to real-world problems. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, analytical reasoning, and problem solving in preparation for the AP Calculus AB examination. Students also have the opportunity to earn dual-enrollment credit through Northwest Nazarene University.

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    Consumer Mathematics (NNU Dual Enrollment, Liberal Arts Mathematics Credits)

    Grade: 12 Length: Full Year Credit: High School Mathematics Credit

    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra and Geometry

    Course Description: Consumer Mathematics is a practical, real-world mathematics course designed to develop financial literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills for independent living. Students explore personal finance concepts including income, budgeting, banking, credit, loans, insurance, investing, and major financial decisions. The course also introduces applied mathematics topics such as graph theory, voting methods, and logic to strengthen analytical reasoning and the application of mathematics in everyday situations.

    Science

    Physical Science: Chemistry

    Grade: 9 Length: First Semester Credit: Laboratory Science Credit (1 credit) Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: Physical Science: Chemistry introduces students to the relationship between matter and energy. Students investigate the properties and structure of matter, chemical reactions, and the ways matter and energy interact in the natural world. Through laboratory investigations and scientific inquiry, students develop foundational skills in observation, analysis, and problem solving.


    Physical Science: Physics

    Grade: 9 Length: Second Semester Credit: Laboratory Science Credit (1 credit) Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: Physical Science: Physics introduces students to fundamental principles of the physical world, including motion, forces, energy, waves, and electricity. Through experiments, laboratory activities, and problem solving, students explore how physical laws explain interactions within the natural world and develop scientific reasoning skills.


    Biology

    Grade: 10 Length: Full Year Credit: 2 Science Credits Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: Biology is an introduction to the study of life and living systems. Students explore topics including cell structure and function, genetics, evolution, ecology, and the diversity of organisms. Through laboratory investigations, projects, and scientific analysis, students develop an understanding of biological principles and the processes that shape life on Earth.


    Chemistry (CWI Concurrent Credit: CHEM 101/CHEM 101L)

    Grades: 10–12 Length: Full Year Credit: Laboratory Science Credit

    Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra I

    Course Description: General Chemistry is an introductory college-level chemistry course with a laboratory component. Students study scientific measurement, atomic and molecular structure, the periodic table, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, gases, solutions, acids and bases, equilibrium, and nuclear chemistry. Through laboratory investigations, students develop skills in scientific reasoning, data analysis, and chemical problem solving.


    Advanced Chemistry (CWI Concurrent Credit: CHEM 111/CHEM 111L)

    Grades: 11–12 Length: Full Year Credit: Laboratory Science Credit

    Prerequisite: C or better in Chemistry and Algebra II

    Course Description: Advanced Chemistry is a college-level chemistry course emphasizing laboratory investigation and advanced chemical principles. Students study atomic structure, chemical bonding, reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, solutions, states of matter, and inorganic chemistry. The course develops analytical reasoning and laboratory skills necessary for advanced science coursework.


    AP Biology (NNU Dual Enrollment NNU Biology 1010, 1010L)

    Grades: 10–12 Length: Full Year Credit:

    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology

    Course Description: AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course that explores biological concepts including cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, evolution, ecology, and biological interactions. Students engage in inquiry-based laboratory investigations, analyze data, and apply scientific reasoning to complex biological problems while preparing for the AP Biology examination.


    Forensic Science (NNU Concurrent Credit CHEM 1041, 1040L)

    Grades: 9–12 Length: Full Year Credit: Laboratory Science Credit

    Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: Forensic Science introduces students to the application of chemistry, biology, and physics in the investigation of evidence. Students explore scientific methods used in forensic investigations, including data collection, DNA analysis, entomology, chemical analysis, drugs, explosives, and ballistics. Through laboratory activities and case-based investigations, students apply scientific principles to solve problems and analyze evidence.

    Physical Science: Physics

    Grades: 11–12 Length: Full Year Credit: Science Elective Credit Prerequisite: Physical Science: Physics and Algebra II

    Course Description: Physics is an advanced study of the principles governing the physical world. Students investigate motion, forces, energy, waves, electricity, and modern physics through mathematical modeling, laboratory experiments, and problem solving. The course emphasizes scientific reasoning and prepares students for further study in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

    Social Studies and Humanities

    US History I: Foundations of the United States

    Grade: 9 Length: Full Year Credit: 2 Required US History Credits Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: US History I examines the foundational ideas, events, and documents that shaped the development of the United States. Students study Indigenous civilizations, exploration, colonization, the American Revolution, the Constitution, and the establishment of American government and society. Through the analysis of primary sources, historical documents, and literature, students develop an understanding of how historical events and ideas continue to influence the nation today.

    This course is taught in conjunction with English 9 as a blocked interdisciplinary course, allowing students to explore the relationship between historical events, literature, and cultural perspectives.

    World Geography: Western Hemisphere

    Grade: 10–11 Length: Semester Credit: Required Geography Credit or Elective Credit if requirement is already satisfied Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: World Geography: Western Hemisphere explores the physical and human geography of North America, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Europe. Students study landscapes, climates, natural resources, cultures, governments, and economies while developing geographic literacy through map skills and spatial analysis. Students examine how geography influences societies and how people adapt to and impact their environments.

    World Geography: Eastern Hemisphere

    Grade: 10–11 Length: Semester Credit: Required Geography Credit or Elective Credit if requirement is already satisfied Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: World Geography: Eastern Hemisphere explores the diverse regions of Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Students examine physical geography, cultural systems, historical developments, and economic structures while developing an understanding of global relationships and interdependence. The course emphasizes geographic literacy, critical thinking, and appreciation of diverse cultures and perspectives.

    US History II: The United States in the Modern Era

    Grade: 11 Length: Full Year Credit: 2 Required US History Credits Prerequisite: Successful completion of US History I

    Course Description: US History II examines the development of the United States from Westward Expansion through the modern era. Students analyze major events, movements, and turning points including industrialization, immigration, reform movements, global conflicts, civil rights, and contemporary issues. Through primary and secondary source analysis, students explore how political, economic, and social changes shaped the nation and continue to influence American society.

    This course pairs with English 11 American Literature to provide an interdisciplinary understanding of cultural change and the development of American ideas.

    Government

    Grade: 12 Length: Semester Credit: Required Government Credit Prerequisite: Successful completion of US History

    Course Description: Government examines the foundations, structures, and principles of the American political system. Students study the Constitution, federalism, branches of government, civic responsibilities, elections, and the role of citizens in a representative democracy. The course prepares students to participate thoughtfully in civic life and includes preparation for the required Idaho Civics Test.

    Economics

    Grade: 12 Length: Semester Credit: Required Economics Credit Prerequisite: 11th or 12th grade standing

    Course Description: Economics introduces students to the principles that guide individual, business, and government decision-making. Students explore supply and demand, markets, economic systems, trade, and the impact of economic choices on society. Through real-world applications and analysis of current issues, students develop an understanding of how economic decisions influence communities and the global economy.

    Financial Literacy

    Grade: 12 Length: Second Semester Credit: Required Financial Literacy Credit Prerequisite: 11th or 12th grade standing

    Course Description: Financial Literacy equips students with practical skills for managing personal finances and making informed financial decisions. Topics include budgeting, saving, credit, taxes, insurance, investing, and financial planning. Students apply concepts through real-world scenarios designed to prepare them for independence and long-term financial success.

    History of American Pop Culture

    Grade: 11–12 Length: Semester Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: History of American Pop Culture examines how music, film, television, advertising, sports, technology, and other cultural movements reflect and influence American society. Students explore how popular culture has shaped identity, values, social movements, and historical perspectives. Through analysis of cultural artifacts and historical contexts, students examine the relationship between entertainment, media, and societal change.

    History of Consumerism

    Grade: 11–12 Length: Semester Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: History of Consumerism explores the development of American consumer culture and its influence on society, economics, and identity. Students examine topics such as advertising, mass production, technological change, consumer behavior, and the relationship between consumption and culture. Students analyze how consumer trends have shaped modern America and continue to influence individual and societal choices.

    Introduction to Sociology

    Grade: 8–12 Length: Year Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description: Introduction to Sociology explores the structure and behavior of human society. Students examine how individuals interact within groups, the influence of culture and social institutions, and the forces that shape human behavior. Topics include socialization, family structures, social class, race and ethnicity, gender roles, deviance, and social change. Through discussion, projects, and analysis of real-world examples, students develop critical thinking skills and multiple perspectives for understanding society.

    World Languages

    Spanish 1

    Grade Level: 8th–12th Grade Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Spanish 1 introduces students to the Spanish language and culture. Students develop foundational communication skills through vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities. Cultural exploration is integrated throughout the course as students build the ability to communicate in everyday situations. Instruction is conducted primarily in Spanish.


    Spanish 2

    Grade Level: 9th–12th Grade Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: Spanish 1

    Course Description Spanish 2 builds upon the skills developed in Spanish 1. Students expand vocabulary, strengthen grammatical understanding, improve communication skills, and explore additional cultural topics. Emphasis is placed on increasing confidence and proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening.

    Spanish 3 (Concurrent Credit)

    Grade Level: 10th–12th Grade Credit: Concurrent Credit (4 College Credits) Prerequisite: Spanish 1 and Spanish 2

    Course Description Spanish 3 continues the development of advanced communication skills through expanded vocabulary, complex grammatical structures, and increased use of Spanish in conversation and writing. Students study additional verb forms, including the preterite, imperfect, imperative, and subjunctive, while exploring cultural topics and real-world applications of the language

    Fine Arts

    Journalism / Yearbook

    Grade Level: 9th–12th Grade Credit: Two Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Journalism/Yearbook provides students with hands-on experience in publication design, photography, interviewing, writing, editing, and digital media production. Students collaborate to produce the annual school yearbook and school social media while developing skills in organization, communication, visual design, and project management.

    Choir

    Grade Level: 7th–12th Grade Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Choir develops students' musicianship through vocal performance, music literacy, and ensemble participation. Students study vocal technique, musical interpretation, and performance skills while preparing for performances throughout the school year.

    Music Appreciation

    Grade Level: 7th–12th Grade Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Music Appreciation explores the history, theory, creation, and cultural impact of music. Students may enroll in up to four semester-long courses, each emphasizing a different area of study: History of Music, Theory and Composition, World Music, and Music Citizenship in the Modern Era. The course develops an understanding of how music reflects history, culture, and human expression.

    Beginning Art / Drawing & Painting

    Grade Level: 9th Grade (8th graders may enroll for high school credit) Credit: One Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Beginning Drawing and Painting introduces students to the elements and principles of art through a variety of media and techniques. Students explore drawing, painting, composition, color theory, artistic expression, and the historical and cultural context of visual art.

    Intermediate Art / Drawing & Painting

    Grade Level: 10th–12th Grade (9th graders may enroll after Beginning Drawing & Painting) Credit: One Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: Beginning Art / Drawing & Painting

    Course Description Intermediate Drawing and Painting expands foundational artistic skills through advanced techniques, artistic critique, varied media, and continued study of art history and culture. Students refine technical skills while developing their own artistic style.

    Advanced Art / Drawing & Painting Through Culture and History

    Grade Level: 11th–12th Grade (10th graders may enroll after completing Beginning and Intermediate Drawing & Painting) Credit: One Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: Beginning and Intermediate Art / Drawing & Painting

    Course Description Advanced Drawing and Painting is designed for students pursuing advanced artistic study. Students create a focused portfolio while exploring individual artistic interests, advanced techniques, art history, and cultural influences. The course culminates in a public display of student work.

    Beginning Art / Sculpture

    Grade Level: 9th Grade (8th graders may enroll for high school credit) Credit: One Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Beginning Sculpture introduces students to three-dimensional art through exploration of materials, techniques, and artistic principles. Students create sculptures using a variety of media while studying the historical and cultural significance of sculpture.

    Intermediate Art / Sculpture Through Culture and History

    Grade Level: 10th–12th Grade Credit: One Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: Beginning Art / Sculpture

    Course Description Intermediate Sculpture builds upon introductory skills through advanced techniques, artistic critique, and exploration of historical and cultural influences. Students continue developing creativity and technical proficiency in three-dimensional art.

    Advanced Art / Sculpture – with History

    Grade Level: 11th–12th Grade Credit: One Semester Elective Credit Prerequisite: Beginning and Intermediate Art / Sculpture – with History

    Course Description Advanced Sculpture is intended for students pursuing advanced study in three-dimensional art. Students create a cohesive body of work while developing advanced technical skills, researching artistic traditions, and refining their personal artistic voice.

    Technology and Computer Science

    AP Computer Science Principles

    Grade Level: 9th–12th Grade Credit: AP Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description AP Computer Science Principles is a college-level course developed from the College Board AP Computer Science Principles framework. Students explore programming, algorithms, data analysis, cybersecurity, the internet, and the societal impacts of computing. The course includes collaborative programming projects and the required College Board performance tasks in preparation for the AP Exam.

    Introduction to Robotics

    Grade Level: 7th–12th Grade Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Introduction to Robotics introduces students to engineering design, programming, and robotics through hands-on construction and problem-solving using VEX robotics platforms. Students learn mechanical systems, programming concepts, and the engineering design process while participating in collaborative design challenges.

    Advanced Robotics

    Grade Level: 8th–12th Grade Credit: Elective Credit Prerequisite: Introduction to Robotics

    Course Description Advanced Robotics challenges students to design, build, program, and refine competition robots using engineering principles and the iterative design process. Students collaborate to solve complex engineering challenges while developing advanced skills in programming, communication, leadership, and problem solving.

    Physical Education

    Health

    Grade Level: 9th–12th Grade Credit: Health Credit (Required for Graduation) Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Health provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about lifelong wellness. Topics include physical, mental, emotional, and social health; nutrition; substance abuse prevention; disease prevention; healthy relationships; stress management; first aid; and personal safety. Students develop practical strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and becoming responsible decision-makers.


    Physical Education

    Grade Level: 9th–12th Grade Credit: Two Physical Education Credits Required for Graduation Prerequisite: None

    Course Description Physical Education develops students' physical fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship, and understanding of lifelong wellness. Students participate in a variety of individual and team activities while developing habits that promote lifelong health and fitness.

    Additional Required Courses and Projects

    College and Career Readiness

    Course Description

    College and Career Readiness is a one-semester course designed to prepare students for life after high school. Students explore college and career pathways, complete college and scholarship applications, develop resumes and professional communication skills, and learn strategies for successful transitions after graduation. The course introduces students to a variety of career fields while helping them identify personal strengths, interests, and future goals.

    Fills

    Elective Credit

    Grade Level

    12th Grade

    Prerequisite Course Requirements

    None

    Innovative Projects

    Innovative projects are a unique part of our charter school where students have the opportunity to conduct personal studies of their own. As our students move from the elementary/middle school setting into the high school setting, one of our goals is to help our kids become more self directed learners.

    An innovative project is a project which is designed by each student individually. We ask students to propose a topic in which they have a personal interest. What do you want to learn? How will you go about researching your topic? How will you present what you have learned? Students answer these questions in a proposal, and then carry out their plan. The culmination of the innovative projects is a night when all of the students share their project "Science Fair" style for all to see.

    Community Service/Family Teamwork (1 credit per year, total 4 credits)

    Thomas Jefferson requires students in grades 9-12 to complete 30 hours of community service and 30 hours of family team work each year to total one credit.

    The goals are as stated:

    • To provide a comprehensive program of community service that reflects responsible citizenship in a democratic society and an interdependent world.
    • Students will apply their understanding of and their contributions to the world around them.
    • Enable students to develop the following intellectual habits important in the work place: adapting to new situations and responding effectively to new information; solving problems; locating and evaluating information from a variety of sources; making flexible connection among various disciplines of thought; thinking logically and making informed judgments.
    • Enable students to develop the following personal habits important in the work place: accepting responsibility for personal decisions and actions; honesty, courage, and integrity; a healthy lifestyle; empathy, courtesy, and respect for differences among people; self-confidence; concentration and perseverance; responsible time management; assuming a fair share of the work load; and working cooperatively with others to reach group consensus.

    Community service is any volunteer work done for any community group or entity. Students may not be paid for this service.

    Family Teamwork is any work done within the family.