Career Technology

Semester 1:

Accounting I provides students with basic knowledge of accounting procedures, including analyzing and journalizing business transactions; constructing worksheets; calculating and recording adjusting entries; preparing financial statements; and finalizing the accounting cycle through closing entries. Special journals, subsidiary accounts and payroll reports and taxes will also be introduced. Emphasis is placed on service and merchandising businesses in a sole proprietorship or corporate setting. All students, regardless of the career they choose, can benefit from accounting instruction in their own personal business affairs. This course is highly recommended for students, who are considering any advanced business course in high school or at the collegiate level.  This course may qualify for Dual Credit with Prairie State College.

Semester 2:

Accounting II is based on the fundamentals of Accounting I - the procedures and systems necessary to record transactions and to prepare reports such as the balance sheet and income statement. This course will give students a strong foundation in advanced accounting theory and procedures. An in-depth approach to inventory and asset valuation will be explored, as well as the recording of complex business transactions relating to publicly held corporations. Students will be introduced to Intuit QuickBooks, which is a software program that can be used to expedite the accounting process. In addition, students will have the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized certification in Intuit’s QuickBooks. This course is highly recommended for students who are considering any business or accounting major at the collegiate level. This course may qualify for Dual Credit with Prairie State College. 

This course is designed to provide students with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for television, video, film, and/or radio production.  Camera operation, use of graphics and other visual, lighting, audio techniques, editing, production principles, and career opportunities are typical topics covered within this course.  Students will learn about what is newsworthy, journalism ethics, copyright and fair use, scripting, and production.  

Prerequisite- Successful completion of Broadcasting Tech I

In this course, students will develop skills needed for a career in the technical aspects of radio and television broadcasting.  Instruction includes camera operations, basic audio and video editing, sound and lighting techniques, and sound mixing.  Students learn the operation, maintenance, and repair of video and DVD recording equipment, video/digital cameras, microphones, computers, lighting/grip equipment, and other production equipment used in the video and audio precaution of televisions programs.  Students will also learn to use, maintain, and repair various types of audio recorders, amplifiers, transmitters, receivers, microphones, and sound mixers to record and broadcast radio programs.  Students will direct, shoot, and edit a series of video projects, including commercials, the Warrior News, and feature stories.  The culminating project for this course is a student choice activity where students can either create a short film or a full-length music video both directed and edited by the student.  This course may be taken concurrently with Workplace Experience. 

Prerequisite: None

This course helps students enter the workforce through career exploration, job search and application, and the development of positive work attitudes and work-related skills.  This course covers such topics as career planning and selection, money management, communication skills, interpersonal business relationships and behaviors, and personal responsibility. This course also exposes students to various sources of information on career and training options. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of OSHA certification over the summer

The first semester of this course will cover the following topics: Basic safety, construction math basics, introduction to hand tools and power tools, construction drawing, interpretation, basic rigging, communication skills, employability skills, and material handling. 

The second semester of this course will cover the following topics: orientation to the carpentry trade, building materials fasteners, adhesives, hand and power tools, construction drawings, specifications and layout, floor systems, wall systems, ceiling joist and roof framing, basic stair layout, and introduction to building envelope systems. Both semesters will stress safety, hands-on learning, teamwork, and job readiness. 

Keyboarding and Computer Concepts

Special Education CTE class

9th-12th Grade

This course is designed to enable students to develop basic computer skills essential in today's workplace and their personal lives. Topics will include keyboarding skills and learning basics of formatting and editing using the Microsoft Office Suite. 

This is an entry-level computer programming course for students showing interest in a career in computers, engineering, or game/app/software design. Students will learn block-based coding, coding, app creation, flowcharting, storyboarding, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Students will also have the opportunity to earn Adobe Certified Associate certifications. 

Prerequisite: None

This course provides the opportunity to learn fundamental concepts in agriculture and to inform students about the industry that is so vital to society and to their future. Major units of instruction include an introduction to the agricultural industry, animal science, plant science, horticulture science, agribusiness, environmental science, agricultural mechanics, food science, and leadership and personal development. Participation in FFA student organization activities is an integral course component for leadership development, career exploration, and reinforcement of academic concepts. Participation in FFA is mandatory.

Prerequisite: Completion of Exploring Food and Agriculture 

This course provides learning experiences in Food Science and Safety which allow students to apply scientific knowledge and processes to practices used in the development and processing of food products, as well as developing career and personal viewpoints on societal issues concerning the development and preservation of food products.

 Issues of Food Science and Safety are examined from a scientific and technological perspective. Students critically analyze information to evaluate and draw conclusions on the appropriate use of technology to implement Food Science and Safety practices. 

Units of instruction include Food Safety, Food Chemistry, Food Processing, Food Product Development, Food Selection, Consumer Health and Marketing. 

Careers to be examined include meat inspector, quality control technician, food processor, and sanitation supervisor.

 Participation in FFA student organization activities and Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects is an integral course component for leadership development, career exploration and reinforcement of academic concepts.Participation is mandatory.

 This course can count as either a CTE credit or Science credit. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of OSHA certification over the summer

This course introduces students to the safe operation of basic metalworking machines including tool room lathes, vertical mills, drill presses, band saws and ARC/MIG welders. Students will learn to read precision, semi-precision measuring tools, and basic mechanical prints to produce metalwork projects. Hands on experience and practical applications are included. Students have the opportunity to apply these skills to attain industry-recognized NIMS credentials such as Measurement Materials and Safety, Job Planning, Benchwork and Layout, and Drill Press Certifications along with an OSHA 10 Certification. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Metalworking I

This course continues development of the skills and knowledge attained in Metalworking 1, by additional training using thread calculation and chasing, tool bit geometry and sharpening. Additional machines introduced include precision surface grinders, TIG welders, CNC Mills and CNC Lathes. Students will learn the basic setup and operation of CNC lathes and mills. Students will learn G-Code and be able to program CNC Machines and perform basic CNC machine tool operations. Students have the opportunity to apply these skills to attain industry recognized NIMS credentials such as Milling 1, Turning 1 Between Centers and Chucking, and Forklift Operators Certifications. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Broadcasting I

This course will explore podcasting as a medium for creative expression and academic discourse.  The class will focus on the essential skills for podcast production.  Students will learn how to record and edit audio, write for the audio medium, distribute and market podcasts and get an understanding of analytics. 

This course is designed to provide an overview of business and the environment in which it operates. The topics studied include organization of business, business environment, management of employees, marketing, financial management, information for business strategy, and special topics. This course also identifies management concerns unique to small businesses, introduces the requirements necessary to initiate a small business, and identifies the elements comprising a business plan. This course fulfills the State of Illinois’ Consumer Economics graduation requirement. This course may qualify for dual credit with PSC. 

Prerequisite:  None

This course provides students with a thorough understanding of fundamental marketing and management concepts and theories as they relate to the sports and entertainment industries. Content addresses the promotion of sports/events, licensing, sponsorships and endorsements, branding, marketing research, product development, pricing and distribution strategies, sales, event planning, and the role of existing and emerging technologies. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of 1+ tech course

Students will be taught and able to apply the basic knowledge and skills to analyze, troubleshoot, and repair computers, printers, and other related devices. Activities include, but are not limited to, one-on-one assistance to teachers and staff with software and hardware and creation of video or written tutorials. Also included will be a foundation that would allow students to move towards A+ Industry Computer Repair Certification for employment in the Information Technology Industry. This course is recommended for students considering careers such as Computer Service Technician, Network Administrator, Computer Engineering, Internet Technician, Systems Engineer, and Network Service Technician. Other certification options may be available, such as Network+ and Server+. 

Prerequisite: Successful completion of 1+ tech course

Semester 1: Students will study the makeup of a well-designed website. Students using Adobe Dreamweaver will learn how to incorporate text and images into a website. Students will also learn how to establish links, tables, and other components that help to create a well-designed website. By the end of the course, the students will design their own personal website and prepare it for publication onto the Internet. Semester 2: In this semester, students will learn advanced techniques in website design such as adding forms, sounds, and Java scripts to websites. Students will learn how to use Hyper Text Mark-up Language to design a website. Students will also learn how to prepare a website for publication to the Internet and how to maintain and update a site once it is published. Students’ culminating activity will be to prepare a website based upon research completed in one of their courses. This course may qualify for dual credit with Prairie State College. 

This is the first course in the Project Lead the Way Engineering program (PLTW).  Students use a problem-solving model to improve existing products and invent new ones. They learn how to apply this model to solve problems in and out of the classroom. Using sophisticated three-dimensional modeling software, students communicate the details of the products. Emphasis is placed on analyzing potential solutions and communicating ideas to others. This course may qualify for dual credit with Prairie State College. This class is eligible for college credit with the University of Iowa contingent upon students passing the end of course assessment with a score of 6 or better and a fee ($75 or $150). This is an agreement solely between PLTW and University of Iowa. Please direct any questions regarding college credit to pltwiowa.org 

Prerequisite: "C" of better in PLTW: Intro to Engineering Design

This is the second course in the Project Lead the Way Engineering program (PLTW).  Students explore the wide variety of careers in engineering and technology and cover various technology systems and manufacturing processes. Using activities, projects, and problems, students learn first-hand how engineers and technicians use math, science, and technology in an engineering problem-solving process to benefit people. The course also addresses concerns about social and political consequences of technological change. *This course counts as a science elective credit. This class is eligible for college credit with the University of Iowa contingent upon students passing the end of course assessment with a score of 6 or better and a fee ($75 or $150). This is an agreement solely between PLTW and University of Iowa. Please direct any questions regarding college credit to pltwiowa.org. 

Prerequisite: "C" of better in PLTW: Principles of Engineering Design

This is the third course in the Project Lead the Way Program (PLTW).  This course in applied logic encompasses the applications of electronic circuits and devices. Students use computer simulation software to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices. This class is eligible for college credit with the University of Iowa contingent upon students passing the end of course assessment with a score of 6 or better and a fee ($75 or $150). This is an agreement solely between PLTW and University of Iowa. Please direct any questions regarding college credit to pltwiowa.org 

Foundations of Teaching I explores the field of education from a historical, social, economic, political, legal, ethical and moral perspective.  The rewards and challenges of the teaching profession will be emphasized along with an overview of the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to be an effective teacher.   Working with unique learners, including those with disabilities and non-English speakers, will be introduced along with a brief overview of standards-based education, assessment, instructional technology, and differentiated instruction.  Dual Credit will be offered through Lewis University for those completing the course with a C or Higher.

Foundations of Teaching II is a continuation of Foundations of Teaching I with the addition of participants completing observation hours in an elementary, middle or high school as well as articulating their personal philosophy of the purpose and obligations of public and private education.  This course is highly recommended for those considering a career in the education field.

Prerequisite:  Successfully completion of Foundations of Teaching I and II

This course is designed to help individuals pursuing a teaching career to learn practical, effective

ways to integrate various technology resources into classroom practices. The course explores

emerging technologies, assistive technologies, and web applications. It also discusses strategies for using technology, including assistive technology, to facilitate differences in learning styles and disabilities. The course includes evaluation of technology resources, low- to high-tech assistive technologies, multimedia design, accommodation strategies, and assessment design. Candidates will participate in a wide range of activities and projects by applying various technology tools and instructional strategies to enhance the learning success of all students. Dual Credit will be offered through Lewis University for those completing the course with a C or Higher.

Prerequisite: Successfully completion of Foundations of Teaching I and II

This course is intended to develop the abilities of individuals pursuing a teaching career to apply

the techniques of speaking and listening in a variety of classroom settings. Candidates will be

encouraged to use critical thinking and problem-solving in different contexts and modes of communication. Issues surrounding interpersonal relationships, diversity, and ethics will be

addressed. Special emphasis will be devoted to issues such as organizing time, instruction,

materials, managing transitions, and classroom space which are crucial components of the

Danielson Framework. Strategies for developing relationships with all stakeholders will be

discussed as well.

Prerequisites: Foundations of Teaching and Education Methodology– can be taken concurrently with Education Methodology 

This course provides work experience in fields related to the Education & Training cluster.  Goals must be set cooperatively by the student, teacher, and employer (although students are not necessarily paid). This course includes classroom instruction at least once per week, involving the further study of the field, discussion of relevant topics that are responsive to the workplace experience, and employability skill development.   This course aligns to a Career Development Experience that could include: Student-led Enterprises; School-based Enterprises; Immersion Supervised Agricultural Experiences; Clinical Experiences in Health Science and Technology programs; Internships; and Apprenticeship programs including Youth Apprenticeships, Pre-apprenticeships, and Registered Apprenticeships.  Off-site placement requires proof of personal transportation along with a completed CMHS driving waiver.

Naval Science 1 introduces students to the meaning of citizenship, the elements of leadership, and the value of scholarship in attaining life goals; promotes an awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including physical fitness, a proper diet, and controlling stress; drug awareness; provides the principles of health and first aid, geography and survival skills and an overview of Naval ships and aircraft. These elements are pursued at the fundamental level. 

Prerequisites: Completion of Naval Science I

This course builds on the general introduction provided in Naval Science 1, to further develop the traits of citizenship and leadership, and to introduce cadets to the technical areas of naval science and the role of the U. S. Navy in maritime history and the vital importance of the world’s oceans to the continued well-being of the United States. Course content includes: ongoing instruction into Leadership; introduction to Maritime History, including the American Revolution, Civil War, the rise of the U. S. to world power status, World Wars 1 and 2, the Cold War Era and the 1990s and Beyond; introduction to Nautical Sciences to include Maritime Geography, Oceanography, Meteorology, Astronomy, and Physical Sciences. 

Prerequisites: Completion of Naval Science I-II

This course will broaden the understanding of students in the operative principles of military leadership, the concept and significance of teamwork, the intrinsic value of good order and discipline in the accomplishment of objectives, and the importance of sea power and national security. Students gain a more in-depth knowledge of Naval ships and aircraft and an introduction to marine navigation and seamanship. Course content includes instruction in Sea Power and National Security, Naval Operations and Support Functions, Military Law, and International Law and the Sea. This course also provides an introduction to Ship Construction and Damage Control, Shipboard Organization and Watch Standing, Basic Seamanship, Marine Navigation, and Naval Weapons and Aircraft. Ongoing instruction in leadership, citizenship and discipline. 

This course is focused primarily on practical leadership techniques and implementation. Students will be put into positions of leadership to better their understanding of leadership and to improve their leadership skills.  

Prerequisite:  Enrolled concurrently with NJROTC 

Note: This course can be taken once for credit  

Drill provides students with an additional opportunity to improve their skills in military precision. This course emphasizes marching style and formations, firearm manipulation, body coordination, and mechanics, and performing as a member of an orchestrated team. Class members will participate in ceremonies and competitions.