Fine Arts

Art I is a high school introductory level course in the visual arts where students of varying abilities and skill levels will have an opportunity to work with a wide range of materials and techniques.  Students will learn about different artists across cultures and time, engage in art criticism and aesthetic discussions, and learn about various career opportunities in the arts.  Students are required to read, write, and think critically about their work and the work of others in addition to creating and completing artworks. Students will keep and regularly use a sketchbook to document their learning, processes, ideas and practice new techniques and skills. 

Estimated Homework Time: 1-2 hours/week

College & Career Connections: Graphic design, illustration, forensic artist

Modern Band I is a performance based class that explores the fundamentals of music-making by learning how to perform on chosen instruments (Piano, Drums, Guitar, Bass). No prior musical background or experience is required to take this course. Students will learn basic music notation/tablature, rhythm, music interpretation and performance skills. Students have two mandatory assessment concerts that occur after-school in the Winter and Spring. 

Estimated Homework Time: 30 minutes per week

College & Career Connections: Music performance, Music production, Music Education

Modern Band II is a performance based class that progresses to intermediate and advanced techniques in music performance. Students learn how to perform on chosen instruments (Piano, Drums, Guitar, Bass). Prior musical background or experience is preferred and students should have taken Modern Band I to take this class. Students will learn advanced music notation/tablature, advanced instrumental techniques, rhythm, music interpretation and performance skills. Students have two mandatory assessment concerts that occur after-school in the Winter and Spring and may be asked to participate in other school performances as they arise.

Estimated Homework Time: 60 minutes per week

College & Career Connections:  Music performance, Music production, Music Education

This course is a senior level honors class designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of audio production, recording technology, and sound design. From the basics of acoustics to the intricacies of digital audio workstations (DAWs), students will explore the fundamental concepts and hands-on applications that define the field of sound engineering (like Soundtrap and Ableton Live). Students use an online curriculum from “Young Producers Group” based out of Los Angeles providing some of the most common and latest techniques in sound and film. No prior experience is required for this course, but a passion for music, sound, and technology is highly encouraged.

Estimated Homework Time: 2-3 hours per week 

College & Career Connections: Sound Production, Sound Engineering, Audio Technician, Production Manager, Studio, Film 

Senior Leader Art is a year-long class offered to our 12th-grade students. Each Senior Leader student will be paired with a peer student in an art class. The Senior Leaders role in the class will include the following: serve as an assistant to the Art teacher, help organize and distribute materials, help model and teach skills associated with creating art, and serve as a positive role model and mentor and friend for the students in class.

Estimated Homework Time: rare that there will be actual homework given out in this class

College & Career Connections: Art, Education

Students will deepen their knowledge and skills in art to explore the intersection of technology, art, and a variety of mediums in greater depth.  Students will engage with, discuss and create art and design products and artwork that impact the world around them.  Students are required to read, write, and think critically about their work and the work of others in addition to creating and completing thoughtful artistic work as single pieces and in a series.  Students are also expected to work in groups to develop plans and projects.  Due to the nature of this course, it is expected that students complete tasks and homework outside of class that may include taking photographs, preparing parts of projects, developing plans or conducting research and completing sketches. 

The primary focus of this course is hands-on experiences with digital media, materials and tools.  Attendance is of the utmost importance as time on task is vital to the creation and success of all projects. 

Estimated Homework Time: rare that there will be actual homework given out in this class

College & Career Connections: Art, Education

This is an intensive course that requires students to expand their work in the areas of theater performance and production. Students will further develop skills in acting, improvisation and critique.Students will develop their skills in script analysis, interpretation and evaluation through the study and performance of contemporary and classic texts. 

Yearbook is a yearlong class that is offered to our 12th-grade students. Students receive practical, hands-on experience in yearbook production. Students learn the tasks necessary to photograph, design, write, and evaluate a yearbook. Students are required to participate in tasks outside of class. Students can expect to invest 1-2 hours outside of class each week.

Estimated Homework Time: 1-2 hours per week

College & Career Connections: Photography, Graphic Arts, Design, Publishing, Journalism