Theater I

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

This course is an overview of all aspects of theater, both acting and non-acting roles. Students will learn basic acting techniques, including pantomime and improvisation. Students will write and direct a final performance piece incorporating all aspects of theater they learned throughout the semester.

Theater II

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: Theater I

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

This course builds on the acting basics taught in Theater 1. Students will focus on acting techniques including concentration, motivation, and character development. Actors will be taught how to play both humorous and serious scenes as well as write their own scenes.

Theater III

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: Theater I & Theater II

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

This advanced theater course continues with the work done in Theater II and expands on the devising process and the creation of an original theater piece. Because the course can be taken multiple times for credit, the project theme will change each semester and will explore a different aspect of theater.  Students can repeat this course for credit.

Theater IV: Acting and Directing

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: Theater I , Theater II & Theater III

Course Description: 

Link to application page

Students will direct their peers in short scenes for public performance twice in the year as well as demonstrating advancement in their own acting skills.

One Act Plays

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: Theater I & Theater II

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

This course is designed for the serious acting student. Students will study schools of thought on acting technique and character development. Students will participate in the performance of memorized plays and scenes, auditions, playwriting and directing. Participation in an advanced acting project will be required. A few after school or evening rehearsals may be required during the rehearsal process for these projects. Students will be encouraged to use their knowledge and skill in auditions for the real-world (for parts or college scholarships). Audition for parts in performances will be required.

Tech Theater I

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: None

• Prerequisite: Instructor Approval

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of theater design and production including set, prop, costume, makeup, lighting, and sound design.  Students will practice the techniques and prepare designs for various plays.  Class work will include many hands-on projects and activities. A parent release form will be required due to the use of tools and machinery.

Theatre Costume Design

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: None

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

Theatre Costume Design is an excellent semester course option for students who wish to build upon their knowledge from any theatre class or explore something new. Theatre and Costume Design would go beyond theatre to engage students who may not typically be interested in theatre but are curious about history, fashion, or practical home economic skills like sewing. 

Functional Theatre Costume Design

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 11 & 12 (Gen Ed), 9 - 12 (SPED)

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee: None

• Prerequisite: Completed application with teacher approval. Link to Application Page

Course Description:

Functional Fashion/Costume is an excellent semester course option that caters to a variety of special education students while actively engaging general education students. This course has been modeled after “Partners in PE”. Students will work together in a 4/1 ratio to promote inclusion while teaching practical life skills like sorting laundry and hand sewing. Students will also be engaged in the arts discussing costumes and watching the current school plays. 

Men's Ensemble

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: Year

• Class Fee: $25 (only $10 Class Fee if second vocal class - Music Theory does not meet this criterion)

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description: Click here to watch the course video 

Men's ensemble is a non-auditioned vocal training and performance choir for men of all grades. This choir develops and improves the basic vocal techniques and choral music skills of students who wish to sing. Performances may include music from a variety of genres. This course includes instruction focused on basic music theory, sight singing, performance techniques, and more.  Students will participate in all vocal music concerts held at the school and in such contests and festival deemed appropriate by the director.  This choir will prepare students for choral music programs at higher levels. Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation. Students can repeat this course for credit.

Women's Ensemble

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: Year

• Class Fee: $25 (only $10 Class Fee if second vocal class - Music Theory does not meet this criterion)

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description: Click here to watch the course video 

Women's ensemble is a non-auditioned vocal training and performance choir for women of all grades. This choir develops and improves the basic vocal techniques and choral music skills of students who wish to sing. Performances may include music from a variety of genres. This course includes instruction focused on basic music theory, sight singing, performance techniques, and more.  Students will participate in all vocal music concerts held at the school and in such contests and festival deemed appropriate by the director.  This choir will prepare students for choral music programs at higher levels. Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation.  Students can repeat this course for credit. 

Women's Select

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Year

• Class Fee: $40 (only $10 Class Fee if second vocal class - Music Theory does not meet this criterion)

• Prerequisite: Audition, prior choral experience and director's approval  

Course Description: Link to application

Select Ladies Ensemble is an auditioned choir for women in all grades who demonstrate moderate understanding of reading music and performance. This choir develops and improves the intermediate vocal techniques and choral music skills of students who are developing musicians. Performances include music from a variety of genres. This course includes instruction focused on intermediate music theory, sight singing, performance techniques, and more.  Students will participate in all vocal music concerts held at the school and in such contests and festival deemed appropriate by the director.  This choir will prepare students for choral music programs at higher levels and to enjoy music with new insight as they begin to reflect on a deeper level.

Concert Choir

Course Information: Link to application

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Year

• Class Fee: $40 (only $10 Class Fee if second vocal class - Music Theory does not meet this criterion)

• Prerequisite: Audition, prior choral experience and director's approval  

Course Description: Click here to watch the course video 

This men's and women's choir further develops and improves advanced vocal techniques and choral music skills of students who show strong aptitude and ability in choral music and who can successfully demonstrate knowledge of singing. Content includes a wide variety of advanced choral literature selected to meet these instructional goals. Much emphasis is on public performance, as well as individual and group competition. This choir will prepare students for choral music programs at the collegiate level. Enrollment/completion of Music Theory is strongly encouraged. Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation.  Students can repeat this course for credit. 

Show Choir

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Year

• Class Fee: $40 (only $10 Class Fee if second vocal class - Music Theory does not meet this criterion)

• Prerequisite: Audition, prior choral experience and director's approval  

Course Description: Link to application

"Show Choir is an SATB (mixed choir) touring competitive vocal ensemble that explores pop, contemporary, and musical theater genres (as well as various styles of dance) in the fall and chamber/choral works in the spring. Entrance to the ensemble is by audition only (both vocal and dance audition). Students accepted into the group must maintain passing grades and display student leadership qualities at all times. Students must also be able to attend and perform multiple concerts and events yearly including graduation. Previous vocal experience and sight-reading skills are strongly encouraged and will be looked at on a case-by-case basis in the audition. This class is treated as an extracurricular and will follow extracurricular discipline policies and eligibility rules. Enrollment in Concert Choir is encouraged unless a schedule conflict is present.  Enrollment/completion of Music Theory is strongly encouraged."

Advanced Show Choir

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: Year

• Class Fee: $40 (only $10 Class Fee if second vocal class - Music Theory does not meet this criterion)

• Prerequisite: Audition, prior choral experience and director's approval  

Course Description: Link to application

Women’s Show Choir is a competitive vocal ensemble that explores pop, contemporary, and musical theater genres (as well as various styles of dance) in the fall and chamber/choral works in the spring. Entrance to the ensemble is by audition only (both vocal and dance audition). Students accepted into the group must maintain passing grades and display student leadership qualities at all times. Students must also be able to attend and perform multiple concerts and events yearly including graduation. Previous vocal experience and sight-reading skills are strongly encouraged and will be looked at on a case-by-case basis in the audition. This class is treated as an extracurricular and will follow extracurricular discipline policies and eligibility rules. Enrollment in Concert Choir is encouraged unless a schedule conflict is present. Enrollment/completion of Music Theory is strongly encouraged.

Percussion Ensemble

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $25

• Prerequisite: Director's approval; music reading and minimum of 1-year previous band experience in percussion

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

This ensemble is designed for percussion students to focus on their specific instrument rather than sit at the back of a band.  Students are required to provide the appropriate sticks/mallets and will develop proficiency in each of the following percussive arts: Snare Drum, Mallet Percussion, Timpani, Auxiliary Percussion, and Drum Set.  Students will perform with Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and/or Wind Ensemble based on their level of proficiency in addition to performing percussion ensemble literature.  All Percussion Ensemble students will participate in all phases of performance including a variety of co-curricular performances. Although not required, it is recommended students take private lessons on their instrument. Participation in marching band is highly encouraged. Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation. Students can repeat this course for credit.

Concert Band

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $25

• Prerequisite: Director's approval; music reading and minimum of 1-year previous band experience on a woodwind or brass instrument (Percussionists see "Percussion Ensemble")

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

This ensemble is designed for incoming freshmen and students with less experience performing at the high school level. This group will explore wind literature in various contrasting styles.  The class designed to build a foundation of fundamental skills through basic, enduring technical, and tone exercises. All students will participate in all phases of band performance including a variety of co-curricular performances. Although not required, it is recommended students take private lessons on their instrument. Participation in marching band is highly encouraged. Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation. 

Wind Ensemble

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $25

• Prerequisite: Audition/Director's approval; advanced music reading and performance experience on woodwind or brass instrument (Percussionists see "Percussion Ensemble") 

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

Wind Ensemble is an auditioned and select advanced level band performing at a high level. Entrance into the ensemble is by audition only and placement considerations will rely on the student's ability, as well as the traditional balanced band instrumentation.  This group will explore wind literature and various contrasting styles. All students will participate in all phases of band performance including a variety of co-curricular performances. Although not required, students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons on their instrument.  Participation in marching band is highly encouraged. Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation. Students can repeat this course for credit.

Jazz Band

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $25

• Prerequisite: Previous advanced level band experience, ability, Director's approval, and concurrent enrollment in an upper-level band class.

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

Jazz Band is a select advanced level band performing at a high level.  Entrance into the ensemble is by audition only and placement considerations will rely on the student's ability as well as traditional jazz band instrumentation. Students will perform a variety of styles of jazz, rock, and contemporary music as well as solo improvisation.  Although not required, students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons on their instrument. Enrollment/completion of Music Theory is strongly encouraged.  Participation in all performances and rehearsals is mandatory, and is included in the overall class grade calculation. Students can repeat this course for credit.

Marching Band

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Prerequisite: Director's approval

Course Description; 

Designed for students passionate about music, teamwork, and performance, this dynamic course offers an exhilarating journey into the art of marching band. Students will develop instrumental proficiency, refine their marching techniques, and experience the thrill of live performances at school events and competitions.This course fosters discipline, camaraderie, and artistic expression as students learn to synchronize their talents in creating captivating musical and visual presentations. It also includes a dance element where students use flags, rifles, and sabres to enhance the visual aspect of the performance. Join us for a transformative experience where musical excellence and teamwork take center stage.

Exploratory Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description:

This course is for students who may not know which route to take in the Visual Arts Pathway. This is not a prerequisite for admittance to another class, but a course combining most of the other introductory art classes into one. It allows students to explore a variety of media from Intro to 2D, Intro to 3D, and Digital Photography, without having to commit to one for an entire semester. 

 Introduction to 2D Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $25

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description:

This is a foundational art class (beginning level) in which students will sample a variety of art media while exploring all of the elements of design: line, shape, value, color, texture, form, and space on a basic level. Techniques used to create two-dimensional works will include, but not be limited to, drawing, painting, and printmaking. Students will experience cultural and appreciative aspects of art through various instructional resources and art production. 

2D Intermediate Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $20

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Intro to 2D Art

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

This class further develops on the concepts learned in the Introduction to 2D course and extends knowledge of artistic technique and historical content.  A variety of media will be used, possibly including, but not limited to, graphite, charcoal, ink, colored pencil, printmaking, pastel, mixed media, watercolor paint, and acrylic paint.  Students will further develop their abilities to critically problem-solve, analyze, brainstorm, and reflect on their own artwork and the artwork of others.

Introduction to 3D Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $30

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description:

This is a foundational art class (beginning level) in which students will acquire knowledge and build skill in creating three-dimensional artistic sculptures.  Focused on form, this class will include the exploration and production of functional and decorative design, art history, critiques, and aesthetics.  Students will learn how the elements and principles of art are used in making 3-D art and how other cultures are reflected through art. Students will create 3-dimensional art using a variety of materials that may include ceramics, mixed media, wire, paper, and recycled materials. 

3D Intermediate Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $30

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Intro to 3D Art

Course Description:

This class further develops on the concepts learned in Introduction to 3D Art and extend knowledge of artistic technique and historical content. Students will focus on creating more in-depth projects in both size and difficulty. A variety of media will be used, possibly including, but not limited to fiber, installation art, plaster, wire, plastic, wood, mixed media, and recycled materials. Students will further develop their abilities to critically problem-solve, analyze, brainstorm, and reflect on their own artwork and the artwork of others. 

Commercial Photography

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $50

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

This course is designed to offer students an understanding of the fundamentals of photography taken with a digital camera. It focuses on photography in terms of design and communication factors including color, visual design, lighting, graphics, and aesthetics. Photographs will be manipulated using Adobe Photoshop and other industry standard programs. An overview of current social and career awareness as it pertains to the media will be discussed. Cultural and appreciative aspects of photography will be incorporated in this course through instructional resources and production experiences. This course is eligible for articulated credit through PPCC as PHO 120.

Graphic Design & Illustration

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $35

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

This course allows students to explore the use of tools, computer graphic techniques, and design layout principles to produce professional graphic designs. Students will be introduced to Adobe as well as printing basics, typography, digital color systems, and creative thinking.  Projects may include but are not limited to, logo design, posters, t-shirt graphics, packaging design, and more.

Painting I

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $30

• Prerequisite: NONE

Course Description:

Students will learn the fundamentals of composition, art elements, principles of design, and developmental skills.  Materials used for painting representational, expressive, or abstracted images include, but are not limited to, tempera, watercolor, and acrylic paints.  Students will experience art history through aesthetics and criticism through varied instructional media and resources. 

Painting II

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $30

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Painting I

Course Description:

Students will build on their knowledge of composition, art elements, principles of design, and developmental skills.  Materials used for painting representational, expressive, or abstracted images include, but are not limited to, tempera, watercolor, and acrylic paints.  Students will expand their experience art history through aesthetics and criticism through varied instructional media and resources. 

Honors Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $40

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Intermediate 2D Art or Graphic Design and Illustration II, Commercial Photo II, Painting II, or Intermediate 3D Art.  

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

This course allows for advanced work in the Design & Multimedia Arts Program of Study. This advanced work can be individualized to the specific program of study to allow for specialized study for the student. Students will create a portfolio of work to demonstrate mastery. Specific content and course design will be determined by the instructor in collaboration with the individual student.

AP Studio Art

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $136 (includes AP exam fee)

• Prerequisite: Instructor approval; C or higher in Capstone Art

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

AP Studio Art is a college level course based on the production of a portfolio (Drawing; 2-D Design;).  Students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate inquiry through art and design and development of materials, processes, and ideas over the course of a year.

Ceramics I

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $35

• Prerequisite: None

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

Ceramics is a terrific course for all learners, creating pottery with your hands has many benefits for students who both love and like art. This is an introductory course for most students, but those with prior experience will upon skills learned in elementary, or middle school classes. Students begin the course experimenting with the care and keeping of clay, and science behind the firing processes, and glazing. Projects are based on hand-building fundamentals of pinch, coil, and slab construction, learned by creating both functional and non-functional forms. Units are designed to teach the art design process: concept- design- create- analyze- reflect. All work is documented on their semester portfolio on Google Classroom.

Ceramics II

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $35

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Ceramics I

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

Students in Ceramics II build upon hand-building skills gained in Ceramics 1. They are introduced to the pottery wheel, with an emphasis on the skill-building process over the product. Students will create larger hand-built pieces, enhance their surface decorating techniques, as well as experiment with complex high fire glaze combinations. They continue to work with the art design process and become familiar with advanced tools, and care of the studio.

Ceramics III

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $70

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Ceramics II

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

Students in Ceramics III will continue to develop skills learned in Ceramics II: hand-building, wheel-throwing, glazing, decorative elements, studio care, design process, self and peer evaluations/critiques. Ceramics III is modeled after college-level art courses, allowing students to find their voice, build a body of personal work, design and craft complex pieces. In addition, students will discover contemporary ceramic artists working in the fields of fine arts and design. Fused glass and under glazing illustrated surfaces are also introduced.

Ceramics IV

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: $70

• Prerequisite: C or higher in Ceramics III

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video 

Ceramics IV is a college-prep, student-driven, independent study allowing students an opportunity to explore personal interests in fine arts and product design. The boundaries of artwork are open to become a fusion of clay, glass, paper clay, mixed media elements such as found objects, furniture, painted canvas, handmade beads, wire, and collage. Students continue to build their body of work from functional dishware, to personal sculptures creating a college-worthy portfolio.

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 9-12

• Length: SEMESTER

• Class Fee: $15

• Prerequisite: Previous Advanced level band and/or choir experience

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

The goal of this course is to develop the necessary skills to listen to and analyze music well, and by extension to consume all art fastidiously.  This course explores the fundamentals of music. Students learn the primary concepts of music theory, including basic tonal analysis, dictation, and sight singing/reading. Recommended for students interested in advanced vocal and instrumental ensembles, as well as those interested in studying music at the collegiate level.

Film Making I

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee:  None

• Prerequisite: Instructor Approval; Students must not have any previous behavior or discipline incidents.

Course Description; 

In Film Making I, students learn the basics about video editing and storyboarding.

Film Making II

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 11-12

• Length: Semester

• Class Fee:  None

• Prerequisite: Instructor Approval; Students must not have any previous behavior or discipline incidents.

Course Description; 

Film II is an intermediate film production class. We will be focusing on how to combine all elements of cinema

in order to produce a completed short film by the end of the semester. There will be a focus on advanced editing

techniques, lighting, sound recording/design, and the expressive potential of cinematography. You will be

working in digital video and will be using the Adobe Suite to learn programs like Premiere and After Effects.

All the basic equipment will be provided for use and rental. You are welcome to use your own equipment and

software as well. In addition to creating a film, we will also study some film theory and criticism. Having this

background knowledge in the language of cinema will help you push yourself creatively. The end product will

be a short-film you created in a collaborative environment.

Course Information:

• Grade Level: 10-12

• Length: YEAR

• Class Fee: None

• Prerequisite: Application process and teacher approval

Course Description; Click here to watch the course video

Link to Application

This is a year-long course in which students are responsible for the marketing and production of the high school yearbook.  In this course, students will learn to design layouts, write copy, proofread, and take photographs.  Students must be able to meet deadlines, sell advertising, and work independently or with groups.  This is a high-stress environment and students must be able to understand how to work and thrive producing excellent work.  Excellent writing skills are necessary; some photography experience and great computer skills are very beneficial, as well as students must not be afraid to talk to other students for interviews. After applications are reviewed, students will be contacted if they are selected.