Foundations of Agriculture (9th Grade Only)
This course develops a foundation in each of the career pathways in agriculture, food, and natural resources (AFNR), including the global scope of agriculture; concepts in plant, animal, and food science; natural resources and environmental systems; agricultural skills and safety in power, structural, and technical systems; and agribusiness.
Intro to Plant Systems
Students develop competencies in each of the major areas of the Plant Systems career pathway, including applied botany, plant propagation, and plant care and selection. Instructional content also includes an introduction to the various aspects of the plant systems industry. Students learn agricultural mechanics applicable to plant systems.
Intro to Animal Systems
Students develop competency in each of the major areas of the animal systems career pathway including animal nutrition, reproduction, breeding, care, management, and safety. Students also learn agricultural mechanics skills applicable to animal systems.
Ag Power Systems
Agricultural Power Systems prepares students for careers in agricultural machinery service. Areas of focus include engines; powertrains; and hydraulic, electrical, and fuel systems.
Small Animal Care
Students learn how to care for and manage small animals, focusing on the connection between humans and animals, animal behavior health, nutrition, management, and reproduction. Opportunities to handle live animals may occur. Course content also includes instruction on the tools, equipment, and facilities used in the small animal care industry.
Livestock Production/Equine Management
Course includes instruction in agricultural mechanics, with emphasis placed on the application of mechanical skills to farm power and machinery, as well as on soil and water management, supervised farming programs, and leadership training.
Veterinary Science I
Veterinary Science I prepares students for postsecondary education and/or careers in veterinary medicine or related fields. Major topics include characteristics and care of common companion and livestock animals, safety practices, anatomy and physiology, nutrition, medical terminology, sanitation, and clinical exams. Course content also includes communication, facility operations, office functions, and professional etiquette in the workplace. Opportunities to handle live animals may occur.
Floriculture *NEW FOR 2023-24 School Year
Floriculture prepares students for postsecondary educational career programs and entry-level positions in the floriculture, horticulture, and floral design industries. Instruction includes industry safety in floriculture, the science of floriculture and nursery plant production, plant material identification, floral design basics, marketing, and business management.
Landscaping *NEW FOR 2023-24 School Year
Landscaping offers skilled workers satisfying career opportunities in varying working environments. The expanding and ever-evolving green industry requires skilled workers for high-demand occupations offering educational and leadership opportunities. This course focuses on preparing students for entry-level employment, postsecondary opportunities, and advancement in the landscape design, construction, and maintenance industries.
Business Law
Students examine the foundations of the American legal system and learn the rights and responsibilities of citizens and businesses. Students gain knowledge and skills by exploring economic and social concepts related to laws governing business and individuals. Focus areas include contracts, consumer protection, criminal law, tort law, international law, family/domestic law, employment law, cyber law, and careers in the legal profession.
Accounting
Accounting students study the basic principles, concepts, and practices of the accounting cycle for a service business and a merchandising business. Topics covered include analyzing transactions, journalizing and posting entries, preparing payroll records and financial statements, and managing cash control systems. Business ethics and professional conduct are emphasized. Students learn fundamental accounting procedures.
Computer Information Systems
Students apply problem-solving skills to real-life situations through word processing, spreadsheets, databases, multimedia presentations, and integrated software activities. Students work individually and in groups to explore computer concepts, operating systems, networks, telecommunications, emerging technologies, and career opportunities related to the information technology field.
Health Informatics
Students will have the opportunity to explore the importance of safeguarding electronic healthcare information. Students will be introduced to the various technologies and trends that affect the healthcare industry. Students will explore aspects of health informatics to include the history of health information technology (IT) in the United States, the Electronic Health Record (EHR), ethical and privacy issues, and cybersecurity and data breaches.
Information Technology Fundamentals
Information Technology Fundamentals introduces the essential technical and professional skills required for students to pursue programs leading to professional careers and information technology certifications. The course introduces skills related to digital technology, digital applications, maintenance/upgrading/troubleshooting, and networking fundamentals. Students also explore ethical issues related to computers and Internet technology and examine web page and game design.
Programming
Students in the Programming course explore programming concepts, use algorithmic procedures, implement programming procedures with one or more standard languages, and master programming fundamentals. Coding is used throughout the course. Graphical user interfaces may be used as students design and develop interactive multimedia applications, including game programs. In addition, students employ hypertext markup language (HTML) or JavaScript to create web pages. Students develop their employability skills through a variety of activities.
Entrepreneurship
This course introduces students to the exciting world of creating, owning, and launching their own business. Students will learn concepts and techniques for planning an entrepreneurial venture, using design thinking and business model development. Students will learn about financial statements, marketing principles, sales and customer service, and basic economic principles for successful operation.
Introduction to VA Teachers for Tomorrow
This exploratory course fosters student interest in, understanding of, and appreciation for the teaching profession and introduces students to careers in education. Students will develop self-awareness, collaborate with peers, build positive learning environments, and discover learner differences. The curriculum is designed to help students set attainable professional goals in the education and training career cluster. This course introduces students to the high school Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow (VTfT) program.
Teachers for Tomorrow I
Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow (VTfT) I fosters student interest, understanding, and appreciation of the teaching profession and allows secondary students to explore careers in the education and training career cluster and related pathways. Students build a foundation for teaching; learn the history, structure, and governance of teaching; apply professional teaching techniques in classroom and field experiences; and reflect on their teaching experiences.
Teachers for Tomorrow II
Students continue to explore careers in the education and training career cluster and related pathways. This course provides hands-on opportunities for students to examine careers in education, observe professional practice, and apply professional standards and educational theory. In an authentic practicum experience, students will be able to teach lessons, manage classrooms, create learning opportunities, and build their professional portfolio in the process.
AP Computer Science
Students design, implement and interpret computer-based solutions to problems in several application areas, becoming knowledgeable about programming concepts, algorithm designs, and documentation of the computer solution. The course instructional materials are based on concepts outlined by the College Board and prepare students to take the Advanced Placement Computer Science A Examination.
Database Design and Management
This course includes database design and Structured Query Language (SQL) programming. Students study database fundamentals, including database development, modeling, design, and normalization. In addition, students are introduced to database programming with SQL. Students gain the skills and knowledge needed to use features of database software and programming to manage and control access to data. Students will prepare for the first of two certification exams.
Office Specialist I *NEW FOR 2023-24 School Year
Students complete the Office Specialist sequence identified locally or progress in the sequence until prepared to transfer into other business courses. Students develop skills in areas including keyboarding, word processing, office procedures, and records management. If a fourth year is needed, the teacher should use simulated activities in the following areas: word processing, spreadsheets, databases, telecommunications, graphic design, and records management.
Introduction to Health and Medical Sciences
This course introduces the student to a variety of healthcare careers and develops basic skills required in all health and medical sciences. It is designed to help students understand the key elements of the U.S. healthcare system and to learn basic healthcare terminology, anatomy and physiology for each body system, pathologies, diagnostic and clinical procedures, therapeutic interventions, and the fundamentals of traumatic and medical emergency care. Throughout the course, instruction emphasizes safety, cleanliness, asepsis, professionalism, accountability, and efficiency within the healthcare environment. Students also begin gaining job-seeking skills for entry into the health and medical sciences field.
Medical Lab Technology I
Medical Laboratory Technology I gives students an overview of the clinical lab, hematology, urinalysis, and clinical chemistry. Students gain foundational knowledge and skills appropriate for a variety of medical-related career paths in the field of medical laboratory technology. They are introduced to diagnostic and therapeutic laboratory procedures that support medical practice and research, and investigate safety, quality assurance, and ethical concerns associated with the field of medical laboratory technology.
Medical Lab Technology II
In this hands-on course, students perform tests normally seen in the clinical setting as they build on the foundational knowledge and skills obtained in Medical Laboratory Technology I. The students will use the basic principles necessary to perform competently in the areas of clinical microbiology, immunohematology, and immunology/serology, coagulation/hemostasis, and molecular diagnostics. Competency includes performing the technique correctly, understanding the theory of the procedures, and interpreting the results.
Introduction to Culinary Arts
Introduction to Culinary Arts students investigate food safety and sanitation, culinary preparation foundations, basic culinary skills, diverse cuisines, service styles, nutrition and menu development, and the economics of food. Students also explore postsecondary education options and career opportunities within the food service industry.
Culinary Arts I
Culinary Arts I provides students with a foundational understanding of the food service industry and opportunities to build technical skills in food preparation and service. Students examine basic rules of kitchen safety and sanitation, of purchasing and receiving, and of fundamental nutrition. The curriculum incorporates math and science in culinary applications.
Baking & Pastry Specialization
The Culinary Arts Specialization course provides students with skills and knowledge to pursue careers in the food service industry. In a hands-on environment, students apply nutritional principles, plan menus, use business and mathematics skills, select and maintain food service equipment, and adhere to safety and sanitation standards. The curriculum continues to place a strong emphasis on science and mathematics knowledge and skills, critical thinking, practical problem-solving, and entrepreneurial opportunities within the field of culinary arts.
Marketing
Students will learn how products are developed, branded, and sold. They will analyze industry trends and gain hands-on experience in the marketing of goods, services, and ideas and be prepared for success in postsecondary education and employment. Topics include professionalism in the workplace, product planning and positioning, promotion, pricing, selling, economic issues, and changes in the marketplace.
Marketing Management
This course is designed for high school students who plan to attend college with a concentration in marketing, business, or management and/or who have plans to manage or own a business. Students will be exposed to all aspects of marketing and management, including branding, digital marketing, promotion, communication, and career opportunities in marketing.
Marketing Experience (School Store)
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Marketing Management and/or Fashion Marketing. Teacher recommendation.
Digital and Social Media Marketing
This course introduces students to digital and social media marketing. Students explore principles, strategies, tools, and tactics related to consumers, branding, advertising, and promotions. Students explore how success is measured in a digital and social media marketing campaign. This course emphasizes ethics, laws, and security. Students also investigate business and marketing plans, as well as careers in digital and social media marketing. This course reinforces mathematics, science, English, and history and social science Standards of Learning.
Sports, Entertainment, and Recreation Marketing
This course helps students develop a thorough understanding of fundamental marketing concepts and theories as they relate to the sports and entertainment industries. Students will investigate the components of customer service, branding, product development, pricing and distribution, business structures, sales processes, digital media, sponsorships and endorsements, as well as promotion needed for sports and entertainment events. The course explores career options and develops workplace readiness skills.
Travel and Tourism Marketing
This course examines the components of the travel and tourism industry, including attractions, lodging, transportation, and food and beverage. Other topics include the history, political, social, and cultural effects of travel and tourism on local, state, and global environments. Students develop competencies in the areas of communication, customer service, marketing, industry technology, economics, and management functions, and are provided with opportunities for hands-on, real-world applications. Applying academic skills is also part of this course.
Real Estate Marketing
In this course students will examine the practical applications of real estate principles, the impact the industry has on the economy, home ownership, entrepreneurship, and careers in the industry. Students will investigate topics including contracts, financing, land descriptions, legal concepts, marketing, titles, appraisals, agency responsibilities, and management of real estate. Upon successful completion of the course students are eligible to take the Virginia Real Estate Salesperson Exam, which covers both state specific and national topics.
*Individuals must be 18 years of age and have a high school diploma before applying for licensure as a real estate salesperson in Virginia. Additionally, those interested in pursuing licensure should be aware of the costs involved (e.g., application fee, testing fee, continuing education fees). Refer to DPOR regulations for current information. Further details are provided in the Related Material section of this course.
Fashion Marketing
This course leads students into the exciting and ever-changing world of fashion. Students gain knowledge of marketing as it relates to the fashion industry. From brick-and-mortar retail establishments to online retail and social media marketing, students will explore aspects such as trends, technology, the buying process, visual merchandising, the nature and history of fashion and fashion designers, and the global impact of the fashion industry on the economy. Academic skills related to the content are part of this course.
Energy and Power
In this course, students analyze energy sources and explore the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity using the Energy Industry Fundamentals modules from the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD). The course provides math, science, and technical-writing skills through hands-on application.
Sustainable and Renewable Technology
Sustainability and Renewable Technologies explores issues that affect global citizens in the areas of economics, culture, and the environment. The course introduces students to the historic, economic, political, environmental, and cultural issues that impact the global community and its future. Students will address issues affecting the health of our environment and explore solutions offered by sustainable agriculture, energy efficient building design, and renewable energy sources.
Technical Drawing and Design
In this foundational course, students design, sketch, and make technical drawings, models, or prototypes of real design problems while learning the language of technical drawing and design. The course introduces the language of graphic communication to all science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students and is especially recommended for those planning a future in engineering and architecture.
Engineering Drawing and Design
Students use graphic language for product design, technical illustration, evaluation of designs, and engineering drawings. They increase their understanding of drawing techniques learned in Technical Drawing and Design (8435/8434) and Architectural Drawing and Design (8437/8492). Students use computers, calculators, and descriptive geometry and adhere to established standards to solve design problems. They work in teams to design solutions for an identified need and to produce parts on a 3D printer.
Building Trades I
Building Trades I introduces students to skills in the four core areas of residential construction: masonry, carpentry, electricity, and plumbing. Students emphasize safety by earning the Construction Industry Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 card as they build or repair residential structures, using a variety of materials and tools. Students will also learn current residential building codes associated with the trades.
Building Trades II
Building Trades II teaches students advanced skills in masonry, carpentry, electricity, and plumbing. The class prepares students to synthesize these valuable skills to build or repair residential structures, using a variety of materials and tools. Students will also learn current residential building codes associated with the trades.
JROTC I
This course introduces students to the foundations of the Army JROTC program, the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship, the principle components of leadership, and the foundational elements needed for academic and career success. Additionally, students receive instruction in U.S. and military history, discipline, personal wellness, physical fitness, career education, and workplace readiness skills. Military customs and courtesies, proper uniform wear and personal appearance guidelines are established and reinforced in the classroom, drill, and military ceremonies.
JROTC II
This course continues to provide students instruction in the Army JROTC program and the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship. Students continue to learn leadership skills, U.S. and military history, the origins and development of the U.S. Government, discipline, personal wellness, physical fitness, first aid, map skills, career education, and workplace readiness skills. Military customs and courtesies, proper uniform wear, and personal appearance guidelines are required in the leadership lab, drill, and military ceremonies.
JROTC III
This course continues to provide students instruction in the Army JROTC program, reinforcing U.S. citizenship rights and responsibilities, leadership, military history, discipline, physical fitness, career education, financial planning, personal development, and workplace readiness skills. Military customs and courtesies, proper uniform wear, and personal appearance guidelines are required in the leadership lab, drill, and military ceremonies.
JROTC IV
Students continue instruction in the Army JROTC program, consisting of U.S. citizenship rights and responsibilities, leadership, military history, discipline, citizenship, physical fitness, career education, and workplace readiness skills. Students receive additional instruction in military customs and courtesies, proper uniform wear, and personal appearance guidelines. Adherence to the guidelines is required in leadership lab, drill, and military ceremonies.