CAREER PREPAREDNESS

22153G1000

Grade Level: 9-12

This is a semester course for 1 full credit. Students will need to pair this course with another 1/2 credit course. 

This required, one-credit course prepares students with content knowledge and skills in the areas of career development and academic planning, computer skill application, and financial literacy. This course meets the 20 hour online experience requirement. This course does not count as one of the 3 courses in World Languages, CTE, or Fine Arts that are required.

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus. 

English Elective Courses 

(These courses do not give core English credit.)

AFRICAN-AMERICAN LITERATURE

01099G10aa

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

This engaging course intended for all students will survey African-American literature pulled primarily from the past three decades, providing a window that will allow students to see how African-American writers have contributed to, have transformed, and continue to transform America. The main requirement for this course is engagement with the readings in class discussion. Additionally, students will be asked to write periodically and complete end-of-semester projects. Some texts on the syllabus contain topics and language that some might find difficult or controversial but which are essential in exploring the African-American experience.

AP SEMINAR (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT) 

22110E1000

Grade Level: 10-12

Requirements: Currently enrolled in an advanced-level English Course

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in research-based written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May.  See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.

CREATIVE WRITING

01104G1000

Grade Level:  10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

Creative writing is the study of writing and the transmission of original thought through that writing. The ability to get the reader to hear what the writer seeks to say is the core skill taught in this course. In this introductory class, students will explore the various methods of communication through reading, analyzing, and creating examples of poetry, short stories, essays, plays, children’s literature, and other forms. Students will be required to write on a weekly basis, to regularly share written work with their peers, to critique the writing of their peers, and to maintain a portfolio of their work in the class.  

Physical Education/Health Elective Courses

BEGINNING KINESIOLOGY

08017G1000

Grade Level: 9-12

All 9th graders are required to take the Beginning Kinesiology course. This course provides students with the opportunity to develop an individual level of fitness, acquire knowledge of fitness concepts, and understand the significance of a healthy lifestyle.

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus. 

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING 

08005G1000

Grade Levels: 10-12

Prerequisite: Beginning Kinesiology or its equivalent

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

This class focuses on total body wellness to include nutrition and a variety of different workouts to maintain or improve current fitness level. Fitness and conditioning including body sculpting, aerobic exercise, yoga and spinning. This will be the best class of your day due to the stress relief and happy endorphin release that only exercise can bring.

TEAM SPORTS

08003G1000

Grade Levels: 10-12

Prerequisite: Beginning Kinesiology or its equivalent

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

This course offers an opportunity to participate in a wide variety of team sports, lifetime skills, and recreational activities.

HEALTH EDUCATION  (REQUIRED) 

08051G0500

Grade Level: 10

This is a semester course offered in the same semester as Driver Education. Students will receive a credit for Health and Driver Education in the same semester.

Health Education is a one-semester REQUIRED course. It is designed to include recent and reliable information on the promotion of wellness, the reduction of health risks, the prevention of disease, and the management of health problems.

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus.

DRIVER EDUCATION

08152G1000

Grade Level: 10–12

This is a semester course.This is a semester course offered in the same semester as Driver Education. Students will receive a credit for Health and Driver Education in the same semester. Students should register in the semester based on their birthday. 1st Semester (before 1/5/27) and 2nd Semester (after 1/5/27).

Driver Education students receive 30 hours of classroom instruction, four hours of simulation experience and five hours of actual driving. Must have a valid Alabama Learner’s Permit to receive the 5 hours of driving instruction.

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus. 

Science Elective Courses

AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT)

03207E1000

Grade Level: 10-12**

Prerequisites: Advanced Level Biology and Chemistry

Recommendations: 

1. A score of 25 or higher on the self-assessment rubric 

2. Advanced Level Biology with a 85% course average 

3. Chemistry with a 85% course average

4.  Students who desire the challenge of pursuing college course work at the high school level

This course extends the study of Biological and Physical sciences. We will delve into the interconnectedness of science, ethics, history, politics, etc. as we develop a deeper understanding of the world around us and our human impacts. AP Environmental science is fun, challenging, and exciting. In this course you will investigate and discuss important current issues pertaining to science in the real world. It also integrates critical analysis and writing skills. APES focuses on the interrelationships of the natural world. It analyzes human induced environmental problems and changes. APES examines alternative solutions for those problems on an advanced level by requiring students to investigate international, state, and local policies that affect the environment. Long term investigations and projects require an additional investment of time beyond the class and will involve work in the field. Lab/fieldwork required. Summer assignment required. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.

**Students may take this course as an elective while concurrently taking Chemistry or Advanced Chemistry.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT) 

10019E1000

Grade Level: 10-12   Course Video

Recommendations: 

1. A score of 25 or higher on self-assessment rubric

2. Students who desire the challenge of pursuing college course work at the high school level

3. Students should have completed Algebra I or Accelerated Math 7 & Accelerated Math 8

AP Computer Science Principles can earn a CTE, Math, or Science credit.

AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, instilling the ideas and practices of computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing changes the world. The rigorous course promotes deep learning of computational content, develops computational thinking skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. The course is unique in its focus on fostering students to be creative. Students are encouraged to apply creative processes when developing computational artifacts and to think creatively while using simulations to explore questions that interest them. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.

Social Studies Electives

PSYCHOLOGY  

04254G1000

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

Psychology is a year-long course which provides students with a basic understanding of human behavior. Included in the course are units on brain function and perception, motivation, developmental psychology, personality, learning and intelligence, abnormal behavior, and methods and research.

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus. 

PSYCHOLOGY, AP (+1.00 COURSE WEIGHT)

04256E1000

Grade Level: 9-12

Recommendation: A score of 25 or higher on the self-assessment rubric

Advanced Placement Psychology, a full-year course, is an introductory college level course that examines human behavior. The course outline follows the precepts of the College Board, and includes units on sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and intelligence, motivation and emotion, developmental psychology, personality, abnormal psychology, and the treatment of psychological disorders. Research methods and the major schools of thought will be addressed throughout this course. Students will be required to research topics of interest in psychology as well as design and conduct an experiment with other members of the AP class. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.

HUMAN GEOGRAPHY, AP (+1.00 COURSE WEIGHT)

04004E1000 

Grade Level: 9-12

Recommendation: A score of 25 or higher on the self-assessment rubric

Advanced Placement Human Geography is a year-long course designed to represent a college introductory course in Human Geography. In this course, students will use the thinking processes of geographers to explore patterns of human population, migration, and land use. Using maps, tables, charts, graphs, infographics, images, and landscapes to draw conclusions and understand cultures, languages, religions, the class will discuss agriculture, industrialization, urbanization, and the demographics as they relate to geographic concepts. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.

HISTORY THROUGH FILM 

04099G10ad

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

History through Film evaluates the medium of film as it portrays themes in history.  These themes include military history, social history, individuals and regional cultures.  Movies will be viewed in class and then discussed.  The focus of the discussion will be historical accuracy.  The class will also examine how the year each movie was made influenced how events in the movie were presented.  The early history of the film industry will also be covered.

WORLD RELIGIONS (COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS)

07002G1000

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

World Religions is a year-long course that will introduce students to the study of religion and survey six major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Additionally two major religions will be selected by the instructor for an in-depth study from the following list: Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, or Judaism. Students will examine the rituals, sacred texts, beliefs and religious experience of these religions, and develop an appreciation for the world's religious diversity.

General Electives

ACT TEST PREPARATION

22994X10ma

Grade Level: 10-11

This is a semester course.

The ACT Prep course is designed to prepare students for all four areas of the ACT in addition to teaching/ reviewing general study strategies necessary for academic success. The curriculum will include online resources such as Method Test Prep as well as research-based materials that emphasize learning concepts. Students will develop test-taking strategies through drills and several full-length practice tests. A composition unit will concentrate on strategies for writing the ACT essay as well as college/scholarship essays. Students are required to purchase a consumable study guide for this course. Approximate cost is $30.

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus. 

DEBATE (ACADEMIC COMPETITION TEAM) (+.50 GRADE WEIGHT)

22994X10ac

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

Course Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0AXGlxQIZw

This course will provide students with instruction in competitive speech and debate. Students will be able to participate in individual speech events as well as debate events. All students are expected to participate in after-school practice as well as the daily course. Students in the course are expected to participate in tournaments during the school year. Students will build skills in writing, research, and critical thinking. 

MATH FOUNDATIONS, BASIC SKILLS

02049X0707

Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: Approval of Case Manager

This course is designed to develop and solidify basic arithmetic and algebra skills that will be required in future math courses. The instructional strategies used in this course will include:  guided practice activities, small and large group discussion, technology, independent practice, and direct instruction.

PEER HELPING

22107X1000

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts  

Prerequisite: Application process

This course allows 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students the opportunity to serve the students of Hoover High School and our feeder schools. During the 1st 9 weeks of school, students are trained in communication, mediation, tutoring, and other skills that will be used throughout the year. Students will be given a Peer Helping assignment for the 2nd - 4th 9 weeks of the school year. In these assignments, Peer Helpers foster relationships with their peers and younger students while helping them academically and socially. Peer Helpers also lead awareness campaigns like Suicide Prevention Week and Be Kind Week. Cords for graduation are achieved by serving in Peer Helping for two years - one of which must be senior year.

PROGRAMMING FOUNDATIONS

10152G1001

Grade Level: 9-11

Programming Foundations focuses on the fundamentals of computer programming with an emphasis on computational thinking and problem- solving. Students will create authentic artifacts and engage with programming as a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun. Students will be expected to develop logical thinking skills that pertain to programming. 

PUBLIC SPEAKING

01151G1000

Grade Level: 10-12

This is a semester course.

This course is designed to offer high school students a number of opportunities to organize and prepare public speaking assignments and to increase students’ confidence in front of an audience. Students will learn and practice speaking techniques, use technology to give presentations and better understand the role of communication in our lives and their chosen career path. Upon completion of the course, students should be able to confidently prepare and deliver well-organized speeches and effectively participate in collaborative environments. Students should also demonstrate the speaking, listening, and interpersonal skills necessary to be effective communicators in academic settings, in the workplace, and in the community.

READING, BASIC SKILLS

01068X0707

Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: Approval of Case Manager

Students will learn techniques that, when applied, can help them become independent readers. The teacher will instruct the students in reading skill techniques, writing skill techniques, lead class activities and discussions that reinforce topics of study, model skills taught, and encourage students to apply techniques to their personal lives for success both in school and in life. The instructional strategies used in this course will include:  guided practice activities, small and large group discussion, technology, independent practice, and direct instruction.

READING INTERVENTION

01068G0000 

Grade Level: 9-12

Students will become stronger readers from this elective. The teacher will address reading difficulties; skill acquisition; reading techniques remediation; and word attack. The instructional strategies used in this course will include:  guided practice activities, small and large group discussion, technology, independent practice, and direct instruction.

STEM TEAM, ACADEMIC COMPETITION TEAM  (+ 0.50 ADDED WEIGHT)

22994X10aa 

Grade Level: 9-12   

The STEM Team class is an Advanced Level course that focuses on preparation for the multifaceted science and STEM-based competitions that students participate in over the course of the year. STEM Team members represent Hoover High School in regional, statewide, and national competitions. There is some in-state travel in the spring. Regional success means national travel. Students are able to compete in a variety of competitions both as an individual and as a team. This class provides concentrated time to prepare for competitions  like the Science Olympiad, LexusEcoChallenge, TEAMS engineering and design competition, Science Bowl, science fair, and others. Most of the competitions are outlined on our website You may take this course multiple times over 4 years. You do not have to take the class to be on the team. 

This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus. 

STUDENT AIDE, LIBRARY @ HHS

22051X10aa

Grade Level:  10–12

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

Required Application  

In this hands-on class, students will learn how to manage the library’s circulation desk using Destiny software. In addition, students will maintain an assigned section of the library and assist patrons. This class is limited to 2 students per period.

YEARBOOK 

11104X1000

Grade Level: 9-12

Prerequisite: Application and acceptance into the program.

Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts

This course allows students the opportunity to participate in a leadership role in the production of our yearbook, The Caravel. Students will be taught all skills necessary. All students interested in being on our staff should have exceptional work ethic. You will gain experience in areas of desktop publishing, layout-copy production, photography, and copy & caption writing. Some after school hours are required.

CTE Electives

BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS

12009G1001

Grade Level: 9-10

Prerequisite: None

Business Communication is an exciting introductory course for first-year Business Academy students that focuses on how professionals communicate in real-world settings. Students learn how professionals in all fields (not just business) work to achieve organizational goals. Students develop strong oral, written, and digital communication skills while exploring key topics such as business ethics, teamwork, leadership, and conflict resolution. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students use industry-standard word processing and presentation software to create professional documents and multimedia presentations. Enrollment in the course also makes students eligible to join the award-winning Hoover DECA chapter (optional), providing opportunities for leadership development, competition, and valuable college and career preparation.

AP BUSINESS WITH PERSONAL FINANCE

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: None 

Advanced Placement Business with Personal Finance is an exciting, college-level yearlong course open to any student who wants to gain real-world knowledge of how businesses operate and how to manage money wisely. This course combines core business principles -- entrepreneurship, marketing, management, and finance -- with essential personal financial literacy, giving students the tools to make confident decisions about careers, money, and everyday life. Students engage in project-based learning and case studies that reflect authentic business challenges and explore topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, accounting, and business strategy. 

This course is ideal for students who want to build practical skills in communication, decision-making, collaboration, and leadership that are valued in college and the workplace. Through hands-on projects like the Business Canvas Project and financial planning activities, students practice entrepreneurial thinking and financial analysis as they prepare for future success.

As a bonus, enrollment in AP Business with Personal Finance makes you eligible to join the award-winning Hoover DECA chapter (optional), where you can develop leadership, compete in business events, and expand your professional network.

MARKETING PRINCIPLES

12164G1001

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: None  

Dive into the dynamic world of marketing where creativity meets strategy! Marketing Principles is an engaging, hands-on course that shows students how ideas become brands and how businesses connect with consumers in today’s fast-paced world. Students explore how products are created, priced, promoted, and delivered while uncovering what motivates customers to buy. From eye-catching advertising and social media marketing to branding, entrepreneurship, and global business trends, this course brings real-world marketing to life. Through interactive projects, team challenges, and real business scenarios, students build creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for careers in marketing, business, and beyond. Whether students dream of running their own business, managing a brand, or influencing consumer trends, this course puts them at the center of the action! Taking Marketing Principles makes you eligible to join our award-winning DECA chapter (optional) -- an association of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs -- where you can develop leadership, compete in business events, and expand your professional network.

ACCOUNTING 1

12104G1012

Grade Level: 10-12  

Prerequisite: None

Why Accounting?

Did you know that accounting is consistently a highly sought-after profession, and that accounting graduates tend to make more than their peers upon graduation?  That’s because accounting is the “language of business.” Companies need accountants to analyze their financials so they can make smart decisions (as an added bonus, accounting also helps individuals make smart decisions with their personal finances). Former students who took accounting at Hoover High School have expressed how their high school accounting experience made their college coursework much more understandable. Why not take a class that gives you a jumpstart AND a solid foundation? Business Academy: Accounting 1 students will also prepare for their 120 hours required internship. Lessons in soft skills, interviewing, preparing a resume, dressing for success and creating an online portfolio will also be integrated in this class. Business Academy 3 Accounting students will also prepare to take the Microsoft Office Specialist exam for Excel or Excel Expert.

BUSINESS ACADEMY:  BUSINESS & LEGAL CONCEPTS

12054G1001

Grade Level: 10-12

Prerequisite: None 

Business and Legal Concepts emphasizes the ethical and legal dimensions of conducting business. The course focuses on application of ethical concepts, historical events that have shaped business law in the United States, the U.S. court systems, contracts, insurance, and various areas of law that impact business operations. Though this class is not in the finance or marketing pathways, it is a great introduction to the ways that law affects both the finance and marketing industries.

DIGITAL MARKETING

12162G1000

Grade Level: 10-12  

Prerequisite: None

Digital Marketing is a high-energy, hands-on course designed for students who want to understand how brands win attention and customers in today’s digital world. This course dives into social media marketing, content creation, digital advertising, branding, and analytics — the same tools real companies use every day. Students will design campaigns, analyze trends, and learn how to turn creativity into measurable impact, all while building skills that translate to college, careers, and entrepreneurship. Enrollment in Digital Marketing makes students eligible to join Hoover’s award-winning DECA chapter (optional), where they can compete, lead, and apply what they learn in real-world business scenarios. If you’re interested in digital media, social platforms, or how ideas turn into influence, this course is your launchpad.

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

12053G1000

Grade Level: 10-12  

Prerequisite: None

Got a big idea—or want one? Turn Ideas into impact! Entrepreneurship is your launchpad into the world of innovation, leadership, and real-world problem-solving. You’ll learn how entrepreneurs think, spot opportunities, and transform creative ideas into successful ventures that make a difference. You’ll also learn directly from real entrepreneurs—through guest speakers, interviews, and stories of success and failure—gaining insider insights you won’t find in a textbook. Through hands-on projects, team challenges, and real-life case studies, you’ll explore how to develop a business idea, understand customers, build a brand, manage money, and pitch with confidence. You’ll practice critical skills like creativity, resilience, communication, and smart risk-taking—skills that matter whether you start a business, lead a team, or create change in your community.

By the end of the course, you won’t just understand entrepreneurship—you’ll think like an entrepreneur. Ready to innovate, take initiative, and shape the future? This course is where it begins. You will also have the opportunity to join our award-winning DECA chapter (optional) -- an association of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. Boost your resume, develop leadership skills, compete in business events, and expand your professional network!

SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING

12163G1001

Grade Level: 10-12  

Prerequisite: None

Sports and Entertainment Marketing is a one-credit specialized course designed to offer students an opportunity to gain knowledge and develop skills related to the growing sports and entertainment industry. Sports Marketing addresses such diverse products as the sporting event itself, its athletes, sports facilities or locations, sporting goods, personal training, and sports information. Entertainment Marketing includes events such as fairs, concerts, trade shows, festivals, plays, product launches, causes, etc.