Computer Science I:
Computer science is the study of algorithmic processes, computational machines, and computation itself. As a discipline, computer science spans a range of topics from theoretical studies of algorithms, computation, and information to the practical issues of implementing computational systems in hardware and software. This class sees the application of the mathematics you have previously studied and relies heavily on logic to come to a satisfactory solution. We dive into some basics of cybersecurity, investigate what goes into forming a computer and networks, digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, simple algorithms, and focus primarily on developing a solid coding foundation in the programming language Java.
Computer Science II:
Computer science is the study of algorithmic processes, computational machines, and computation itself. As a discipline, computer science spans a range of topics from theoretical studies of algorithms, computation, and information to the practical issues of implementing computational systems in hardware and software. This class sees the continued application of the mathematics you have previously studied and further expand on developing the logical mindset to approach problems and develop a satisfactory solution. We expand on the topics visited in Computer Science I and explore them in further depth. These topics include cybersecurity concepts, understanding how computers, operating systems, and networks function, digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, complex algorithms, binary and hexadecimal, object-oriented programming, and applying these concepts in the programming language Python.
Video Game Design:
Video Game Design will allow students to explore one of the largest industries in the global marketplace and the new emerging careers it provides in the field of technology. This class sees the application of the mathematics you have previously studied and relies heavily on logic to come to a satisfactory solution. Students will learn gaming, computerized gaming, the evolution of gaming, artistic aspects of perspective, design, animation, technical concepts of collision theory, and programming logic. Students will participate in a simulation of a real video game design team while developing technical proficiency in constructing an original game design. These topics will be applied in the programming language JavaScript.
Foundations of Cybersecurity:
Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to explore fundamental concepts related to the ethics, laws, and operations of cybersecurity. Students will examine trends and operations of cyberattacks, threats, and vulnerabilities, review and explore security policies designed to mitigate risks. The key topics explored in this class include digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, programming fundamentals in JavaScript, cryptography, the roles and responsibilities of a system administrator, basics of software and network security, digital forensics, risk management, and careers in cybersecurity.
AP Computer Science A/Principles:
Look around wherever you are right now. Do you see a smartphone, a television set, a car, an appliance? More than likely you do. I also think that you probably are not aware that all these devices have been programmed by someone who has a computer science background, and maybe less smart than you. Computer science is not just about computers. Computer science is about finding solutions to problems, we the people confront in our daily lives. Computer science is about making our lives better by using technology and applications in areas of our lives we never imagined. Well, let me tell you that you can be the creator of the next life changing App, computer game, website, electronic device, etc. Or you can be the next software developer for Google, Facebook, local bank, Amazon, etc. AP Computer Science can be the stepping stone to a career that will allow you to do exactly that.
Advanced Placement Computer Science A is an introductory college-level computer science course. Students are exposed to coding through analyzing, writing, and testing computer code as they study concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures. We recommend you take Computer Science I KP, Computer Science I regular, or AP Computer Science Principles before enrolling in AP Computer Science A. We use the Java programming language in this class.
We challenge you to take AP Computer science A. If you like solving puzzles, riddles and have logical thinking, you are a perfect fit. And, if you think you do not have any of those skills join the class and develop them. You will not regret it! All we ask is an open mind to challenge and commitment.
Computer Science I:
Mr. Duran's class has probably been my favorite class I have ever had. No other teacher makes learning things fun and easy to learn for me, when things are fun to learn you will do a lot better and get better grades in the end. When he explains things and goes through the slides makes it very easy to understand what we are learning, and if you still can't figure out what is happening he will always help you 1 on 1 until you can understand the concept. Overall what we have been learning is the basics of Java which so far is for loops, while loops, printing, making variables, and operators. - Seth Vargas
The class that I take is a challenging but fun class, I enjoy that we get to learn about new things but also get to be a part of it. The classes resources are the best. - Antonio Gamez
It’s very challenging from time to time but that’s part of the fun I like learning about code and about computers I am a competitive person so I like being ahead sometimes I would recommend this class because the teachers actually like helping students who don’t get what they’re doing And it’s usually fun when you’re coding. - Pablo Perez
Computer Science II:
Computer Science II is one of the best class I've ever taken. This is honestly the only class I ever actually do any work in. I love how challenging and fun it is. I have spent weeks on previous projects from Computer Science I and I've already done work that Mr. Duran says is months ahead. I always go back on my code to see how I can improve it and to learn my strengths and weaknesses. I've already learned a new programming language this year - for the most part. Computer Science II isn't just coding and programming, it's also a class where Mr. Duran likes to talk to us about common interests, like video games, star wars, and just things we all like. It's one of the few classes I look forward to. - Yan Moreira
Video Game Design:
This class is very fun and creative and is not super difficult if you pay attention. While you are literally building video games which is going to make it fun already. Mr. Duran is what really makes the class super fun and challenging, I also love how we learn new stuff every single day. - Ti’Vrell Hollings
The class is very informative about the gaming industry, the way you greet everyone in the morning makes the day brighter, I like the way you explain the lessons and make sure everyone understands what's happening. - Miller Moye
Foundations of Cybersecurity:
This class was really fun! I really enjoy how my teacher always takes the time to help us out whenever we need it. My teacher is really fun to talk to and makes the class a lot more enjoyable. I learn a lot from him and has me really interested in cybersecurity. I would really recommend taking this class. - Erick
The class that I take is a challenging but fun class, I enjoy that we get to learn about new things but also get to be a part of it. The classes resources are the best. - Miguel Moreno
Computer Science 1 KP
Taken on a whim as a sophomore, I fell in love with the class. Along with the goofiest and earnest teacher, Pre-AP CS is unique compared to other courses. Rather than multiple lectures and follow-up quizzes/test, this class allows full immersion within the world of java. Along with learning a new language, I enjoyed solving problems, expressing my creativity and working individually or with a partner!
As someone who learns hands-on, Computer Science I KP is a breath of fresh air. Unlike other textbook heavy courses, I could dive headfirst into each concept while also enjoying the joy of completing a puzzle. With free rein to experiment, this class is based on trial and error. Whether an illogical structure or missed semi-colon, learning from previous failures solidified my understanding and made success even more worthwhile! 10/10 would recommend again 😊!
Flexible, encouraging, and fun. Pre-AP CS is a breath of fresh air. Special shoutout to Mr. Mundo for being an amazing teacher, mentor, and friend. Mr. Mundo creates an environment that welcomes experimentation, questions, and best of all, failure – and not in a bad way; More like falling off a bike and trying to ride again. Along with his immaculate humor and honesty, Mundo is empathetic and understanding to our other classes/priorities. This class isn’t rigidly structured and allows flexibility for deadlines and test/quiz deadlines. Love the class, love the teacher. –Tiffany
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Computer Science Principles completely transformed my previous knowledge of coding. Compared to AP Computer Science A and Pre-AP Computer Science, this class comes closest in implementing code into the real world. The course made me truly realize how unorganized my coding was and the importance of organizing code. Every small mistake could result in hours of work, but I enjoyed the challenge none the less.
When it comes to the teacher and the class environment, it all depends on you. The teacher is a free spirit and is willing to help as long as you ask. However, he’s not afraid to speak his mind and point out your flaws. I appreciate his way of encouraging and challenging us. Also, many times you’ll be working either alone or as a partner. Sometimes he would choose the partners; thus, it put me into a position to adapt to my team and understand the importance of communication. In the end, the class can be fun as long as you keep an open mind because you’ll need it. The class was filled with challenges, and in the end, I would always be greeted with joy and success. – Crystal
AP Computer Science A
There is more to Computer Science than just coding. There’s problem solving, logical thinking, and a bit of laughter! Taking AP Computer Science A was one of the best decisions I made in high school (and trust me, with all the decisions I’ve made, this is definitely one of my better choices).
What many students fear when walking into the class, including myself, is that they have to be good with technology and coding. But in fact, anyone can learn Computer Science, especially with the help of Mr. Mundo. With his joking “mucho blah blah blah” and light teasing, he makes the class more enjoyable and learning fun. He sincerely cares about each of his students and makes sure to help them understand the processes of coding.
What I advise to future students is to be prepared to think outside the box a little and enjoy every aspect of coding. I assure you, there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing “Process Completed” when you finish a code. – Nikita
Computer Science I:
For programming topics, about 35% of the class is spent taking notes, introducing new concepts, or taking tests/quizzes to assess understanding. The remaining 65% are focused on hands-on labs where students have the opportunity to apply the concepts learned in code and modify them to create programs and scripts.
The first semester introduces computing and what are computers, digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, and understanding logical applications of instructions into code and becoming familiar with basic programming concepts in Java.
In the second semester, students continue to build on the basic programming concepts in Java, dive into object-oriented programming, binary algebra, algorithms, and current industry trends and practices.
Computer Science II:
For programming topics, about 35% of the class is spent taking notes, introducing new concepts, or taking tests/quizzes to assess understanding. The remaining 65% are focused on hands-on labs where students have the opportunity to apply the concepts learned in code and modify them to create programs and scripts.
The first semester, students explore in more depth computing and what are computers, digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, and expanding logical applications of instructions into code and exploring complex programming concepts in Python.
In the second semester, students continue to expand their skills in Python, explore both functional and object-oriented programming, binary and hexadecimal algebra, complex algorithms, and current industry trends and practices.
Video Game Design:
For programming topics, about 35% of the class is spent taking notes, introducing new concepts, or taking tests/quizzes to assess understanding. The remaining 65% are focused on hands-on labs where students have the opportunity to apply the concepts learned in code and modify them to create programs and scripts.
The first semester introduces computing and what are computers, digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, and understanding logical applications of instructions into code and becoming familiar with basic programming concepts in Java.
In the second semester, students continue to build on the basic programming concepts in Java, dive into object-oriented programming, binary algebra, algorithms, and current industry trends and practices.
Foundations of Cybersecurity:
For most topics, about 60% of the class is spent taking notes, introducing new concepts, or taking tests/quizzes to assess understanding. The remaining 40% is spent in hands-on labs exploring various topics and applying the concepts learned in class.
The first semester explores the introduction of cybersecurity, digital citizenship and cyber hygiene, programming fundamentals in JavaScript, cryptography (encrypting, decrypting, and cracking simple ciphers), and the role and responsibilities of a system administrator.
The second semester explores basics of software and network security, digital forensics, risk management, exploring major events related to cybersecurity in history, and careers in cybersecurity.