G: Academic Elective

20th Century Pop Culture (year long elective option available to 9th-12th graders): 

This course explores the development of popular culture throughout the 20th century and its ongoing impact on society today. We will examine the historical roots of pop culture, the technological innovations that enabled mass media, and the ways in which popular culture has both reflected and shaped American life.

Through the study of cultural artifacts (including songs, dances, movies, television, slang, fashion, advertisements, comic books, and video games) students will gain a deeper understanding of how people engage with pop culture and how it influences identity, values, and social change.

Business of the Arts (one semester- required for 9th graders): 

Is a semester long course designed to provide students with access to industry preparation specific to careers in the arts.  With a focus on the essential skills that will promote success in a range of creative industries, students will gain experience and knowledge in entrepreneurship, networking, portfolio preparation, licensing, and more. 

*Please note that course is required for 9th grade students 

Health/Navigating Life (one semester- required for 9th graders): 

Health and life skills is a one semester class that is required of all 9th graders.  Topics include organization, self reflection and self advocacy and a standards based health curriculum.  Health units will include: Mental and physical health, substance use and abuse and sexual health with an emphasis on healthy relationships.  There will be a focus on wellness, self care  community, and resources.  Students will investigate how power dynamics, privilege and inequity affect the topics we cover. This investigation will empower students to make choices that challenge these systemic issues. Health will be taken in conjunction with business of the arts. 

Mock Trial/Debate (year long elective option for 10th-12th graders):

This year long course teaches about the judicial system and how a trial actually works. The years starts off with an overview of our country's judicial branch and how it functions. Around October the class is assigned a “case” that students study in order to prepare to compete against other schools’ teams.  Students act as lawyers, witnesses, and other court room players. They make a case on why their client should be found guilty or not. This course includes independent and group work and encourages students to have the best presentation of their case. After the trial competition is over, the class switches to debates. Students pick topics and have a wide range of debates against their classmates. This class is great for students who have an interest in the judicial system and want to do fun competitions. The only requirement is that students have a desire to be and participate in class, and participate in the competitions.

Business of the Arts (BOTA) Senior Capstone for Performing or Design, Visual, Media Arts (one semester- required for 12th graders):

The Senior Capstone class is a multifaceted course that serves as a culminating academic/arts and intellectual experience for students. This class includes career exploration/career readiness; resume & bio writing, mock interview, college audition prep, building portfolios, and grant writing.