The mission of the Penn-Trafford Business Department is to prepare students for college, careers, and lifelong success by providing rigorous, real-world instruction in computer science, esports, finance, management, and electronic publishing. Through hands-on learning experiences and multiple college-level courses, we empower students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in a dynamic global economy.
Grade 9-10; Credits - 1
Students will discover the roles of business in the free enterprise system and the global economy. Students will learn business concepts such as basic economics, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, product pricings, and learn how to make sound decisions as consumers. Students will also learn about the importance of career planning and how to prepare for the working world.
Grade 10-12; Credits - .5
The intent of this semester course is to provide instruction that will develop an understanding of the law and the legal framework that has developed around it. Emphasis is placed on ethics, crimes, torts, family law, contracts, bailments and the court system. College credit available through Westmoreland County Community College (WCCC).
Grade 10-12; Credits - 1
Instruction in this course centers on the accounting cycle and is designed to provide a working knowledge of the use of books for personal use and for various types of business organizations. Payroll, tax returns, checking accounts and financial statements will be emphasized. College credit is available through La Roche University.
Grade 10-12; Credits - 1
This course focuses on business from a managerial viewpoint. It is designed for those who have an interest in leadership positions or for those who may wish to own and operate their own business in the future. During the second semester, as a team, they will collaborate on all aspects of a business by creating a company name and logo, designing a product, creating a commercial and billboard, setting and managing goals, as well as selling their product. Each student will have the opportunity to be a Project Manager during one of the components of this project. As students progress throughout the year, each area of management will be covered. Students will analyze a variety of managerial topics, therefore it is highly recommended that they possess strong writing skills. College credit is available through La Roche University.
Grade 11-12; Credits - .5
This course will provide students with a basic understanding of the principles of personal economics and investment opportunities. Topics will include consumerism, budgeting, use of credit, insurance, housing, frauds, financial institutions, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, retirement plans, real estate and business investment opportunities. This course is also offered during the summer.
Grade 11-12; Credits - .5
This course is a continuation of part 1 with a focus on major life purchases and investments. Students will analyze the basic components of their financial structure (assets, debts, income and expenses), and determine the probability of their financial success.
Computer Concepts and Web Design
Grade 9-12; Credits - .5
This course provides students with the knowledge and experience that will utilize the power of the Internet, while gaining an edge in any career path. A strong emphasis on HTML coding and design concepts will enable students to produce well-designed websites. HTML is the first step in becoming a professional web designer. Students will also explore the latest news in technology, explore the interface of Scratch, and look at the lives of technology pioneers and today’s leaders.
Grade 9-11; Credits - 1
Students will incorporate 21st Century Learning skills while mastering the technological needs of the future. Microsoft Office 2019, (with an emphasis on Excel), Google Suite, and career exploration, will be the focus of this course. Students will also explore: Apps, Web Design, introductory programming, technology leaders, and technology trends. Students will benefit greatly from the material presented in this course in preparation for Practical Computer Applications where college credit is available.
Grade 10-12; Credits - 1
Students will become proficient in Advanced Microsoft Office techniques, email etiquette and management, as well as effective and efficient access and evaluation of information from the Internet. Emphasis is on learning the concepts and skills necessary to complete the task at hand using the computer, related software, and the Internet. While learning the keystrokes is important, equally important is using the right tool for the right job. Word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database design & management, graphic presentations, and the Windows Operating environments including file and folder management are the focus of this course. College credit is available for students through La Roche University.
Grade 10-12; Credits - 1
Students will explore design and layout principles, incorporating these into professional documents for both print and electronic media (iPads/mobile devices). Students will create a multitude of projects suitable for a high school portfolio using diverse applications including: Adobe InDesign CC and other interactive software. College-bound students are encouraged to explore this diverse course. College credit is available for students through LaRoche University.
Grade 10-12; Credits - 1
This course will utilize the Python programming language. Students will develop programs, which explore the language capabilities. Essential programming techniques and graphical user interface will be emphasized. Computer game development will also be explored. This foundational course is required for all students interested in AP Computer Science A. College credit is available for students through WCCC.
Grade 11-12; Credits - 1
The AP CSP course is an innovative course in computer science deliberately designed to attract both traditional and non-traditional computer science students. The course curriculum is very engaging and allows students to explore the “big ideas” of computing through hands-on, collaborative activities. Along with the fundamentals of computing, you will learn to analyze data, create technology that has a practical impact, and gain a broader understanding of how computer science impacts people and society. Specific topics include: data and information; algorithms; programming; the Internet; cyber security and ethics of computing. Summer work is not required for this course. College credit is available for students through WCCC.
Grade 11-12; Credits - 1
Computer Science emphasizes object-oriented methodology with an emphasis on problem solving and algorithm development and is meant to be equivalent to a first-semester college course in computer science. It also includes the study of data structures and abstraction. The Java programming language will be used for the delivery of the course material. Summer work is not required for this course. Prerequisite: Computer Programming I or AP Computer Science Principles. College credit is available for students through WCCC.
Grade 10-12; Credits - .5
This course is an introductory study of the marketing discipline. The primary focus is on the marketing mix, promotion, and the characteristics that are relevant to each stage of the product life cycle. This course will also examine the rising importance of sports and entertainment marketing in today’s society. It will also incorporate today’s trends and issues that a marketing manager will face.
Grade 9-11; Credits - 1
This course covers the foundations of esports, including game genres, professional athlete lifestyles, streaming mechanics, and industry trends. Students will engage in various esports titles, gaining insights into gameplay and the esports ecosystem. They will analyze the experience as players, designers, content creators, and critical thinkers, developing a well-rounded understanding of the industry.
Eligibility Requirements: Open to grades 9-11. Seniors may enroll only if they are actively competing or intend to compete on the school’s esports teams in Rocket League, Valorant, Super Smash Bros., League of Legends, or Overwatch. THIS application must be completed to be considered.
Note: This course cannot be repeated unless students are actively competing or trying out for a designated esports team.