Electives

Coding/Robotics: (quarter) Computer Coding and Robotics incorporates a hands-on approach to project based learning while using the latest in technology. Students work individually and in groups to accomplish fun and meaningful projects which could include CAD, the design process, robotics, computer programming and automation.

Concert Band: (full year) Students will get opportunities to play bass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. This course will cover a variety of band literature styles and the music learned in class will be performed in concerts throughout the year.  (Full year course)

Culinary Arts and Life Skills: (quarter) Culinary Arts offers an introduction to basic food preparation and presentation skills using hands-on experience with equipment and tools. Students will learn food safety, lab safety, teamwork, leadership skills and time management skills in the kitchen. Life Skills introduces basic life skills to students, with an emphasis on nutrition, competency in career, family, and arrangement of personal living space. 

Video Production: (quarter) This course introduces students to technology and techniques associated with the production of various forsm of video content. Students will learn how to do video announcements and create independent video projects.

Design Thinking through STEAM: (quarter) STEAM integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Art (focusing on visual and graphic design) and Math. Creativity and persistence are fostered as students work across STEAM content areas to collaborate, innovate and solve authentic problems using advanced technology.

Digital Media: (quarter) Students will study and practice all aspects of video production as well as the possibility of working on a school newspaper and learning about newsworthiness, press responsibility, writing, editing, web-publishing, headlines, and captions. Photography and photojournalism skills are a large aspect in both courses. 

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture: (quarter) Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture will focus on the design and creation aspects of architecture.  Student will work through the design and construction phase of multiple architectural projects. Students may  have the opportunity to travel to local exhibits at valley locations such as Taliesin West, to better understand how our architecture fits into the organic desert landscape. 

Drama / Musical Theater: (semeter) Students will be introduced to the basic concepts of theatrical arts.  Students will use a variety of performing art techniques, such as role play and movement, to gain confidence, build trust and stimulate imagination. The class will guide students through the history of theater and introduce them to drama terms and vocabulary. There will be an emphasis on collaboration through theater games, improv activities and group performances.

Physical Education: (quarter or semester) Physical Education introduces students to lifelong fitness. Individual and team sports are emphasized as students work to achieve their own personal fitness levels. Teamwork, personal fitness technologies, safety, and sportsmanship are stressed, and all activities and lessons are aligned to state and national standards. (**Can sign up for this course twice to have a full year of PE)

Spanish 1-2: (full year)  This course is an accelerated and academically focused course. It is designed for students who desire to be proficient in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding Spanish. Upon completion of this course, with a grade of C or better and a teacher recommendation, the student will be placed in Spanish 3/4 for his/her freshman year in high school.  (Full year course) Spanish may be offered as an online course.

String Orchestra: (full year) Orchestra emphasizes development of advanced performance skills in proper tone production, technique, articulation, interpretation, bow control, and proper posture. Students will study music theory to enhance their performance skills. Music learned in class will be performed in concerts throughout the school year.  (Full year course)

Study Skills: (quarter or semester) Students will have the opportunity to learn and implement important work, job, and life skills necessary to complete assignments and projects in a timely manner. *Some students may be recommended and/or required to take this class.

Visual Arts: (quarter) Visual Arts introduces students to various tools and artistic mediums used to express ideas. Activities will provide a deeper understanding of artists of the past and present. Visual Arts places an emphasis on design elements such as line, shape, texture and color through the production of their own work.

Yearbook: (quarter)This course introduces students to the photography, writing styles and techniques associated with the production of a yearbook. Students will learn what goes into its production and be an integral part in its creation.

Teachers Aide: (quarter) Support one or more teachers with tasks needed throughout your hour.  Could include lunch duty, playground duty, and small group work with younger students.