College In the High School (CIHS) and Running Start are two programs offered at SHS that allow students to get college credit while still in high school. These programs come with added rigor and challenges, they are a great way for students to get a head start in their college journey. 

College In the High School:

The College in the High School program allows students to get college credit through participating colleges by taking college-level courses at their high school. Through the program, appropriately qualified teachers can instruct classes that grant students college credit if they pass with an eligible grade. While these classes can be a great way to earn college credit, they come with unique challenges and added hardship. As one CIHS student puts it, CIHS classes feel different than normal high school classes because they work faster and farther ahead in a college-structured curriculum. Low grades in these classes are even more detrimental than high school grades because these appear on their college transcript and can “have a high impact if it is low.”

CIHS classes also offer some unique advantages compared to Running Start; for example, CIHS classes allow students to start earning college credit much earlier than compared to Running Start. To qualify for Running Start, students must be at least a junior; however, students can take CIHS classes as freshmen. Another advantage to CIHS classes is that “The classes are free for students” (Mrs. Forbes). Students not paying commute allows them to advance ahead without what would be the largest downside of college courses.

Running Start:

The Running Start program allows students to enroll at their local colleges as high school students and take classes at that college. This program allows students to experience college-level classes and the added rigor and responsibilities that accompany them. Running Start better mirrors the responsibilities of college life, where students are responsible for their scheduling, commuting, and financing. Students are also given much more freedom over their schedule and the type of classes they choose to take. 

In Running Start, students are hit with a different level of difficulty, where they have an authentic college experience. As one Running Start student puts it, taking these classes can be bad for students who are not adequately prepared for the challenge; although the challenge of the classes might not be the biggest problem. Another Running Start student said “High school is nothing like college. SHS does not adequately prepare students for college where deadlines have much more rigidity and retakes are not offered.” Despite these challenges, students still choose to participate in the program because of the added freedom and ability to earn college credit in a fast-paced environment. 

Both programs come with a balance of time, rigor, and monetary requirements. Either program would help smooth the transition into post-graduation and college. Although CIHS and Running Start are similar, the deciding factor comes down to individual preference. Running Start allows students the experience of college in person, with the cost included; CIHS allows students to take college classes with no fee, making it the more accessible option for students.

Finding a career path that offers stability, job security, and good pay is a top priority for many people in today's rapidly shifting job market. Some careers stand out as winners as industries adjust to changing consumer demands and technological breakthroughs. If you have the right knowledge and understanding, you can locate opportunities that fit your interests, abilities, and financial objectives.

Job 1:  Industrial Engineer

Median salary in 2021: $93,500 

Projected growth rate between 2021 and 2031: 10.2% (faster than average)

Pathway at SHS: Engineering and Manufacturing

Industrial engineers optimize and make business operations efficient using math, statistics, and engineering. They assess people, systems, and processes in areas like supply chains and operations to find the best ways to create products or services efficiently. They aim to integrate systems effectively, reduce costs, boost productivity, and achieve organizational goals.

Job 2: Marketing Manager

Median salary in 2021: $135,030

Projected growth rate between 2021 and 2031: 9.9% (faster than average)

Pathway at SHS: Business and Marketing

Marketing managers spread the word about products, services, events, and brands, persuading customers to buy, attend, or follow. They may be generalists or specialize in areas like content marketing or social media. They create, execute, and refine strategies to boost awareness, engage customers, and increase sales or conversions.

Job 3: Physician Assistant (PA)

Median salary in 2021: $121,530

Projected growth rate between 2021 and 2031: 28% (much faster than average)

Pathway at SHS: Health Science

A physician assistant or PA is a licensed medical professional who provides routine patient care. Just like an MD, a physician assistant can examine, diagnose, and treat patients; prescribe medication; and develop treatment plans. But unlike doctors, who work independently, PAs must be supervised by an MD. PAs can work in a variety of settings including doctors’ offices and hospitals and within different specialties from primary care to surgery.

In conclusion, it's known that getting a career with high demand and decent pay involves work, but the rewards are certainly worth the effort. Look for industries where your interests and skills fit in. In the end, the ideal professional route is one that not only offers financial rewards but also allows you to have a major impact on your industry.

Ceramics class, taught by Mrs. Eckert, is a great class to learn how to make all different kinds of projects. Two students, Nevaeh Reneau and Noah Rodriguez were asked about the class and what a  normal assignment and just day in the class looks like.

The first question Noah and Nevaeh were asked was what the class is currently working on, they said their currently working on a two-part vessel, which is just a bowl inside of another bowl.  Noah described it as a “chip and dip bowl.”

When they were asked how long one assignment usually takes, Nevaeh said, “Usually we work on assignments for a week or so and then later we glaze them since they need to be fired separately.” When Noah was asked, they said, “Well for me it takes a couple of weeks because I take longer sculpting but for everyone else, it takes about a week.”

The last question Nevaeh and Noah were asked is what their favorite part of the class was, making the sculpture, or glazing what they made. Noah said that even though sculpting is a little frustrating for them, they like being able to make things and it’s a nice comforting, calming, and relaxing experience. Then when Nevaeh was asked she said she also likes sculpting more.

After talking with Nevaeh and Noah, it seems like this class and very hands-on, and it’s a good way to calm yourself and be relaxed. It also seems like it helps people learn about different art skills and talents they may have.

Selah High School’s Viking Voice is a student-driven publication that shares authentic student perspectives. The Social Media Publishing class that students write through is a gateway to the art and craft of publishing. Students craft impactful narratives, spark conversations that matter, and shape the online landscape in ways both creative and meaningful. 

The structure of the class is similar to that of a freelance writer. Students are required to submit six articles by the end of the trimester, although it is preferred to have one piece submitted each week. Students mostly write articles, however, other forms of media are accepted and encouraged. This aligns with the goal of the class, In the words of Kasey Benjamin (Social Media Publishing Advisor), “The primary goal is to give students a voice and get their perspectives on issues."

This class encourages students to think outside of the box, experiment with their ideas, and find unique angles to tell their stories. Through this process, students learn valuable skills such as content creation, storytelling, and digital marketing. It empowers students to become advocates for causes they are passionate about. In the words of one student, “It gives students a lot of creative liberty to express their interests” - Dayanara Zuniga. Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness and encouraging change, and this class equips students with the means to amplify their voices. They can tackle important issues by producing content that resonates with their peers and the wider community.

The Viking Voice mirrors the evolution of education in the digital era, fostering student creativity and critical thinking. As Collin Heater, Viking Voice Editor puts it, “It provides a platform for self-expression and promotes essential skills.”

True Crime, a class-filled murder and serial killers. What compels students to enroll in this class?  That's one of the questions that was asked to the students that are in that class. Nevaeh Reneau and Kylee Cooper.

When Nevaeh was asked about the most interesting part of the class, she replied, “Learning about what the murders have done and the psychology behind it.” When Kylee was asked the same question, she said, “Hearing about all the serial killers and how they killed people, and the different theories to how unsolved cases happened.” 

When Nevaeh and Kylee were asked about their favorite components of the class, Kylee said the podcasts, and Nevaeh said she enjoyed learning about the killers. Students were then asked, what kind of assignments they partake in, Nevaeh said, “They usually relate to the class but with your twist on things. An example would be talking about nature vs. nurture.” Kylee added, “Mostly short essays. It depends on what we’re learning, but if it’s an unsolved case it’s evidence about what you think happened, and if it’s a serial killer, it’s something like satanism or motives for murder.”

After hearing from Nevaeh and Kylee, It is clear this class is filled with fun learning opportunities and a unique perspective into the minds of killers. The class goes over lots of different ideas and has different types of assignments for every different case making each one unique and interesting.

Metal Fab and Woodshop are some of the Pathway classes that SHS offers, (Woodshop, taught by Mr. Anderson, and Metal Fab led by Mr. Watkins). Two students were asked about their time in these classes, Kadnece Goldberg, and Roni Terrell.

When Kandnece was asked why she wanted to take the class, said she loves building things, “I’m a hands-on learner and not every book smart but taking that class gave me confidence that I can do something well.” Then when asked if she would retake the class, she said, “100%, I love that class and everyone helped each other out…” She further explains that she learned lots of life skills, like how to use different tools. Then when she was asked what her favorite assignment she said she loved everything she made, but her favorite was her cutting board, “It’s beautiful and I did really well on it and I’m still proud of it.” 

Roni was interviewed about Metal Fab. When asked about her favorite assignment, she said, “The rose was really cool, it kind of incorporated all the things we learned up to that point and it was fun.” Then she was asked if she would want to retake the class, Roni said, “Yes I would, it was one of those classes that you could actually do stuff with your hands and it wasn’t just bookwork.” She further explained she’s always been interested in trades, and it was a great opportunity to see if she liked working with metal and making things.

After conversing with both Kadenece and Roni, it becomes apparent that Metal Fab and Woodshop are exhilarating, hands-on courses. They not only promise a fantastic experience but also allow you to craft beautiful items, ranging from cutting boards to metal roses. These classes are a perfect fit for everyone.

Before the onset of the new school year, 8th graders must complete their class registration. With a plethora of new classes to choose from and newfound freedom to select their preferred classes and teachers, this process can be quite stressful. Freshman Honors English, taught by Ms. Cordova, is one class that many students consider during this decision-making phase. After reading this article, you may want to enroll. 

In Ms. Cordova’s class, you get to write short stories, do book reviews, and read To Kill A Mockingbird. For Ms. Cordova, her favorite assignment is when students write narratives. “I love reading their stories, that’s why I became a teacher because I love reading stories and talking about stories.” Another question Ms. Cordova was asked is why she teaches Freshman Honors English, “Originally I didn’t really want to, but I found that I like being able to go deeper into the content and I enjoy the unique perspectives of the students, it’s made me a better teacher.” 

One of her students, Ally Pimentel, was asked why she decided to take Honors English, and she said, “I wanted a challenging class” When she was asked how she likes the class so far she said, “It’s great, I like the fact that I’m allowed to listen to audio versions of the books and not have to read all the time.” When she was asked what she was excited/looking forward to in Ms. Cordova’s class she said, “Writing stories mostly, and when we read To Kill A Mockingbird.”

After listening to insights from both Ms. Cordova and Ally, you can gain a clear picture of the class. Expect to partake in captivating discussions, explore a wide array of intriguing subjects, and immerse yourself in a learning environment that fosters both curiosity and intellectual growth.

Many students, especially incoming freshmen are conflicted about what classes to take for the upcoming school year. To help with this ongoing issue, multiple upperclassmen were asked about their favorite classes at SHS. The classes listed below are the top responses received from students.  

Gray’s Anatomy - The name Gray’s Anatomy comes from the infamous book Gray’s Anatomy by Henry Gray. Throughout the course, students participate in sculpting the human body, organ dissections, cell and tissue pathology, forensic anthropology, crime solving, and functions of the human body. Multiple students have stated that this class helps them learn important topics in an amusing and memorable way. The teacher, Mrs. Gamache is a beloved teacher and makes the class much more enjoyable

ASL - American Sign Language introduces students to the language and culture of the deaf. Not only do students learn how to sign, but it also provides insight into deaf cultural values, attitudes, historical aspects, and the community. ASL is a non-traditional way of learning and the interactive nature of sign language cultivates a better learning environment than typical classroom instruction for many students.

Psychology - In Psychology, students will examine the development and alteration of human behavior. They will analyze psychology as a science and explore various theories on why people experience various phenomena. Mr. Tamblyn has a good hold on students' attention and makes the class much more interesting. 

Culinary - All culinary classes are perfect for people who enjoy cooking and baking. These classes teach students all the basic cooking skills and terminology chefs use on a daily basis. After taking the Culinary Adventures class, students can take a deep dive into expanding on what ideas and concepts they worked with previously. Students have stated that the class is enjoyable and easygoing. The best part is the students get to eat what they make which makes it all worth it in the end. 

Those are the few classes that people have enjoyed taking at SHS. Although the classes are amazing on their own, Selah High School’s phenomenal teachers help students be successful and make their classes much more exciting.