Course Title: Introduction to Engineering 

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5  

Prerequisite or Corequisite: Algebra 1 

This is a STEM based course that serves as an introduction to engineering: What is an engineer? What do they do?  What is the career and college path to becoming one?  What is the role of process-driven design in engineering?  In addition to answering these questions, we explore the use of simulation software to help the development of new technology. We will learn the use of tools and techniques to innovate solutions to technical problems. The context for learning will be in designing and building solutions to problems in selected areas of engineering such as Civil, Aerospace, Mechanical, Manufacturing and Package Design.  Projects may include the design and construction of a bridge or tower structure, airplanes and rockets, impact resistant packaging, 3D design using CAD for modeling, printing, and then custom manufacturing a mechanical pencil or pen.  Students will also improve there basic writing, math, drawing, time management and communication skills. 

Course Title:  Audio/Video Production 1

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5 

This course introduces students to the field of video production. It will provide students with hands-on opportunities to use video equipment and software to work with other students in a production team. Activities will include storyboarding and script writing, on and off camera responsibilities, field work with portable equipment, and editing and assembling creative audio/video projects. Audio elements will include microphone setup, mixer operation and monitoring of live sound through the manipulation of microphones and sound mixers. Components will be examined individually as well as part of a complete system. Students will manipulate all the elements that are necessary to create a video/audio presentation.

Course Title:  Audio/Video Production 2

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

Prerequisite:  Audio/Video Production 1

Audio/Video Production 2 is a continuation from Audio/Video Production 1. Students will continue to work on advancing their knowledge of audio/video production by working on the latest production technology (Canon cameras, hardline and wireless microphones) as well as postproduction software (Final Cut X) through a project-based approach. Projects will incorporate live shots, interviews, documentaries, commercials for school events, movie creation, and animation as well as voice-over dubbing. Work from this course will help prepare students for working in the broadcast studio.

Course Title:  Broadcast Journalism 1

Course Length:  Semester / Credits: 2.5 

Prerequisite:  Audio/Video 1 and 2

This course will focus on the demands of organizing and presenting information on a variety of production shows (ex: news segments, roundtable discussions, and graphic opens for news programming). Students will learn how to gather and package stories for broadcast, as well as integrate moving pictures and sounds. This incorporates the utilization of the very latest technologies through which the journalism is processed. Students are involved in a live studio atmosphere. Students will set up studio operations, which include lighting, cameras, and audio. Students will also work in a control room, which includes directing, video switching, and producing. 

Course Title:  Broadcast Journalism 2

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5 

Prerequisite:  Broadcast Journalism 1 and teacher recommendation

Broadcast Journalism 1 is an advanced continuation class of Broadcast Journalism 1. This course will focus on the demands of organizing and presenting information on a daily news announcement. Students will learn how to gather and package stories for broadcast, as well as integrate moving pictures and sounds. This incorporates the utilization of the very latest technologies through which the journalism is processed. Students are involved in a live studio atmosphere. Students will set up studio operations, which include lighting, cameras, and audio. Students will also work in a control room, which includes directing, video switching, and producing. This course will culminate in the broadcasting of the Sparta Scoop morning broadcast.  

This course is eligible for Concurrent Enrollment.

Course Title:  Architecture & Design 1

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

This is a comprehensive hands-on course introducing students to the standards, methods, and applications of technical drawing and CAD that form the 2D “language” of the design fields. Areas of emphasis include technical lettering, freehand sketching, problem solving, instrument and computer-aided development of presentation and working drawings as well as orthographic and axonometric projection dimensioning, sections, geometric construction and the alphabet of lines. Special consideration will be given to the place of these tools in the entire continuum of the creative problem-solving process in Engineering, Industrial Design, Architecture, and Interior Design. 

Course Title:  Architecture & Design 2

Course Length:  Half Year/ Credits: 2.5

Prerequisite: Final grade of 83 or better in Intro to Architecture & Design 1

A continuation of Intro to Architecture and Design1, this course is a comprehensive introduction to the methods and application of three-dimensional modeling using CAD systems as well as hand modeling techniques. Emphasis is placed on model making and 3D software such as Autodesk Revit, Inventor, and 3D printing as design tools in the creative problem-solving process in Engineering, Industrial Design, Architecture, and Interior Design.

Course Title: Exploring 3D Printing & Modeling

Course Length:  Half Year/ Credits: 2.5

Desktop 3D printing is like today’s printing press, putting rapid prototyping and customizable products within reach of the general public. This course provides students with a basic understanding of, and the ability to 3D print and innovate.  Students gain the fundamental skills of digital design and learn about the hardware of 3D printing. Students will be able to take their designs from their minds, create a computerized 3D model, and print their designs using our 3D printers.

Course Title: 3D Printing & Modeling 2

Course Length:  Half Year/ Credits: 2.5

Prerequisite: Exploring 3D Printing & Modeling

Building on what was learned in Exploring 3D Printing & Modeling, students are guided to become fully-fledged design innovators. They develop a deeper understanding of design software and the iterative process of design and making. This course gives students the skills to design and create more advanced models and prints, and are challenged to create products and designs that take on real-world issues.

Course Title: Digital Graphics and Design 1

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

This course is an introduction to Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Students will learn a variety of tools and techniques to create professional eye- catching visuals. This course engages students in creative thinking and visual problem-solving by applying computer graphics tools. 

Course Title: Digital Graphics and Design 2

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

Prerequisite: Digital Graphics and Design

This course is a continuation of Digital Graphics and Design 1  with a focus on more advanced technical skills of Adobe Photoshop CC and Illustrator.  Emphasis is on promoting creative and critical thinking skills to solve graphic design problems and meet the design industry principles of layout and design. The new class is directed toward students who have a strong interest in developing advanced design skills and are eager to explore a career in visual design. It is designed to prepare students for Adobe Photoshop certification and gives them the opportunity to enroll in the concurrent program through Sussex County Community College. Students can earn three (3) college credits through SCCC, if they meet the grade criteria of “B” or better.

This course is eligible for Concurrent Enrollment.  

Course Title:  Exploring Culinary Arts

Course Length:  Half Year / Credit: 2.5

This course offers a practical hands-on approach to basic food preparation and baking techniques. In addition to written work, this course provides a laboratory work culture where students will prepare recipes as they master each unit covered.  It also provides a variety of practical learning experiences, such as time management, team building, menu planning, kitchen safety, conversions, and measuring techniques. Students will be taught the basics of quick bread, pasta, cookies, cakes, eggs, and pies, as well as other exciting food experiences. Other enrichment possibilities include guest chefs, field trips for culinary experiences, cookie swaps, cooking throw-downs, and cupcake wars.

Course Title:  Creative Culinary Arts

Course Length:  Half Year / Credit: 2.5

Prerequisite:  Exploring Culinary Arts

This second-level advanced course focuses on the artistic techniques of cooking and baking by introducing the student to more advanced recipes. Creative Culinary Arts offers students an opportunity to broaden their understanding of food preparation, food science, and overall presentation. Students will explore specialty techniques and ingredients to create appetizers, sauces, yeast breads, homemade pasta, such as ravioli, freshly made cheese and yogurt, as well as cakes, pies, and much more. The skills they have mastered from Exploring Culinary will carry over in a more advanced manner in this course. This course is a terrific precursor for those students who might be considering a career in the food industry. Some enrichment opportunities at this level include Iron Chef cook-offs, cupcake wars, culinary experience field trips, and guest speakers.

Course Title: International Cuisine

Course Length:  Half Year / Credit: 2.5

Prerequisite:  Creative Culinary Arts

Grades 11 and 12

International Cuisine is an advanced culinary experience allowing students to utilize their prior skills and knowledge from Exploring and Creative Culinary Arts. Students will also have a greater understanding of food safety and preparation. Students will study the cultural heritage, local foods and food preparation techniques that are native to different regions of the world. As students prepare the cuisine of these regions, attention will be given to geography and exploration of the food customs of its people, local history and sample multi‐cultural recipes and customs from around the world. 

Course Title:  Home Technology

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

In this course, students will learn basic skills needed to maintain a house. These will include fixing simple plumbing and electrical problems, preparing and spackling walls, wallpapering, painting, working with an interior designer, and other simple repairs.

Course Title:  Materials and Processing 1

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

This course is designed for students who are interested in learning how to safely operate a variety of tools to design and create their own projects. This is a project-based class. The teacher will assign projects designed to introduce the students to a variety of techniques.

Course Title:  Materials and Processing 2

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

Prerequisite:  Materials & Processing 1

This course is a continuation of the Materials Processing I course with a more in-depth concentration on techniques and processes used. Plastics along with wood are used and manipulated using complex joinery to complete a wide variety of projects. Students will use design software to assist with the design process.

Course Title:  Materials and Processing 3

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5

Prerequisite:  Materials & Processing 2 

Grades 11 and 12

Materials Processing III is a course designed for students who show an interest, skills, and passion for woodworking. This advanced manufacturing course has students learning about advanced wood processing skills, while also developing their engineering, problem-solving, and design skills. Students enrolled in the class with continue learning and developing their Google Sketch-up skills as well. 

Course Title:  Robotics Engineering 1

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

Robotics Engineering 1 is designed to grow a student’s technical literacy in a broad range of technical disciplines. As students design, build, and program autonomous controlled robots, they are exposed to math, science, and technology principles. They will learn mechanical advantage, conversion of units, basic electronics, programming, technical process, design engineering, sensors, mechanical systems, and how to organize time, money, and resources. They will apply their learning in fun and energized competitions between student teams in the class. 

*Robotics Engineering 1 is a prerequisite to participation in the Robotics Club.

Course Title:  Robotics Engineering 2

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

Prerequisite:  Robotics Engineering 1 with a final grade of 83 or teacher recommendation

Robotics Engineering 2 builds on the concepts of Robotics Engineering 1.  Students are challenged with more complex design systems and programming.  This is a strong foundational course for competitive robotics here at the high school.  Students will systematically design and troubleshoot VEX-based robots for in-class projects.  As they design, build, and program autonomous and tele-remote-controlled robots, they are exposed to STEM principles.  They will learn how to use tools such as 3D CAD software and our new state-of-the-art 3D printer for rapid prototyping in ABS, Carbon Fiber ABS, and Nylon.  They will learn various industrial-grade machines to enable them to manufacture customized parts for their robotic designs.  They will learn mechanical design and construction techniques, sensor-triggered feedback and outputs, pneumatics systems, how to build geared transmissions for speed and torque, and much more.   They will work in teams and learn to strategize to maximize the performance of their designs.  Students are not required to compete after school but can join a competition team if they choose.

Course Title: Honors Robotics Engineering Capstone & Internship

Course Length: Full Year/Credits: 5

Prerequisite: 15 Credits of STEM Academy Electives 

Students are challenged with more complex design systems and programming. As students design, build, and program autonomous and Tele-remote controlled robots, they are exposed to math, science, engineering, and technology principles. They will use 3D CAD software and 3D printing capability for rapid prototyping. They will receive machine shop training using industrial-grade fabrication equipment to enable creative design flexibility. They will work as teams to design, build, program, and troubleshoot VEX-based robots for in-class projects as well as competitions with other schools. They will learn how to master project and time management skills to accomplish their missions and prepare for the competitive environment outside of the classroom. In addition to these class features, they will also be engaged in an out-of-school internship with an engineering-based company. They will work with corporate engineers in a defined role that will give them hands-on experience.  They will also prepare a capstone presentation using their engineering notebook and multimedia to present their robotic design that was used in competition.  This will be presented to various audiences.  Sparta Honors Robotics teams have won state championships and have competed internationally against 40 countries. 

Course Title:  Principles of Business

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5 

Principles of Business covers the basic principles of business fundamentals, including useful skills for future jobs.  Students will gain leadership skills, presentation techniques, and an understanding of marketing concepts. Topics of the course include studying the characteristics of entrepreneurs, business operations and ownership, leadership in management, modern-day marketing, and managing business finances. This is an important foundation class for students interested in marketing, accounting, and business. This course meets the Financial Literacy requirement for graduation.

Course Title:  Marketing and Management

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5 

This course defines marketing and provides an overview of the fundamentals of marketing functions. Students will explore the marketing process and discuss the economic benefits of marketing. The course will provide instruction in areas such as basic marketing concepts, retailing and wholesaling functions, selling techniques, promotion, and product development. Students will have the opportunity to participate in the marketing education club (DECA) in which students compete in regional, state, and national conferences.  

This course is eligible for Concurrent Enrollment.

Course Title:  Marketing Applications

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5 

Prerequisite:  Marketing and Management

This course will offer students the opportunity to study the fundamental and practical applications of marketing in the sports, entertainment, hospitality & tourism, and fashion industries. Students will learn the importance of branding, licensing, and fashion trends, and will be able to identify the segments of the hospitality and tourism markets. This course will also explore careers in each of these marketing occupational areas. In addition, students will have the opportunity to participate in the marketing club (DECA) in which they compete in regional, state, and national conferences. 

Course Title:  Advanced Marketing

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5

Prerequisite:  Marketing Applications

This course offers students an advanced study of marketing theories. Students will develop the skills needed to pursue a career in marketing and business management. This course will provide instruction in areas such as business ethics and social responsibility of companies, entrepreneurship, and international marketing. A major emphasis is placed on marketing research. Students will have the opportunity to participate in the marketing education club (DECA) in which they compete in regional, state, and national competitions. This course is offered to students who have successfully completed the Marketing Management class. 

Course Title:  Cooperative Business Education

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 15

Prerequisite:  Seniors only

A work-based learning program that provides students with an opportunity to develop basic occupational and employment skills. This program is offered to seniors only and students must provide their own transportation. The students must work a minimum of 15 hours per school week.  Completion of 540 hours of on-the-job training is required. The students receive one grade for their work experience and related classes. The related classroom instruction includes self-assessment activities with a concentration on career education. The course includes a study of general business, personal finance, and life skills topics, such as banking, insurance, and taxes. A major emphasis is put on workplace ethics and behavior.

Course Title: Entrepreneurship

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5

Prerequisites:  Marketing Management, Marketing Applications, Advanced Marketing, and completion of grade 11

Students will identify the fundamentals of business creation, and personal attributes needed to be a successful entrepreneur, and will research various business opportunities. Topics covered include the characteristics of an entrepreneur, discovering entrepreneurial opportunities, and researching and analyzing domestic, global, and market trends. The course culminates with the student developing a hypothetical business plan to implement their unique venture that conforms to all applicable governmental laws and regulations.

Course Title:  Financial Literacy

Course Length:  Half Year / Credits: 2.5

Financial Literacy is a state-mandated graduation requirement for all students. Students will develop skills and strategies that promote personal and financial responsibilities related to financial planning, savings, investment, and charitable giving. Topics include Income and Careers, Money Management, Credit and Debt Management, Planning, Saving and Investing, Becoming a Critical Consumer, Citizen Financial Responsibility, and Risk Management and Insurance.

Course Title: H Tomorrow’s Teachers

Course Length:  Full Year / Credits: 5

Prerequisite:  Application

Grades 11 and 12

Tomorrow’s Teachers is a year-long, honors-level elective course for any junior or senior who is considering a career in education. This rigorous, college-level class provides a hands-on approach to educating students on the requirements to become a successful educator. The year will culminate with a six-week “teacher cadet” program during which students will have the opportunity to go into schools and work directly with a classroom teacher and their students. Students interested in taking this course will be required to submit an application and will have the option of earning 3 college credits through Rider University. Disciplinary infractions or excessive absences may result in removal from the course. 

This course is eligible for Concurrent Enrollment.