Required Freshman Class:

PLTW Essentials of Engineering

Course Number(s):  T431511

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9

Essentials of Engineering is a one semester class designed to be a student's first exposure to PLTW. The course introduces students to a variety of engineering tools such as geographic information systems (GIS), 3-D solid modeling software, and prototyping equipment. Students learn and apply the engineering design process to develop solutions to relevant problems in the real world.

Note: Required 9th Grade class.

Required Sophomore Class (choose one):

Intro To Computer Programming

Course Number(s):  T405301

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9-12

This 1 semester course teaches students how to make computer programs.  The first quarter uses the Scratch block programming language to learn basic programming concepts and methods to create video games and interactive stories..  The second quarter uses MIT AppInventor to create programs that can run on tablets and phones. 

Note: One of three choices for required 10th Grade class for Innovative Technology Pathway. 

Introduction to Flight Simulators

Course Number(s):  N409011

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites:  None

Grade: 9-12

This foundation course introduces students to the basic principles of flight. Students learn about the lift and drag of an aircraft, torque effect, load factors turbulence, aircraft systems and federal air regulations.  Students acquire and apply knowledge and skills while flying in the simulators. Students will take on the roles of Pilot, Co-Pilot and air traffic control and utilize communication skills and problem solving throughout the course. There will also be exploration of careers in the aviation industry.

Note: This is one of three choices for required 10th grade class for Innovative Technology Pathway.

Introduction to Industrial Robotics 

Course Number(s): S402601

Length: 1 Semesters (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Aero & Engineering Phy Sci or PLTW Prin of Eng Physical Sci

Length: 1 Semesters (2 Credits)

Grade: 10-12

Introduction to Industrial Robotics Lab is a lab based science elective that introduces industrial robotic programming and applications.  The course uses the Festo Mechatronics Training Systems to address the state of Minnesota’s physical science standards.  Topics for the course include: electrical circuits, digital logic, sensors, pneumatic and electrical actuators, programmable logic controllers, and computer modeling and simulations with industrial applications.  This course is designed to prepare students to continue training in electromechanical systems at St Paul College or other institutions.

Note: This is one of three choices for 10th grade students who would like to  be a part of the Innovative Technology Pathway.

Required Junior Course: 

PLTW: Principles of Engineering (Honors)

Course Number(s): S431711

Length: 2 Semesters (4 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 11 (2025-26)

PLTW: Principles of Engineering with Physical Science covers general concepts of engineering, physics, engineering technology and its career possibilities. This course involves a number of projects that explore careers in engineering, principles of design, control systems, materials science, general mechanics and chemistry. The projects involve learning and applying fundamental principles of physics and chemistry, solving problems, designing and modifying devices. The will also learn how engineers address concerns about the social and political consequences of technological change.

Note: Students can earn college credit by passing the PLTW summative test at the end of the semester.  This is the suggested junior course for students interested in Engineering.

Required Senior Course:

Engineering Design and Development (PLTW) (Honors)

Course Number(s):  T431621

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Principles of Engineering

Grade: 12

This course fulfills the Senior Project graduation requirement for seniors at Johnson High School.

This course works very similarly to Senior Finale in that students will complete a project, portfolio and present their project.  The main difference is that in this class, students will be working in teams which, together, will think of a common everyday problem, research solutions to that problem and come up with unique solutions to that problem through the creation and development of a product.  During the process, students will develop their research, writing and presentation skills.  Students will write a technical report around their project, documenting the process of development, design and testing of the project.  Students will also create a portfolio documenting their project and give a presentation at the end of the course.

Aerospace Courses

Introduction to Flight Simulators

Course Number(s):  N409011

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites:  None

Grade: 9-12

This foundation course introduces students to the basic principles of flight. Students learn about the lift and drag of an aircraft, torque effect, load factors turbulence, aircraft systems and federal air regulations.  Students acquire and apply knowledge and skills while flying in the simulators. Students will take on the roles of Pilot, Co-Pilot and air traffic control and utilize communication skills and problem solving throughout the course. There will also be exploration of careers in the aviation industry.

Drone Flight Training

Course Number(s): N409021

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Introduction to Flight Simulators

Grade: 10-12

Critical thinking, teamwork, problem solving, communication and integration of math and science skills will be utilized as students are presented with the knowledge needed to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Remote Pilots License test (commercial drone pilots license).  A significant portion of this class will focus on flight regulations, airspace, weather and various flight characteristics.  The flight simulator lab will make the experience of learning these concepts more engaging and students will also use drone flight simulator software to get a basic understanding of drone controls.

Advanced Flight Simulators

Course Number(s): N409031

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Completion of Flight Simulator

Grade: 10-12

Through a combination of simulator flying and classroom instruction, this course will prepare students to take their FAA Private Pilot written exam. Topics in the course include airplane systems, aerodynamic principles, communications, navigation, flight planning and learning the same flight maneuvers as one would experience in private pilot flight training.

Engineering Elective Courses

Engineering Design and Development (PLTW) (Honors)

Course Number(s):  T431621

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Principles of Engineering

Grade: 12

This course fulfills the Senior Project graduation requirement for seniors at Johnson High School.

This course works very similarly to Senior Finale in that students will complete a project, portfolio and present their project.  The main difference is that in this class, students will be working in teams which, together, will think of a common everyday problem, research solutions to that problem and come up with unique solutions to that problem through the creation and development of a product.  During the process, students will develop their research, writing and presentation skills.  Students will write a technical report around their project, documenting the process of development, design and testing of the project.  Students will also create a portfolio documenting their project and give a presentation at the end of the course.

PLTW: Principles of Engineering (Honors)

Course Number(s): S431711

Length: 2 Semesters (4 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 11 (2025-26)

PLTW: Principles of Engineering with Physical Science covers general concepts of engineering, physics, engineering technology and its career possibilities. This course involves a number of projects that explore careers in engineering, principles of design, control systems, materials science, general mechanics and chemistry. The projects involve learning and applying fundamental principles of physics and chemistry, solving problems, designing and modifying devices. The will also learn how engineers address concerns about the social and political consequences of technological change.

Note: Students can earn college credit by passing the PLTW summative test at the end of the semester.  This is the suggested junior course for students interested in Engineering.

PLTW: Computer Science and Software Engineering 

Course Number(s):  T431461

Length: 2 Semesters (4 credits)

Prerequisites: Principles of Engineering

Grade: 10-12

This year-long course uses the Python programming language to investigate how computers are programmed and used to share information through the internet, analyze data sets and solve complex problems with computer models.

1st Quarter - Python Programming

2nd Quarter -The Internet

3rd Quarter - Analyzing Data

4th Quarter - Computer Simulations

Note: Students may be able to earn college credit under certain circumstances from Saint Cloud State University.  This course is offered every other year, starting in 2026.

Intro To Computer Programming

Course Number(s):  T405301

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9-12

This 1 semester course teaches students how to make computer programs.  The first quarter uses the Scratch block programming language to learn basic programming concepts and methods to create video games and interactive stories..  The second quarter uses MIT AppInventor to create programs that can run on tablets and phones.  

PLTW Civil Engineering & Architecture (Honors)

Course Number(s): T431611

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 11-12

The major focus of the Civil Engineering and Architecture (CEA) course is a long-term project that involves the development of a local property site.  As students learn about civil engineering and architecture, they apply what they learn to the design and development of this property.  Developing the property as a simulation and model allows students to learn what civil engineers and architects experience while developing properties. The CEA course is structured to enable students to have a variety of experiences that will provide an overview of both fields.  Students work individually and in teams exploring hands-on projects and activities to learn the characteristics of civil engineering and architecture. In addition, students will use state of the art software packages to help them design solutions to solve class assignments and projects. Students learn about documenting their project, solving problems and communicating their solutions to various audiences.

Note: Students can earn college credit by passing a PLTW summative test at the end of the semester.

Manufacturing Courses

Beginning Woodworking

Course Number(s): T402111

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: None

Grade: 9-12

This course acquaints students with the essential skills used in woodworking and construction. Class work will include the development of part drawings, blueprint reading, plan of procedures, precise measurement and estimating materials. Student’s projects teach the safe and proper use of a variety of woodworking tools. Students are required to complete projects that are designed to develop primary woodworking skills. Safety glasses are required.

Note: There is a $10 lab fee for this course.

Advanced Woodworking

Course Number(s): T402131

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Beginner Woodworking

Grade: 10-12

This course allows students to continue their exploration on woodworking. Class activities may include: understand blueprint reading, use abbreviations and symbols, use and apply accurate measurements in the construction of projects, determine cost estimation and material requirements when ordering lumber, incorporate step-by-step procedure planning, demonstrate satisfactory level of competence when operating woodworking hand tools and power equipment, and understand finishing process.

Construction Carpentry

Course Number(s): T404501

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Beginning Woodworking

Grade: 10-12

Construction Carpentry will provide students the opportunity to explore the construction trades in a classroom and lab environment. Students will develop a variety of technical skills associated with residential construction, build simple structures and make minor repairs on residential buildings. Areas of construction include but not limited to the following: safety procedures, building layout, rough construction, electrical systems, drywall, applied mathematics, communications, and career opportunities. Safety glasses are required.

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (PLTW) (Honors)

Course Number(s):  T531711

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Principles of Engineering

Grade: 10-12

How are things made? What processes go into creating products? Is the process for making a water bottle the same as it is for a musical instrument? How do assembly lines work? How has automation changed the face of manufacturing? While students discover the answers to these questions, they’re learning about the history of manufacturing, robotics and automation, manufacturing processes, computer modeling, manufacturing equipment, and flexible manufacturing systems.

Note: Students can earn college credit by passing PLTW summative test at the end of the semester.  This course is offered every other year starting in 2025.

Introduction to Industrial Robotics 

Course Number(s): S402601

Length: 1 Semesters (2 Credits)

Prerequisites: Aero & Engineering Phy Sci or PLTW Prin of Eng Physical Sci

Length: 1 Semesters (2 Credits)

Grade: 10-12

Introduction to Industrial Robotics Lab is a lab based science elective that introduces industrial robotic programming and applications.  The course uses the Festo Mechatronics Training Systems to address the state of Minnesota’s physical science standards.  Topics for the course include: electrical circuits, digital logic, sensors, pneumatic and electrical actuators, programmable logic controllers, and computer modeling and simulations with industrial applications.  This course is designed to prepare students to continue training in electromechanical systems at St Paul College or other institutions.

Note: This is one of three choices for 10th grade students who would like to  be a part of the Innovative Technology Pathway.

District Wide Career Pathways Courses for this Pathway:

SPPS: Intro to the Trades-Build T40144*

Location: 3M Advanced Training Center

Time: 1:00-2:30 Spring Semester Monday - Friday

Transportation: Yellow School Bussing to DCPP and back to home high school except for Johnson and Creative Arts.

4 High School Credits (9-12 grades)

SPPS will offer this amazing hands-on course in partnership with industry to students interested in learning about good jobs with good benefits in the construction industry. The course will include field trips to Trades Union Facilities and job sites, construction projects, and guests from the building trades, manufacturing, and engineering. 

Finishing Trades Institute (FTIUM) Course

If you are interested in his program, please talk to your School Counselor or Work-Based Learning teacher for more information

Location: Finishing Trades Institute 3205 Country Drive, Little Canada, MN 55117

Time: 8am-10:30am OR 12pm-2:30pm, Available Fall and Spring Semesters, Monday-Friday

Transportation: Metro Transit

3 High School CTE Credits (11-12 grades)

Intensive hands-on course with approximately 80% of the learning done on the training floor. This course prepares students to be work ready and mimics a job in the FTIUM trades. The applicant shall be physically capable of performing the essential functions of the CTE program without posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or any other individuals, with reasonable accommodations. Students will be in a dirty, dusty environment and will get drywall mud and paint on themselves and their clothes. Student participation and collaborative work are vital aspects of this program. For more information about FTIUM visit FTIUM.edu 

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PATHWAY COURSES

DCTC:  Introduction to Construction Management

C54104* PSEO DCTC: Construction Mgmt

Location: 3M Advanced Training Center
Time: 1:00-2:30 Spring Semester, Mondays/Wednesdays

Transportation: Yellow School Bussing to DCPP and back to home high school except for Johnson and Creative Arts.

2 College Credits (11-12 grades)

Must have a minimum of 2.8 GPA.

Provides an overview of the construction industry which introduces the student to the duties and responsibilities of the professional construction manager. Lectures, field trips, and speakers will expose students to the fundamentals of construction techniques and methods employed by professionals in the industry with an emphasis on career opportunities.

DCTC: Construction Graphics

C54129* PSEO DCTC Construction Graphic

Location: 3M Advanced Training Center
Time: 1:00-2:30 Spring Semester, Tuesday/Thursday

Transportation: Yellow School Bussing to DCPP and back to home high school except for Johnson and Creative Arts.

3 College Credits (11-12 grades)

Must have a minimum of 2.8 GPA.

This course walks students through an example set of construction documents including Architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical drawings. Emphasis is placed on understanding standard conventions and symbols and navigating a drawing set to find specific information.

Century: Introduction to Networks

C54127* PSEO Century Intro to Network 

Location: 3M Advanced Training Center on Saint Paul College Campus
Time: 1:00-2:30 Spring Semester, Mondays/Wednesdays

Transportation: Yellow School Bussing to DCPP and back to home high school except for Johnson and Creative Arts.

3 College Credits (11-12 grades)

Must have a minimum of 2.6 GPA.

This course introduces the OSI and TCP/IP models used in data communication and computer networks with emphasis on network infrastructure design, configuration, and implementation.

Century: System Security and Network Auditing

C54128* PSEO Century System Security

Location: 3M Advanced Training Center on Saint Paul College Campus
Time: 1:00-2:30 Spring Semester, Tuesday/Thursday

Transportation: Yellow School Bussing to DCPP and back to home high school except for Johnson and Creative Arts.

3 College Credits (11-12 grades)

Must have a minimum of 2.6 GPA.

This course introduces the best practices in hands-on troubleshooting, assessing an enterprise environment’s security posture, and implementing appropriate security solutions. Course activities provide opportunities to explore how to monitor and secure hybrid environments, including cloud, mobile, and IoT.  Course topics address applicable laws and policies, principles of governance, risk, and compliance, and how an analyst can identify, analyze, and respond to security events and incidents.

SPPS: Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair 1 T43211*

Location: Global Arts Upper School

Time: 1:00-3:30 A Days or B Days sections

Transportation: Yellow School Bussing from home high school to Auto Center, Metro Transit passes for dismissal

4 High School Credits / Semester (9-12 grades)

SPPS: Automotive Maintenance Light Repair 2 T43212*

SPPS: Automotive Maintenance Light Repair 3 T43213*
Location: Global Arts Upper School

Time: 8:30-11:00am -  Monday - Friday
Transportation: Metro Transit
6 High School Credits / Semester (10-12 grades)

In addition to the learning experience in an ASE accredited auto shop program equipped with industry standard equipment and 12 bays, there are internship opportunities available to students. Students attending the program can earn ASE Student Certifications, apply for summer internships, as well as earn articulated college credits for automotive programs at St. Paul College, DCTC and Dunwoody.

• Students study safety, tools, equipment, shop operations, and the fundamentals of operation, maintenance, and basic repair procedures for automotive engine 

  • Auto 1: mechanical systems, heater and air conditioning systems, and drivetrain systems. 

  • Auto 2: performance systems, as well as the fundamentals of hybrid vehicle information. 

  • Auto 3: suspension systems, steering systems, and brake systems. 

Website: Saint Paul Public Schools Districtwide Automotive Program

Supplemental Courses for this Pathway Include:

Public Speaking  

Course Number(s): L406411 

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits) 

Prerequisites: None 

Grade: 10-12 

This class is designed for anybody who wants to learn  to become a better speaker in front of groups. The class  will become a tight-knit group as students speak and  listen to each other on a daily basis. A variety of  speeches will be learned and performed, including  informative speeches, demonstration speeches,  persuasive speeches, and debate. This skill of knowing  what you want to say and saying it well will help you to  get what you want throughout your entire life! 

Psychology 

Course Number(s): H407301 

Length: 1 Semester (2 Credits) 

Prerequisites: None 

Grade: 9-12 

This course introduces students to the study of  behavior, thinking, and emotions. Topics covered  include research methods (What makes psychology a  science?), intuition and critical thought (Can we trust our  gut? Why do we need to challenge what we see and  hear?), biology (what affects us more - genetics or our  environment?), sensation and perception (Why don't we all see the world in the same way?), states of consciousness  (What makes us aware of our surroundings? Why do we  dream?), learning and memory (Why are afraid of certain  things? Where do we learn to act in certain ways? How  much can we trust our memory? Why do we forget where we  put things?), motivation and emotion (What drives us?  Why do we experience anger and sadness?), developmental  psychology (How do we change during our lifetimes?),  theories of personality (What makes us who we are? Can  we change who we are?), psychological disorders and  therapy (What is the different between stress and  anxiety? How do we know if a person needs professional  help? How can we improve our daily lives?). This course  connects well with many different career choices and  will also offer practical mental health skills throughout  the course, including mindfulness and coping  skills. Students will look at their own life experiences,  interact with their classmates and the instructor, try to  think like a psychologist, and attempt to see the value  psychology offers all of us.