The Wayzata High School Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department equips students with hands-on skills for success in a dynamic world. Through diverse "Career Spheres," students explore fields like finance, marketing, engineering, computer science, and digital design, combining technical expertise with essential soft skills.
Industry partnerships provide real-world learning, and the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability, aligned with the Portrait of a Wayzata Graduate. Students also gain financial literacy, career readiness, and personal well-being skills, preparing them for professional and personal success.
Some of our courses have fees to assist with purchasing the consumable materials that students will utilize throughout the class. Click for more information.
CTE Department Chair: Paul Kimbler
705 - INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS: Microsoft Office, Information Technology, and Web Design: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Gain a working knowledge of essential computer software and hardware skills needed for personal and college success.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects
Topics/skills: Microsoft Excel and Word, basic hardware knowledge, simple website design, intro to information technology, cybersecurity basics, purchasing a computer
Perfect for: Each and Every Student. This class provides the skills for many of the business, technology classes and success in high school and any post secondary path.
708 - INTRODUCTION TO WEBSITE DESIGN: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Develop a publishable website using HTML/CSS/JavaScript code
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects, group lectures
Topics: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Photoshop, Sound and Video MP3 and MP4 files, logo development, site navigation, links
Skills: critical problem-solving, layout and web typography, effective use of color and screen image resolution. Students will understand and exhibit skills relating to the principles of creating an effective web page, including an in-depth exploration of HTML/CSS/JavaScript
Perfect for: students with an interest in the exploration of web design
709 - APPLIED WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Introduction to Website Design
Take a deeper dive into website design/development using HTML/CSS and JavaScript to create a live, multimedia-based, interactive website.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects/presentations, including creating a live project with a web design professional
Topics: advanced HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Photoshop, MP3 and MP4 files, logo development, site navigation, links
Skills: principles of creating an effective web page, including an in-depth exploration of HTML; problem-solving, layout, and web typography, effective use of color and image resolution
Perfect for: students interested in web design
716 - AP CYBER: NETWORKING (PILOT): 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to networking, equivalent to a college-level Introduction to Networking course. It integrates foundational networking concepts with hands-on problem-solving activities to enhance students' understanding of network hardware, configuration, and protocols.
This course will prepare students to go into the workforce as an IT Systems and Security Analyst and/or become a Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST).
Topics/Skills: networking and cybersecurity concepts, secure network design and configuration, and effective communication of technical information to diverse audiences. Additionally, the course emphasizes problem-solving methodologies and teamwork, preparing students to collaborate efficiently toward shared objectives.
AP Additional Information:
Students who earn 3+ on the May 2026 exam will earn FREE vouchers for online test prep and the exam for the aligned CompTIA industry-recognized credential (IRC) for certification (a $350 value).
718 - COMPUTER PROGRAMMING WITH JAVASCRIPT: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Extend your creativity to the virtual world of programming and learn basic programming concepts. Developing skills and problem-solving using JavaScript, creating apps using MIT App Inventor, and exploring computer science/programming careers
This course is a good pre-requisite for Web Design
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects, presentations, individual/group learning, quizzes
Topics: how computers process instructions/store information; how to write basic instructions that allow a computer to solve problems; and create applications for Android mobile devices, scripting
Skills: JavaScript , HTML, CSS, Canva, MIT App Inventor and a short introduction to another programming language such as C++.
Perfect for: students who have very little to no programming knowledge and are looking at a gentler approach to learning the basics of a few new computer languages
This class is not required to take Computer Programming with C++
719 - COMPUTER PROGRAMMING WITH C++: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12
This course is the recommended prerequisite for our AP Computer Science classes.
Earn college credit while learning and about computer programming, including data types, control and data structures, and both procedural and object-oriented programming.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects, presentations, individual and group learning, quizzes, tests
Topics/Skills: Students will be introduced to algorithms, control structures, classes, data structures, critical problem solving, designing, organizing, writing, and testing computer programs using the C++ programming language
Perfect for: students who are interested in programming or careers in computer science or engineering. This class does NOT assume students have prior programming knowledge.
Computer Programming with Javascript is NOT required to take this course
760 - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 1 - HARDWARE: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Gain hands-on experience installing, building, upgrading, repairing, configuring, troubleshooting, and performing preventative maintenance of personal computer hardware.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects using physical hardware and online simulation, presentations, individual and group learning, quizzes, tests
Topics/skills: computer, network, and mobile device configuration, maintenance and troubleshooting; memory and storage; networking; printers; virtualization; cloud computing with a focus on the role of hardware in these systems
Perfect for: students who want to learn how to upgrade, maintain and fix their own computers, as well as those interested in technology support careers and CompTIA A+ Certification.
761 - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 2 - SOFTWARE: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Information Technology 1 - Hardware
Fine-tune technician skills through hands-on exploration of operating systems and software configuration.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects using physical hardware and online simulation, presentations, individual and group learning, quizzes, tests
Topics/skills: Windows, Apple, and Linux operating systems; command-line utilities and scripting; disk and file management; network configuration; securing computer systems, mobile devices, and networks; safety and operating
Perfect for: students who want to learn how to upgrade, maintain and fix operating systems and applications on their own computers, as well as those interested in technology support careers and CompTIA A+ Certification.
762 - AI FOR ALL: THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE ON SPORTS, BUSINESS, AND YOU : 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Get ready to explore the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning—no coding experience required! In this fun and hands-on course, you’ll uncover how AI works and its impact on everything from your favorite sports to everyday tools like virtual assistants. Each week brings something new, from building simple AI models to analyzing data and debating ethical questions. We’ll dive into real-world applications, like how AI enhances sports performance, personalizes fan experiences, and transforms businesses. You'll even get to create your own AI-powered project by the end! Through hands-on projects, team activities, and real-world examples, you’ll learn to collect and analyze data like a pro while uncovering the hidden patterns that make sports so thrilling. No prior experience? No problem! We’ll guide you every step of the way. Plus, we’ll spotlight amazing contributions from diverse leaders in tech, making this class as inclusive as it is inspiring. Whether you're tech-savvy or just curious, this course is open to everyone and designed to inspire creativity, teamwork, and fresh ideas. So, come join us—AI is for everyone, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll create!
921 - INTRODUCTION TO GAME DESIGN: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Learn to design games from a problem-solving point of view and develop publishable games that include animation, sound, and special effects. Final projects can be submitted to an online STEMFUSE game competition.
Learn through: project-based learning
Topics: Construct3, event-driven programming, variables, if and else statements
Skills: problem-solving, technical reading, troubleshooting
Perfect for: students interested in creating games — just for fun or as a career. Great for anyone interested in a programming career.
922 - ADVANCED GAME DESIGN: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Game Design
Enhance the technical skills and knowledge you acquired in Introduction to Game Design and delve into more advanced programming topics.
Learn through: hands-on projects, team learning, and game creations
Topics: designing intermediate games, college and career exploration, debugging, current events in gaming
Skills: problem-solving, motion graphics, creativity
Perfect for: students who are interested in creating games for fun and/or pursuing a career in the technology field.
944 - AP/PLTW COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
HYBRID COURSE
Prerequisite: A, B in one of Computer Programming With Javascript or Computer Programming With C++ or Precalculus
Explore computer science principles and fields of study and discover how computer scientists can impact the world.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects, presentations, individual/group learning, quizzes/tests
Topics: Python programming language, data analysis, cybersecurity, the role and global impact of technology, creative problem-solving
Skills: programming in Python, cybersecurity, big data, networking, artificial intelligence, simulation, and more
Perfect for: students who want any of the following — to get an overview of the computer science field; major in a science, technology, engineering, arts or math field; take the AP Computer Science Principles exam.
947 - AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 (10th grade with instructor approval) [Watch Course Video]
HYBRID COURSE
Prerequisite: Computer Programming With C++ (recommended) or Precalculus or Accelerated Precalculus or by Instructor approval.
Take your interest in computer programming to a new level starting at the basics and working through advanced, object-oriented concepts.
Learn through: interactive assignments, hands-on projects, presentations, individual and group learning, quizzes, and tests
Topics/Skills: algorithms, control structures, recursion, advanced data structures, object-oriented concepts, critical problem-solving, Java programming, critical problem-solving, problem analysis, algorithmic thinking
Perfect for: students with programming experience or strong mathematics background, interest in digging deeper into computer programming, and/or majoring in engineering, math, computer science, or technology field.
9981 - CTE INTERNSHIP/APPRENTICESHIP: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Work Based Learning Experiences Comparison]
Prerequisite: Introductory level related course
This capstone course is for juniors and seniors in CTE programs that are looking to further their education and skills. Students will gain valuable PAID work experience with a local company after they complete an in-person employability training. Successful participants may be eligible for college credit or be invited to become a full-time employee. Students will need to provide their own transportation, apply to the program, and be willing to interview with participating companies. Internship/apprenticeship areas include: manufacturing, construction, information technology, health science, and engineering. Students who are accepted into this program will have release within their school day to participate in the internship.
9993A, 9993B, 9993C - AP CYBER: SECURITY (PILOT) AND APPLIED MATHEMATICS: 2 Terms / 4 Credits, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: A Computer course is recommended but not required
This course is scheduled for 2 blocks for 2 terms (4 credits): 9993A or 9993C: Cybersecurity and 9993B: Applied Mathematics
● Meets Personal Finance Requirement
● AP Credit, Concurrent Enrollment Credit
● Grades 11-12 [Work Based Learning Experiences Comparison]
This course introduces foundational cybersecurity concepts and digital forensics, equivalent to a college-level Introduction to Cybersecurity course. Students will examine the modern cyber threat landscape, gaining insights into the types of adversaries organizations face and the methods they use to compromise systems and data. The course will also cover digital examinations including evidence collection and analysis. The course emphasizes understanding how vulnerabilities create risks and how security controls are implemented to mitigate those risks.
Students will apply mathematics to real-world problems and explore its relevance across various careers. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics including vertex-edge graphs, game theory, encryption and cryptography, and math and political science. Additionally, students will develop essential personal finance skills, diving into financial psychology, income and earning, financial systems, credit and debt management, risk management, budgeting, and investing. This course emphasizes practical applications and critical thinking to prepare students for academic and professional success.
Team taught in collaboration with business professionals.
Learn through: hands-on learning with actual business projects, off-site experiences, guest speakers, mentors, interactive assignments/projects
Topics/Skills: cybersecurity and computer forensics: theory, techniques, analysis, tools and procedures, email investigations, networking basics, encryption, computer security policies, professional opportunities; applied mathematics: graph theory, combinatorics, voting methods, game theory, financial systems, credit and debt management, budgeting, and investing.
Perfect for: students considering careers in technology, engineering, math, or law enforcement
AP Additional Information:
Students who earn 3+ on the May 2026 exam will earn FREE vouchers for online test prep and the exam for the aligned CompTIA industry-recognized credential (IRC) for certification (a $350 value).
912 - INTRODUCTION TO HOME CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Learn the basics of home renovation and maintenance and explore construction-related careers.
Learn through: examples: interactive assignments, hands-on projects, full-scale projects, individual and group learning
Topics: electrical wiring, plumbing, heating and cooling, wall framing, drywall repair/installation, adjusting and installing windows/doors/trim, siding and trim, and other construction basics
Skills: basic construction and maintenance; hand/power tools, building materials, framing, drywall, electrical and construction safety protocols
Perfect for: students who want to learn how to build and maintain the basic systems inside a typical home.
913 - ADVANCED HOME CONSTRUCTION: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Introduction to Home Construction & Maintenance
Gain in-depth construction skills by building a structure (shed, small garage or gazebo, etc.) for a customer. Explore construction-related careers.
Learn through: examples, full-size building structures, real-world experience, interactive assignments, hands-on projects, individual and group learning
Topics: exterior finishing systems, roofing, soffit and fascia, electrical wiring, construction skills, plumbing, heating and cooling, advanced wall-framing/siding/roofing/windows/doors/trim, and more
Skills: industry building standards; build a full-size structure using, framing, blueprint reading, various building materials; OSHA construction site safety. Learn to work with others as a crew
Perfect for: students who want to understand how to build the advanced systems of a residential structure.
945 - METAL MANUFACTURING: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Learn about basic metal, machining, and plastics manufacturing. Explore advanced information and techniques required for engineering, manufacturing, and reverse engineering products. Explore manufacturing careers.
Learn through: interactive assignments, real-world experience,
hands-on projects, individual and group learning
Topics: prototyping, welding, machine process (lathe and millwork), sheet metal, plastics, blueprint reading, and drafting
Skills: sheet metal fabrication, machining, millwork, plastics
Perfect for: students who want to go beyond the basics.
950 - INTRODUCTION TO WOOD MANUFACTURING: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [View Course Information] [Watch Course Video]
Learn the basics of woodworking and cabinet making. Experience working safely with more than 15 precision machines and several CNC/Robotic tools. Design and construct a product of your choice—and take it home with you! You will be responsible for the cost of materials.
Learn through: hands-on projects, group work, problem-solving
Topics: cutting-edge manufacturing processes, precision machines, CNC/robotic tools
Skills: woodworking and cabinet making design and construction; hand/power tool and large precision equipment operation; care and use of all tools, machines, and materials; time management, safety protocols
Perfect for: students interested in the basics of hand, power and stationary woodworking equipment operation.
951 - ADVANCED CNC WOOD MANUFACTURING: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [View Course Information] [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Introduction to Wood Manufacturing
Enhance your woodworking skills and knowledge. Design and construct products of your choosing – and keep them. The class culminates with a student-designed capstone project. You will be responsible for the cost of materials.
Learn through: independent, hands-on projects; problem-solving; critical thinking
Topics: principles of wood manufacturing design, 3D design, CNC/Robotic technology integration
Skills: machine setups for production runs, 3D Digital design, CNC router operation
Perfect for: students who are serious about woodworking and/or are preparing for careers in the engineering and construction trades.
953 - ADVANCED MANUFACTURING: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Metal Manufacturing and Introduction to Wood Manufacturing (or instructor permission)
Advanced Manufacturing will build upon skills learned in Introduction to Wood Manufacturing and Metal Manufacturing . Students will explore manufacturing, fabrication and how to combine wood and metal in projects. Students will have the opportunity to machine, weld, sheet metal fabricate, program the CNC router as well as use our state of the art CNC plasma cutting table.
Learn through: independent, hands on projects; problem solving, critical thinking and real-world experience.
Topics: CNC routing and plasma cutting, CNC mill, Machining (lathe and millwork), sheet metal. Plastics, VCarve, Computer design layout and print reading, laser engraving
Skills: Wood, Metal and Plastic fabrication, CNC operation, Machining, Millwork, Fabrication, Prototyping
Perfect for: Students interested in any type of design, engineering, fabrication, or skilled trades.
9981 - CTE INTERNSHIP/APPRENTICESHIP: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Work Based Learning Experiences Comparison]
Prerequisite: Introductory level related course
This capstone course is for juniors and seniors in CTE programs that are looking to further their education and skills. Students will gain valuable PAID work experience with a local company after they complete an in-person employability training. Successful participants may be eligible for college credit or be invited to become a full-time employee. Students will need to provide their own transportation, apply to the program, and be willing to interview with participating companies. Internship/apprenticeship areas include: manufacturing, construction, information technology, health science, and engineering. Students who are accepted into this program will have release within their school day to participate in the internship.
861 - INTERIOR DESIGN 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Experience all aspects of the interior design process when designing interior spaces. The focus is on residential interior design.
Learn through: interior design projects, designing rooms and floor plans, interior design and floor planning software, home tours, interior design games, a design challenge, analyzing interior design competition shows.
Topics: utilizing color in spaces, designing interior spaces, interior design styles, the elements and principles of design, furniture arranging, designing for a client, space planning, floor plan design, designing your dream home.
Skills: using interior design and floor planning software along with materials to design floor plans and interior spaces, creativity/self-expression, visual design/space planning, synthesizing information, communication, measuring, budget management.
Perfect for: students who appreciate and want to design aesthetically appealing interior spaces and/or have an interest in becoming an interior designer.
Student Testimonial:
“Taking the Interior Design 1 course was one of the best decisions I ever made. The course offers realistic projects that helped me understand what design really is. I loved the independence we were given while designing as well as the opportunity for students to find their design style. My favorite part of this course was the “My Dream Home” project . It was an opportunity for students to use their own creativity in designing and help others get familiar with the design software. In the end, I learned so much about design and how it's everywhere in our lives. I would recommend this course to anyone who is interested in the concept of design and the creative work behind it.”
881 - INTERIOR DESIGN 2: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Interior Design 1
Advance your understanding of the field of Interior Design.
Learn through: interior designer guest instructors, utilizing new floor planning software, individual and group interior design projects, a design team challenge, working with materials, and hands-on interior design projects
Topics: designing multicultural environments, the science of spatial behavior in environments, lighting design, furniture design, materials and fabrics, flooring, textiles, residential and commercial design, sustainable design, the future of interior design, and the profession of interior design
Skills: using interior design and floor planning software along with materials to design floor plans and interior spaces, creativity/self-expression, visual design/space planning, synthesizing information, communication, research
Perfect for: students who loved Interior Design 1 and are interested in developing advanced interior design, technical, and problem-solving abilities.
Student Testimonial:
"I took Interior Design 2 during my junior year, and I could not be more thankful that I did! The knowledge and life skills this course gave me are invaluable, and I know they will benefit me across all areas of life. Interior Design 2 was a perfect step up from the level one class; we gained exposure to design in other cultures, worked together to fabricate our very own lighting fixtures, and even got to do a Q&A with a professional in the field. Furthermore, each project earned us experience with vital assets such as problem-solving, teamwork, time-management, constructive criticism, and creativity. I found an incredibly supportive and passionate environment in Interior Design 2, and I have no doubts that you will as well. I highly recommend this class to anyone who had fun in Interior Design 1 and wants to go much more in-depth. Everyone has the ability to create something they’re proud of!"
910 - ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video] [Additional Course Information]
Assume the role of an architect in residential home design, development, and construction. Design your own vacation cabin/home.
Learn through: sketching, computer-aided design, and modeling, individual and group design challenges, project-based design activities, hands-on labs, and model building
Topics: architectural styles, design principles, 3D drawing techniques, CAD (computer-aided design) software
Skills: using Autodesk Revit and Sketchup to complete floor, interior, exterior, and site plans
Perfect for: students who are interested in developing their design, technical and problem-solving abilities while exploring the exciting world of architectural design.
911 - ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN 2: 2 Terms / 2 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Architectural Design 1
Advance your understanding of the field of architecture. Learn to solve residential and light commercial design challenges. Design and develop your dream home!
Learn through: sketching, computer-aided design, and modeling, individual and group design challenges, project-based learning, hands-on labs, and model building
Topics: architectural design and drafting, history, sketching and 3D modeling (CAD), virtual and augmented reality, sustainable design, career opportunities, structures, construction techniques, and materials
Skills: using industry-standard CAD software to create floor plans, interior and exterior elevations, site plans, detail drawings, renderings, and walkthroughs
Perfect for: students who loved Architectural Design I and are interested in developing advanced technical, design, and problem-solving abilities.
925 - APPLIED ROBOTICS: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Explore the field of Robotics and related careers. Learn to build a robot, design robot parts, and basic programming. Participate in a class obstacle course competition.
Learn through: examples, interactive assignments, hands-on projects, individual and group learning, various challenges
Topics: prototyping, automation, design, programming, fabrication, metals, plastics
Skills: Tetrix robotics system problem-solving techniques
Perfect for: students interested in Robotics and programming careers.
940 - ENGINEERING CONCEPTS: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Learn how engineering designs impact our lives and lead to creative design solutions.
Learn through: hands-on labs, partner/small group projects
Topics: engineering careers, design principles, prototype development, 3D modeling, product design, bridges and other structures, fluid power, automation robotics
Skills: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, Autodesk Inventor software use
Perfect for: students who want to apply engineering concepts to design, create and test a variety of exciting projects.
941 - PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Engineering Concepts
Explore a broad range of engineering topics and apply what you know to take on challenges like designing a self-powered car.
Learn through: hands-on labs and projects, independent and group work, simulations, demonstrations, process application, interviewing a professional engineer
Topics: robotics, statics, ballistics, structure strength, automation, fluid power, mechanisms, kinematics, ballistics, thermodynamics, automation control, material science, electronics
Skills: problem-solving, research, project planning, process documentation, material selection, design refinements, presentation
Perfect for: students that enjoy hands-on problem solving that requires creativity, observation, and determination.
942 - INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (IED): 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Engineering Concepts
Dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering to hands-on projects like designing a new toy or improving an existing product.
Learn through: hands-on labs/projects, independent and group work, using solid modeling software, prototypes with a 3D printer
Topics: engineering design processes and applications, advanced solid modeling, geometry for design, reverse engineering, 3D printing, and prototype development
Skills: Autodesk Inventor software proficiency, product evaluation, and refinement, problem-solving, collaboration
Perfect for: students who like to use their imagination, be creative, work as a team and have fun while becoming better engineers.
943 - CIVIL ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN (CED): 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Engineering Concepts or Architectural Design 1
Learn important aspects of residential and commercial building and site design and development. Apply what you know to engaging projects like designing a Habitat for Humanity home. Repurpose part of WHS for your capstone project.
Learn through: independent and small group projects, hands-on labs and projects, software simulations
Topics: site development, green technologies, structural design, utilities and services, zoning, soil testing, surveying, cost estimating, building, safe design protocols
Skills: problem-solving, documenting solutions, Revit solid modeling software.
Perfect for: students who are interested in understanding how structures function and how all systems of a building work together to meet the needs of society.
9981 - CTE INTERNSHIP/APPRENTICESHIP: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Work Based Learning Experiences Comparison]
Prerequisite: Introductory level related course
This capstone course is for juniors and seniors in CTE programs that are looking to further their education and skills. Students will gain valuable PAID work experience with a local company after they complete an in-person employability training. Successful participants may be eligible for college credit or be invited to become a full-time employee. Students will need to provide their own transportation, apply to the program, and be willing to interview with participating companies. Internship/apprenticeship areas include: manufacturing, construction, information technology, health science, and engineering. Students who are accepted into this program will have release within their school day to participate in the internship.
778 - YEARBOOK & JOURNALISM: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Must submit an application, available at whsyearbook.com
Gain insights and skills into the world of Journalism by being part of our yearbook team.
Learn through: hands-on projects in class, some out-of-class work, teamwork, classroom instruction
Topics: writing within a journalistic framework, desktop publishing, graphic design, photography, publication rights, and responsibilities, marketing and sales
Skills: Adobe Photoshop and InDesign, digital camera photography, online publishing with yearbook publishing software
Perfect for: students interested in marketing communications and journalism careers.
923 - INTRODUCTION TO ANIMATION: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Explore the dynamic world of animation through a hands-on learning experience that covers essential concepts and industry tools using Adobe software.
This class offers interactive assignments, multimedia projects, and engaging Live Projects expose students to the fundamentals of animation, 3D modeling, lighting, camera techniques, movement, and rendering.
Students will develop key skills in multimedia software, digital drawing using a tablet, and light HTML coding while enhancing your creativity with real-world projects. Topics: animation concepts, modeling, environments, movement, lighting, cameras, rendering, and more.
Skills: multimedia software, learning to draw with the use of drawing tablet, light HTML coding.
Perfect for: students aspiring to careers in communications, media, design, or any field where creative visual storytelling is essential, this course equips you with the technical skills and artistic understanding to bring ideas to life.
924 - APPLIED ANIMATION: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Animation
Apply your knowledge of animation to create fully developed projects.
Learn through a variety of engaging methods, including live client projects where you create interactive designs for community display, hands-on projects using multimedia software, individual and group assignments, presentations, diverse research techniques, and sketching with a drawing tablet.
Topics include designing projects that include lip-sync, advanced walk/run/jump cycles, rigging 2D and 3D characters with bones, forward and inverse kinematics, soft-body dynamics, special effects, motion graphics, visualizations, interactive applications, and the use of drawing tablets.
Skills: Adobe Animate CC, After Effects, Photoshop
Perfect for: student artists, designers, engineers, and inventors who are interested in applying their skills to the world of software applications.
930 - APPLIED GRAPHICS 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Learn how to infuse physical, digital, and print projects with energy and emotion by incorporating graphics, while integrating your design ideas with AI.
Learn through: classroom instruction, hands-on projects, and applying graphics to a variety of products, including apparel and water bottles, while exploring how AI can serve as a valuable research tool to enhance and refine your designs.
Topics: With the use of AI students explore Typography, color, packaging design, apparel design and creation, screen printing, dye sublimation
Perfect for: students interested in exploring the exciting world of graphics and AI, while learning how to transform their ideas from concept to final product.
931- APPLIED GRAPHICS 2: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 09-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Applied Graphics 1
Advance your graphic skills. Create your own designs and imprint them onto t-shirts, hoodies, water bottles, socks, and other items.
Learn through: classroom instruction, hands-on projects
Topics: screen printing, dye sublimation, apparel design, and creation
Skills: Adobe Certified Associate ( ACA ): Visual Communication using Adobe Photoshop CC
Perfect for: students interested in further developing their advanced creative, design, and technical skills.
9992 - GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS: 2 Terms / 4 credits, Grades 11-12 [Work Based Learning Experiences Comparison]
Prerequisite recommended: Introduction to Marketing or Applied Graphics or Graphic Design 1
Students enrolled in Graphic Communications are eligible for three college credits through concurrent enrollment at North Hennepin Community College.
This course is scheduled for 2 blocks for each of the 2 terms (4 credits): 9992A: Composition for College and 9992B: Advanced Applied Graphics.
Graphic Communications is a co-taught, project-based learning course that combines Composition for College (English A) and Applied Graphics 2. This course is ideal for students interested in developing professional and technical skills required to advance their knowledge of graphic design and communication styles. Graphic Communications especially serves college writing and reading preparation with several informational and research-based projects where students have occasions to formally present and solicit feedback from instructors and community members. Students will collaborate often in small groups to generate ideas with depth and to organize those ideas in a clearly structured form. Additionally, students will develop their reading, writing and speaking skills through a study of how language is used including Standard American English and the influence of language on place for the Dakota and Anishinaabe people of Minnesota.
This course will educate students in design methods, theory, and creative problem solving utilized in the industry today. Students will learn how to create visual concepts and how those concepts communicate, are perceived, and are interpreted by an intended audience. Students will learn interactive, graphic, and product design skills and how to apply those skills in various career fields. Students will collaborate with local businesses to master the Adobe Creative Suite , write and speak for an authentic audience, and develop their personal brand. Students within this course will work with clients to plan, design and implement concepts into production through projects authored and sponsored by course instructors and local businesses.
Student Testimonial:
"Compass is an amazing course to take because it’s so personalized to you. You have the opportunity to create your own professional logo, illustrate/write a children’s story, and more!”