Eight electives to consider

By Ryan Kelleher

Electives such as ceramics, Spanish, student aide, or any of the performing arts are commonly known around campus, but there are many electives that are not always under the spotlight. The following eight classes are electives students may want to consider when deciding their classes for the next school year.

Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology is all about cars and how they work. This course focuses on the technological nature of cars and the mathematical and electronic principles involved. Automotive Technology I is the first class offered for students. Students may apply once they are  sophomores.There is a $20.00 fee per semester, and it is a one-year course. Next in the sequence are Automotive Technology II and III. Students who earned a B or higher in Automotive Technology I can move to III, and students who received a C can move to II. Mrs. Smith is the teacher for all three levels.

Drafting and Design (CADD)

CADD is the elective for future architects. Students will develop basic skills in architecture, geometry, design, and lettering in CADD I. Students from any grade are able to take CADD I. Like Automotive Technology, CADD is structured by levels. Once students completes CADD I, they may move up to CADD II and III. The top architectural class offered is CADD Advanced Studies. Each class is a one year course. Mr. Lewis teaches all CADD classes.

“CADD is a ton of fun, and I really enjoy learning about architecture. We get to learn about architecture online and in the real world. It’s interesting to be able to see a real life model and a virtual one,” Jonah Blake, freshman, said.

Student Tutor

Students who are wanting to engage in a teaching or social services profession should become a student tutor. Student tutors are assigned to another school where they help struggling students. Tutors are advised by a faculty member at the other school. The prerequisites for this elective are being a junior or senior, having a 2.5 GPA, and knowledge in the academic area in which the student is assisting. Applicants must also have a recommendation from their counselor and a teacher.  

The History of Popular Music

The History of Popular Music elective is for students who love music and history. The class takes an extensive look at history’s most successful recording artists and bands. Emphasis is placed on the study and appreciation of music, including student research on the events of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Students analyze video, music, and literature and evaluate the impact of Western culture. Mr. Johnson is the teacher and students must be a senior or junior to enroll.

Journalism II

Journalism is the elective for future journalists and students who enjoy writing. Members learn to gather information, interview, and write. Students also learn advanced photography methods. Technology plays a major role in the class as the newspaper is published online. Journalism II members run the school’s news website, “The Roar,” and various social media accounts for the school. To join the class, students must first go through a year in Journalism Foundations. Students must receive a C or higher in foundations and a teacher recommendation to become join as a staff member. Mrs. Thompson is the teacher for both Journalism II and Journalism Foundations.

“Join journalism to enhance your creativity and to find a group of people who can relate to your struggles,” Emerald Green, sophomore, said.

Publications II

Publications II members are in charge of creating and selling the school’s annual yearbook. Staff members learn about writing, interviewing, graphic design, and photography. Yearbook integrates critical thinking and teamwork. Similar to journalism, students must pass Journalism Foundations with a C or higher. Mrs.Thompson is also the teacher for Publications II.

“It’s really nice to be able to be  involved in something at school other than sports. In yearbook we also get to learn so much about picture taking and teamwork,” Caroline Bellamy, freshman, said.

Vocal Ensemble (Bella Voce)

Vocal ensemble is a singing elective for females looking to develop technique, musicianship

skills, and gain confidence in group performance. The ensemble performs music from different periods and styles specifically written for all female voices. Students perform at concerts, festivals, and are required to travel around the district. Members must also purchase a uniform and stay after school for planned rehearsals.

Culinary Arts

Culinary Arts classes are about learning the principles of cooking and the principles of food preparation and safety. Similar to the Automotive Technology and CADD classes, Culinary Arts is a progressive class. Students from any grade start in Culinary Arts I. Students can reach Culinary Arts III and then enroll in advanced studies. Each class has a fee of $40.00 and is a one-year course.