General Electives

AWS Academy Cloud Foundations is intended for students who seek an overall understanding of cloud computing concepts, independent of specific technical roles. It provides a detailed overview of cloud concepts, AWS core services, security, architecture, pricing, and support. The goal of the AWS courses is to prepare students for the Amazon Web Services Cloud Certification exam and for a job within this industry. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITE: NONE

“Careers 101” is a comprehensive course designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the professional world. From mastering workplace readiness skills to navigating the job application process, crafting compelling cover letters and resumes, and excelling in job interviews, students will develop the confidence and expertise necessary to pursue meaningful career opportunities. With a focus on research and exploration, students will also delve into understanding potential careers, exploring educational pathways, and assessing associated costs and future prospects. Culminating in the creation of a comprehensive portfolio, students will have a personalized guide to navigate their future educational and career endeavors with confidence and clarity.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

“Career and College Investigation” is a dynamic course designed to empower students with the tools and knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their educational and career pathways. Throughout the course, students will delve into the process of researching potential careers, exploring Idaho schools that offer relevant programs, and understanding the associated costs. By leveraging resources such as the Next Steps Idaho website, students will gain insights into their interests and personalities through aptitude and personality tests, as well as conducting a Reality Check to align their career aspirations with their financial goals. Culminating in the creation of a comprehensive portfolio, students will develop a personalized roadmap for their future educational and career pursuits, equipped with the information and strategies needed to confidently navigate the transition to college or trade school.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

Career Exploration provides instruction and practice about various topics in the world of work. These topics include jobs, careers, labor markets, traditional and nontraditional occupational roles, ethical and unethical behavior, educational pathways to careers, budgeting, communication in the workplace, and technology in the workplace. There is a short project on problem-solving skills as well as a project on searching for a job, preparing a resume and cover letter, and interviewing for a job.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

This course introduces students to the exciting and varied career opportunities in the health care industry that will be in demand in their future! The course will introduce the roles and tasks, identify education and skills needed, identify responsibilities of roles which support or supervise their role, analyze legal and ethical responsibilities, limitations, and implications for each of these professions.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

“Career Success” is a comprehensive course designed to prepare high school students for ethical decision-making and professional conduct in various workplace settings. Students will explore foundational topics such as following policies and procedures, best communication practices including email, phone, and text etiquette, and conflict management strategies. In addition, the course delves into critical areas such as workplace diversity and inclusion, professionalism, and work ethic, ethical decision-making frameworks, confidentiality and data privacy, workplace safety, and ethical leadership. With a focus on fostering a culture of integrity, social responsibility, and personal growth, students will emerge equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate ethical challenges and contribute positively to the workplace and society.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None 

“Certifications” is a dynamic course designed to empower students to pursue their interests and develop valuable skills through certification programs. In this course, students have the flexibility to choose from a range of certification options, including Google Apps, First Aid, Lifeguard, Ready Set Food Safe/Serve Safe, and more. Each certification program offers specialized training and credentials in areas such as technology, healthcare, safety, and hospitality, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to align with their career aspirations and personal interests. Through hands-on training, coursework, and assessments, students will acquire industry-recognized certifications that enhance their qualifications and prepare them for future academic and professional endeavors.”

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

Students explore values of truthfulness, trustworthiness, responsibility, diligence, and integrity. The course offers specific, real world situations to interpret and connect to these traits to provide safe and appropriate ways to respond in real time. Topics include: identifying bullying, how to develop a bullying-prevention mindset. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 8 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

* 8th graders may take this course for high school credit if they meet criteria.

This course is designed to help prepare students for their responsibilities as parents and caregivers of children. Topics include prenatal care, growth and development through age six, teen pregnancy, maternal health, parenting skills, and child guidance.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12   PREREQUISITES:  None

“College 101” is a comprehensive course designed to demystify the college application process and empower students to make informed decisions about their higher education journey. From exploring career options and understanding college types to researching scholarships and evaluating costs, students will gain valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the path to higher education. By delving into topics such as standing out in college applications, comparing in-state versus out-of-state costs, and leveraging dual enrollment opportunities, students will develop a personalized plan to pursue their academic and career aspirations with confidence.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

Computer Applications explores online networks and software. Topics include word processing software, organizing data, selecting the correct digital tools, analysis of data, visual representation of data, and troubleshooting software and operating systems. Additional topics include safe digital citizenship, data security, intellectual property, file management, and intellectual property rights.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7-8 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Criminal Justice is a beginner-level course on criminal procedures that explores the criminal justice system, non-forensic evidence, and what happens inside the courtroom. The course is aligned to the Criminal Justice/Forensics pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Digital Art 1 introduces concepts and methods used in the creation of digital art. The course explores design principles, common applications of digital artwork, and techniques for brainstorming and developing an artistic idea. Topics include artistic mediums such as digital photography, 2D computer graphics, web design, and digital illustration, relevant tools, techniques, and skills of each medium. Supporting topics include meaning, audience, impact, and ethics in the creation and use of digital media. Course projects include the creation of a digital photograph and a web page. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7   PREREQUISITES:  None

Digital Art 2 explores digital art, how life relates to art, and how individual works of art are interpreted. Topics include design principles, types and common applications of digital artwork, and techniques for brainstorming and developing an artistic idea, artistic mediums (3D computer graphics, animation, digital video, and digital audio). Supporting topics include expression, purpose, meaning, ethics, testing, critique, improvement, presentation, and distribution in the creation and use of digital media. Course projects include the creation of a digital animation and a piece of digital audio.  

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 8   PREREQUISITES:  None

Students should have a basic understanding of drawing at this point. Students will learn proportions of the face and human figure as well as tips and tricks to develop clothing on the figures. Students will study the figure and use what they have learned to create their own original characters.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12   PREREQUISITES:  Intro to Drawing

Entrepreneurship explores entrepreneurial characteristics, business leadership, and the skills and steps involved in marketing, developing, starting, and exiting a business. Key topics and activities include hands-on projects to apply the knowledge as a small business owner and entrepreneur.

The course is aligned to the Marketing, Sales, and Services pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students explore the tools and principles of fashion design. Topics include: the use of color, creation of an inspiration board, fabrics and materials, and tools and machines used by fashion designers.

The course is aligned to the Fashion and Interior Design pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students explore the skills and education required in the fashion industry. Topics include: the range of jobs in the industry, skills for success, such as interviewing, workplace communication, and teamwork.

The course is aligned to the Fashion and Interior Design pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

In this course, students will learn about the technologies and design principles that have been the foundation of the development of video game technology over the last 50 years. Students will examine and discuss the impact of video games on culture and the economy. Students will learn about the current gaming and e-sports landscape, including strategies and techniques of top teams and individuals. This course will also discuss the risks and dangers of video games and understand how to set appropriate time and content parameters. Finally, the course will identify career paths and opportunities for those who are passionate about gaming.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students research the basics of gaming, from what makes games fun to what makes them work by exploring quality in a variety of games such as mental games, board games, and video games. *This course does not require students to know or learn a programming language. The emphasis is on the history and design of games and the different careers available in the gaming industry.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

“Getting into College” is an intensive course designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to navigate the college application process successfully. Through a deep dive into College 101 topics, including entrance requirements, standardized tests, and financial considerations, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to gain admission to their desired colleges or universities. With a specific focus on crafting compelling college entrance essays, students will hone their writing skills and develop three polished essays ready for submission. Additionally, students will explore colleges that offer programs aligned with their career aspirations, assess associated costs, and investigate financial aid options, scholarships, and other resources to make informed decisions about their higher education journey.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

“High-Demand Careers” is a dynamic course designed to introduce students to the diverse landscape of high-demand professions and empower them to make informed decisions about their future career paths. Through an in-depth exploration of high-demand careers, including their characteristics, industry trends, and evolving nature, students will gain valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges within these rapidly growing fields. From investigating job market demand and required skills to understanding salary expectations and career pathways, students will embark on a journey of career investigation, discovering the skills, qualifications, and pathways necessary for success in high-demand industries. With a focus on ethical considerations, work-life balance, and professional development opportunities, students will emerge equipped with the knowledge and confidence to pursue rewarding careers in today’s dynamic job market.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PREREQUISITES:  None

Students explore the principles and elements of design. Topics include: skills, roles and responsibilities of interior designers, specialties of interior design, history of design, design materials, furniture, accessories, and modern developments affecting interior design, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), universal design, and green design.

The course is aligned to the Fashion and Interior Design pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students explore career options in residential, commercial, and mobile design, getting credentialed, and networking in professional organizations. Topics include: leadership, group dynamics, codes of ethics, lighting, windows, walls, furniture, accessories, textiles, and floor treatments in residential and commercial designs as well as related information on materials, fabrication, and installation; review of the elements and principles of design, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and universal design.

The course is aligned to the Fashion and Interior Design pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

“Internship” offers students the invaluable opportunity to immerse themselves in real-world industry settings, providing hands-on experience and insight into their potential career paths. Throughout the course, students will be placed in local industries to shadow professionals for a designated number of hours. Leveraging their portfolios from previous courses, students will expand their networks by establishing contacts with local businesses for shadowing and potential internship opportunities. By the course’s end, students will reflect on their experiences, gaining valuable insights to inform their career aspirations and refine their career goals.”

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12   PREREQUISITES:  None

Introduction to Coding (1 of 2) introduces the basic syntax and logic of writing in JavaScript. Topics include: the three types of data: strings, numbers, and Boolean, and their variables; performing operations on variables; basic operations are followed by logic operations and control structures. The course concludes with using procedures to simplify repeated code

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7/8   PREREQUISITES:  None

Introduction to Coding (2 of 2) builds on the basic JavaScript concepts from Introduction to Coding (1 of 2) as it explores troubleshooting, testing, and debugging of programs. Topics include: the practices of different types of code documentation, as well as giving and receiving feedback from both users and other developers. The process of solving complex problems is modeled from beginning to end as problems are broken down into smaller pieces and addressed through planning, coding, and putting the pieces together to solve the larger problem 

 SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7/8   PREREQUISITES:  None

In Intro to Drawing, students will experiment with several different art materials and tools to see what each tool can do best. Students will explore ordinary things around them to become more observant of the structures and meanings of things which can be seen in their home and community. Your work will be your own study of the forms, textures, movements, and patterns of the things that you see everyday. Each project and each lesson is based on the one before it; so always do the lessons in the order they are given. Be sure to follow the directions exactly regarding which materials, sizes, and subject matter to use for each project. Each lesson will be a study of a new way of drawing. The examples given will show only the method and materials to be used, never the same subject or size as the project assigned. The examples are never to be copied. An example will only show one way of using the technique described. By becoming more observant, by experimenting with new materials, and by exploring a variety of methods, students will continue to grow in artistic skill and enjoyment. Beyond fundamental skills are various levels of creativity. Each lesson provides room for expressing the technical skill learned in a unique, creative way.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

This course is an introduction to mindfulness. Through it, students will learn the principles of mindfulness practice, develop their own mediation practice, and apply those principles to their daily life. They will learn strategies to skillfully work with thoughts, emotions, and sensations, while developing their capacity to enhance mind-body awareness of present-moment experience. They will study theory and research in the field of mindfulness and the emerging science that shows promising, beneficial effects for physical and mental health and well-being. This course is designed for beginners and is also suitable for those with experience who want to refine their practice. Classes consist of a combination of lecture, practice, and discussion.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12   PREREQUISITES:  None

This course is designed to prepare future educators for the classroom they will inherit. It starts with a history of education and how blended, adaptive, and personalized learning are coming to the forefront in learning. It then explores new and emerging technologies, along with their current and future impact on education. Throughout the course, students will explore a wide range of career possibilities in the education field and evaluate both the promises and pitfalls of technology in education. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12   PREREQUISITES:  None

This course is designed to prepare you to become a student of journalism and media. The work we do here will equip you with the critical skills you must have to succeed in high school media, college media, and beyond. We will read a variety of journalistic material and do a great deal of news writing. We will also look at journalism from legal, ethical, and historic vantage points. Expect to complete numerous writing activities in a variety of styles including editorial, hard news, feature, review, and more. If you participate actively, you will gain tremendous skills that will serve you for the rest of your life. Individual and group project will also be a part of this class. This course is a project based course and does not include traditional tests, unit level understanding is assessed through unit projects 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12   PREREQUISITES:  None

This course is designed to use the lessons learned from the beginning Journalism course. The work we do here will be used to publish the school newspaper, The Falcon Times. Expect to complete numerous writing activities in a variety of styles including editorial, hard news, feature, and more. Individual and group projects will also be a part of this class. This course is a project-based course and does not include traditional tests, unit level understanding is assessed through unit projects.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12   PREREQUISITES:  Journalism

Keyboarding focuses on the skills needed to improve typing speed and accuracy in order to format, type, and edit letters, articles, and reports. Topics include the proper hand and finger placement, posture, the touch-typing technique, file management, reliable electronic sources, as well as keyboarding and computer terminology. Course projects include a log to track typing progress and typing a research article. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7/8   PREREQUISITES:  None

Journalism courses (typically associated with the production of a school newspaper, yearbook, or literary magazine) emphasize writing style and technique as well as production values and organization. Journalism courses introduce students to the concepts of newsworthiness and press responsibility; develop students’ skills in writing and editing stories, headlines, and captions; and teach students the principles of production design, layout, and printing. Photography, photojournalism, and digital technology skills may be included.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12   PREREQUISITES:  None

This course option allows you to get academic credit for your Performance based activities. Students participating in this course option will be responsible for logging hours and activity descriptions and checking in with the course advisor on a regularly scheduled basis. This course may be taken up to two times per year. Talk to your School Counselor for details about enrollment.

NOTE: This course is pass/fail
SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students explore the interactions between businesses, consumers, and the economy as well as the role of marketing and how marketers get their information. The course culminates in the creation of a marketing plan.

The course is aligned to the Marketing, Sales and Services pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9 – 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

In Principles of Selling students explore the role sales plays in the national economy and the importance of ethical behavior in business. Topics include: how to build, train, motivate, and evaluate a sales team; the role of buying motives; the selling process; and the importance of data.

The course is aligned to the Marketing, Sales and Services pathway.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Psychology explores human behavior, behavior interaction and the progressive development of individuals. Topics include: major theories and orientations of psychology, psychological methodology, human growth and development, individual variation and personality, psychobiology, as well as sensation and perception.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students explore human social interactions, psychological therapies, and careers in the field. Topics included: psychological perspectives, positive relationships, social and cultural diversity, language structures, memory and cognition, psychological testing, statistical research, stress/coping strategies, and mental health.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

It seems like many elementary to high school robotics courses are focused on coding a simple robot to move its mechanical arm up and down. This course, in contrast, teaches students what a robot is and how it relates to other key technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. Then the course examines 10 Applications of robots and how they will change and impact various aspects of our lives and the economy. Will robots simply steal our jobs, or will they be a tool that will create new opportunities and even free humans to use our creativity and curiosity to their full potential? Students will grapple with this and many other questions as they explore this vital, future-focused subject.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12  PRE-REQUISITES: None

Scratch coding introduces the basics and logic of programming language in Scratch. Topics include introducing and using the different tools in Scratch; creating programs that include loops, variables, lists, or conditionals; and identifying and fixing errors in a program. The course concludes with putting the tools and concepts altogether to create a larger program. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7/8   PREREQUISITES:  None

Students enrolled in the Senior Project course have the opportunity to earn class credit for their real-time community service/project experience.  A wide variety of topics/projects are considered.  Students are expected to complete no less than 20 project hours, along with connected coursework, a reflective paper and presentation documenting the impact the project had on them.  *A Senior Project is required for high school graduation in Idaho and this course will fulfill this requirement if the student has not already completed a Senior Project in a prior school.

NOTE: This course is pass/fail
SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Whether it’s posting pictures, videos, or interacting in the metaverse, today’s students who aspire to apply their social media skills to business marketing must be prepared! This course on Social Media Business Marketing provides them with the foundational knowledge of social media technology and marketing principles. The course begins with an introduction to Social Media platforms and then goes in-depth into the marketing and advertising strategies used to support a company’s social media strategy and campaigns. Through activities and projects, students will gain firsthand knowledge of this exciting field. This course also prepares students for the Social Media Strategist certification.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Students hear a lot of contradictory advice in life. On one hand, they may hear something like “Follow your dreams. Pursue your passion and the money will come!” On the other hand, they may hear something completely opposite, like “Most startups fail! It’s much safer to get a safe, steady job.” So which side is right? Given the massive changes to the economy and society, the skills of entrepreneurship are going to be critical in building a lasting career. The entrepreneurial mindset of searching for opportunities, creating value, and solving pain points will always be valuable. And this mindset applies not just to starting a business, but in any organization that someone is a part of: school, established companies, or non-profits. In this course, students will explore how to use this mindset to create the next world-class startup.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12   PREREQUISITES:  None 

“Strategies for Success” is a comprehensive 30-lesson course designed to equip high school students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the digital learning environment. From mastering Google Drive and file management to developing advanced research techniques and honing professional communication skills, this course covers essential topics such as digital citizenship, time management, and online collaboration. Students will emerge with the confidence and proficiency to navigate online courses effectively, achieve academic success, and thrive in their future college and career endeavors.

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12   PREREQUISITES:  None

This course option allows students to get academic credit for extracurricular athletic activities. Students participating in this course option will be responsible for logging hours and activity descriptions and checking in with the course adviser on a regularly scheduled basis. This course may be taken up to two times per year. Talk to your School Counselor for details about enrollment.

NOTE: This course is pass/fail

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 7-12 PRE-REQUISITES: None

Pending Student Council is a course for students who seek opportunities to expand and deepen their group and individual leadership skills to positively impact their own lives and community. Building on collaborative skills and habits of mind, students will gain knowledge and expertise in leadership skills including goal setting, effective communication, organization, time management, and collaborative strategies. 

SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12   PREREQUISITES:  None

This course will allow you the opportunity to receive credit for developing your career skills while working at a job or internship (45 hour minimum over the course of the class) outside of school. Credit received will be applied to your electives requirement for graduation, and for each term completed, you will receive one credit. You must complete the required hours of activity and submit the required assignments to earn credit. You will submit a contract, provide weekly logs, a total log of time completed, and final essay. This course may be taken up to two times per year.

NOTE: This course is pass/fail
SUGGESTED GRADE LEVEL: 9-12 PRE-REQUISITES: None