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Unique Courses

Private Pilot/Ground School 1

Grade Level: 10-12

Length: YEAR

Class Fee: $300*

Prerequisite: None

This is a year-long course which integrates Private Pilot and Instrument Rating Ground School courses.  It is an exciting way to apply math and science and will prepare students to satisfy the mandatory requirements of passing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) written and oral examinations for the Airplane Private Pilot Certificate and Instrument Rating.  The FAA written exam results are good for two years from the date the exam is taken.

*Includes course and testing materials and one hour in the FMX Full Motion Simulator with an instructor.

Basic Leadership

Grade Level: 9-12

Length: YEAR

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: None

Leadership is a two-semester elective course designed to assist the development of leaders with a strong sense of who they are, where they are going, and the skills to get there. Unfortunately, all too often, students progress within groups, clubs, teams, to the next chronological grade and assume leadership responsibilities (by default) without the leadership skills and resources required for the position. Leadership will allow students to grow in character and vision, develop the use of new skills (tools) in order to be better prepared for the challenge of leadership. *Students who successfully complete this course qualify for advanced leadership opportunities on campus.

Capstone Project

Grade Level: 12

Length: YEAR

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: Set by detpartment

This course is an opportunity to demonstrate mastery in a given academic area for graduation purposes.

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Off Period

Grade Level: 12

Length: Semester

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: None

Off Periods are offered for 1st or 7th period during first semester.  A request must be made in December to the Senior counselor (by application) for additional off periods for second semester. The following guidelines must be met in order to be considered. 

  • By approval only

  • On track for graduation

  • Only 1 off period in first Semester

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Peer Tutor - English

Grade Level: 10-12

Length: Semester

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: Department Chair Approval - Application required

Link to Application: Click here

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Peer Tutor - Mathematics

Grade Level: 10-12

Length: Semester

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation 

Being a peer math tutor is an amazing opportunity to not only grow your math skills and gain leadership experience, but to also help others be more successful in math. It is also a great experience to add to your resume.

As a math tutor you will be expected to:

  • Have a strong knowledge of math

  • Build respectful student relationships

  • Give feedback to students and the teacher you are working with

  • Maintain flexibility

  • Maintain timeliness and good attendance

  • Take initiative and follow through with students

  • Stay organized

Student Council

Grade Level: 9-12

Length: YEAR

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: Application Only

Link to Application: Click here

"Promoting Excellence in Student Leadership through Measurable and Accountable Practices." NASC

The above mission statement from the National Association of Student Councils is the guiding principle for our Vista Ridge Student Council (VR StuCo), which oversee many of the school's large events. Through the various committees (Social, Assemblies, Spirit, Elections, and Recognition, Community Service, Advertisement) there are many avenues to travel down to grow in your leadership experience. VR StuCo oversees the planning and implementation of the following events throughout the year: Homecoming, Powder Puff & Peach Fuzz, The Harvest of Love Campaign, Class Competition, Pikes Peak Leadership Conference, Prom, and other community service activities. You will also have an opportunity to voice student opinions and concerns regarding school policy to the leadership of the building. VR StuCo is continually attempting to preserve the old VR traditions while at the same time creating new ones. We Are...VR StuCo!

Work Study

Grade Level: 11-12

Length: Semester

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: Passing grades in 9th and 10th grade Pathways and instructor approval. 

Students participating in Work Study will be eligible for a .5 practical art credit for every 75 hours of work they complete with a maximum 150 hours/single credit per semester. Students will need to have an existing job and will be responsible for documenting hours. During this course you will be required to: Regularly attend both school and workplace obligations. Maintain honesty, punctuality, courtesy, a cooperative attitude, proper health and grooming habits, appropriate attire, and a willingness to learn. Consult the teacher coordinator should any difficulties arise in the workplace. Conform to rules & regulations of the workplace. Complete all required reports & logs. Course Objectives: A primary objective of this course is for students to develop 21st century skills: critical thinking and reasoning, information literacy, collaboration, self-direction, and invention.

Yearbook

Grade Level: 10-12

Length: Semester

Class Fee: None

Prerequisite: Department Chair Approval - Application required

Link to Application: Click here

This is a year-long course in which students are responsible for the marketing and production of the high school yearbook.  In this course, students will learn to design layouts, write copy, proofread, and take photographs.  Students must be able to meet deadlines, sell advertising, and work independently or with groups.  This is a high-stress environment and students must be able to understand how to work and thrive producing excellent work.  Excellent writing skills are necessary; some photography experience and great computer skills are very beneficial, as well as students must not be afraid to talk to other students for interviews. Students will not be allowed to directly register for this course.  After applications are reviewed, students will be contacted if they are selected. 

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