Courses Offered

English I – 10 Units

English I is a course studying several of the foundational elements of the English language. Our study of literature takes a thematic approach to reading selections from several genre, including short stories, drama, poetry, and the novel. Other areas of study include grammar, vocabulary development, mastery of spelling and punctuation, and writing paragraphs and essays.

English II (World Literature) – 10 Units

Primarily for sophomores, this is a course which emphasizes the five basic literary genre – the short story, poetry, drama, the novel, and the essay – with selections from various cultures, ethnicities, and nationalities from around the world. Essay writing is response to literature is featured, as is vocabulary development. A semester-long research project will introduce Modern Language Association’s (MLA) format for research.

English III (American Literature) – 10 Units

Primarily for juniors, this course continues the study of the various literary genre with selections taken exclusively from American writers. Selections emphasize a historical timeline and major contributors to the literary heritage of the United States, particularly as viewed through the characteristics of the progressive literary periods. Again, a semester-long research project will be completed. Students will refine their MLA skills and learn American Psychiatric Association (APA) formatting as well. As always, vocabulary development will be an important focus.

English IV (British Literature) – 10 Units

Primarily for seniors, this is also presented in the contest of a historical and literary timeline with a focus on major contributors to English literature worldwide. In writing, the focus is preparation for college, including testing and writing for the college boards. There is a semester-long research project that employs the format outlined by the APA.

English Comp 101 & 102 – 10 Units

Prerequisite: Cumulative G.P.A. of 3.0 or better, no English grades lower than B, and an ACT English score of at least 21, and Reading score of at least 19 or curriculum committee approval.

This class takes the place of academy senior English but also earns college credit. Comp 101 (1st Semester) consists of an analysis of essays and literary works with an emphasis on synthesis of ideas, rhetorical modes, documentation skills, and revision. Comp 102 (2nd Semester) consists of writing argumentative compositions based on issues raised in essays and literary works with an emphasis on research skills, support, and revision. The main goal of both courses is to ensure that students develop effective written communication skills. Students making lower than B for the 1st semester in English Comp will not be allowed to take the second semester for dual credit and will be moved to English IV for the second semester.

We have worked with various colleges and universities to offer this class. In years when we do not have sufficient enrollment to offer this class on campus, we will seek to offer it online with one of our partner schools. Tuition for dual enrollment courses is in addition to regular Highland tuition.

Honors English III

This is not actually a separate class. Rather, there are additional requirements to English III or English IV that offer an honors component. To receive honors credit for either class, a student must complete additional assignments, fulfill additional time requirements, and create two semester long projects (one for each semester of the parent class) that are approved and directed by the English teacher. Upon completion of the additional honors requirements, the student’s transcript will state that the student received credit for Honors English III or IV and will receive an additional GPA point for the Honors English class. This point will only be added to the GPA if the student receives a grade of B or above for the Honors English class. A grade of B- or below will not receive the additional GPA point. Honors research and writing will use both APA and Chicago/Turabian formatting. There will be an Honors Symposium where students present their projects.

Art – 5 Units

This course introduces students to the Elements of Art and Principles of Design. Class time experiences will include a variety of media (pencil, ink, charcoal, sculpture, and paint). Students will demonstrate their ability to respond, to analyze, and to interpret their own artwork and the work of others through discussion and critiques.

Advanced Art – 5 Units

Art may be taken consecutive years with the permission of the instructor. Students in the Advanced Art class will develop major projects focusing on a chosen media such as sculpture or painting.

Bell Choir – 10 Units (Tour Group)

Bell choir is a performing organization in which students learn different techniques for ringing the hand-bells and how to read music. The bell choir schedules performances both on and off campus throughout the year. Uniforms will need to be purchased.

Choir – 10 Units (Tour Group)

Choir is a performing vocal ensemble designed to study choral music and to develop the art of ensemble singing and vocal technique. The choir performs in the Highland SDA Church and also performs several concerts a year at other locations. Uniforms will need to be purchased.

Drama - 5 units

Drama is a great opportunity for those who are talented or wish to develop their talent in acting, but it is also an opportunity for those who desire an outlet for their creative talents but prefer to be behind the scenes. We have students create and build sets, costume design and make-up, sound effects and sound board operations, and back-stage set up. There is something for everyone. There are 2 main performances each year with one 45-50 minute play first semester and one play performance during Academy Days with other smaller opportunities for skits during dorm worships

Band – 10 Units (Tour Group)

This course is open to any student with some proficiency on a brass, wind, string, or percussion instrument. Emphasis is placed upon ensemble techniques appropriate to each instrument and the performance of the best orchestra repertoire. Many sacred and secular concerts at Highland and on tours are given throughout the year. Admission is by audition/ invitation, and uniforms will be required for performances.

Private Music Lessons – 5 Units (per semester)

Private lessons are offered to both advanced students interested in developing skills in music and beginning students who wish to learn to play an instrument or sing for the first time. Lessons are available in the areas of keyboard, band instruments, and voice. Lessons are held weekly and require independent daily practice. (For lesson charges, see Private Lessons under the “Financial Information” section in the Handbook.)

Woodworking-Basics – 10 Units

This is a beginning class exploring the process of woodworking from tree to finished project. The students will learn to safely use the table saw, jointer, planer, band saw, and other wood shop equipment. There will be a lab fee to cover the materials and supplies for the student’s project.

Woodworking-Intermediate – 10 Units

This class is designed for those students who wish to further their knowledge and skills in woodworking. This more advanced class will cover other types of joinery and a more difficult student project. There will be a lab fee to cover the materials and supplies for the student’s project.

Algebra I – 10 Units

This course is designed to promote the foundation necessary for further studies in math and science. It stresses both the structure of algebra and the development of computational skills.

Algebra II – 10 Units

Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra I and passing score on placement test.

This course is a more extensive study of algebraic relations and functions, including linear, quadratic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Also included are complex numbers, matrices, and conic sections. A graphing calculator is recommended.

Geometry – 10 Units

This is a course in plane geometry, logic, and proof in which students develop the tools to effectively reason using deductive and inductive methods.

Pre-Calculus – 10 Units

Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra II, passing score on placement test, or instructor’s consent.

This course is an advanced math class about elementary functions and relations designed to prepare students for college-level calculus. This is intended for students interested in mathematics, engineering, science, medicine, and related fields. A graphing calculator is required.

Calculus – 10 Units

Prerequisite: C- or higher in Pre-calculus, or permission of instructor.

This is an advanced course meant for the advanced mathematics student. Calculus incorporates knowledge gained in all previous mathematics courses in the study of limits, differentiation, integration, their applications and more. A graphing calculator is required.

Senior Math – 10 Units

This course is a survey of math that covers a wide variety of topics. It also includes preparation for the ACT and SAT.

Spanish I – 10 Units

This introductory Spanish course emphasizes speaking, reading, and writing an international language. A study of grammar and the culture of Spanish-speaking people enriches the students’ understanding of this language.

Spanish II – 10 Units

Prerequisite: Spanish I

The second year of Spanish is the continuation of Spanish I with further emphasis on the three basics – speaking, reading and writing.

Adventure Education – Varies

A trip-based class in which students exercise and learn while doing outdoor activities. Trips may include such things as spelunking, backpacking, canoeing, and mountain biking. Credit is based on length of trip.

Gymnastics – 10 Units

Tour Group

This class emphasizes acrosports, cheerleading, stunts, and basic ground tumbling. Skill will be developed for performance on public relations trips. Team members are selected by tryouts. Elective credit is available for up to four years, however, only one year of PE credit is granted. This class counts for credit for a maximum of one year, and is not eligible for freshmen credit.

Health – 5 Units

This course is designed to develop knowledge, understanding, attitudes, and desirable practices related to personal and community health.

Personal Fitness (G.R.E.A.T. Club) – Varies

This is a course in independent PE stressing consistent personal exercise.

Physical Education I – 5 Units

This is a required course for freshman. The program consists of rules, fundamental skills, participation of team sports, and promotion of physical fitness.

Equestrian - 5 Units

See our horses page under the social tab

Advanced Equestrian - 5 Units

See our horses page under the social tab

Home Economics – 5 Units

This course focuses on the relationship between personal well-being, family, and community. Throughout the semester the knowledge and skills taught in other disciplines are applied to real-life experiences. Topics covered include nutrition, food preparation, menu planning, clothing and textiles, consumer education, and church involvement.

Maintenance for Life – 5 Units

This is a course designed to acquaint the student with simple home and automotive maintenance and repairs. Topics will include, but not be limited to, safety practices, proper selection of tools, and household electrical, plumbing, and structural systems, and HVAC and landscape concepts. Students will also learn the basics of automotive fuel and electrical systems, power train, brakes and chassis, and basic gas and arc welding techniques.

Personal Finance – 5 Units

This is primarily a senior course that follows the high school edition of Dave Ramsey’s Foundations in Personal Finance Curriculum, which seeks to empower students to make sound financial decisions for life. It includes lessons in the following areas: Saving and Budgeting, Credit and Debt, Financial Planning and Insurance, and Giving.

Religion I – 10 Units

This course is a study of the Bible as divine literature. It covers creation, the origin of sin, and family relationships, in conjunction with the complete book of Genesis. It is also a study of the life of Jesus Christ leading up to His crucifixion, as well as how to develop a personal relationship with Him as seen through the book of Matthew and the writings of Ellen White.

Religion II – 10 Units

This course is designed to help students understand God’s plan of redemption as revealed through His people throughout history. During the first semester, emphasis is placed on studying the Old and New Covenants within the context of the Sanctuary. During the second semester study is given to early church history and the early advent movement, including the life and work of Ellen White

Religion III – 10 Units

This course is an intensive study of both the fundamental beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation. In both sections emphasis is given to the relevancy of Scripture for Christians today.

Religion IV – 10 Units

This course consists of two areas of study – moral issues and marriage and family. The unit on moral issues involves the analysis of contemporary hot topics with which adolescents are faced. Emphasis is given to forming a moral framework that has the principles of Scripture as its foundation. The unit on marriage and family presents a study of Biblical principles pertaining to relationships and their application to dating, marriage, and family life in today’s culture.

Anatomy and Physiology – 10 Units

Prerequisite: Biology/Chemistry recommended, at discretion of the instructor

This course is designed for students who are interested in entering the fields of nursing, medicine or biology. Class work involves topics such as biochemistry, cytology, histology, and anatomy and physiology. Laboratory work includes the study of cells and tissues, physiology exploration, and dissections. There is a lab fee for this course.

Biology – 10 Units

This course can be broken down into two components: microbiology and zoology. Students will explore microbiology in a comprehensive unit on cell structure, function, homeostasis, and cell division. Studies will continue with a detailed understanding of DNA, basic genetics, human genetics, and biotechnology. The course concludes with a survey of the animal kingdom, incorporating aspects of all other units. Weekly labs reinforce concepts presented in class. There is a lab fee for this course.

Chemistry – 10 Units

Prerequisite: minimum of C in Algebra I. Algebra II is recommended or taken concurrently, at discretion of the instructor.

This course includes an in-depth study of quantum theory of atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, and solution chemistry. Lab techniques, mathematical calculations, analysis of data, and discussion of results are emphasized during laboratory work. A scientific calculator is required.

Physics – 10 Units

Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra II and Chemistry

This course examines the concepts of general physics through the use of mathematical models and practical everyday examples. Emphasis is placed on the problem-solving processes of science and mathematics. Lab experience is included.

Survey of Science – 10 Units

Survey of Science topics are astronomy, geology, ecology, environmental science, hydrology, chemistry, and physics.

American Government – 5 Units

Primarily for seniors, this course is designed to give students a basic understanding of the American political system, its roots and its workings today. Included is a study of the Constitution with its principles, implied and explicit rights, and the system of checks and balances, which balances the powers of the three branches of the government. The relationship of the U.S. to other nations and its International policies are studied along with current affairs, both on local and national levels. The class is designed to discover where information on governmental actions and issues can be found and to encourage thoughtful and educated opinions. Students will have a clear understanding of the rights and responsibilities required for good citizenship.

Economics – 5 Units

Primarily a senior course, this course is designed to be an introduction to economics. Emphasis will be on the Fundamentals of Economics, such as supply and demand, and the effect microeconomics has on individual and corporate decision-making. To give our study of economics a practical foundation beyond books and theory, guest lecturers will periodically share the role of economics in their lives and work, and students will be enrolled in the Stock Market Game (SMG), an online trading simulation.

United States History – 10 Units

Primarily for juniors, this class is presented in the context of a historical timeline, with an emphasis on major trends, themes, and developments in American life from the colonial period to the present. An examination of America’s growing power and influence on the world stage will be a major emphasis.

World History – 10 Units

Primarily for sophomores, this class explores the religions, languages, arts, politics, and economics of various peoples and cultures and how they have historically contributed to civilization. Special emphasis is given to God’s role in human events and to how He has and continues to influence human history.

Computer Literacy – 5 Units

This course is designed to give the student skills in the following areas: basic computer operation, e-mail, Internet use, word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, desktop publishing, and database mail-merge.

Computer Applications – 5 Units

Prerequisite: Computer Literacy, or instructor’s consent

This course is designed to give the student skills in the following areas: photo editing, audio editing, movie editing, web page development, computer programming, and computer hardware.

ACT Prep - 5 Units

Descriptions

Freshman Study Skills - 5 Units

Descriptions