HANDBOOK

VALMEYER HIGH SCHOOL

(2009-10)

Table of contents

Table of Contents.........................................................2

General Information.................................................... 3-5

Schedule Changes………………………………………   4

Graduation Requirements........................................... 5

Agriculture................................................................... 6

Business....................................................................... 7-8

Family and Consumer Science (Home Ec).................     9-10

Fine Arts.......................................................................11-12

Foreign Language......................................................... 13

Language Arts...............................................................14-15

Mathematics..................................................................16-17

Physical Education, Health, Driver Education........... 18

Science...........................................................................19

Social Studies................................................................ 20

Beck Area Vocational School Courses.......................... 21-23

Post-Secondary School Information................................24

GENERAL INFORMATION

TO STUDENTS AND PARENTS

This guidance handbook is a guide to courses offered at Valmeyer High School and to the requirements necessary for graduation.  It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they schedule the necessary course work for graduation and/or college preparatory requirements.  The purpose of this handbook is to enable students and parents to make the best educational program choices possible.

            In an effort to increase parent participation in the registration process, students are requested to discuss their course and career decisions with their parents.  Students are also asked to obtain parental approval of the course requests for next year before returning them to the Guidance Office.

            Parents who wish to become more actively involved in their student’s educational program are urged to contact the Guidance Office to schedule an appointment.

PRE-REGISTRATION PARTICULARS

The following procedures will be in effect for the registration of students:

1. Students should speak with their counselor, parents, teachers, and friends, and prepare for registration in a serious and sincere manner.  Eighth grade students attending Valmeyer Junior High will meet with Mrs. Karsten during second semester of their 8^th grade year and will complete their pre-registration during this time.  An evening meeting will be held for parents of eighth grade students from the junior high to help parents become more informed about the high school curriculum.

2. Sometime during the late fall/early spring semesters, each high school student will have an individual conference with the guidance counselor to plan the next year’s schedule.  At this time the student’s four-year plan will also be updated.

3. After all students have had their individual conference with the counselor, they will be given a form to fill out with their class requests for the following year.  This form will need to be signed by the student and the parents and returned to the guidance office.  Because of possible schedule conflicts, not all requests may be granted and alternate classes may be assigned.   Priority will be given to required classes.

4.         Students will receive their schedule for the following year before they leave for summer break.  The counselor will schedule two days in late July/early August for schedule changes.  ALL STUDENTS should be prepared to BEGIN CLASSES on the FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL.  Students who cannot attend these scheduled days for changes should call the Guidance Office and arrange a time to complete registration.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

A change of a student’s schedule is time consuming and complicated.  Teachers are employed, textbooks ordered, and rooms assigned on the basis of the number of students requesting various courses.  Therefore, very few schedule changes will be made at the summer registration.  If schedule changes are necessary during the year, the procedure is as follows:

1.         Discuss the proposed change with your counselor, your teacher and your parents.

2.                Students may add a class during the first 5 days of the semester if there is room in the class and prerequisites have been met.  After the 5^th day of classes, no changes may be made. 

3.                 Any class dropped after the 5^th day will result in an F for the course and will appear on the student’s transcript.

4.                 All schedule changes require parental approval.

STUDENT DAILY SCHEDULE

1.         A student may have no more than 1 full study hall, along with ½ study hall for those in either Band/Chorus. 

2.         Students may be excused from physical education under the following guidelines:

I.                    Juniors and seniors may be excused from P.E. under the following circumstances:               

                        A.         Involvement in interscholastic sports

a.         Fall Sports (Cross-Country, Golf, Soccer & Volleyball) can be excused from P.E. 1^st quarter.

b.         Winter Sports (Basketball & Cheerleading) can be excused from P.E. 2^nd & 3^rd quarter.

c.          Spring Sports (Baseball & Softball) can be excused during 4^th quarter.

·         Please Note: Credit is not given for those quarters that a student chooses to opt out of P.E.  This could affect overall GPA for those vying for Valedictorian/Salutatorian.

II.                 Students may be excused from physical education to take a course which they and the Principal agree will help in the preparation for post-secondary education.

III.               Students who are in jeopardy of not graduating on schedule may elect to take an academic class in place of physical education.

IV.               Students may be excused from physical education for medical reasons.  A written statement from a doctor is required.  This statement, which must state the length of time of the medical excuse, will first be shown to the teacher involved and then turned in to the Guidance Office.  The physical education teacher in conference with the student will determine if the student will be assigned to a study hall or be given supplemental activity in the class.  If sufficient class is missed to cause a loss of credit, that credit will have to be earned with other class work.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Number of credits needed for graduation: 24        

          Note: Although number of credits earned to date may be sufficient for graduation, students must meet certain graduation requirements regardless of credits earned.

          Also, remember that these are graduation requirements, not college requirements.  Every college has its own requirements.  See the guidance counselor for detailed information.

Classes required for graduation:

          4 credits of English

          3 credits of Social Studies (U.S. History, Geography, Intro to S.S., & Government are required plus either Economics, World History, or Contemporary History)

          3 credits of Math including Algebra I or IA & IB & a course with Geometry content.

          2 credits in Science

          Resource Management (4 years of Ag. will satisfy this or passing the Consumer Ed. Proficiency Exam)

          Driver’s Education/Career Awareness

          Health

          Keyboarding

          1 credit from Music, Art, Foreign Language, Vocational, or Humanities

          P.E. each year (exemption only by counselor or principal)

EARLY GRADUATION

Any student who has successfully fulfilled all the requirements for graduation will be allowed to graduate early. 

The guidance counselor must be notified in writing no later than the eleventh day of attendance during the semester in which the student will be graduating.  If the student is under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the notification.  Students who choose early graduation may participate in the end of the year ceremony if they attend practices.  It should be clearly understood that students who graduate at mid-term will be considered graduates and will not participate in student activities.

CORRESPONDENCE CREDIT

Students may have up to one credit (2 semester courses) accepted from an accredited correspondence school.  All costs related to the course will be the responsibility of the student.  Any student taking a correspondence course to graduate must complete the work so that the school receives a copy of the student’s grade ten school days prior to the scheduled graduation ceremony.  Valmeyer High School uses the University of Missouri Extension for correspondence courses.  See the guidance counselor to register.  Final approval must be granted by the principal.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)

Valmeyer High School uses a 4.0 scale to determine GPA. (A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0).  Class rank will be updated at the end of each semester.  Final class rank is based on the cumulative GPA after 8 semesters. 

Valmeyer High School will calculate honor roll for each grading quarter and semester.  High Honors will designate students with a GPA of 3.5 to 4.0.  Honors will designate students with a GPA of 3.0 to 3.49. 

AGRICULTURE

INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURE INDUSTRY

This course is designed for students in their first year of Agriculture.  The course covers computer literacy, FFA, Parliamentary Procedure, record books, and surveying the livestock, aquaculture, and crop industries.

AGRICULTURE SCIENCE

This course is for students in their second year of Agriculture.  It covers fertilizers, Parliamentary Procedure, water quality, Forestry, nutrition, arc welding, gas welding, aquaculture, crop judging, and genetics.

AG MECHANICS & TECHNOLOGY

This course is designed for students in their third or fourth year of Agriculture.  The course covers Parliamentary Procedure, land use, greenhouse production, electricity, and using microcomputers.

AGRICULTURE BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

This course is designed for seniors in their third or fourth year of Agriculture.  The course covers the planning of the program of activities, computer literacy, land use, record keeping, small engines, concrete, using credit, electricity and using insurance.  This course will be offered for dual credit at Southwestern Illinois College.

HORTICULTURE

This course is designed for Juniors or Seniors and will be offered for dual credit at Southwestern Illinois College.  It involves greenhouse production, turf management, Floriculture, and Pomology.

BUSINESS

KEYBOARDING & FORMATTING –  (First Semester course – Grades 9-12)

Develops basic keying skill techniques for operation of automated equipment.  Emphasis is on proper touch-keying technique for developing speed and accuracy.   Proofreading and formatting skills for business and personal use document production is emphasized. Some of the units of instruction include basic word processing activities, formatting letters, envelopes, memorandums, reports (standard and MLA with references & Works Cited), and simple and complex tables.  Students are instructed with the proper use of the computer numeric keypad.  Workplace skills, Internet Web Search activities, as well as communication skills are taught and integrated throughout the entire course.  An exit requirement is to key at least 25 wpm on 3-minute straight copy within the required error limit.

INFORMATION PROCESSING I – (Second Semester course) (prerequisite Keyboarding & Formatting – Grades 9-12)

Refines and enhances skills in keyboarding and information processing.  Emphasis is on developing more speed and accuracy.  Units include formatting arranged and unarranged copies of various styles of memos, letters, outlines, reports, tables, and other forms.  Intensive drills in  the computer numeric keypad, and  Internet Web Search activities, as well as communication skills are  integrated throughout the entire course.  All activities are more advanced from those introduced in Keyboarding & Formatting.  Students complete a unit in PowerPoint, as well as a Simulation workplace packet the final nine weeks to assess skill development.  A final unit involves job  preparation, keying and composing resumes, reference lists, application letters and forms, and post-interview follow-up letters.  An exit requirement is to key at least 35 wpm on 5-minute straight copy within the required error limit.

COMPUTER APPLICATIONS I & II – (Prerequisite:  Keyboarding & Formatting.  Semester courses for Grades 10-12, need not be taken in succession)

Orientation course designed to develop awareness and understanding of various types of application software and equipment for both business and personal use.  Units of instruction include Microsoft’s Word and  Excel for the first semester, and Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, and FrontPage for the second semester.  Students apply problem solving skills to hands-on, real-life situations as they explore introductory topics related to computer concepts and operating systems, progressing to mastery level.

ACCOUNTING I & II – (Grades 10-12; must be taken in succession)

Accounting I is a skill development course which familiarizes students with how to maintain financial records for various types of businesses in marketing and management areas.  The year course includes instruction for keeping financial records, summarizing them for interpretation, and analyzing them for decision making.  Personal financial accounting for consumer decision-making is also emphasized.  Computer applications are integrated in each chapter throughout the course and Simulation workplace sets are used to assess skill development.

Accounting II is the second-year course designed to prepare students who are interested in careers in accounting or other areas of business management.  Units of instruction are designed to be more comprehensive than Accounting I, including managerial, financial, corporate, and cost accounting.   Computer applications are integrated in each chapter throughout the course and Simulation workplace sets are used to assess skill development.

INFORMATION PROCESSING II & DOCUMENT PRODUCTION --  (Prerequisite:  Keyboarding and Formatting -- Grades 11 and 12 )

Students develop and enhance their skills with application software to produce various publications, including a monthly school newspaper, the school yearbook, and various other documents such as newsletters, brochures, informational flyers, music and sports programs, and menus. One unit involves presentation software with PowerPoint. Also introduced is Pagemaker and Josten’s Yeartech, in addition to instruction on scanners and digital photography used in preparing pages for the school yearbook.  Typography, photography, and proper layout and design of publications is emphasized in this course.  Students will apply proper grammar, punctuation, spelling, and proofreading practices to all documents and publications.  Accuracy will be emphasized and workplace skills as well as communication skills will be taught and integrated throughout this course.

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES I (not currently offered)

Family & Consumer Sciences I&II are designed to introduce students to 4 major areas of Family & Consumer Sciences: foods, clothing & textiles, parenting & child development, and interior design. Family & Consumer Sciences I will concentrate on foods.  Students will learn basic cooking terms and techniques as well as kitchen safety and sanitation.  Quick meals using conventional and microwave cookery will be taught.  Emphasis will be placed on nutrition and healthy lifestyles.  The course will provide lab experience in the following food groups: milk, cheese, eggs, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and quick breads.

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES II (not currently offered)

Family & Consumer Sciences I & II are designed to introduce students to 4 major areas of Family & Consumer Sciences: foods, clothing & textiles, parenting & child development, and interior design.  Students will learn about fibers and weaves and make a simple garment.  The course will teach principles of laundering clothes, rules of etiquette, making garnishes and preparing appetizers.  Child development, house designs and building plans, furniture placement, conflict resolution, family issues, and the importance of good choices will be discussed.  Homemade ice cream will be made in the spring.  It is recommended that students have previous credit in Family & Consumer Sciences I.

FOODS I

Foods I will teach concepts such as cleaning the kitchen, basic kitchen principles, and colonial & regional U.S. cuisine.  Students will learn to prepare rice and pasta, quick bread and yeast bread, pies and pastries, cookies, candies, and cakes.  It is recommended that students have previous credit in Family & Consumer Sciences I & II.

FOODS II

Foods II will teach professional cake decorating as well as the preparation of meats, poultry, and fish.  Appetizers will also be introduced and culminate with a hands on lab. The course will conclude with foreign foods.  Students will prepare foods from Latin America, Europe, the Mediterranean, China, Africa, and the Middle East. It is recommended that students have previous credit in Family & Consumer Sciences I & II, and Foods I.

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Resource Management is designed to teach economic systems, decisions, advertising, technology, fraud, rights & responsibilities of consumers, taxes, credit, budgets, investments, and insurance.  Special focus on banking, writing checks, and reconciling accounts is also included in the class.

CAREER AWARENESS

Career awareness is designed to help students explore themselves and various work opportunities that would fit their personalities, interests, and skill abilities.  Personality tests are connected to career possibilities.  Students will experience job-shadowing a person who has the career of their interest.  A college project helps students find the cost and requirements of post-high school training and helps students know what high school courses are needed to prepare for college.  Students will also consider ethics in the workplace and think about how they will implement those ethics themselves.

FINE ARTS

ART I

The first semester of this course covers basic principles of drawing and design. The second semester of the course places an emphasis on color theory, paiting, sculpture and ceramics.  A wide variety of materials are used and the course in a general exposure to visual art.

ART II

This course is an intermediate art class which builds from Art I and offers more advanced media techniques.  There is an emphasis on idea development and creative problem solving.

ART III

This course is a structured independent study course.  Students are given a quarterly syllabus which offers a mixture of teacher-developed and student-developed art assignments which they must complete on a quarterly basis.

ART IV

This is an independent study course for senior art students only.  Students develop and produce art pieces on an independent basis.  This course is primarily for the serious art student who is considering majoring in the Art field in college.  There are five required quality pieces which must be submitted each quarter for evaluation and grading.

MIXED CHORUS

 Enrollment in High School Chorus is open to all students who love to sing and wish to join.  Emphasis is placed on a variety of choral literature ranging from Madrigals to 21st century popular music.  The class meets 2 or 3 times per week in an alternate schedule with High School Band.  The chorus members form the nucleus of the cast and crew for the production of the all-school musical.  They participate in a variety of contests, concerts and community performances.  Attendance at required concerts and contests is essential and a part of the grade in the class.

BAND

High school band offers students the opportunity to perform music from
many musical periods and genres. Students are exposed to music history,
music theory, and performance practice applicable to music being
rehearsed. The high school band performs formal concerts each semester,
at selected home athletic events, music contests, local parades, and
other venues. Band students also have the opportunity to play in
additional groups such as jazz band and the musical pit orchestra.

MUSIC APPRECIATION (DESCRIPTION NOT YET AVAILABLE)

INTRODUCTION TO THEATER ARTS

Theater Arts is an introduction to all of the elements of theater production and theater history.  The class is interactive and students are able to experience not only acting, but also some directing and production techniques.  A field trip is taken each semester and a final project is required.  The class is open to juniors and seniors.  

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

SPANISH I

This is an introductory course to learning how to speak, write, listen, and read in Spanish. Although speaking is an emphasis in the class, there is a lot of grammar that will be introduced. We will start off with learning basics. For example, we will learn how to greet people, how to say our ages, and how to say what we like or dislike. As the year progresses, we will start to learn how to express ourselves in the past, present, and future. Likewise, the history and culture of several differing Spanish countries will be introduced.

SPANISH II

This course is a continuation of Spanish I.  From the start we will do a quick review of what was last covered in the previous year. Then, we will move on to a more in depth study of Spanish grammar and culture.  This class is primarily taught in Spanish; however, in the beginning, students are allowed to speak in  English. By the end of the year, students should be able to speak, write, listen, and read in Spanish with a limited degree. If you were to visit a Spanish speaking country, you should be able to survive.

SPANISH III

This course starts off with a huge review of what was learned from the previous years. After reviewing, we start off by learning to express our emotions, fears, and doubts. We will begin to move from “survival Spanish” to “conversational Spanish.” In this way, we will be able to actually share ideas and life experiences. Moreover, through reading and research, we will continue to learn about other cultures and their customs. Also, in this year, students have the privilege of teaching Spanish to the 2^nd graders.

SPANISH IV

This course has a quick review of past grammar, but then jumps into compound verb tenses. Spanish IV is an exciting class in which we will really focus on culture, speaking, reading, and writing.  Conversation is the key. The class will be taught in Spanish and students will be expected to speak only in Spanish as well.

LANGUAGE ARTS

ENGLISH I

Learning to write better, more developed sentences will be a major focus in this class. We will review the parts of speech and develop ways of including all of them in sentences. This knowledge will then be used when working on various writing assignments throughout the school year, especially when writing about the short stories that were read in class. We will also learn the process of writing a research paper, keeping the emphasis on learning how to avoid plagiarizing someone else’s work. Exposure to other types of literature will also be provided through the reading of mythological stories, The Odyssey, novel(s), and William Shakespeare’s writings.

ENGLISH II

Provides a variety of opportunities whereby students can become proficient in reading, writing, and listening.  Writing assignments are intended to further develop the skills and ideas encouraged in reading.  The form can vary from short, in-class writings to focused portfolios.  Students will be able to comprehend a variety of literary genres.  Grammar, vocabulary, and spelling skills are intrinsically reviewed and reinforced, so students may feel comfortable expressing themselves. 

SPEECH

This course will survey the various aspects of communication with an emphasis on developing public speaking skills.  Students will learn the basic elements of the communication process and the role each of these elements play in communication effectiveness.  Students will also develop their skills in speech preparation and performance competency as they prepare a variety of speeches.

ENGLISH III

Designed to prepare students for college entrance exams.  There is a strong focus on writing and literature, with an emphasis on proper grammar and vocabulary.  Students will receive preparation for the Prairie State Achievement Exam in writing and reading.  They will also learn how to effectively write for standardized testing.

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH IV (Honors) 1^ST SEMESTER

Prepares students for college-level writing courses.  This course is designed for students who can readily identify the parts of speech and sentence structure and who are ready to apply this knowledge to essay writing.  The students will also learn the writing process – prewriting, drafting, revision, proofreading, and publishing – as they increase their ability to write well.  It will also help students to broaden, deepen, and clarify their own thinking and require then to formulate and express these ideas in an organized and concrete form.

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH IV (Honors) 2^ND SEMESTER

Prepares the college-bound student for an understanding of American and British Literature.  A wide variety of authors and themes are explored throughout the semester.  The chosen novels and selections are used to examine American and British Literature from a historical and chronological perspective.  Students will complete various writing assignments with a focus on literary analysis.

ENGLISH IV

This course will focus on a review of grammar and vocabulary.  In addition, students will read a variety of short stories and novels of both American and British origin.  Students will also compose a research paper.  The course will also prepare students for the modern-day working environment and provide instruction and practice in English using business-related topics as its content base.  Includes a review of English grammar and its applications to practical writing format inherent in varied business settings.  Writing assignments focus on business letters, resumes, cover letters and expository writing.  Students will also learn interviewing skills as well as work place ethics.   

MATHEMATICS

ESSENTIALS OF MATH (IEP students only)

This course is designed to cover basic arithmetic, graphs, measurements, proportions, percents, word problems, problem-solving, basic geometry, area, volume, and exposure to Pre-Algebra concepts.

PRE-ALGEBRA (IEP students only)

This course is designed to produce a solid foundation for students wishing to progress to Algebra I.  The following subjects are covered: manipulating positive and negative numbers, solving and graphing inequalities, word problems, powers, rational numbers, mean, median and mode, solving two-step inequalities and equalities, relations and functions.

ALGEBRA IA & ALGEBRA IB

See description of Algebra I.  IA covers the first half of Algebra I in one year.  Algebra IB covers the second half of Algebra I in one year.  This course is designed for students to complete Algebra I over a two-year period and cover the material at a slower pace.

INFORMAL GEOMETRY (Will be offered in 2010-11 school year)

This course is the study of informal geometric concepts with emphasis on terminology, exploration, activities, and practical applications.  Prerequisite is a passing grade in Algebra I or a passing grade in Algebra IB.

ALGEBRA I

This course is designed for a foundation in the basic concepts and skills of Algebra.  Emphasis is on signed numbers, positive and negative exponents, linear equations, volume, surface areas, and word problems.

ALGEBRA II

This course provides practice in topics of Algebra I along with practice in middle level Algebra.  Emphasis is placed on similar triangles, quadratic equations, polar and rectangular coordinates, and right triangle trigonometry.

GEOMETRY

In this course, principles of logical reasoning are introduced before students develop deductive reasoning skills by writing to-column proofs.  Real-life applications illustrate geometric concepts.  Algebra concepts and skills are interwoven with the Geometry.  Trigonometry, ratios, area, volume, and similarity are also covered.

TRIGONOMETRY (Honors)

Practice in the fundamental skills of Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry, Logarithms, exponentials, and the graphing of sinusoids.  Heavy emphasis is placed on trigonometric equations and identities.  Other topics include matrices, conic sections, arithmetic and geometric series, and roots of polynomial equations.

CALCULUS (Honors)

This course is designed for prospective math majors and students interested in engineering, physics, business, or life sciences.  The course reviews previous math courses and emphasizes limits, continuity, derivatives, differential, integrals, and related topics.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH/DRIVERS ED.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

This course is designed to continue to give students the opportunity to gain personal fitness skills and knowledge through an enriched Physical Education program. Students will be empowered to make choices, meet challenges and develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness and movement activity for a lifetime. Emphasis is placed on students developing a personalized fitness program for a healthy life-style through various sport and fitness activities.

ATHLETIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION

This course is designed to develop power, strength, speed and agility through intense weightlifting exercises and plyometric drills.  Students will form a foundation for improving their physical and mental strength, as well as their speed and agility, in an athletic setting.  Furthermore, students will meet and exceed challenges in the class through teamwork and positive motivation from other students. 

Students that give as much effort as they can will see a positive increase in their overall health.  In addition, athletes will see an encouraging change in their strength, speed, and agility, which will give the athlete and abundant amount of confidence in their respective sport.

HEALTH

High school health education provides the basis for continued methods of developing knowledge, concepts, skills, behaviors, and attitudes related to student health and well-being. This course includes the major content areas in a planned, sequential, comprehensive health education curriculum as expressed in the Illinois State School Code:  (1) Human Growth and Development; (2) Mental and Emotional Health; (3) Community and Environmental Health; (4) Nutrition; (5) Human Sexuality; (6) Relationships; (7) Alcohol and Other Drugs Education; (8) Adult, Child, and Infant CPR; and (9) Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

Students are provided with opportunities to explore the effect of health behaviors on an individual’s quality of life. This course assists students in understanding that health is a lifetime commitment by analyzing individual risk factors and health decisions that promote health and prevent disease. Students are also encouraged to assume individual responsibility for becoming competent health consumers. A variety of instructional strategies, including technology, are used to further develop health literacy.

DRIVER’S EDUCATION

This course is designed to give each student an opportunity to learn classroom information that can be applied to the actual driving process.  Emphasis is placed on signs, traffic signals, laws, social approval, map reading, perception, alcohol, fatigue, car insurance, and vehicle insurance.

SCIENCE

EARTH SCIENCE

This course is the study of astronomy, meteorology, oceanography and geology.  Topics include characteristics of the solar system; history of astronomy and space exploration; the atmosphere and weather patterns; Earth’s composition, structure and types of landforms; topography; the physical characteristics of the ocean, composition, movement and floor.

BIOLOGY

Biology is the study of living things.  Emphasis is placed on the scientific method including lab procedures, use of microscope, basic chemistry, structure and function of cells, genetics, animal behavior, ecology and biomes, and plan and animal classification.  The anatomy of three species is introduced through the dissection of a worm, a frog, and a fetal pig.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (Honors)

Anatomy and Physiology is the study of human body structural design and function of the body systems.  Emphasis is placed on body orientation, basic chemistry, structure and function of cells and tissues, skeletal system, muscular system, digestive system with minor emphasis on respiratory system, circulatory system, urinary system, reproductive system, and endocrine system.  Cat dissection accompanies each system study.  A small unit uses human anatomy for forensic entomology study.

CHEMISTRY

This course focuses on the study of the properties of matter, chemical reactions, nuclear reactions, structure of atoms and molecules.  Emphasis placed on atomic structure, electron configurations, and classification of chemical reactions, molecular shape, the mole, stoichiometry and heat in chemical reactions.

PHYSICS (Honors)

This course looks at the science of the relationship between matter and energy.  Emphasis is placed on linear and projectile motion, laws of motion, momentum, energy, rotational mechanics, gravitational interactions, electrostatics, and electric field and potential.

                                    SOCIAL STUDIES

INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL SCIENCE

This class takes an introductory look at the wide variety of curriculum in the social studies field.  The class focuses on the basics of the following classes-economics, sociology, history, geography, government, and psychology.  Social studies skills such as map reading, understanding charts and graphs, interpreting political cartoons and critical thinking will be emphasized.  Recommended for Freshman.

GEOGRAPHY

The 5 geographic themes of location, place, human-environment interactions, movement and regions are emphasized.  Students examine news events from a geographic perspective.  They study the physical and cultural aspects of regions in both the U.S. and the world and then try to determine the influence of geographic patterns on the event.  Working with maps and atlases is an important part of the class.  Recommended for Freshman.

WORLD HISTORY (not currently offered)

The course begins with prehistoric man from approximately 2 million B.C. up through 1500 A.D.  (Renaissance Reformation).  The semester features study guides, skits, maps, games and applicable technology for support.  This course is recommended for underclassmen. 

AMERICAN HISTORY

A year long course that will take an overview of the events that have occurred since 1861.  Major emphasis will be placed on the Civil War, The 2^nd Industrial Revolution, the Age of Imperialism, World War I, Depression Era and World War II.  Recommended for Juniors.

GOVERNMENT

Government is an in-depth class where students will learn about the formation of U.S. republic as well as numerous current events around the globe.  The class also focuses on the U.S. Constitution, the Illinois Constitution, and the Flag Code as required by the School Board for graduation.  Recommended for Juniors or Seniors.

CONTEMPORARY HISTORY (Honors)

A one-semester course that looks at some of the major events that have transpired since 1945.  Major areas of concentration will include the Cold War, the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, the Reagan years, the Persian Gulf War, and the rise of Extremism.  Recommended for Juniors and Seniors. (A “B” average or higher is required in American History as a prerequisite for this course, unless given permission by instructor).

ECONOMICS

Economics is the study of the choices and decisions people make about how to use the world’s resources.  Students will make economic and business related decisions through a variety of activities which include developing a stock portfolio.  Recommended for Juniors and Seniors.

BECK AREA CAREER CENTER

Beck Career Center is located east of Hecker and students will miss 3^rd-5^th period at Valmeyer High School to attend vocational classes.  They will be transported by the school van at the end of 2^nd hour and return by 6^th hour.

AUTO BODY I & II

In the auto body program, students will learn the use of hand tools, painting, basic beginning straightening procedures, removing and replacing trim, welding, safe work practices, how to work as a team and other employability skills.  Advanced students will be doing frame straightening, overall paint jobs, welding, sectioning of frames and structural components.  In general, students will be exposed to all the skills required to become an auto body technician.

AUTO MECHANICS I & II

            This course provides experiences related to maintenance, repair and servicing of a variety of transportation and maintenance equipment.  Planned learning activities will allow students to become knowledgeable of fundamental principles and methods, and to develop technical skills related to auto mechanics and gasoline engine repair.  Instruction will include safety principles and practices; combustion engine principles; maintaining, servicing and repairing different types of transportation and maintenance vehicles.  The latest automotive training equipment is complimented with modern teaching methods and a competency based curriculum.  Desirable work attitudes and patterns are stressed.

CHILD CARE I & II

Child care is designed to train students to work as aides in preschools and day care centers.  The students will study principles of childcare and learn how to plan developmentally appropriate activities.  An overview of other careers in childcare will also be provided.  Practical experience is in the on-site preschool, which meets three (3) days a week.  Students planning to advance in childcare careers will need to continue their education at a community college or a four-year university.

With instructor permission, highly motivated juniors may return during their senior year as Child Care II students. In addition to more instruction in childcare principles, they will assume additional responsibilities such as planning and leading the activities in the on-site lab.

COMPUTER GRAPHICS & WEB PAGE DESIGN I & II

 The Computer Graphics & Web Page Design class covers business applications using several graphic and Web creation programs.  Students will be using a Windows XP Professional environment and studying computer graphics, animation, HTML programming, desktop publishing, advertising, photo editing, illustration, and Web page design.

The second-year course covers advanced Web page creation, advanced computer programming for Web pages, weekly publications, and possible Web page construction with a business partner.  Internships may also be available.

The computer lab is equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and software applications including color laser printing, personal computers, flat screen graphic monitors, and a continuous Internet connection through a T1 line.

                A tentative agreement with Hickey College and Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) is being developed so that Computer Graphics and Web Page Design can be offered as a dual credit course.

ELECTRONICS I & II

Students learn basic current and alternating current circuitry; discrete semiconductors; transistor theory; how to work with linear and digital integrated circuits; use of volt ohmmeters, oscilloscopes, frequency counters, and specialized test equipment; and troubleshooting of all types of electronic circuits, using technical references.  They also study computer circuits, which include basic logic gates, shift registers, counters, decoders, A/D and D/A converters, and learn to program microprocessors.  Every opportunity is taken to allow the student, when ready, to repair electronic equipment such as microwave ovens, VCR's, etc.  A unit on residential wiring includes basic home security systems and how they function.

            This is currently a dual credit course through Southwestern Illinois College where students can earn up to 12 hours of college credit during the two year program. (EET111, EET101, GT104)

HEALTH OCCUPATIONS I & II

This class is offered to students who have an interest in entering the health occupations field.  The class will combine various learning techniques such as those of observation, participation, visitation, and exploration.  The content of the course shall include combined classroom experiences and supervised clinical learning experiences in designated long-term care facilities and other health agencies.

The course will expose students to a survey of the many different careers in the health fields, basic medical knowledge, and a concentration of study in the area of health-care aide.  During the course of study, the student will actually work in a long-term care facility under the supervision of the teacher and other nursing personnel.

This is currently a dual credit course through Southwestern Illinois College where students can earn up to 9 credit hours of college credit during the two year program. (HRO105, HRO100)

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING REPAIR & INSTALLATION (NEW FOR 2009-10)

This course will explore opportunities in sheet metal, HVAC equipment design, installation, repair and estimating.  Students will develop skills in the practical welding, soldering and brazing of copper, aluminum and steel tubing.  They will receive an introduction to residential air conditioning and heating controls.  They will also study the repair of single unit portable air conditioners with an emphasis on checking the compressor and air circulator. 

Students will also receive instruction in basic refrigeration theory and component application as well as refrigerant recovery and recycling processes.  They will learn the processes involved in the installation, maintenance, and repair of various heating systems. 

LAW ENFORCEMENT I & II

This is an introductory course, preparing students to enter the field of law enforcement or any related area.  Students will be introduced to patrolling techniques, field operating observations and perceptions, communicating with the public, radio communications, reporting, and records.

Instructions will also include questioning procedures, legal rights, routine police procedures, crime investigations, pursuit and arrest.  Students will study search and custody procedures as well as police demonstrations, tours, and local shadowing.

This is currently a dual credit course through Southwestern Illinois College where students can earn up to 6 credit hours of college credit during the two-year program (AOJ100, AOJ 151)

WELDING I & II

This program is designed for students who are planning a career in industrial or production welding, farm machinery repairs, or private business.  Students will be exposed to expert training in a variety of welding processes, equipment, materials, techniques, welding positions and trade terms.  The student will gain extensive hands-on experience and knowledge and learn employer-employee relationships in preparation for the job market.  The program teaches a student skills in the following areas:  shielded metal arc (stick) of mild steel and stainless steel; gas metal arc (mig) of mild steel and aluminum; gas tungsten arc (tig) of mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum; flux core arc (dual and self shield) of mild steel; plasma cutting and welding; and oxy-acetylene hand and automatic cutting.  The air-carbon arc gouger is also used regularly.

First-year students concentrate on flat, horizontal, 45 degree, vertical and overhead fillets on plate and pipe.  Second-year students work with bevel plates in the flat, horizontal, 45-degree vertical and overhead positions with all the processes.  Stainless steel and aluminum welding skills are also gained with the mig and tig processes.

Each year BACC students compete and score very well in the state written and welding Vocational Industrial Club of America (VICA) skills competition.  The instructor and students are also involved in the St. Louis American Welding Society (AWS) sectional activities.

This is currently a dual credit course through Southwestern Illinois College where students can earn up to 11 credit hours of college credit during the two-year program. (WLDT101, WLDT152)

OPTIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

            Students who are 16 years of age or older who are experiencing academic difficulties at VHS may apply to attend Beck Career Center full time.  Students are enrolled in one vocational/technical class and four academic classes each semester.  Students may re-enroll at VHS at the beginning of any semester.  Mid-semester transfers are not permitted.  If optional education students have never attended Valmeyer High School, they must attend VHS for their final semester if they are to receive a VHS diploma.

PREPARING FOR POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION

            The courses you take in high school can have a marked impact on your chances for success in life after high school.  Colleges and universities in recent years have put increasing emphasis on the “core curriculum” for students pursuing a “college prep” type course of study.  These courses include math, English, social studies, science, and foreign language and other electives.

            Vocational and technical schools, in an effort to have their students better prepared to do the course work in their schools, are also recommending a “core curriculum”.  This “tech prep” curriculum includes math and science courses beyond regular graduation requirements in addition to traditional vocational classes.  Some “tech prep” programs will actually grant college credit for a high school course in order to further encourage students to take some of these more challenging classes.

COLLEGE PREP

            The Illinois State Board of Higher Education, following this trend, has established minimum course requirements for all state universities and colleges.  The requirements listed below are the ones implemented by all public two and four year colleges in Illinois.  Since they vary slightly from school to school, it is necessary to check a school’s requirements individually to find its exact course requirements.

4          English (Emphasizing written and oral communication and literature)

3          Social Studies (Emphasizing history and government)

3          Mathematics (Algebra, Algebra II, Geometry, Trigonometry, Calculus)

3          Science (Must be laboratory sciences)

2                     Electives in Foreign Language, Music, Drama, Vocational Class or Art 

Some universities will excuse students from their foreign language requirements when they have 3 or 4 years of high school foreign language.  Some universities also have fine art requirements and additional math requirements.

1          Visual or Performing Arts  (Many colleges in neighboring states are now requiring one credit of band, chorus, art, art appreciation or drama).

IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT TO MAKE SURE THEY HAVE TAKEN THE APPROPRIATE HIGH SCHOOL COURSES REQUIRED BY THEIR SPECIFIC COLLEGE PROGRAM OR TECHNICAL SCHOOL