Across all Arts CTE Exploratory Career Technical Education This course will introduce students to various career paths so they can make a more informed decision in the future. Arts, drama, music, dance, business and health.
CTE Arts Management (recommendation) Students will learn all aspects of how to organize and manage the “house” for a performance/exhibition. Internships, job shadows, portfolios and juries will also be included.
Visual Art Art Beginning Introductory course in drawing, design, color theory and painting. The emphasis is on basic skills and understanding art fundamentals and the creative process Art Advanced Continuing the principles learned in beginning art through more challenging assignments Computer Art Using the computer to create art. Basic art principles are taught and transferred to the computer Design Studio 1/2 Students will produce a portfolio of artwork that shows a strong foundation of artistic knowledge as well as a command of artistic skills and techniques Design Studio 3/4; 5/6; 7/8 Continued skills development for the advancing artist through a wide variety of visual art mediums; drawing, painting, sculpture etc. 3D Design Introductory art course in two- and three-dimensional design which addresses the combination of sculpture, three-dimensionality, and design using various media, including clay, wire, fiber, plaster, printmaking, paper mache, etc. AP Art Studio Creating a professional portfolio of a minimum of 24 art pieces for submission to the AP College board AP Art History Students will examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression throughout history from a variety of cultures at a collegiate in depth level Art Appreciation Students will examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression throughout history from a variety of cultures CTE TV, Film and Digital Media: TV, Film and Digital Media focuses on the many facets of planning and shooting digital videos. Students will gain real-world experience in the various roles involved in video pre-production, production and post-production. CTE Intro to Graphics– Similar to CTE Multimedia but will focus more on the development of product. CTE Movie Making Advanced – (recommendation) – for advanced students building skills from TV Film and Digital Media. Students will develop hands-on skills in all aspects of movie making CTE Multimedia:Provides students with an overview of basic multimedia concepts and software Prepares students for further study in TV Film, Photography, visual art and/or printmaking 1. Photography Beginning Students will become well rounded in the fundamentals of digital photography. How cameras work, how composition works, how lighting works, and how to use Adobe Photoshop for editing will be emphasized. Photography Advanced Students will employ all of the techniques learned in Beginning Photography, but with greater emphasis on lighting, creativity, group posing, portrait posing, ambient lighting, studio, and professional acumen. CTE Print Making 1– This course will teach students the business of screen printing and signage using state of the art equipment. Hands-on projects will be emphasized. Interest/experience in art is recommended. CTE Print Making 2 – Students will build upon the skills and techniques learned in Print Making 1. Real world experience will include all aspects of running a print business of their own from orders to creation to production all while getting hands on experience running the SCPA print shop. Dance CTE Baile Folklorico Beginning - Students will learn the basic skills and techniques of the different regions of Mexico. CTE Baile Folklorico Intermediate (recommendation)- Students will build upon the basic skills and techniques learned in Beginning Ballet Folklorico CTE Baile Folklorico Advanced – (audition only) Students will build upon the basic skills and techniques learned in Beginning and Intermediate Ballet Folklorico to become accomplished performers of every style and region CTE Baile Folklorico Advanced Performing Group – (audition only) Students will continue to build upon advanced level skills. This group will be performance oriented. Theater Dance 1Introductory level for the student who has little to no background or training in dance, designed to assist students with developing a technical understanding of dance. In this class students will learn basic ballet, jazz, musical theater, hip hop, traditional/recreational, modern, and tap technique. Theater Dance 2Intermediate Continuing development of skills and techniques for the student who possesses basic training in dance, designed to assist students with developing technical accuracy in dance. Theater Dance 3Advanced Continuing development of skills and techniques for the student who possesses beyond basic training in dance, designed to assist students with developing technical accuracy. Dance Force – (audition) Developing technical proficiency and aesthetic sensitivity will be emphasized in preparation for a career in dance in real world settings. Emphasis: Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Theater CTE Dance Choreography Advanced (MPulse) (audition) Developing technical proficiency and aesthetic sensitivity will be emphasized in preparation for a career in dance in real world commercial settings. Emphasis: Hip-hop and Theater. CTE Dance ChoreographyBeginning - Introductory level for the student who has little to no background or training in dance, designed to assist students with developing a technical understanding of dance and movement. Emphasis, basic dance vocabulary and movement through space and hip-hop.
Theater Drama Beginning Basic techniques of acting and the more practical side of preparation, this course is applicable for both those who want to break into the acting world and those who want to reach their maximum potential in their professional lives. Drama Intermediate Building on the skills learned in Beginning Drama, increasing proficiency in movement, vocal work, scene work, monologues, and improvisation acting skills, play analysis, scene study, monologues, and performance Drama Advanced (recommendation) Building on the skills learned in Intermediate Drama, skills include, but are not limited to: confidence, creativity, collaboration, communication, and commitment. This course explores the production side of the theater as well as further proficiency in acting. Drama Production– (Audition only) Student focus will be on continued artistic development and theatre technique with further training in either acting or directing/stage management. In this course, students will deepen their study of the wide range of knowledge demanded by theatre and mature personally as they apply their knowledge in the development of an artistic ensemble through daily classroom activities and performances. Musical Theater (audition/recommendation) Students will work on combining singing, dancing/movement and acting techniques in a workshop atmosphere including auditioning. Fashion and Costume Design and Construction 1 – Learn the basics of hand and machine sewing through the study of relevant fashion and the creation of costumes. Fashion and Costume Design and Construction 2 (successful completion of level 1) – Learn advanced techniques and skills of hand and machine sewing through the study of relevant fashion and the creation of costumes. CTE Stage Technology Beginning Learn to operate theatrical equipment and build sets using basic construction tools and use these skills to provide technical services for a wide variety of programs. CTE Stage Technology Intermediate (recommendation) Building on the skills learned in Beginning CTE Technical Theater Management and Design (previously - Stage Technology 5-6’ recommendation) Students will build upon previous stage skills and begin the design process. Projects will include working in teams with the advanced Music Engineering students and working to create, design and run shows and meeting throughout campus. There may be opportunities to travel with performing groups to run shows.
Music Music Theory – Learn the basic language and structures of music. Includes learning how to read music and actively listen to music. Music Engineering Music Engineering Beginning Students will learn the basic skills of sound design and production Music Engineering Intermediate Continuing skills development, desktop production, signal flow, effects, mixer configurations etc. Music Engineering Advanced Continuing skills development in the entire recording and sound production process. Projects include providing technical services for a wide variety of programs.
Bands, Percussion, Color Guard Concert Band For woodwind and brass musicians with at least one year of previous band experience, and are new to the high school program. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band required. Cadet Band Beginning Level class. For new students interested in learning how to play a brass or woodwind instrument. No experience necessary. Does not need to be concurrently enrolled in Marching Band. Group performs throughout the school year. Wind Ensemble(audition) For advanced woodwind and brass musicians, enrollment allowed via audition. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band required. CTE Marching Arts 1,2,3 – For percussion and Colorguard students Concurrent enrollment in Percussion Ensemble required. Marching Band - Concurrent enrollment in Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble and/or Marching Arts 1,2 or 3 required. Percussion Ensemble For students wishing to learn how to play percussion instruments (drums). No experience necessary. Students that have played percussion in previous band settings enroll in this class as well. Concurrent enrollment in Marching Band required. P.E. Rhythm and Movement Marching Band class, taught with the P.E. High School Course II tenth grade curriculum. 10th graders that passed their Freshmen Fitness Gram can receive P.E. credit. Color Guard members are enrolled in this course via audition. Concurrent enrollment in Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and/or Percussion Ensemble required.
Choirs, Show Choir, Vocal Choir Mixed– Beginning (Spartan Choir) This non-auditioned choir is designed to introduce and develop basic singing techniques, sight-reading skills, and basic music theory concepts. No previous singing experience is required, and all are welcome regardless of skill. This group sings a wide variety of music including traditional choral, jazz, pop, and music in different languages. Choir Mixed Advanced – Advanced Chamber Choir (New Renaissance) This 25-30 voice mixed auditioned choir builds upon the musicianship and vocal techniques in beginning choir (Spartan Choir) through rehearsal, analysis, composition and improvisation, and public performance of chamber choral literature in a variety of styles at a higher and more complex level. Choir Treble Advanced– Advanced Treble Choir (Silhouettes) This 25-30 voice auditioned ensemble consists of exclusively Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, and Alto voices. Building upon the musicianship and vocal techniques in beginning choir through rehearsal, analysis, composition and improvisation, and public performance of treble choral literature in a variety of styles at a higher and more complex level. Show Choir – Advanced Show Choir (Main Attraction) This 30-40 voice mixed auditioned show choir focuses on singing, dancing, and acting. This group performs, tours, and competes against high school schools across Southern California. They perform specifically in the styles of classic and contemporary popular music, musical theater, vocal jazz, and collegiate-style a cappella. This group also features a student band (Main Distraction) that is open to any students interested, as well as tech students that assist in the set up of all concerts as well as tour with the ensemble.
Guitar Guitar Beginning Learning basic guitar techniques, music reading skills, fundamentals of music theory and harmony, while developing personal practice habits and performance etiquette. Guitar Intermediate Continued development of basic guitar techniques, music reading skills, comprehension of the fundamentals of music theory and harmony, as well as personal practice habits and performance etiquette. Advanced Guitar Students continue developing skills in the following areas: note-reading, music theory, chords, alternate fingerings, techniques including hammering on, pulling off, bending and various picking styles. Students learn music written in 1, 2 or 3 parts, played as a small group or as an entire class.
Instrumental Ensemble - House of Guitars, or “H.O.G.”,(audition) This one-of-a-kind guitar ensemble plays a wide and challenging variety of musical styles—classical, jazz, classic rock, folk, blues—divided into multiple parts in much the same way as a string orchestra. This group has many and varied performances throughout the year, here at school events and all around San Diego County. Students must audition in order to enroll in House of Guitars.
Mariachi Mariachi Beginning - Developing basic technical proficiency and professional musicianship skills through the study of music composed expressly for Mariachi Ensembles. (Trumpets should take Beginning Band instead) Mariachi Intermediate (recommendation) Continued development in technical proficiency, aesthetic sensitivity and professional musicianship skills through the study of music composed expressly for Mariachi Ensembles. Students will encounter a wide range of "Mexico's traditional music” Mariachi Advanced (audition - Mariachi Chula Vista) Continued development in technical proficiency, aesthetic sensitivity and professional musicianship skills through the study of music composed expressly for Mariachi Ensembles. Students will encounter a wide range of "Mexico's traditional music”
Orchestras String Orchestra Beginning – Learning the proper playing techniques, theory, musicianship, and ensemble playing of a string instrument String Orchestra Intermediate(audition/recommendation) Continued development of string instrument technique and musicianship, as well as the development of personal practice habits and performance etiquette. Standard orchestral compositions are studied for performance String Orchestra Advanced(audition/recommendation) Continued development of string instrument technique, musicianship, as well as the development of personal practice habits and performance etiquette. Standard orchestral compositions are studied for performance Symphonic Orchestra - Advanced – (audition/recommendation) Continued development of instrument technique, musicianship, as well as the development of personal practice habits and performance etiquette. Standard orchestral compositions are studied for performance.
Piano CTE Piano Beginning provides students with no prior musical instrument experience the opportunity to learn to play the piano in both solo and ensemble settings. Students will also receive instruction in introductory level music history, career opportunities, appropriate performance behavior and equipment care. CTE Piano Intermediate – (recommendation) Building upon the musicianship and techniques of the beginning class CTE Piano Advanced – Continue building upon the musicianship and techniques through more advanced assignments
World Language Spanish 1-2; 3-4; 5-6; 7-8 These courses are designed to develop and progressively increase the student’s listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the Spanish language. Depending on the level, emphasis is placed on listening, speaking skills, and comprehension. Student will acquire and increase knowledge and appreciation of Spanish speaking nations and cultures. Spanish for Spanish Speakers Spanish for Spanish Speakers is designed for the student who has an oral facility in the language and who seeks to develop or improve his/her reading and writing skills. AP Spanish Language Concentrated preparation for the AP exam in May is the focus of this high-level college preparatory course. Students should be fluent speakers with well-developed skills in reading, writing, and translation. AP Spanish Literature In this course, students will use their oral and writing Spanish skills to read and analyze Hispanic literature. The student will be provided with content comparable to a college level introductory course in Hispanic literature, therefore, competence in listening, comprehension, speaking reading and writing are prerequisites. Concentrated preparation for the AP exam in May is the focus. French 1-2; 3-4; 5-6; These courses are designed to develop and progressively increase the student’s listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the French language. Depending on the level, emphasis is placed on listening, speaking skills, and comprehension. Student will acquire and increase knowledge and appreciation of French speaking nations and cultures. AP French This course is equivalent to an intermediate college-level French course. Students are introduced (or review) vocabulary and grammatical structures in context. The three modes of communication (Interpersonal, Interpretive, and Presentational) defined in the Standards for Foreign Language are foundational the AP French Language and Culture course. Students who enroll in this course should already have a good command of the grammar and considerable competence in listening, reading, speaking and writing.
NON-Departmental AVID 9,10,11,12 Preparing for college through study skills, organization, career exploration and campus visits Academic Decathlon ASB (Associated Student Body- election or interview) All officers, commissioners, and co-commissioners meet daily to plan school activities and to complete ASB projects
Criminal/Civil Law Focuses on specific legal problems faced by young citizens: drug abuse, family law, school law, crime and violence, juvenile court jurisdiction and procedures, death and dying, and corrections.
Business Computer Fundamentals Students will learn Computer basic hardware & software knowledge, Internet use. Word Processing and formatting tools. Use of spreadsheet, sorting, manipulating data using formulas, functions and charts. PowerPoint Presentation design and delivery. Business and Financial Markets l & ll This course deals with a great breadth and depth of personal finance planning, local and global economic matters, and particularly focuses on the study of monetary markets and the careers available within financial institutions, as well as developing each student’s critical thinking, reading, writing and math skills. Business and Technology Advanced training in technology updated and relevant hardware and software that is used in the business and finance industry. Students will also obtain business skills such as planning, managing & leadership skills, create and gives presentation, interview as well as be interviewed, determine workplace challenges and provide possible solutions. AP Computer Science principles This course introduces students to computer programming by creating simple cartoons and video games. We also explore how computing and technology can impact the world with a focus on creativity and real-world applications.
Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) (10-12) Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science and engineering standards to hands-on projects like designing and building a new toy, competing in design challenges, and improving an existing product. Principles of Engineering (POE) (B or better in IED; can be concurrent with AE) Students explore and apply a broad range of engineering topics through hands-on projects and activities including mechanisms, strength of structure and materials, sources and distribution of energy, electrical circuits, manufacturing methods, automation/robotics, and hydraulics/pneumatics. Aerospace Engineering (AE) (B or better in IED; can be concurrent with POE)Students explore the physics of flight, physiology of flight, propulsion systems, materials and structures, space flights and orbital mechanics, and remotely-operated systems. They bring what they’re learning to life through hands-on projects like designing, building and testing a glider and a rocket, and “flying” in a flight simulator. AP Physics AP Physics is a college-level, Algebra-based course covering the material typically covered in the 2nd semester of college physics. Content covered includes fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and 20th century physics (atomic and nuclear physics, relativity).
Mexican American Studies History and interactions between the governments of Mexico and the US
Yearbook Students will be responsible for design and creation of the CVHS yearbook.
Social Issues in Film One Semester Available to 11th & 12th grade students; strong writing skills; mature attitude/audience; parent approval to watch “R” rated films. The course addresses American social issues as reported in the newspaper, through mass media and as exemplified in films. Designed to instruct students to access, analyze, evaluate and communicate in a variety of forms. Social Justice in Food I, II: Become a health and environmental leader. Learn how to garden organically to improve your personal health and the health of the environment. You will learn that everyone deserves equal access to nature and healthy food in order to live our best lives.
Sports Medicine 1 Intro to Sports Medicine (career exploration, medical terminology, examination of various body systems, taping techniques, emergency procedures, and CPR certification) Sports Medicine 2 Injury evaluation and Rehabilitation techniques; care and prevention of athletic injuries Sports Medicine 3 Internship Course: Apply the skills learned in sports medicine 1 and 2 by participating in various work-based learning internship opportunities at numerous medical sites.
Aerobics The class conducts a cardiovascular workout by moving to music and a choreographed exercise routine. Team Sports This PE class is reserved for students who are participating on CVHS athletic teams. The focus is on conditioning and general fitness.
Peer Mediation: Become a school leader. Learn mediation steps and strategies to help resolve peer conflict which includes being a judge and juror for Teen Court trials. Also learn fundamental skills and attitudes, like active listening, healthy communication and managing anger, stress and anxiety. Positive Psychology Focuses on the psychological aspects of a fulfilling and flourishing life. Topics include happiness, self-esteem, empathy, friendship, love, achievement, creativity, music, spirituality, and humor.
SWC Psychology 101 Introduces the student to the scientific study of human behavior through the analysis of facts, theories, and concepts. Emphasizes biological, social, and cognitive influences on behaviors, such as learning, memory, perception, sexuality, personality, development, psychological disorders, and group behavior. Attention also given to historical developments and experimental techniques. SWC Sociology 101Examines the central concepts and perspectives of sociology. Includes the basics of sociological theory, socialization, culture, groups and organizations, the mass media, deviance and social control, social stratification, racial and ethnic inequality, family, religion, education, government, the economy, the environment, population, health, social movements, and social change.
ATTENTION: Some classes have prerequisites and/or audition/interview and/or concurrent enrollment requirements. Most auditions are held right before Spring Break. Some classes may be closed due to low enrollment.