Now that second quarter has come to a close, it’s time for students to think about their 2015-2016 schedules. For returning students, new courses can offer a new variety of classes to add some life and rigor to their schedules.

Not that students should expect a whole new menu change, but the addition is enough to progress students academically and appease the wants for new electives.

“We are mostly expanding math and science courses,” said guidance counselor Jeanne Heinze. “These courses are giving students the opportunity to accelerate. There aren’t a lot of creative courses being offered, but it’s mostly upper level. Our goal is to advance students.”

New math courses being offered include combined calculus A and B and combined calculus B and C. However, calculus classes are not set in stone yet. It all depends on if enough students sign up.

“I’m willing to bet Calculus A and B combined will definitely be filled up, like full class sizes,” says senior Patrick O’Leary.
Trigonometry will now be all honors instead of offering both honors and a regular course. The main difference is that it will be a weighted grade, and in turn the course will be more rigorous to better prepare students.

Ag classes are making their own comeback on the roster. Since class sizes aren’t big enough, Ag mechanics and Ag business will be on rotation each school year. Next year, mechanics will be the class offered. Another class making a comeback will be Floral design. However, it will only be available for new juniors and seniors.

For all juniors already enjoying AP Physics, AP Physics 2 will be offered to those who took the prerequisite beginner course in hopes of setting the science department in motion and keep it rolling without friction.

An entirely new class being offered will be Music Tech. It will focus on the technical side which includes recording and and sound booth. The class is made possible by a new addition of equipment to the music department.

“Our goal really is to advance the students,” said Heinze. “However, we also really want to expand new areas and give students an opportunity to explore their interests.”