Minarets Elective and Core Classes 2013-14

2013-14
Minarets
Course
Catalog

Ag
ART
Media I.T. PE
Band
Leadership
ROCK
Minarets High School and Minarets Charter High School • Course Catalog 2013-2014 ALL CLASSES REQUIRE 20 STUDENTS TO LAUNCH

WHY DO SCHOOLS HAVE ELECTIVES?

1. Electives are not for an "easy grade"
2. Electives are not to have a "fun class"

Electives are offered to give Minarets'
students a chance to learn Elective Plan
about unknown talents,
broaden their known skills
Elective 1
Take a "1" Elective as a 9/10th
and learn "soft skills" that grader, sample several, enjoy.
can benefit them in many
potential careers.
Elective 2
More serious, more rigorous
At Minarets, we and mostly 10th/11th graders,
with a college/career interest.
encourage you to Expect to be doing after hours
projects and competitions.
take an elective that
you don't think you
want; push yourself. Elective 3
11th/12th graders, focus on
major projects
and competitions.
College and career prep or
advanced competition plans.
Some are "double
period” classes.

Steve Jobs on Electives

From Steve's 2005 Commencement Address at Stanford

“None of this had even a "...And much of what I stumbled into by following my
hope of any practical curiosity and intuition turned out to be priceless later on.
application in my life. But Let me give you one example:

ten years later.....it all came Reed College at that time offered perhaps the best
back to me.” calligraphy instruction in the country. Throughout the
campus every poster, every label on every drawer, was
beautifully hand calligraphed. I decided to take a
calligraphy class to learn how to do this. I learned about
serif and san serif typefaces, about varying the amount of
space between different letter combinations, about what
makes
great
typography If I had never dropped in on
great. It that single course in college,
was
beautiful, the Mac would have never had
historical, multiple typefaces or
artistically proportionally spaced fonts.
subtle in a
way that
science can't
capture, and I found it fascinating.

None of this had even a hope of any practical application in my
life. But ten years later, when we were designing the first
Macintosh computer, it all came back to me. And we designed it
all into the Mac.

It was the first computer with beautiful typography. If I had
never dropped in on that single course in college, the Mac would
have never had multiple typefaces or proportionally spaced fonts.
And since Windows just copied the Mac, it's likely that no
personal computer would have them. If I had never dropped in
on this calligraphy class, and personal computers might not have
the wonderful typography that they do. Of course it was
impossible to connect the dots looking forward when I was in
college. But it was very, very clear looking backwards ten years
later.”

We never know when an elective course will pay off.


Interest Areas are Critical
The most successful Mustangs have
something in common: An Interest Area
Don't stress out over your career at first: pick something
you like to do; if you find something else you like
better, switch. But find something.

Interest Areas
Ag & Natural
Resources Media ROP
Show animals • grow plants For 11th/12th only
Film • Animation
• floral design • welding • Work in a double period
CAD/CAM • competitions • Photography • Broadcast
class (85+ min per day) to
Podcasting • Performance
• fairs • conferences • Ag earn a Fire Fighting or EMT
mechanics • NEW Ag Mech Use: Final Cut X, Motion 5,
certificate - you can go
Photoshop, iLife, iWork,
building opens in 2013 straight to work
and many more

Information Tech Business & Product Sports • Health • PE
Development Play many CIF sports
Learn networking • operating
Research, develop and market • enjoy Extreme PE (9th/10th)
systems • configure
your ideas and products. and Advanced Exteme PE
servers and wireless
Work with MBA and industry (11th/12th) • opportunities in
controllers • Get Pro
rated teachers to market and leadership as a Student
Certifications: Apple, Google,
build real products Project Coordinator as well
Microsoft

Visual Arts Performing Arts
2d and 3d traditional art • Choir, Band, Guitar, Advanced
Art shows, competions and Guitar, Advanced Music
contests • digital tools like: Production, Digital Music
Wacom tablets, Photoshop, Production, Drama
Illustrator and more


Final advice on electives:
1. Find electives that can be “your thing” the whole time you are at Minarets
- gain skills and be famous at our school

2. Pick electives you may not think you want
- you might find a career or a hidden talent

3. You have to pass some “1”s or you won’t get to any “2”s.
Electives go: 1. Intro 2. High Skill 3. Advanced
- Juniors and Seniors need advanced electives and you build up to that!


Visual Arts
Art 1
Students will receive introductory and foundational
instructions on color theory, drawing the human figure and a
basic still life, 1-point and 2-point perspective, and mixing
colors using only primary colors for their painting. The course
incorporates the use of famous artists, as well as their artistic
styles and contributions, in relation to various projects in the
class. Several craft projects like African Adinkra textile printing,
jewelry making and plaster mask making will also be
introduced in Art 1. Students will also be exposed to digital art
and design through the use of digital tablets and digital design
software.

"I love everything about art class; the projects,teacher,
students. In the class I have learned about perspective,
color tones, and the different styles and history of art. My
favorite project is one we are currently working on, we get
to sculpt an underwater creature. Art class has been and
probably will always be my favorite class." - Student
quote

Art 2
(Pre-requisite: Art 1 or Instructor Permission)

Students will expand in depth on the foundations and
techniques learned in Art 1. Students will explore extensive
painting techniques and will study new and different styles of
art. Students will focus on more in-depth and independent
projects. For example, students will become familiar with
Michelangelo’s painting technique, as well as his use of the
grid when he painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
Students may also, for example, experiment with Vincent Van
Gogh’s heavy impressionist style and Georgia O’Keefe’s
extreme close-up view of painting. Students will also
continue to work in the area of digital art through programs
like Photoshop, Manga software, the Vistatablets and more.

Advanced Art / 3D Art Graphic Design
(Pre-requisite: Art 2 or Instructor Permission)
Art Instructor:
Carol Gordon Students will experience many different aspects of
Graphic Design. They will explore information about the
cgordon@mychawanakee.org rock star graphic designers. They will also experience
Minarets staff 6 years logo making and will find actual companies that need
Top Ten State Finish in the Van's Custom new logos. Even if an art student does not desire to
Colors Contest become a graphic designer, it is a lucrative way to earn
money for college tuition and/or art supplies.


Media
Media Production 1
This class develops the ability to tell digital stories through
Production
several media types including music, video, presentation
and podcast. The class will Awards and Nominated Films
cover non-linear editing, “I've learned how to use my laptop
basic 2d animation and haha. I was nearly clueless before this
intermediate presentation class. I also learned how to make a
skills. Students will use great video!” - Student quote
iMovie 09, Photoshop,
Keynote, Pencil-Animation and other production apps.
Students will learn shot composition, develop storyboards,
learn three point lighting skills, make DVDs and do basic
scriptwriting. Students will produce a product a week on
average.

Digital Photography
Open to 9th, 10th and 11th graders.

Learn general to advanced photography concepts, using
iPhoto, Photoshop and other photo retouching software.
Cameras used will include personal iOS devices, point and
shoot cameras and up to $2000 DSLRS. Learn retouching,
presentation tools and make digital portfolios, as well as
produce the school’s digital signage network. Students may
Media Instructor:
bring their own cameras. Student photos will be featured
in newspaper articles, yearbook, sports and digital signage.
Students will develop and design the Minarets Yearbook,
Patrick Wilson
both from a photo and a layout aspect.
pwilson@mychawanakee.org
Minarets staff 3 years - 22 years in Education
Media Production 2
(Pre-requisite: Media Production I or Instructor Permission) Apple Distinguished Educator
Numerous state film class awards and
MP 2 will focus on intermediate film and broadcast skills.
The focus of the class will be on developing a series of nominations, including an Emmy award
broadcast products in the following areas: podcasts, video winning former student.
yearbook and others. Software packages to be used will
include: Final Cut X, Motion, Keynote, Photoshop, iDVD, and
others. Projects will be entered into various contests.

“I loved doing the Slick Rock
commercial, I loved taking the
trip to Paso Robles for filming, Awards and Nominated Films
and finally I really liked
learning so much about Final
Cut.” - Media 2 Student quote


Advanced Advanced Media Production

Media (Pre-requisites: Media Production 2 or Instructor Permission)

Advanced Media is a class primarily designed for students

Production who are pursuing a professional career in the Media field (as
a producer, animator, on air talent or writer). This course will
focus on broadcasting and film production. Projects will
include: Major off campus shoots, and photography. Projects
will also be developed based on modern broadcast
techniques as well as films (editing techniques, lighting
techniques, and script development). Students will compete
in the Slick Rock Festival, California Media Festival,
International Student Media Festival and other film
contests. There may be opportunities for field trips to local
TV stations, conventions and Southern California to visit
production facilities.

NEW ELECTIVE THIS YEAR
Sports Media &
Photography
(Pre-requisites: Media
Production 1 or Instructor
Permission, must maintain 3.0
or higher for sports trips)

If you want to use great
Media Instructor: cameras, use Final Cut X, do a
lot of shooting and you DON’T want to write scripts - Sports
Media might be for you.
Jon Corippo
jcorippo@mychawanakee.org Sports Media duties will include:
• Videoing home and away games
Minarets staff 6 years (for highlights or gamefilms)
Apple Distinguished Educator • Producing sports highlight reels
• Still photography and team pictures
Google Certified Teacher • Maintaining an updating sports team websites
YouTube Star Teacher • Live broadcasts of select events
Numerous state /international film class Sports producers will select a team per quarter to cover,
awards and nominations. joining the team for home and away games.

Awards and Nominated Films


Music NEW ELECTIVE THIS YEAR
Singer - Songwriter
(Suggested pre-requisite: Live or recorded audition required. Live
auditions will be held one week before the end of the school year. This
course can be re-taken any number of times for increased enrichment
and music performance experience.)

Have you written your own songs? Want to perform and record them?
Do you have a desire to enter contests and share your songs with
others? This class is designed for those who like to sing and play an
accompanying instrument such as the piano, guitar, ukulele, or
mandolin. You get to perform your songs with other musicians,
collaborate on projects, enter contests, and post your songs on
ReverbNation. The school will provide recording gear and pianos or
keyboards for class use; please provide you own stringed instruments.

Guitar 1 (Beginning Guitar)
Do you have a guitar that you’ve always
wanted to learn how to play? Want to
learn the basics of music and record your “...One thing I’ve
own song? The only requirements for this learned from the
class are a guitar in playable condition, a Band is that it’s
desire to play music, and a willingness to
practice. You will learn how to play basic much better to
open chords, barre chords, and basic note- play in a group,
reading. You will also get a dose of guitar than to play
and rock history and basic music theory.
Expect to perform in class throughout the alone...”
year and collaborate on an original Student quote Music Instructor:
recording project in the spring. This class Bill Samuelson
lays the foundation for Singer-Songwriter, bsamuelson@mychawanakee.org
Guitar Orchestra, and Rock Performance. Minarets staff 6 years
25 years music education experience, over 35 years
music performance experience. Has composed
Concert Band music for the soundtrack for an Oscar-winning film
(Audition for new members consists of warm-up in 3rds, and a (student category) and a surf movie. Former students
song of your choice. Band Camp starts one week before the start have gone on to be professional musicians, music
educators, and worship leaders. Currently is involved
of school in the fall.) in music with the Oakhurst Community Band, Rock
Do you play the trumpet, clarinet, Therapy (local rock band), and Sierra Pines Church. Is
flute, saxophone, trombone, “...We have such a great a member of NAFME and CMEA."
baritone, tuba, oboe, bassoon, or group of students. I’m glad
percussion? Don’t mind marching Recent music department performances and awards
we’ve had all the include:
and like to perform? This award- Schooljam Contest
winning group is always looking opportunities we’ve had 2nd Place Band - Oakhurst Heritage Days Parade
for new members. The band this year, like going to 2nd Place Percussion - Santa Cruz 42nd Annual Band
usually does three parades in the Review
fall, the Winter and Spring Santa Cruz and Pismo...” 1st Place Band - Pismo Beach 34th Annual Band
Review
Concerts, Festival, and a few Pep - Student Quote The Fall Rock Show
Band performances throughout The Winter Concert
the year. Marching uniforms and most instruments are provided The Underground Show
by the school. Students are required to purchase performance CMEA Band Festival
outfits for concerts and festivals. (tuxedos for young men, choir CMEA Choir Festival
CMEA Jazz Band Festival
dresses for young ladies). PAS Day of Percussion
The 'Stangfest Rock Show
The Spring Concert


Music
Percussion
(Audition for new members includes Warm-up in 3rds, and
Sprinkler. Band Camp starts one week before the start of
school in the fall.)
Do you like the movie Drumline? This group performs
separately and in conjunction with the marching band.
Instruments and marching uniforms are provided by the
school. Students are required to purchase performance
outfits for concerts and festivals. Percussion usually does
three parades in the fall, the Winter and Spring Concerts,
Festivals, and a few Pep Band Performances throughout the
year.

Digital Music Recording & Production
10th, 11th, 12th graders only.
No need to be able to play music.
All applicants must write 100 words on why they want to be
in this class & what they want to learn.

Write music, record music, engineer & learn a bit of Music Digital Music Instructor:
Theory with Mr. Powers, our seasoned studio musician and Matt Powers
home recording resident guru. This class is open to many mpowers@mychawanakee.org
different types of skill sets and levels: beginning, intermediate
& advanced musicians, writers, programmers and engineers Minarets Staff 3 years
are welcome. 10 years of professional studio & tour experience
Published author of The Matt Powers Guitar
Method (Amazon, Lulu, iPad, etc) Music featured
"This class has been the most fun class I have taken on MLB channel and in films. Played with Bill
here at MHS. We constantly learn how to be the Gibbons of ZZtop, Matt Katz-Bohen of Blondie,
Shawn Pelton of SNL, Sheryl Crow, Bruce
greatest we can be from someone who knows best. Springsteen & more, Nikki G of Beyonce, Ty Dennis
All the while writing, practicing and recording." of The Doors (Ray Manzerek & Robbie Kreiger), Ant
Student quote C of Smash, & more! Worked with legendary
producers Dave Jerden of Alice in Chains,
Offspring, Jane's Addiction, Social Distortion and
more and Steve Lilywhite of U2, Psychedelic Furs,
Dave Matthews Band, and more!


Advanced NEW ELECTIVE THIS YEAR
Guitar Orchestra
(Suggested prerequisite: Guitar One, or teacher approval. Live
Music auditions will be held one week before the end of the school
year. Auditions will consist of basic open chords, barre
chords, and note-reading in the 1st position. This class
replaces Guitar 2 and can be taken any number of times for
increased enrichment and music performance experience.)

Want to play classical, jazz, or rock guitar arrangements with a
room full of great musicians? Want to travel, perform,
compete in festivals and contests? This music performance
class is designed for the note-reading guitarist who wants to
go on to music schools such as Berklee, Musician’s Institute, or
become a music major in college . Please provide your own
guitar (suggested one nylon-string classical, one steel-string
acoustic, one electric). This class will cover music theory and
improvisation.


Rock Music Performance Class
(Prerequisites: Guitar One, Singer-Songwriter Class or teacher
approval. The school will provide a sound system, guitar and
bass amps, keyboards and basic drum set. Guitarists are
required to provide their own instruments, drummers are
required to provide their own sticks and crash cymbals. Live
auditions will be held one week before the end of the school
year.)

Looking for a place to rehearse and perform with other
Music Instructor: musicians? This class may be for you. A basic grasp of music
Bill Samuelson theory and how a sound system works are a plus;
bsamuelson@mychawanakee.org understanding of your instrument and the ability to get along
Minarets staff 6 years with others are a must. Creative ensembles are encouraged
(for example: three cellos, a flute, a tuba, and a drummer, or a
Honors and Awards: Participation in Santa Cruz mandolin, harmonica, two acoustic guitars, a string bass, and
and Pismo Beach Band Reviews, CMEA Festivals. a washboard). Enrollment is limited to available rehearsal
2nd Place Mace Drum Major, Pismo. Honors and space. Required performances are the Fall Rock Show, the
Awards: Participation in CMEA Festivals, Disney Spring ‘Stangfest, and multiple smaller lunchtime and
Magic Music Days. Honors and Awards: evening performances throughout the year. Students will also
Participation in Santa Cruz and Pismo Beach record their original music, enter contests and post music on
percussion competitions, Fresno State Day of ReverbNation.
Percussion Festival. 2nd Place Percussion, Santa
Cruz.

Drama Instructor:
Jamie Smith
jsmith@mychawanakee.org


Ag and Natural Resources

Floral
Floral 1
For those of you that like the
Ag Instructors: more artistic approach, this
will be the class for you. We
Floral will learn the history of floral
arranging, how to use color
Kristi Mattes and style as well as plant
growth techniques. The most
kmattes@mychawanakee.org important part of this class is
Minarets staff 6 years learning how to make floral
Ag Teacher for over 30 years arrangements that will impress
your family and friends. Turn
loose the artist hidden inside
you and join us today.

Floral 2 - Advanced Floral
Design
(Pre-requisite: Floral 1)
Need another outlet for your
creativity? If so, then keep
on going with advanced
floral design! Here you will
build on the skills that you
have attained during
beginning floral design, and
perfect them into desirable
job skills!


Ag Mechanics

Be among the first to
All new tools: work in the brand new
9 welding bays (over 20 welders altogether), plasma Ag Mechanics building
cutters, three 3D printers, laser cutters, complete wood
shop with planers, table saws, robotic routers, ceiling
mounted cranes and more!
Ag Mechanics I
(No prerequisites)
You will have the opportunity to learn tool safety, fire safety, record keeping, "I took Ag mechanics to
rope work, basic plumbing, electricity, woodworking and welding, as well as challenge my ability to
the basics of computer aided design. Learn all the essentials needed to
become the handiest person in your home. FFA is a part of this course so you build and create."
can also develop your leadership skills.
Student Quote
Ag Mechanics 2
(Pre-requisite: Ag Mech 1 or Teacher Permission)
Are you ready to expand on those construction skills that you developed in
Ag Mechanics I? If so, then this course is for you! Project design, framing/
woodworking, rough carpentry, fence building, and concrete work await
those who sign up for Ag Mechanics 2. Many projects revolve around Ag Mechanics Instructors
developing the Ag Laboratory, which will be lasting elements on the Minarets
campus. Don't forget that you also get to be a part of the FFA, and put to use To be announced
your skills as a leader.

Advanced Ag Design and Fabrication
(Prerequisite: Ag Construction and Teacher Recommendation.)
This is a new and advanced course to follow Ag Mechanics 2.
This course will focus on design and fabrication utilizing tools like Google
SketchUp, hand graphics, and model building. Students will design and build
advanced projects for school and personal interest.

ALSO SEE: Minarets’ new Rapid Prototyping class


Ag and Natural Resources

Horticulture Science
(prerequisite: Completion of Agriculture Biology)
This course is designed for any garden lover. Whether you
have a green thumb or not come and join us as we
examine the plant growing process with a hands on
approach. Majority of class time will be spent in the
Agriculture Department Greenhouse where you will be
learning the tricks and tools of the tarde in order to
guarantee successful plant growth in preparation for sale.
The class will also plan and conduct a spring plant sale!

Veterinary Science and Nutrition
(Prerequisite: Completion of Chemistry or Instructor
Approval)
This course is designed to prepare students for the
possibility of a career in animal or human medicine.
Students will be introduced to basic veterinary skills and
topics including anatomy and physiology tool and
equipment, safe veterinary practices, careers in veterinary
medicine, animal nutrition, feed practices, and gestation
and vital signs. This is a fast paced advanced science
course designed to be taken concurrently with Animal
Anatomy and Physiology.

Ag Leadership, Vet Science,
Horticulutre Instructor: Ag Skills/Leadership
(Pre-requisite: Application or Teacher permission)
Amanda Hendrickson Are you a leader? Do you want to be a leader? If so then
step up and sign up for Ag Skills and Leadership! In this
ahendrickson@mychawanakee.org class you will be exposed to all of the leadership
Minarets staff 3 years opportunities that FFA and the Ag Industry has to offer!
You will gain experience in Prepared Public Speaking,
Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Job Interviewing skills,
Sales and Marketing which will give you a leg up on the
competition in the FFA or in the career world! Also, take on


Information Technology (IT)
NEW COURSE DESCRIPTION
Information Technology 1 (IT1) – Computer Hardware,
Management and Networking

No prerequisite.

This course has TWO levels in one class.
IT1 will focus on the hardware, network and server side of
information tech. Students will: install multiple OS variants (Linux,
Windows, Macintosh OSX) on IT lab computers, build network
cables and infrastructure (including switches and wireless
routers), learn to configure and deploy multiple servers from a
hardware and a software perspective (Linux, Windows 2008, 2012
and Macintosh OSX Server) as well as
learning to remotely manage servers.
Students who desire may take IT1 a " I am enjoying this
second time, serving as a “Student class and I'm looking
Project Coordinator” doing more forward to learning
advanced projects, leading and some more, cool tech
developing lessons and scenarios for stuff." - Student Quote
entry level students.

NEW COURSE DESCRIPTION
Information Technology 2 (IT2) –
Software and Programming Emphasis

No prerequisite.

This course has TWO levels in one class. The
purpose of this class is to develop basic "I really liked the
programming skills, using apps like MIT’s Scratch
Scratch, Unity 3D and others to learn the programming
basics of game design and app software, it was so
John Sparks development. Beginners will be able to have cool I could make
jsparks@mychawanakee.org a game like Asteroids running within 6-8 an asteroids game"
weeks and they’ll be able to develop more - Student Quote
Minarets staff 2 years advanced apps and games via Unity 3D by
the end of this class.
Industry professional and computer Students MAY repeat this class, acting as a developer and Student
consultant. Project Coordinator to develop independently or as part of a
student programming team.


Spanish 1 (9th grade must be enrolled in Honors English)
Spanish is a user-friendly and melodic language with an abundance of easy
to recognize words, such as fiesta, celebración, inteligente, excelente, and the
ever popular taco, burrito, and tostado. Spanish 1 students will use their
Spanish
laptops as their own portable language labs. Spanish is acquired through
both self-directed activities on laptops as well as listening and speaking
practice with teachers and fellow students, both in and outside of the
classroom. Student projects include: recording weather reports (using
laptops, green screens, and video cameras), writing and illustrating stories
using Photobooth, Keynote and podcasting. Students will read and respond
to printed books, available in the classroom; e-books, available on-line;
and ePals through which students correspond in Spanish with language-
learners from another school.

Spanish 2 (Pre-requisite: Spanish 1)
In Spanish 2, students will expand their vocabulary with greater ease and
speed than before, and express themselves with greater fluency and
accuracy. The second year Spanish program emphasizes language
acquisition by recording songs, translating stories, watching films, and by
adding Spanish or English captions to video clips and commercials (using
video cameras, iMovies, Quicktime, and PhotoBooth). To practice
reading and comprehension, there is a wide selection of on-line
programs, such as reading e-books, local and foreign
newspapers written in Spanish. When writing, emphasis is
on using new vocabulary and what you know, rather
than absolutely accurate grammar and spelling
and featuring self-expression, communication
and to show cultural appreciation.
Presentations about student life events in
the present, past and future will give them
experience in the most common verb
tenses.

Spanish 3
(Pre-requisite: Spanish 1 & 2)
Third year Spanish takes place in a no-English,
Spanish immersion classroom. Spanish 3
students will acquire fluency in their speaking and
comprehension skills. For independent work, students
can choose a vocabulary/theme on which they wish to focus
as part of a career interest or for travel, volunteer work, etc. and
partner with another student or practice one-on-one with a teacher or
teacher aide.

Students will produce one creative project per semester, such as re-telling,
writing or videotaping a story, performing poetry, music or a play
monologue. They can use video cameras, iPods, and laptops to record and
showcase their work. During first semester, Spanish 3 students will report
individually on a local issue such as drugs, healthcare, immigration, bi-lingual Spanish Instructor
employment opportunities, etc. During second semester, students will work
collaboratively with an international classroom on a world-wide topic, such Sr. Jose Aispuro
as the environment, poverty, or education. jaispuro@mychawanakee.org
Minarets staff 3 years
Native of Mexico


Yoga/Pilates/Dance
This course combines the basic fundamentals of yoga, pilates,
and dance. It is designed to effectively strengthen, tone, and
balance the entire body. It will teach students to focus and
develop a calmer, more relaxed mind. This class will also offer
students the opportunity to learn basic elements and
techniques of various styles of dance, including hip hop, folk
and line dances, social dances, jazz, and ballet. Key projects for
this class include yoga and pilates instructional videos, yoga Yoge/PilatesDance Instructor
journal, and choreographing your own dance. Students will
also have the opportunity to visit yoga, pilates, and dance Karra Zamora
studios around our community, perform in showcases, and view zamora@mychawanakee.org
dance professional performances. Minarets staff 2 years

Extreme PE
(11th and 12th Grade Only)

This is a PE elective based on student interest and teacher approval. This is
for students serious about physical activity and outdoor recreation. Class
will include mountain biking, the climbing wall, lifelong fitness activities,
extreme games and more.

Athletic PE
11th and 12th grade only - Teacher approval required
IDEAL CANDIDATES SHOULD BE PARTICIPATING IN TWO OR MORE SPORTS

Units of instruction include: an introduction to advanced Kinesiology and
fitness (including fitness technology), weight-training, team activities,
athletic team leadership, nutrition, sports injuries, treatments and
prevention,athletic dietary supplements, and employment opportunities in
athletics, sports management, and athletic training.
Students will be empowered to make choices, meet challenges and
develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness and movement activity for a Extreme PE and Athletic PE Instructor
lifetime. Emphasis is placed on students analyzing skills for effective
movement, the development and implementation of team leadership Jay Smoljan
skills, and team building concepts in a competitive environment. jsmoljan@mychawanakee.org


Leadership

Leadership

(Pre-requisite: Application Process for 10th, 11th and 12th
graders only)

Leadership is a service based, academically driven
opportunity for
students, in a class “I was in leadership a couple times
setting, to acquire and before at my other school, but they
put into action didn't get as involved in the
leadership skills that in community as we do here, like
collaboration with
when we went to feed & give
other student
leadership groups will presents to the homeless at the
animate and enhance Salvation Army. This leadership
student life, our school class gives me much bigger
culture and valley opportunities & chances to help me
community. This course figure out how to be when it comes
provides students with to my future plans after Minarets.” -
the opportunity to Student quote
develop and practice
Leadership Instructor public speaking,
engage in community service cultivation and assistance,
Chelsea Milliorn and collaborate with students and adults to accomplish
cmilliorn@mychawanakee.org long term philanthropic goals. A focus in the course is
Minarets staff 2 years shared responsibility with peers and adults in carrying out
the mission of Minarets through the planned activities of
the school.



Native American Studies

Native American Studies -
This class is open to all students, especially those
interested in Native American culture.

Students in this class will learn all the key elements of a
pow-wow, including: drum circles, oral storytelling
traditions, basketry, tool making, and dance, as well as
interviewing local elders.

This is a hands-on, activity class designed to organize Native American
and coordinate activities and events aimed at Studies
Instructor
developing and celebrating local and regional Native
American Culture. This class will be tasked with Daniel Ching
developing a local center celebrating Native American dching@mychawanakee.org
Culture as well as the annual Native American Student
Leadership Conference. Apple Distinguished Educator


Fire Science and EMT are both 2 period classes
Based on sign ups, only one of these will be offered

Fire Science EMT
Fire Science Emergency Medical Training
(11th & 12th Grade only) (11th & 12th Grade only)

Fire Science is designed to prepare individuals Emergency Medical Training (EMT) is
for fighting fires and related tasks. This course designed to train students for
is the California State Fire Marshal Fire Fighter emergency care of individuals who
I and Fire Fighter II course which prepares have encountered some situation
students for State certification. Students will requiring emergency care. The
learn about fire protection organizations, use
content will include, but not be
and handling of firefighting equipment and
apparatuses, fire protection and safety, fire limited to CPR, First Aid, and
behavior and extinguishment methods, emergenc y component of the
rescue and ventilation operations, fire control, medical, law, and fire occupations. The
and salvage and overhaul of structures. certificate issued by the ROP is not an
Wildland fire fighting will also be taught in EMT-1A Certification and students
conjunction with other fire fighter concepts must file for their certification with
and competencies. Practical experience will the County Department of Health.
be gained through live fire and simulated
exercises relating to the theory taught in the This is a great class for students
classroom. First Responder medical aid will interested in: health care, law
also be a part of the course to provide the enforcement, military, as well as life
students with the knowledge and skills
guarding and even babysitting.
necessary to adequately assess and provide
care for victims at the scene of injury.

Fire/EMT
instructors
Bill Hartley
bhartley@mychawanakee.org
Gina Hartley
ghartley@mychawanakee.org
Health Care Professionals, employed
by Sierra Ambulance


Student Assistants

Athletics Support • Office • Food Service • Campus Maintenance
Free All -Year Activities Pass • Discounted Tickets for Dances
Specialized Professional Teams
This class is graded as a letter grade (A-F)
This new class is open to Juniors and Seniors who wish to apply to be on specialized teams focused on assisting
the school in campus activities and needs related to Athletics, Office Support, Food Service and Campus
Maintenance. If you like to help out and want to assist staff members on making our school even better, this
could be for you. This is an application/interview only class. Students that are accepted will receive campus
perks such as free Student Activities Pass, discounted ticket purchase opportunities for dances and other
activities, special schedule preferences and more.
All specialized teams require an interview for acceptance

Teacher’s Assistant Student Project Coordinator
(Teacher Permission, 11th and 12th grade only) (Teacher Permission, 11th and 12th grade only)
This class is graded as a pass/fail class This class is graded as a letter grade (A-F)

This class is designed for students who want This one-year course is designed to have an experienced
to perform errands, do light clerical work, and dedicated student in any given core or elective area
create flyers, distribute signs and generally become a vital member of the instructional team in the
help out. classroom. Whereas, high schools have always had TA’s or
Instructional Assistants, the new century demands that we
have students trained at a high level to lead, coordinate
and train others. We don’t need to train students to be
“glorified gophers” but rather to
,
be better facilitators, presenters
and leaders. This course is
designed for academically
aggressive students, again in
given core and academic areas,
who are interested in
advancing their own skills
through the training of others,
coordinating student projects,
providing student support and
assistance. They will not work
for the classroom teacher, as
much as with the classroom
teacher.


SCHOOL SPIRIT SERVICES
School Spirit Services (Pep and Cheer) -
This new course is required elective (pre-requisite) for all
Pep and Cheer Team Members for the 2013-2014 school
year. This course is designed to have regularly scheduled
time for preparation for all Pep and Cheer activities.
Additionally, this will class will serve as an extention of
the School Leadership Program intended for all Pep and
Cheer Members to serve the athletic, spirit and school
activities needs for Minarets. See Mrs. Milliorn, of the
Sheriff, for more information. All students enrolling in this
class will have to be pre-approved by Mrs. Milliorn.



School Construction Services
(Extreme Campus Makeover) - This new hands-on class is a
specialized class for those interested in construction and
completing daily projects for the campus and community.
Students should have taken Ag Mechanics 1 or have a
construction background. Projects will be many and varied
and include, but are not limited to the following: concrete,
metal, wood, fabrication, etc. This is an application/
interview only process. Only the serious should apply.

School Construction Services Instructor
George Cummings
gcummings@mychawanakee.org

Chawanakee Unified School District Facilities Director
Over two decades in commercial construction

Before

After


Digital Publishing/
Social Media
(10th, 11th and 12th grades only)

Dreaming of getting published? Join a journalism team
which addresses the newest and best practices of the
field in the 21st century. Become a photojournalist,
graphic artist, videographer, literary journalist, editorialist,
blogger, beat reporter or talk show host.
Go out on special assignment, learn to write, interview,
take shots and "tell the story" as it is or with a creative
twist.
Students who sign up for this elective will be responsible
for making layout/design decisions, selling
advertisements and creating weekly video and print
content for the online publications of Minarets High Social Media/
School including the Roundup news source, Facebook, Publishing
Wordpress and others. Instructor
If you're highly motivated and looking to increase your
skills, publish your work and build your portfolio of Dave Cicoletti
writing and media, then this elective is for you. dcicoletti@mychawanakee.org
Masters in Fine Arts / English

Freakonomics
(11th and 12th grade only) 2012 Top THREE California Finish!

Freakonomics is a mathematical/economics course inspired by the
popular book “FREAKONOMICS: A Rogue Economist Explores The
Hidden Side Of Everything” by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner.
Awesome FinLit Online learning!
Freakonomics is an upper division math course, which is geared for
the Junior and Senior student. This math course may be used as
an elective or to satisfy as a third math course.

The resources used for this class are:
• Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores The Hidden Side of
Everything
• The Stock Market Game
• Math & You I love this class, this
• EverFi Financial Literacy is the first math class
where the math Freakonomics Instructor
makes sense and I Denise Alvarez
know I will be able to dalvarez@mychawanakee.org
use it.
- Student quote Minarets staff 3 years


Psychology
    Psychology is a year-long course which will
introduce the basic concepts of the science of
human behavior and mental processes. We will Psychology Instructor
examine this science through how the following
Bob Kelly
concepts affect us, our lives, and the people in bkelly@mychawanakee.org
the world around us.

The following is an outline of the units and some
of the questions we will examined in the Minarets
Psych class: AP History Teacher

Social Psychology Stanford Teaching Honor (2000)
How has society affected male and female roles throughout history? UC San Diego Teaching Honor
    How do stereotypes affect perceptions and decisions? (2001, 2005)
Introducing Psychology and Biological Roots of Behavior California Student Multimedia Award
    What is the truth? (2005)
    How does the body’s chemistry affect behavior? Mariposa Masonic Lodge Spring Hill High
The Developing Child School Teacher of the Year (2008)
    Write a letter to your child on his or her 18th birthday. Palo Alto Foundation for Education Grant
    Do parents matter? (1999)
Thinking and Language Stanford Technology Grant (2000)
    Do you like to think? Why or why not? What does that mean? Palo Alto Foundation for Education Grant
    What do you like to think about? Why? (2003)
Learning and Memory Power Up Fellowship (2000)
    What does reinforcement mean? Summer Technology Fellowship
    What is modeling and what is a good role model? Israel Center of San Francisco Fellowship
    How do context and moods affect how our memory works? (2001)
Perception and States of Consciousness
    What is the difference between perception and reality?
    Why do we sleep? Why do we dream? Why do we daydream?
Motivation
    Why do we eat? How do we eat?
    How do hormones affect sexual motivation?
Psychological Disorders and Therapy
    What does it mean to be normal?
    What does it mean to be abnormal?
    What are the differences between major depression and bipolar disorder?


NEW ELECTIVES THIS YEAR

Minarets Kickstarter (Entrepreneurship)
11th and 12th only.
Rapid Prototyping - Product Development
This course is designed to allow students to pursue (Maker’s Lab)
their passions, interests and alternative career Prerequisite: Ag Mech 1
aspirations by creating new pathways to success
through the study and practice of American This new course is designed for those
capitalism with an emphasis on small business start- interested in designing and creating products
ups. If you are a student that is frustrated by the as well as producing them in our new Design
status quo options available after high school, this Lab utilizing state-of-the-art design technology.
class will allow you to explore hands-on how to This class will work to build products designed
create your own pathways to a fulfilling future. This by the Minarets KickStarter class and make
class will include activities such as prototyping your 10-30 examples of each product. The exciting
product ideas collaboratively with a focus is on not only designing products, but
manufacturing course (i.e. 3D Printing, Laser actually producing them.
Cutting, etc.), improving your team-building & public
speaking skills, learning about the aspects of Students in this class will have access to:
operating a business (management, marketing/ The full wood, welding and fab lab shops,
advertising, sales, accounting, human resources, including: 3D printers, robotic cutters and
economics and research & development), visiting plasma torches, advanced CAD software and
college entrepreneurship programs, touring small instruction.
businesses, meeting with entrepreneurs and
interviewing small business owners. Using such
resources such as ABC's hit show Shark Tank, this
course will give students a behind-the-scenes
understanding of what it takes to obtain venture
capital to fund their ideas. Prepared with these
skills, students will have the ability to launch and
maintain their own businesses while enrolled in
this course. There is no prerequisite course
requirement. The only prerequisites required are the
desire to work hard for things you enjoy and to be a
self-starter.

KickStarter Instructor:
Ryan Finfrock
rfinfrock@mychawanakee.org
Masters in Business


Drama

Drama
The Drama class at Minarets “Drama really makes
High School promotes skills
you broaden your
and knowledge of theatre
arts and encourages personal perspectives.”
growth and creative thought - Student quote
in its members through
theatre. The program also
supports the goal of engaging students in the
endeavor to entertain and educate their audiences with
plays and skits of many periods and genres. This is a
fast paced, creative and active class meant to engage
and entertain students through creative performance
arts. Students in this class will perform in a variety of
theatrical activities including scripted plays, skits,
improvisational or impromptu performances on site
and in various community venues.

Advanced Drama
Advanced Drama students will engage in all of the
above as well as create performance videos and more
complex live performances. Students will also explore
basic script writing, classical
theater and conduct live
per formances that will
"Drama is a great engage and incorporate
break from the audience participation.
stress of other (Pre-requisite Successful
classes and a way completion of Drama I with a
to let go and be C or better or Instructor’s
crazy without prior approval.)**Please note,
being judged" - large scale productions are
Student quote facilitated after school and
not as part of classes.

Drama Instructor:
Jamie Smith
jsmith@mychawanakee.org
• CVCUE Teacher of the Year 2011
Madera County Teacher of the Year Finalist


Access to college
classes during
the day
Minarets U
at Minarets (11th/12th grade only)
High School Enrichment allows high school students
the opportunity to enroll in courses at the community
college for educational enrichment. The purpose of
the program is to provide "advanced scholastic
educational enrichment opportunities for a limited
number of eligible pupils," as defined by Education
Code. At Minarets, students taking HS Enrichment
classes at the community college or online are
provided an elective period on campus to complete
assignments and access support from a teacher.

Limited classes will receive college credit as well as
credit from Minarets HS.

Official Partners

CSU Fresno

Available Resources


Peer
Mentoring/
Mediation

Peer Mentoring

(Application required, 10th, 11th and 12th only)

Are you interested in becoming a counselor? Have you ever
wondered why you keep doing the same thing when you
do not want to. Learn how to understand relationships and
resolve conflicts (drama). Learn about careers and career
pathways in a variety of social work and counseling fields.
Students will learn to help assist high school students with
interpersonal relationships and conflict resolution . This
course is also designed to train Peer Mentors and enhance
positive attitudes toward self and others. The Peer
Mentoring Program is a leadership class and has
expectations for the students who will be the peer mentor.
There will be role playing, presentations, personality profile
tests, case note taking, videos, guest speakers, etc. The class
will be instrumental in a student's personal and professional
growth.

Peer Mentoring Instructor:
Ryan Finfrock
rfinfrock@mychawanakee.org
Masters in Business


Work Work Experience

(11th and 12th grade only)

Experience Work Experience is an elective class designed for students
who are presently employed and wish to receive elective
credit through course participation while employed in an
Minarets Work Experience approved position. The course
provides students with opportunities to integrate supervised
paid or unpaid employment in an approved field or
occupation and weekly classroom instruction. A major
emphasis in the course is to assist students in developing
desirable work habits and attitudes while employed in real
jobs. The job held by the student need not be related to his or
her future and/or present occupation goals. Through on-the-
job experience, students will learn how to work with and for
other people. Students are expected to complete 180 hours of
work for a 5 credit class (40 hours/credit).

Workability

The mission of the Workability Program is to promote the
Work Experience Instructor involvement of key stakeholders including students,
families, educators, employers and other agencies in
Claudia vanDenBergh planning and implementing an array of services that will
cvandenbergh@mychawanakee.org culminate in successful student transition to employment,
3 years on staff life-long learning and quality of life.

1. Provides pre-employment skills training, work site
training and follow-up services for Juniors and
Seniors, ages 16-22 in special education at Minarets
High School who are making the transition from
school to work.
2. Offers special education students with an IEP, the
opportunity to complete their high school
education while also obtaining marketable job skills.
Workability Instructor 3. Benefits students, employers and the community at
large.
GeGe Drozen 4. Seeks employers in the business community who
gdrozen@mychawanakee.org will give students with special needs a chance to
4 years on staff prove themselves.

You can view our website at:
http://mustangworkability.wikispaces.com/


Minarets Core Courses

English
(4 years Required for Graduation)
English 9 or English 9 Honors
English 10 or English 10 Honors
English 11 or AP Language and Composition
English 12 or AP Literature and Composition

Social Science
(4 years Required for Graduation)
Health/Geography
World History or World History Honors
US History or AP US History
Government/Economics or AP Government/AP MacroEconomics
Ag Government and Economics

Math
(3 years Required/4 years Recommended for 4 year college)
Integrated Math 1
Geometry
Algebra 2
Pre-Calculus
Statistics
AP Calculus
Freakonomics

Science
(2 years Required/Biology and Chemistry Required for 4 year college)
Ag Earth Science
Ag Biology
Ag Chemistry
Animal Anatomy & Physiology
AP Physics
AP Environmental Science


Elective Planner
Print out the grid below and use it to
plan out your career at Minarets. Feel
free to change as you go, adjusting and
trying new things is good.
It doesn’t matter what Remember:
your plan is, but you Sample a lot of “1”s, but find something
you like, because you will need to
need a plan. complete some “2”s and Advanced
Electives to get the most out of
Minarets.

Year in school
Remember: Find an “interest area” - something you love to do.

9th Elective 1 Elective 2 Elective 3 Only Only
PE Pick 2
Electives
Pick 2
Electives
Required

10th Elective 1 Elective 2 Elective 3 Elective 4 Only
PE Spanish Pick 3 Electives
Required Elective

11th Elective 1 Elective 2 Elective 3 Elective 4 Elective 5
Spanish
Elective

12th Elective 1 Elective 2 Elective 3 Elective 4 Elective 5

Juniors and Seniors have access to double period electives


Photo Credits:
Dee Reimer

2013-14
Ashley Tobin
Melissa Platt
Katie Fabris
Sarah Schoenhoeft- Niehaus

Minarets
Mia Corippo

Course
Catalog

AP and UC approved classes include:
Honors and AP English
Honors and AP History
Honors and Advanced Math
(Physics and Calculus)
Advanced Science Classes


Minarets Elective and Core Classes 2013-14

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