Academics

The goal of our English Language Arts curriculum is the development of critical readers and proficient writers through student-centered instruction with meaningful and appropriate text and tasks. In addition to a core reading resource, students engage with a variety of texts, including in other courses through the use of interdisciplinary themes. 

Students are required to complete a minimum of four English Language Arts courses. Recommended courses are CIHS English 9, CIHS English 10, CIHS English 11, and CIHS English 12, AP Literature, or AP Language and Composition.

The goal of our Mathematics curriculum is to give students the opportunity to investigate, hypothesize, and discover mathematical phenomena while seeing connections to real-world content. Our sequential program integrates algebra, geometry, measurement, logical reasoning, probability, statistics, discrete mathematics, and function strands throughout each course.  

Students are required to complete a minimum of three Mathematics courses. Recommended courses are College Prep Geometry or Algebra I, College Prep Geometry or Algebra II, and CIHS Trigonometry/Pre Calculus or CIHS Algebra II.

The goal of our Science curriculum is to give students the opportunity to explore content in the physical, life, and geo-science strands while learning that science is the method of observation and investigation used to understand the natural world. Our program places great emphasis on laboratory work and the integration of technology into the collection, manipulation and presentation of data.

Students are required to complete a minimum of three Science courses. Recommended courses are College Prep Science, CIHS Biology, and CIHS Physics or Chemistry.

The goal of our Social Studies curriculum is to give students the opportunity to develop as knowledgeable and responsible participatory citizens. In today’s global society, students need the ability to apply critical thinking skills to carefully analyze and objectively judge the merits and faults of an issue. 

Students are required to complete a minimum of four Social Studies courses. Recommended courses are College Prep American Studies I, College Prep American Studies II, CIHS Human Geography and CIHS Government.

The goal of our Health and Physical Education curriculum is to expose students to a wide variety of activities that promote “life-long fitness” in an environment that values sportsmanship and respect for all. In alignment with state and national standards, our secondary Health and Physical Education programs provide students with the knowledge and skills that will enable them to achieve and maintain a physically active and healthful life.

In conjunction with our Health and Physical Education curriculum, our district-wide Wellness program strives to develop an environment to support and promote active lifestyles, healthy food choices and positive decision-making.

Students are required to complete a minimum of eight semesters of PE plus one year of Health. 

The goal of our Computer Science and Business curriculum is to engage students in computer fundamentals, applications, coding and research skills for the digital world. Students also learn the importance of and skills needed to successfully communicate in personal and business settings. Students are exposed to the elements of college and career readiness and financial literacy.

Students are required to complete a minimum of two Computer Science and Business courses. Recommended courses are CIHS Computer Science Principles and CIHS Business Communications.

The goal of our Foreign Language curriculum is to engage students in the five language-learning skills – reading, writing, listening, speaking and culture. Students gain awareness of current global and cultural issues and respect for other cultures and beliefs.

Although not required for graduation, it is recommended that students study at least two years of the same language. Many colleges and universities require a Foreign Language for admission, and many prefer to see students continue through the advanced courses. 

Students can choose either French or Spanish.

The goal of our Fine and Performing Arts curriculum is to provide all students the opportunity to participate in the arts while developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills and fostering creativity. 

In alignment with state and national standards, our secondary Fine Arts programs consist of a balanced approach to learning through the arts in the areas of historical and cultural contexts as well as both critical and aesthetic response.

Students can choose from a variety of elective courses including studio art, choir, and band.

The goal of our Industrial and Allied Arts curriculum is to provide practical process- and knowledge-based learning which is beneficial regardless of college and career plans. 

Students can choose from a variety of elective courses including woodworking, home maintenance, and food science.