This course is an introductory education course designed to prepare high school students for careers in teaching and other education-related professions. Using Teacher Cadet – Developing Essential Life Skills for Teaching and Learning by Antarina S.F. Amir and Thomas G. Guskey, students explore the essential life skills needed to succeed in school, work, and civic life—and how educators intentionally develop, assess, and communicate these skills in meaningful ways.

Throughout the course, Teacher Cadets examine the role of teachers as facilitators of academic learning, social-emotional development, and lifelong skills such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, responsibility, adaptability, and ethical decision-making. Students will investigate instructional strategies, assessment practices, and reporting methods that support equitable learning for all students across diverse classroom settings.

Teacher Cadets engage in reflective practice, classroom observations, lesson planning, micro-teaching experiences, and collaborative projects to connect theory to real-world teaching. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, cultural responsiveness, ethical practice, and the impact of education on individuals and communities. By the end of the course, students will have a foundational understanding of teaching as a profession and the essential life skills educators cultivate to prepare learners for future success.

Materials:

• Teacher Cadet – Developing Essential Life Skills for Teaching and Learning by Antarina S.F. Amir and Thomas G. Guskey, ISBN: 978-1416632467

This course introduces students to the foundational principles of psychology through a distinctly Christian worldview. Students will explore human behavior, thought processes, emotions, development, relationships, and mental health while examining how psychological science and biblical truth work together to explain the nature of humanity.

Students will study major topics such as brain and behavior, learning, memory, personality, motivation, social relationships, mental and emotional health, and moral development. Throughout the course, students will engage in discussions, case studies, reflective journaling, and real-world applications that connect psychological concepts to Christian beliefs about identity, purpose, character, and human dignity.

This course emphasizes:

• Understanding psychological theories through both scientific and biblical lenses

• Developing critical thinking about human behavior and decision-making

• Applying psychology to personal growth, relationships, and service to others

• Integrating faith, ethics, and psychology in everyday life

By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in psychological concepts, a deeper understanding of themselves and others, and a Christ-centered perspective on human behavior and mental well-being that prepares them for future academic study and responsible citizenship.

Materials:

• Psychology: A Christian Perspective – High School Edition by Timothy Rice, ISBN: 978-0981558721

This course is designed to help students develop a well-rounded understanding of digital photography fundamentals. Students will learn the essential functions and operations of a digital single-lens reflex camera, mastering its settings to achieve specific results. Key artistic elements will be explored, such as composition, design principles, and lighting. Students will delve into the history of photography, including its scientific advancements, influential innovators, and cultural significance. Students will critique both their own work and the work of others, discussing the aesthetic, technical, and expressive qualities of photographs. Through hands-on projects and photo editing techniques, they will refine their skills and learn how to use photography as a form of artistic expression to glorify God.

This computer science course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of foundational computing concepts and their real-world applications. Students will build practical life and job skills as they explore online applications, artificial intelligence, and digital design. Topics such as cybersecurity, data protection, responsible digital navigation, and the evolution of technology will also be covered. Students will be introduced to Python programming and will be challenged to develop problem-solving skills as they create and run their own programs.

Personal finance provides students with the tools to make informed financial decisions, covering topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, and retirement planning. The course also explores insurance, renting vs. owning, income taxes, and consumer protection laws. Through experiential activities, students gain practical knowledge in banking, mortgages, and tax planning, preparing them to manage their financial responsibilities after graduation. This course ensures students are equipped to make smart decisions and be responsible financial stewards in their future.

This course is designed to prepare students for academic and professional success beyond high school by focusing on the development of essential skills such as communication, collaboration, adaptability, and leadership. Students will engage in practical career planning exercises, including resume writing, cover letter crafting, and networking strategies, while working on self-awareness through character development and goal setting. The course uses an inquiry-based approach, incorporating real-life applications and scenarios to enhance learning. Students will receive focused instruction in public speaking and will develop the foundation necessary to become effective leaders who make a positive impact in the world.