Social Studies Department

Here is what students will experience and discover in our classes:

• Students will have the opportunity to critically examine current issues facing the U.S. and the world around us. 

• Since it is impossible to understand the present without studying the past, we explore the historical background of current issues to better grasp the complexity of our own time. 

• Students will delve deeply into both the history of social movements for change and present-day issues affecting all of our lives.  We will examine how race, ethnicity, class, immigration status and gender impact social institutions, policies, and individual experiences.  

• Students will be encouraged to connect their own lives with broader questions facing society – and asked to bring their own thoughts and experiences into the classroom.  

• Our courses will challenge and prepare students to engage with college-level reading materials, to develop research skills and methodology, and opportunities to advance as expository writers. They will learn to critically analyze media, distinguishing fact from opinion and uncovering bias. 

• And there will be plenty of opportunities for debate, discussion and dialogue. 

• 9th Grade

  • Ethnic Studies
  • Geography

• 10th Grade

  • Modern World History

• 11th Grade

  • U.S. History
  • U.S. History Honors
  • U.S. History Newcomer Program and Leadership Class
  • Peer Resources Critical Thinking and Social Change (CTE Educator Pathway)

• 12th Grade

  • American Democracy/Economics
  • American Democracy/Economics Honors
  • Agriculture American Democracy/Ag Economics (CTE Urban AF Pathway)
  • Ethnic Studies Honors Step To College
  • Peer Resources Teaching for Diversity (CTE Educator Pathway)