Courses for Rising 9th-12th Grades
REGISTRATION for ALL GRADES is OPEN!
Please register your student in the grade they will enroll in for the 2026-27 school year.
**For Clarification: Current 7th Graders are called "Rising 8th Graders" as they approach their 8th grade academic year. Rising 9th Graders are current 8th Graders, Rising 10th Graders are current 9th Graders, and so on.
Registration Opening Dates
Full refunds will be granted up to May 8th at 8:00 pm - no refunds will be issued after that date and time.
Algebra 1
Instructor: Stephanie Wang
Grades: 9
Fall and Spring Semester: June 8 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This is a FULL YEAR course -- YOU MUST ENROLL IN BOTH SEMESTERS TO EARN COURSE CREDIT
The fundamental purpose of the Algebra I course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. This course includes standards from the conceptual categories of Number and Quantity, Algebra, Functions, and Statistics and Probability. Course instructional time focuses on four critical areas: (1) deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships; (2) contrast linear and exponential relationships with each other and engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions; (3) extend the laws of exponents to square and cube roots; and (4) apply linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Twelve modules cover the following topics: Expressions, Equations and Functions; Linear Equations; Linear Functions; Equations of Linear Functions and Linear Inequalities; Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities; Exponents and Exponential Functions; Quadratic Expressions and Equations; Quadratic Functions and Equations; Radical Functions and Geometry; Rational Functions and Equations; and Statistics and Probability.
UC Approved.
Prerequisites and Criteria: Students must maintain an average grade of 90% or higher in Math 8 during their first semester to qualify for enrollment in this accelerated math course. To receive credit, students must complete both summer sessions, with each day of attendance covering one week of the curriculum. Due to the fast-paced nature of the course, students may not exceed 1.5 days of absences per semester for any reason, including illness or travel. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the option for a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass and earn credit. Please note that this course is not intended for remediation, and grades will be recorded on transcripts. Students who do not pass must retake the course in the fall semester. By enrolling, students and parents acknowledge these requirements. First semester math grades must be emailed to [email protected] at the time of registration for acceptance into the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $30
Geometry
Instructor: TBA
Grades: 9 - 10
Fall and Spring Semester: June 8 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This is a FULL YEAR course -- YOU MUST ENROLL IN BOTH SEMESTERS TO EARN COURSE CREDIT
Geometry is a formal development of the geometric skills & concepts necessary for students who will take Algebra 2 & other college preparatory courses. The course provides for consistent use of algebra throughout the course to reinforce skills & concepts learned in Algebra 1, strengthening problem-solving skills in the development of geometric concepts & application of logical principles to geometric proofs. Topics include: points, lines, planes, angles, postulates and theorems, deductive reasoning, special pairs of angles, perpendicular lines, proofs, parallel lines and planes, angles of triangles and polygons, inductive reasoning, and congruent triangles, isosceles triangles, proving triangles congruent, properties of quadrilaterals, special parallelograms, inequalities in triangles, inverses and contrapositives, indirect proofs, ratio and proportion, similar polygons, right triangles, Pythagorean theorem, special right triangles, right triangle trigonometry, tangents, arcs and chords of circles, inscribed angles, constructions, areas of plane figures, areas and volumes of solids, and ratios of areas and volumes.
UC Approved.
Prerequisites and Criteria: Students must maintain an average grade of 90% or higher in Algebra 1 during their first semester to qualify for enrollment in this accelerated math course. To receive credit, students must complete both summer sessions, with each day of attendance covering one week of the curriculum. Due to the fast-paced nature of the course, students may not exceed 1.5 days of absences per semester for any reason, including illness or travel. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the option for a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass and earn credit. Please note that this course is not intended for remediation, and grades will be recorded on transcripts. Students who do not pass must retake the course in the fall semester. By enrolling, students and parents acknowledge these requirements. First semester math grades must be emailed to [email protected] at the time of registration for acceptance into the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $30
US History
Instructor: Eric Gifford
Grades: 11-12
Fall and Spring Semester: June 8 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This is a FULL YEAR course -- YOU MUST ENROLL IN BOTH SEMESTERS TO EARN COURSE CREDIT
A six week, four-hour daily class open to any incoming juniors. For initial graduation credit, students must enroll in both Fall and Spring semesters. Seniors who need to repeat Fall semester may sign up for only Fall semester. Fall tuition is required. The course moves quickly and demands a great deal of reading and preparation outside of class. This course examines the major turning points in American history beginning with the events leading up to the American Revolution, the origins of our constitution, reform movements, Manifest Destiny, the Civil War and Reconstruction, the impact of the frontier, the changing nature of business and government, World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, the growth of the United States as a world power, the Cold War and the struggle to achieve class, ethnic, racial, and gender equality. The course extends to the modern day. Contemporary world issues such as globalization, economic interdependence, terrorism and world cultures will also factor into our analysis of international conflict and cooperation. The California state standards provide both the framework and pace of this class. Students will maintain an organized binder or notebook that will showcase various skills required for successful completion of the course, including Document Based Questions activities and essays requiring document analysis, critical thinking and writing to allow for a deeper understanding of the content while providing skills in line with Common Core.
Earns ten of ten required credits for the U.S. History graduation requirement. UC Approved. Students need to complete both summer sessions for credit. Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $30
Physical Education
Instructors: John Franklin
Grades: 9-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This three week PE course will focus on developing proficient movement skills and patterns in the areas of aquatics, rhythms/dance, individual/dual activities, gymnastics, combatives, and team sports, as well as independent personal fitness. This course will include both physical and written assignments to help students better understand components of health/skill-related fitness, exercise safety, training techniques/practices, fitness planning, self-responsibility, social interaction, and group dynamics.
This course provides 5 PE credits (per semester) upon successful completion.
Rising 9th graders who complete both Fall and Spring semesters of PE in the summer will not be required to take PE as a 9th grader during the regular school year. BOTH summer semesters need to be completed. If a rising 9th grade student completes only one summer semester, that student will be scheduled into PE during their Freshman year. Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
Physical Education
Instructors: John Franklin
Grades: 9-12
Spring Semester: June 29 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This three week PE course will focus on developing proficient movement skills and patterns in the areas of aquatics, rhythms/dance, individual/dual activities, gymnastics, combatives, and team sports, as well as independent personal fitness. This course will include both physical and written assignments to help students better understand components of health/skill-related fitness, exercise safety, training techniques/practices, fitness planning, self-responsibility, social interaction, and group dynamics.
This course provides 5 PE credits (per semester) upon successful completion.
Rising 9th graders who complete both Fall and Spring semesters of PE in the summer will not be required to take PE as a 9th grader during the regular school year. BOTH summer semesters need to be completed. If a rising 9th grade student completes only one summer semester, that student will be scheduled into PE during their Freshman year. Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
Oral Interpretation (Debate)
Instructor: Michael Murray
Grades: 8-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
Oral Interpretation is a 4 hour, three week course which is a "beginner" guide to competitive argumentation. Students learn how to analyze a resolution, engage in critical thinking, prepare debate cases, learn the art of cross-examination, and more, in preparation for competition on the SMHS Debate Team.
Six weeks of Oral Interpretation is UC A-G approved and fulfills SMHS VAPA graduation requirement for students in grades 9-12. Prerequisites and Criteria: In order to complete 1 year of VAPA credit, students need to enroll in both semesters of Oral Interpretation. Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
Oral Interpretation (Speech)
Instructor: Michael Murray
Grades: 8-12
Spring Semester: June 29 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
Oral Interpretation is a 4 hour "beginner" guide to competitive speech. Students learn public speaking skills, acting, research tools, persuasive writing, and more, in preparation for competition on the SMHS Speech Team.
Six weeks of Oral Interpretation is UC A-G approved and fulfills SMHS VAPA graduation requirement for students in grades 9-12. Prerequisites and Criteria: In order to complete 1 year of VAPA credit, students need to enroll in both semesters of Oral Interpretation. Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
Introduction to Media Arts
Instructor: David Basulto
Grades: 8-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
Are you ready to start your journey as a content creator? This class will teach you the basics of creating short-form video content with mobile devices. Students learn how to properly use their own devices such as an iPhone or iPad to create professional-looking videos for their YouTube channels, class presentations, and much more. You will learn the top 19 shoots that make your movies look like a Hollywood blockbuster, how to use accessories to make filming easier and more like the pros, and how to capture great sound. We also discuss social media and digital literacy to help you understand the importance of being an upright digital citizen. Students should bring their own iPhones and iPads.
UC Approved for 9-12th graders only. Credit for this course will be applied to the 5 credit CTE requirement. This course can receive VAPA credit after CTE credit is fulfilled and MUST be paired with Introduction to Graphic Design. In order to meet UC requirements VAPA credits must fall under the same discipline (visual arts). Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
Introduction to Graphic Design
Instructor: Robbin Rae McCulloch
Grades: 8-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This class introduces students to the software and technologies used to create much of what constitutes two-dimensional design in the world around us: websites, marketing and branding (logos), on-screen motion graphics in films and on TV, promotional materials, posters, packaging and the like. This course is project-oriented. Students will learn the basic features of the two primary graphics applications: Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Students will investigate these tools by way of research, exercises, projects and presentations that engage the fundamental vocabulary of art and design. By way of hands-on practice, students will learn the basics of inputting, creating and outputting digital media.
UC Approved for 9-12th graders only. Credit for this course will be applied to the 5 credit CTE requirement. This course can receive VAPA credit after CTE credit is fulfilled and MUST be paired with Introduction to Media Arts. In order to meet UC requirements VAPA credits must fall under the same discipline (visual arts). Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
Introduction to Graphic Design
Instructor: Robbin Rae McCulloch
Grades: 8-12
Spring Semester: June 29 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
This class introduces students to the software and technologies used to create much of what constitutes two-dimensional design in the world around us: websites, marketing and branding (logos), on-screen motion graphics in films and on TV, promotional materials, posters, packaging and the like. This course is project-oriented. Students will learn the basic features of the two primary graphics applications: Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Students will investigate these tools by way of research, exercises, projects and presentations that engage the fundamental vocabulary of art and design. By way of hands-on practice, students will learn the basics of inputting, creating and outputting digital media.
UC Approved for 9-12th graders only. Credit for this course will be applied to the 5 credit CTE requirement. This course can receive VAPA credit after CTE credit is fulfilled and MUST be paired with Introduction to Media Arts. In order to meet UC requirements VAPA credits must fall under the same discipline (visual arts). Each day of attendance represents one week of curriculum. Given the demanding nature of the curriculum, students are permitted only 1.5 days of absences per semester. Exceeding this limit may result in removal from the course without the possibility of a refund. A minimum grade of C is required to pass the course.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
*NEW COURSE OFFERING*
Write Your Own Book: From Idea to Outline
Instructor: Spring Hempsey
Grades: 8-12
Fall and Spring Semester: June 8 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM-12:20 PM
This is a creative summer writing course for high school students with big ideas who aren't sure how to turn them into a book. In this hands-on elective, students choose to work in fiction or nonfiction and learn how real authors plan long-form writing. Through guided activities, discussion, and workshop time, students develop their author voice, clarify purpose and audience, and build a complete, chapter-by-chapter outline. By the end of this six-week course, students leave with a finished book outline and the confidence to continue writing on their own.
This course provides no credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $30
College Preparation Course
Instructor: Kylie Rushing
Grades: 10-11
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM-12:20 PM
During this three-week college preparation course, students will acquire essential tools to support their future academic endeavors in higher education. Participants will explore the significance of early college planning, including selecting appropriate high school courses aligned with their prospective majors, implementing effective time management strategies for academic success, and establishing productive study habits and routines. Students will also be introduced to college admissions criteria, emphasizing the importance of entrance exams and extracurricular activities in the application process. Additionally, the course will provide insights into college financial planning, covering topics such as tuition, housing costs, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities. Furthermore, the curriculum will address essential skills, including interview techniques, planning college visits, obtaining letters of recommendation and understanding their relevance, and evaluating factors when selecting colleges and majors. Students will also gain exposure to resources for career exploration, comprehension of college essay prompts, and strategies for successfully transitioning into college life.
This course provides no credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
College Preparation Course
Instructor: Kylie Rushing
Grades: 10-11
Spring Semester: June 29 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM-12:20 PM
During this three-week college preparation course, students will acquire essential tools to support their future academic endeavors in higher education. Participants will explore the significance of early college planning, including selecting appropriate high school courses aligned with their prospective majors, implementing effective time management strategies for academic success, and establishing productive study habits and routines. Students will also be introduced to college admissions criteria, emphasizing the importance of entrance exams and extracurricular activities in the application process. Additionally, the course will provide insights into college financial planning, covering topics such as tuition, housing costs, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities. Furthermore, the curriculum will address essential skills, including interview techniques, planning college visits, obtaining letters of recommendation and understanding their relevance, and evaluating factors when selecting colleges and majors. Students will also gain exposure to resources for career exploration, comprehension of college essay prompts, and strategies for successfully transitioning into college life.
This course provides no credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
*NEW COURSE OFFERING*
Crafting Your College Application Essays
Instructor: Lee Carlton
Grades: 11-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM-12:20 PM
Applying to college this fall? This course is intended to help students craft unique answers for their college application personal statement. Specific attention will be dedicated to the four UC Personal Insight prompts (for the University of California) and the Common Application prompt (for private colleges and universities). Students will read various sample personal statements, and then receive instruction on all parts of the writing process: brainstorming content, drafting a response, adding creative/narrative elements, proofreading the text, and modifying responses for additional use. Students should leave the course with responses that are ready for use in college applications.
This course provides no credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $15
*NEW COURSE OFFERING*
Designing Your World
Instructor: Dave Cameron
Grades: 8-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM-12:20 PM
This hands-on elective provides a unique space for those eager to imagine and build a more sustainable future. By focusing on local challenges, students will design bold, actionable ideas to foster a thriving and resilient community. The course utilizes a truly interdisciplinary approach, weaving together environmental literacy, civics, and the history-social sciences to provide a deep context for modern urban planning. Through design-based learning, participants will not only strengthen their public speaking and leadership skills, but will also apply practical math and engineering principles to bring their architectural and environmental models to life.
This course provides no credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $25
*NEW COURSE OFFERING*
Designing Your World
Instructor: Dave Cameron
Grades: 8-12
Spring Semester: June 29 to July 17, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM-12:20 PM
This hands-on elective provides a unique space for those eager to imagine and build a more sustainable future. By focusing on local challenges, students will design bold, actionable ideas to foster a thriving and resilient community. The course utilizes a truly interdisciplinary approach, weaving together environmental literacy, civics, and the history-social sciences to provide a deep context for modern urban planning. Through design-based learning, participants will not only strengthen their public speaking and leadership skills, but will also apply practical math and engineering principles to bring their architectural and environmental models to life.
This course provides no credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $25
Creative Writing
Instructor: Sergio Cervantes
Grades: 8-12
Fall Semester: June 8 to June 26, 2026
Daily: 8:00 AM to 12:20 PM
If you aspire to write creatively and don’t know how to get started, or if you already write creatively but want to expand your know-how, this Creative Writing course is for you. This class will provide many fundamental techniques geared to motivate and cultivate a student’s creative writing ability. As young writers, you will learn to spark story ideas via observation, personal experience, writing prompts and freewriting. Topics will include an introduction to traditional story structure, writing from different points of view, the creation of dynamic characters, poetic voice, and the art of creating engaging dialogue. Students will write regularly in journals, read and examine the published works of contemporary YA authors, and other professional writers. They will also engage with different forms of narrative craft, including short stories, flash fiction, novels, and writing for stage and screen. The goal is for our class to become a supportive community of writers, as we experiment, craft, revise, and tinker with our work.
This course is for enrichment only and offers no high school credit.
Additional Materials Fee: $15