(One semester) Intro to Web Design explores the visual art and academic discipline of building stunning, interactive web sites. We will study HTML, CSS, and JavaScript languages as well as the fundamentals of graphic arts. The course also focuses on practical aspects of web design and development such as database structures and online hosting. Graduates of this class will be ready to publish professional caliber websites for businesses and projects and of their own. In our final projects, we will put that skill to the test as we offer free web design services to local businesses and organizations.
(One semester) Intro to Programming starts by familiarizing students with the core components of computers. We seek to welcome students into the study of Computer Science by delving into the logical constructs of programming with simple, fun projects. The second half of the course focuses on an obstacle avoidance algorithm for a Raspberry Pi-based robot. Students will program and test an autonomous robot so that it can navigate its way through a maze. Prerequisite: Algebra I
(One semester) Learn the basics of video game design and programming. Students study basic 2D game physics while programming in a visual, object-oriented environment. We will discuss the fundamentals of creating entertaining gameplay as well as the principles of art asset design. Students will produce sharable reproductions of classic arcade games as well as new concepts of their own.
(One semester) This course continues our study of video game design and programming. Students will develop 3D games using the Unity engine and the C# programming language. Students will learn object-oriented programming, animation, game physics, particle systems, and publishing using an industry-standard framework.
Prerequisite: 2D Game Design, Intro to Programming, or permission of the instructor.
(One semester) 3D Modeling and Fabrication focuses on what it means to bring ideas into the physical world. Students will use computer assisted design to digitally model their inventions. Over the course of the semester, we will bring life to these plans using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines such as 3D printers, mills, and laser cutters.
(One semester) This course is for advanced programmers in game design. Students use the semester to design and create a more intricate game than is possible within the time frame of 3D Game Design. The game is created as an independent project with support from the teacher. This class meets concurrently with 3D Game Design. Prerequisite: 3D Game Design and permission of the instructor.
This year-long course exposes students to engineering, programming, and design. Students divide into software and hardware teams to construct a FIRST competition robot. Depending on the sub-team, students will digitally design, machine parts, wire electronics, program control software, and pilot the robot during competitions. This class is a key component of the school’s robotics team. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor
(One semester) This hands-on course guides students through sophisticated web application development using professional-grade tools and frameworks made accessible through carefully crafted starter templates. Work alongside other students to build core business software. Whether your strength lies in design, programming, or user experience, you'll find your role in our collaborative development environment. Learn industry-standard practices, gain practical experience with Python web development, and see your contributions make an immediate difference. By course end, you'll have professional portfolio pieces and experience working on a production application. Prerequisite: Permission from Instructor
This course is a rigorous study of object-oriented programming in Java. Students will be prepared for college-level programming through hands-on problem solving. Course foci include data structures, algorithms, logical expressions, and critical skill of breaking big problems down into smaller, computer-solvable components. Students will take the AP Computer Science A exam at the conclusion of the course. Prerequisite: Algebra AND a previous computer science course or permission of the instructor.
(One semester) Finance, Economics, and Ethics is an engaging, multidimensional course conducted as a seminar. The course is designed to help you think more clearly and deeply about a host of topics, including:
Personal Finance
Taxes
(Not-)For-Profit Entities
Careers
Insurance
Charities
Income and Expenses
Economics
Ethics and Morals
Budgeting
Need for Due Diligence
Saving and Investing
Retirement
Estate Planning
Borrowing and Credit
Financial Statements
Other Related Topics
Most importantly, over the course of the semester you should more thoroughly develop your own understanding, appreciation, and discipline regarding your personal decision making, financial and otherwise, that you will utilize your entire life, thereby doing so successfully in the way you define success uniquely for yourself.
Students will study eight entrepreneurial mindsets and how to apply them to school, business and life. Students will be exposed to entrepreneurial thinking through a diverse group of entrepreneurs via the Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative as well as in person speakers. They will apply the mindsets through an experiential, problem-based project designed to empower learners by exposing them to entrepreneurial experiences that will enable them to develop creativity and critical thinking, effective problem solving, teamwork, and other entrepreneurial skills - skills that will enable them to succeed regardless of their chosen path. This course was previously known as Management & Entrepreneurship.
(One semester) This course combines a hands-on learning experience utilizing the Ice House Entrepreneurship Program with a school-owned, student-run business experience. Students are immersed in the entrepreneurial experience through a group project running a business that enables them to develop creativity, critical thinking, effective problem-solving, teamwork and other entrepreneurial skills that will enable them to succeed regardless of their chosen path. Prerequisite: Entrepreneurial Mindset/Management Entrepreneurship
(One semester) This dynamic course introduces the principles of marketing and communications in today’s rapidly evolving digital world. The semester-long course will be a simulation of the client-agency relationship where students, [Agency], will develop and execute a marketing campaign for review by Instructor [Client]. The campaign will include traditional channels of marketing including, paid/organic social media, traditional advertising, email marketing, blogs/newsletters and podcasting/webinars. Students will be working in groups and get hands-on experience with every stage of the process including strategic planning, messaging, content creation, client relations and metric evaluation/analysis.
(One semester) The purpose of this course is to develop students' technical knowledge and skills in a hands-on, collaborative, and authentic learning environment. Students learn the scientific and technical competencies needed to analyze, build, and maintain small engine vehicles. The course intends to instill these practical and intellectual skills in order to produce a more well-rounded, holistically developed student.