Most students dread coming to school due to the same old math equations, studying boring books, and experimenting with familiar chemical reactions. At the high school, one now has the opportunity to take classes that may be similar to their interests. As of the start of the school year, four new electives are being offered to students: Young Adult Literature, Stagecraft, World War II, and Acting.
World War II (WWII) is the new Social Studies course that students have the opportunity to take. Aaron Blech, a teacher with nine years of experience, instructs this class during the first, second, and third quarters of this year. He additionally teaches other Social Studies classes, including American History 1, American History 2, and Modern American History. Blech is offering interested students the opportunity to take a trip to Europe in the summer of 2026 to learn and discover important, famous locations. This opportunity inspired him to find a way to inform students about major historical events, specifically WWII. To bring this idea to action, he collaborated with the counseling office, and all he needed was a sufficient number of interested students.
This elective covers events from the end of World War I up to post-World War II, setting up the United Nations, and how the war still affects the world today. Students discuss other significant battles, turning points, and various perspectives on conflicts. One should expect to learn more beyond the academic aspect of the class. They will learn life skills, including collaboration with others and becoming confident in presenting. In addition to the learning, individuals will have the chance to do some fun activities too. According to Blech, “We just did a Treaty of Paris simulation, where we had groups simulate how the end of World War I played out. They really enjoyed it, and kind of understood a lot of where I was kind of hoping they would go with it.” He believes his current WWII class is going great, and many students taking it enjoy it. Although he does warn, “It’s intense, we’re talking about the greatest conflict in world history,” he said. Blech suggests that anyone seeking a shake-up in their schedule or a deeper understanding of why the economy is the way it is today should take this class.
Layla Dickson, sophomore, is taking Young Adult Literature (YA Lit.), a newly introduced English elective, which is taught by teacher Rachel Cannon. Young Adult Literature is notably different compared to traditional English classes, where mostly classic literature is discussed. Dickson says, “It’s more like, focused on teen books and not books like The Odyssey in some sense. It’s just a lot more engaging that way.” In YA Lit., students learn more about the genre and ideas of young adult books, including The Outsiders and The Hunger Games. This elective has a significant reading aspect, including independent and large group reading. There are a variety of YA books students can choose from to read for independent reading. Dickson believes her class is going well, and most students who are in her class participate and enjoy it, including her. “I like how there’s a more teen aspect to it,” she said. Dickson additionally believes that the class is effective and helpful for high schoolers. “I think it is really nice because if some students aren’t as interested in reading, then I think the YA class can help them find a book that they’re more interested in,” she said. Cannon even attempts to take excitement to the next level, whether it is a movie, fun questions, or The Reaping activity. YA Lit. is a fun and perfect way for students to engage more in books and discussion.
The addition of these new electives can help students explore their interests, mix up their schedule, or try something different. These classes not only teach students, but also allow them to enjoy themselves, too.
