Electives
For Middle School
Advanced Computer Science
Students explore topics on cyber wellness and responsibility, Ethics in using Artificial Intelligence and Big Data. With multiple pathways, students begin to learn Python, a modern-day text-based language, building games, incorporating music, interactive media, Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality. Students apply their advanced coding skills to program robots. Students learn JavaScript and apply that learning to Web Development. The course incorporates keyboarding practice, network/internet, and applied projects in Google/Apple documents, slides, and spreadsheets.
High School Prep
High school prep is like getting ready for the big leagues of education. It’s all about getting yourself geared up for the challenges and opportunities that await you in high school. In this elective, you’ll learn valuable skills like time management, organization, and study techniques that will help you succeed in your upcoming years.
Yearbook / Digital Journalism
This class is intended for any student interested in journalism and different forms of online writing. Throughout the trimester, students will practice reporting on school-related events and news, interviewing students and faculty, and incorporating visual media to enhance their writing. The elective offers students an opportunity to take ownership of the accuracy and quality of their original work, which will ideally be used to inform the greater community of WVMS students, staff, and friends!
3D Pen
Come learn how to create impressive objects with a 3D pen! Students will be given certain challenges such as making a tower, bridge, and boat as well as opportunities to make items of their own interest, all using a 3D pen and filament. Come have fun and build in 3D!
Screen Acting and Filmmaking
 Work together as you write, film and edit a short film. Everybody can have a chance to be in front of the camera or working behind the scenes to bring the film to life.
Online / TV Presenting with TED Talks
 Learn professional presenting techniques (including working with a teleprompter) for a variety of presenting genres (i.e. YouTube, Documentaries, Game Shows) and become confident enough to create a finished filmed presenting reel.
Visual Art (painting, drawing, sculpting)
Create an art journal whilst studying various styles and techniques (including drawing, watercolor, acrylic, color theory and more) leading to a final larger art project based on your favorite inspiration from the course.
Dance and Choreography
Creating and performing a finished self-choreographed piece (any number of dancers) either for a live performance or for film. Designed for all abilities of dance and works will include all styles of dance.
Musical Theater
Work as either a cast member (performing on stage) or crew (working on music, props, costumes, stage management, etc.) on a production. Each week we rehearse for a school and family performance.
Guitar
If you’ve ever been interested in learning the basics of strumming a six-string, then don’t waste another second. This intro-to-guitar elective will set you on the right path for making acoustic magic in no time. Whether you’ve riffed a bit before or are a true novice, you’ll learn plenty in Guitar Glory
·     Already mastered our intro class? Sign up for Level II of our Guitar Glory elective and expand your horizons. This course is designed for students who have already enrolled in our beginner-level elective and are eager to master more complex chords and songs.
Choir
Choir is a fun elective where you get to sing with other students. It’s a great way to make friends, enjoy music, and be part of a team. If you love singing and want to have a good time at school, choir is the perfect choice!
Speech and Debate
 Brush up on your public-speaking skills and practice supporting your opinions on a variety of debate-inspiring subjects. Students will practice taking positions on different topics, supporting their ideas with logical reasoning, and addressing counter-arguments to their points. They’ll even participate in some engaging mock trials and potentially participate in competitions. Here’s your chance to let your voice be heard on topics that matter!
-Advanced Speech and Debate Available for 7th & 8th graders.
Stitch Lab
Don’t miss this opportunity to flash your creativity while also learning a practical and useful skill. This is a project-based class with lessons including pattern fundamentals, fabric preparation, basic sewing skills, seaming, pressing, and construction. No prior experience required!
Gardening
 Calling all plant lovers! Sign up for our official gardening elective and help keep our school garden flourishing. In this elective, students will learn to identify different parts of plants, understand how plant reproduction works, learn how to germinate a seed, and discover when certain plants grow. Students will plant, maintain, and harvest their very own produce. This is a great opportunity for hands-on learning about plants–with a valid excuse for getting your paws dirty!
Study Skills
 Looking for an extra boost to your executive functioning repertoire? Enroll in our Study Skills elective, where you’ll practice ongoing skills and strategies you can apply both in and beyond the classroom. Students will gain extra experience in metacognition, note-taking, working memory, planning and time management, task initiation, and more. This academically driven elective is sure to keep you on your toes and help you thrive.
Get Crafty
Enjoy a variety of crafty, creative, hands-on projects you’ll be proud to showcase. Students will produce original creations using different materials, including paper-based, vinyl (Cricut), canvas, paint, and more. In addition, some projects will work in tandem with our school events and campus activities to enhance the Wildcat experience and liven school spirit all trimester long!
Capstone: Creativity*Innovation*Entrepreneurship*
Passionate about creating a masterpiece with your unique talents? This is the course for you! Students in this course will explore the innovator’s mindset and learn the basic principles of entrepreneurship through the journey of artists and professionals. Students will develop an idea, build a product (website, music composition, a published short story to name a few) and launch it in the real world. Students will be guided by experienced mentors, parent volunteers and real entrepreneurs. The course will introduce students to business fundamentals such as finance, marketing, and accounting. Students will learn about corporate social responsibility and social entrepreneurship through service projects. During this course, students will develop the important skills of project planning, effective presentation, leadership and teamwork that will serve them in future learning, careers and life.Â
