Visalia, CA 93292
Visalia Charter Independent Study
CTE Pathways Overview - Pg. 11
Performing Arts - Pg. 2
2025-2026
ELECTIVE COURSES
vciS.VUSD.org
Parenting & Leadership - Pg. 7
424 n. lOVERS lANE
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics - Pg. 9
Visual & Media Arts - Pg. 5
Culinary Arts - Pg. 7
(559) 931-8030
Foreign Language - Pg. 10
Health Sciences - Pg. 8
CLASSROOM BASED
Choral Performance (9806/9807; meets UC "F")
Guitar Performance (6445/6446; meets UC "F")
Guitar Explorations (6443/6444; meets UC "F")
This course will develop an appreciation of music as an art form and explore the variety of career pathways available in professional music. Students will perform in a choral ensemble. This course explores a variety of standard choral literature as well as popular music while teaching choral technique, music theory and performance practices. These learned skills will prepare students in their pursuit of professional music career pathways. This class performs in two shows throughout the year. (participation in end of semester school performance is required)
AKA: Rock Band This course is designed to introduce the student to the art of music performance through the study and performance of Rock, Jazz, Pop and other styles of popular music, with an emphasis on ensemble playing, teamwork, and creativity. Students will explore how to choose songs, find commonality with band mates, and how to arrange pieces to make the most of the collective skill-set of the band. This course is open to students with a basic understanding of music fundamentals and rudimentary performance skills, including reading and understanding rhythms, chords and/or melodies. Although the core of this ensemble typically centers on Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Drums, and Piano/Keyboard, all instruments are encouraged and welcome. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; participation in end of semester school performance is required)
This course is open to all students, from beginners to advanced. It is not necessary to be a “guitar player” to take this course, and no prior musical experience is necessary. This course delves into the variety of career pathways available in professional music. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of music theory and guitar performance technique and repertoire in a variety of musical genres including jazz, classical, modern and pop. Students will explore solo and ensemble guitar music. Students gain an appreciation of music as an art form and develop the skills necessary to pursue a variety of careers in professional music. The course includes music theory and performance as well as the study of historical and contemporary music, with a focus on musical careers. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class)
Vocal Performance (9808/9809; meets UC "F")
Contemporary Music Performance (9379/9380; meets UC "F")
This course will continue to build upon the skills learned in Guitar Explorations. This course will build on foundational music theory and technical knowledge to prepare students for specific career paths in music creation, performance, or production. Students will gain a greater mastery of harmony, composition, and guitar performance technique. Students will explore solo and ensemble guitar music in a variety of musical genres including jazz, classical, modern and pop. Students will refine skills and competencies in guitar performance. Students will explore the career options and opportunities in the professional music industry. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class)
PERFORMING ARTS
This class will explore a variety of pop music genres as an interpretive form of artistic expression. This course will teach voice technique and performance practices to prepare students for a career pathway in professional music. Students will perform weekly solos in class, and an ensemble piece at the semester show. The impact on the audience will be evaluated to maximize the effectiveness of a performance. Students will receive vocal coaching from the instructor, as well as feedback from the class through a cooperative learning experience. (student must be consecutively enrolled in Choral Performance to perform a solo in the school performance.)
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Professional Music CTE Pathways
Dance/Choreography CTE Pathway
This course is for the advanced dancer. In this course, students will apply dance and choreographic skills to create project based performances for live, film and video production. Students will prepare audition or choreographic portfolios, learn business/managerial skills, and develop a professional career plan. This course is for the advanced dancer, and focuses on strengthening and refining their skills, technique, and execution. Students will learn and perform in jazz, hip hop, ballet, tap and lyrical. Creative expression and an appreciation of dance as an art form will be explored through choreography and performance. Enrollment in this course must be approved by the dance teacher. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; one or more public performances will be required in addition to the end of semester school performance)
This course focuses on establishing a strong foundation for the beginning dancer. This course is designed to help understand the importance of dance throughout history and the cultures that have helped shape our society as well as cultures all around the world. It explores the variety of career pathways available in dance while introducing dance technique and choreography. Students will explore the variety of dance genre (lyrical, jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, and hip hop). Students gain an appreciation of dance as an art form and develop the skills necessary to pursue a variety of careers in dance. The course includes the application of the elements and principles of dance, the study of historical and contemporary dance, and the exploration of the art form from a careers perspective. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; participation in end of semester school performance is required)
This course focuses on refining dance and choreographic skills and introduces production elements (i.e., staging, lighting, and sound) and company organization and management in professional dance careers. Students will continue to learn to use correct dance terminology and technical execution in jazz, hip hop, ballet, tap, contemporary and lyrical. Creative expression and an appreciation of dance as an art form will be explored through choreography and performance.(class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; participation in end of semester school performance is required)
In this course, students will apply dance and choreographic skills to create project-based performances for live, film and video production. Students will prepare choreographed solo pieces to perform in class and audition for the end of semester performance. Students will begin a professional portfolio and select career options within the dance industry. Enrollment in this course must be approved by the dance teacher. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; participation in end of semester school performance is required)
Dance and Choreography 2 (6620/6621; meets UC "F")
3
Dance and Choreography 3 (6622/6623; meets UC "F")
Dance and Choreography 1 (6618/6619; meets UC "F")
Professional Dance Development (6624/6625; meets UC "F")
4
This course will build on foundational skills in a variety of technical and performance disciplines to create project-based live performances in theater and musical theater. Students will learn performance and acting techniques, theater terminology, and improve language and public speaking skills. Students will be introduced to a variety of careers in professional theater as well as study a range of professional theater models. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; participation in end of semester school performance is required)
Stage Design and Technology (9810/9811; meets UC "F")
Acting Technique (9267/9268; meets UC "F")
MANAGERIAL ARTS
Advanced Acting (9277/9278; meets UC "F")
Stage Technology CTE Pathway
Production and Theater Technology (9381/9382; meets UC "F")
Professional Theater CTE Pathway
In this course students will gain hands-on experience as they work in teams to accomplish specific tasks to assist in putting on the VCIS performing arts production at the end of each semester. Some examples of tasks include production and advertising, organizing fundraising and ticket sales, assisting with props and costumes, and carrying out production and tech details. This class is for any student looking to expand their knowledge and experience in the performing arts. It is a great way to get a behind the scenes look at performing arts without having to perform on stage.
PRODUCTION &
This course introduces the techniques and processes involved in stage prop construction, lighting, and the setup and operation of sound systems. The program develops basic construction techniques for stage property and scenery. Students will participate in stage crew work, which includes the rigging and movement of sets, scenery, and lighting equipment, and the management and distribution of stage properties. Students will also be taught to manage the complex support tasks that are involved in a performance. This course will train students in the use and management of the various elements of technical production during a dance, music, or theatrical performance. Students will explore apprenticeship, higher education options, and career opportunities in stage technology.No prior experience in art classes or the performing arts is required to be a part of this class.
This course will continue to build upon the skills learned in Acting Technique. This course will build upon theatrical performance skills and prepare students for further opportunities in the performing arts. Students will expand their acting technique skills through the art of improvisation, exploring character roles and dynamics, and developing monologues and duos. Students will apply theatrical performance skills to create project-based performances in theater and musical theater. Students will learn to develop a professional career plan. Enrollment in this course must be approved by the instructor. (class meets twice a week for a two hour block each class; participation in end of semester school performance is required)
Painting 2 (6017; meets UC "F")
Three-dimensional Art is an introductory course that explores three- dimensional art forms through lecture, demonstration, audio visual aids, and execution of projects. Students will demonstrate their understanding of the terminology, being able to communicate effectively using art vocabulary, and implementing basic art elements and principles that will be taught through a variety of media. Projects will include working with Papier Mache, Plaster, Found Objects, Wire and Paper. Units of study may include sculpture, clay, fiber, paper, mixed media, color theory, and printmaking.
This course is designed to increase student technical skills, understanding and applying prior knowledge attained in Painting 1. Course will focus on experimenting with different techniques, materials and styles of painting. Materials will include watercolor, ink, acrylics, tempera, and mixed media. Students will gain a wide range of experience in various mediums and work to develop personal style. Course will provide experience in building panels for painting, building frames and stretching canvas. Students will participate in written assessments of their own works and works of others, through short written and oral critiques. Available in spring semester only. Prerequisite: Painting 1.
This course is an introductory course that will focus on increasing students technical skills and aesthetic awareness through drawing. Units of study include drawing from observations, gesture drawings, contour drawings, still life, grid systems, figure drawings, 1-2-3 point perspective, and drawing from imagination. Students will participate in written assessments of their own works and works of others, through short written and oral critiques.
Painting 1 is an introductory painting course that will focus on increasing students’ technical skills and understanding of color theory in preparation for further study and exploration of painting. Areas of study include primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, complementary colors, split complements, analogous colors, monochromatic, cool colors, and warm colors. Projects will include color wheel, proving color theory, value scale, scales using complementary colors, and color scheme designs and/or paintings. This course is a prerequisite to Painting 2.
Painting 1 (6016; meets UC "F")
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Drawing (6003; meets UC "F")
3D Art 1 (6001; meets UC "F")
VISUAL ARTS
Digital Photography 2 is a yearlong course that focuses on understanding the digital camera as an art-making tool. Students will explore the basic elements of art and principles of design in digital photography, and apply them in the development of projects that will be showcased in their personal portfolios. Students will become further familiarized with digital photographic equipment, materials, methods, and processes. They will also continue to extend their knowledge and skills in the use of Adobe Photoshop. This course will provide students with opportunities to explore the photography industry and the different types of careers available to them. This course will require student attendance in a two hour class once a week.
DESIGN, VISUAL,
Graphic Design CTE Pathway
Digital Photography 1B EDL (9303OLA; meets UC "F")
Have you ever wondered how professional photographers manage to capture that perfect image? Gain a better understanding of photography by exploring camera functions and elements of composition while putting theory into practice by taking your own spectacular shots! Learn how to display your work for exhibitions and develop skills important for a career as a photographer. This course will utilize the eDynamic online curriculum, and will require student attendance in a two hour lab class once a week.
Digital Photography 2 A/B (meets UC "F")
& MEDIA ARTS
6
Digital Photography 1A EDL (9303OLA; meets UC "F")
Let's further develop your photography skills by learning more professional tips, tricks, and techniques to elevate your images. Explore various photographic styles, themes, genres, and artistic approaches. Learn more about photojournalism and how to bring your photos to life, and using this knowledge, build a portfolio of your work to pursue a career in this field! This course will utilize the eDynamic online curriculum, and will require student attendance in a two hour lab class once a week. Prerequisite: Digital Photography 1A EDL.
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Basic Culinary Arts (9375)
Availiable Fall 2026
Advanced Culinary Arts (9376)
Students who participate in this class will develop parental skills to properly guide their child/children’s development and to provide a safe, healthy, and nurturing home environment. They will also develop job-seeking skills, obtain career and college information along with self-sufficiency skills, home management skills, study skills, and knowledge on how to access community resources. This course is reserved for students who are parents.
PARENTING & PRENATAL
The course of study will include the basics of mixing, shaping and baking several baked goods including quick breads, yeast breads, cakes, pastry dough, cookies, candies and confections. In addition to mixing basics, plated desserts, international baked goods, and basic cake decorating techniques will be introduced in the course. Intermediate students will demonstrate safety and sanitation procedures in the culinary lab.
Student Activities (ASB) (8310/8311)
Availiable Spring 2026
Parenting (9241/9242)
Food Service & Hospitality CTE Pathway
CULINARY ARTS
Students will develop the basic fundamentals of commercial cooking, including, but not limited to preparation of vegetables, proteins, starches, and applying them to complete various dishes. Students will also develop knowledge of basic food nutrition, flavor profiles, various cooking methods, personal hygiene, safety, sanitation, aesthetics and proper use of kitchen equipment.
Availiable Fall 2025
The purpose of this class is to organize, promote, and facilitate school wide events to create a positive school climate where all students feel comfortable and welcome. This class will also focus on developing the character traits necessary for students to become positive leaders.
Intermediate Culinary Arts (0344)
This course is an advanced course in foods and nutrition. Students need to know how to read recipes, utilize kitchen tools/equipment, apply knife skills and understand the basic cookery methods of different meats, starches, vegetables, as well as baking techniques for standard recipes utilizing portion control. This course focus on all key aspects of the Food Services Industry through lecture and hands-on lab based experiences that emphasize industry standards and guidelines preparing students for a future career or further education in the Food Service and Hospitality Industry sector.
LEADERSHIP
The Nurse Assistant Training and Assessment Program Model Curriculum (NATAP), has been developed to prepare the nurse assistant for certification by the State of California as an entry-level worker on a health care team in a long-term care facility. The curriculum is structured to provide theory and practical application on skills needed to function as a nurse assistant in the health industry. (this is a year-long course earning 10 units per semester)
GPA Concurrent enrollment in/completion of one of our other medical courses (Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Billing & Coding, Medical Math, Medical Terminology)
Pharmacy Technician (9357OL/9360OL; meets UC "G")
Additional Elective Courses
Medical Assistant (9412/9413; meets UC "G")
If more than 15 students per class are interested, candidates will be chosen based on:
Medical Math (8320; meets UC "G")
Certified Nursing Assistant (8715/8716; meets UC "G")
This course introduces origin, word structure, and terminology pertaining to the body systems. An overview of disease process, symptoms, anatomy, special procedures, pharmacology, and medical abbreviations is provided. Enhanced focus on spelling, pronunciation, and word usage. (this is a semester course earning 5 credits)
Students must:
This course will introduce students to the principles of medical billing and coding related to health insurance claim submission and payment processing. Medical billing procedures, diagnostic coding, the health insurance industry, state and federal regulatory entities and different reimbursement methodologies will be examined and practiced. This course is recommended for anyone exploring or preparing for a career in a medical billing department at a physician’s office, clinic, hospital, private health insurance company, or other health care entity. Available in spring semester only. (this is a semester course earning 5 credits)
The Medical Assistant course covers medical front office, back office, medical terminology, computer applications, phlebotomy, anatomy, pharmacology, injections, billing & coding, EKG, CPR and use of Administrative Medical Assisting software. (this is a year-long course earning 10 units per semester)
HEALTH SCIENCES
This course covers the basic math skills with application to dosage calculations for metric, apothecary, and household systems for the adult and pediatric patient. (this is a semester course earning 5 credits)
Medical Terminology (8938; meets UC "G")
Medical Billing & Coding (9378; meets UC "G")
Patient Care CTE Pathways
This course is designed to guide students in identifying the healthcare career that best aligns with their interests and aspirations. Students will study a wide range of opportunities across various fields, such as medicine, nursing, public health, and allied health professions. Students will gain insights into the roles, responsibilities, and required competencies of healthcare professionals. The course provides foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, disease processes, and treatment methodologies, equipping students with essential concepts that are integral to the healthcare landscape. (this is a year-long course earning 5 units per semester)
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The Pharmacy Technician course covers the basics of pharmacy assisting, including various pharmacy calculations and measurements, pharmacy law, pharmacology, medical terminology and abbreviations, medicinal drugs, sterile techniques, USP 795 and 797 standards, maintenance of inventory, patient record systems, data processing automation in the pharmacy, and employability skills. Successful completion of this course prepares the student for national certification for employment as a Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT). (this is a year-long course earning 5 units per semester)
attend the mandatory health science orientation meeting. have transportation to and from the school. have transportation to and from any off site clinical requirements. be at least 16 years old for the CNA course. be graduating in the spring semester for the MA course. (students must be 18 years old to take the state licensing test) be graduating in the spring semester for the PhT course. be fully committed to attending every class and clinical (this will be strictly enforced).
Health Career Explorations (4066/4067; meets UC "G")
9
The major areas of study in this course include physical features and water chemistry of the world ocean, the ocean's influence on earth’s weather and climate, the ocean supports a great diversity of life and ecosystems, interconnections between humans and the ocean, and that the ocean is largely unexplored. Science and engineering practices are incorporated into each unit of study, which will include asking questions and defining problems, developing and using models, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematics and computational thinking, and constructing explanations and designing solutions using an engineering design model. Prerequisite: Passing Biology w/ C or better
This is a second year, advanced course for the college preparatory student who wishes to acquire a greater breadth and depth of knowledge of the principles of biology with an emphasis of anatomy and physiology. This course is designed for students who may be interested in a career in the health related fields. Homework and laboratory work are an important part of the curriculum. (this is a year-long course earning 5 units per semester)
Highly recommended for Helath Science CTE Pathway Studetns:
The Forensics course is an integration of core ideas from many different fields of science and how they are used by forensic scientists to solve crimes. The major areas of study for this course include principles of crime scene investigation, fingerprinting, trace evidence, biological evidence, physical evidence, and behavioral evidence. Student learning in the area of study is supported by the use of the Next Generation Science Standards science and engineering practices and emphasis on cross cutting concepts. This preparatory course provides a foundation for advanced study in forensic science beyond high school. Knowledge of vocabulary taught during the course and hands-on techniques will be assessed both in written and lab formats, culminating in a cumulative lab final at the end of each semester. Prerequisite: Biology or concurrently enrolled
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY,
ENGINEERING & MATHEMATICS
Anatomy & Physiology (4022/4023; meets UC "D")
Forensic Science A/B (9308/9309; meets UC "D")
Marine Biology (9182/9183; meets UC "D")
This is an engineering course which teaches engineering and programming concepts through the construction of robots. Students will be part of the VCIS robotics team, and will develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles. As a team students will be challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots in a head-to-head challenge based on a theme that changes annually. Students will design and build a robot using TETRIX robotic parts. After students have successfully built a robot they will then use smart phones and a programming language to program their robot to move autonomously and by use of a game controller. At the end of the course students will take their robot and face off in a head-to-head challenge with other teams throughout the state. Available in fall semester only.
Bootstrap is an algebraic video game programming course which teaches algebraic and geometric concepts through coding. At the end of the module, students have a completed workbook filled with word problems, notes and math challenges, as well as a videogame of their own design, which they can share with friends and family. Students will also complete an Introduction to Computer Science course, via Code.org, that they will be taking concurrently. Bootstrap students will work in partners to create, code, troubleshoot, and eventually present their video game creation. Available in spring semester only.
In this course students will learn to understand, ask questions of, and represent data through project-based units. The units will give students opportunities to be data explorers through active engagement, developing their understanding of data analysis, sampling, correlation/causation, bias and uncertainty, modeling with data, making and evaluating data-based arguments, and the importance of data in society. At the end of the course, students will have a portfolio of their data science work to showcase their newly developed knowledge and understanding. Prerequisite: Completion of Integrated Math 2
Intro to Programming (3401; meets UC "G")
Data Science (meets UC "C" third year math requirement) (3260/3261)
10
Robotic Engineering & Programming (9377; meets UC "G")
Spanish 1 (9273/9274; meets UC "E")
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Spanish 1 is an introductory language and culture course -- no prior experience with the Spanish language is necessary! The goal of this course is to provide the foundational skills needed to have basic, real-world conversations in Spanish with other Spanish-learners and Spanish-speakers while also having fun learning a language and exploring different cultures. Students will learn to communicate (speaking and writing) and comprehend (listening and reading) while participating in cooperative learning settings. Vocabulary focuses include Identifying yourself and others, School and classroom activities, Families, and Pastimes.
Spanish 2 builds upon the foundations laid in Spanish 1, allowing students to expand their vocabulary, language skills, and cultural knowledge related to the Spanish-speaking world. The goal of this course is to continue to develop communication skills so that students can carry on more complex, real-world conversations in Spanish with other Spanish-speakers. Students will continue to develop the skills needed to communicate (speaking and writing) and comprehend (listening and reading) while participating in cooperative learning settings. Vocabulary focuses include Travel within the Spanish- speaking world, Daily routines, Food and restaurants, and Cultural celebrations. Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of Spanish 1 or its equivalent.
Spanish 3 (meets UC "E")
11
Spanish 2 (9275/9276; meets UC "E")
Spanish 3 prepares students for complex, real-world spoken and written discourse in Spanish with other Spanish-speakers in both informal and academic settings. Students will refine their communication (speaking and writing) and comprehension (listening and reading) skills while participating in cooperative learning settings. Students will learn complex tenses to express thoughts and opinions. Additionally, students will be introduced to authentic literature from the Spanish-speaking world. Vocabulary focuses include Nature, City Life, Health, and The Working World. Pre-requisite(s): Successful completion of Spanish 2 or its equivalent.
FOOD SERVICE & HOSPITALITY
CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (cna) certification PROGRAM
* courses that may be taken concurrently with enrollment in a concentrator/capstone course
Introduction
Concentrator
Capstone
Medical Terminology* Medical Math*
Pharmacy Technician A OL (P)
Pharmacy Technician B OL (P)
Below are the Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathways available at VCIS. Students should complete courses in sequential order and must complete the concentrator and a capstone course within a pathway to be eligible to earn a "Prepared" California College/Career Indicator (CCI) status at graduation. See additional CCI requirements on back.
Medical Terminology* Medical Billing & Coding* Medical Math*
Medical Assistant (S1)
Medical Assistant (S2)
Nurse Assist Cohort (S1)
Nurse Assist Cohort (S2)
HEALTH SCIENCE - PATIENT CARE
MEDICAL ASSISTANT certification PROGRAM
GRAPHIC DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY
Basic Culinary Arts Intermediate Culinary Arts
Advanced Culinary Arts A Advanced Culinary Arts B
EDUCATION PATHWAYS
PHARMACY TECHNICIAN certification PROGRAM
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DeSIGN, VISUAL, & MEDIA ARTS
Digital Photography 1A EDL (P)* Digital Photography 1B EDL (P)*
Digital Photography 2A (P) Digital Photography 2B (P)
CAREER TECHNICAL
VCIS CTE
STAGE TECHNOLOGY
Note: Students only need to complete ONE capstone option
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PROFESSIONAL THEATER
Guitar Explorations A (P) Guitar Explorations B (P)
Guitar Performance A (P) Guitar Performance B (P)
Contemporary Music Performance A (P) Contemporary Music Performance B (P)
PROFESSIONAL MUSIC
Graduates that complete a Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathway with a grade of C- or better in the capstone course meet one of the California College/Career Indicator (CCI) requirements to be deemed "Approaching Prepared" upon graduation. They must also meet one of the "Additional Criteria" to be deemed "Prepared" upon graduation.
DANCE/CHOREOGRAPHY
PRODUCTION & MANAGERIAL ARTS
Choral Performance A (P)* Choral Performance B (P)*
Vocal Performance A (P) Vocal Performance B (P)
Dance & Choreography 1A (P) Dance & Choreography 1B (P)
Dance & Choreography 2A (P) Dance & Choreography 2B (P)
Dance & Choreography 3A (P) Dance & Choreography 3B (P)
Professional Dance Development A (P) Professional Dance Development B (P)
Acting Technique A (P) Acting Technique B (P)
Advanced Acting Technique A (P) Advanced Acting Technique B (P)
Stage Design and Technology A (P)* Stage Design and Technology B (P)*
Production and Theater Tech A (P) Production and Theater Tech B (P)
Resource: CA College/Career Indicator for 2018 Dashboard PDF: https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/ac/cm/documents/whatdataused18.pdf