OVERVIEW
Valley Vista is focused on academics that prepare students for college and career. Valley Vista understands that a holistic approach is needed to meet the diversity of the student population. The master schedule is strategically planned to accommodate students’ interests and academic needs. A variety of challenging Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses are offered to provide students the opportunity to earn college credit while still in high school. Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities are offered through signature programs, partnerships with community colleges, local businesses, CTED/WestMEC and CTSOs (Career and Technical Education Organizations). Furthermore, programs such as AVID are instituted into the culture to promote academic and post-graduation success. At Valley Vista, academics are celebrated on campus.
Graduation Requirements
English - 4 credits
(English 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8)
Math - 4 credits
(Algebra 1-2, Geometry 1-2, Algebra 3-4 and one
additional math course)
Science - 3 credits
Social Studies - 3 credits
(World History, U.S./Arizona History 1-2, U.S. &
Arizona Government (.5), Economics (.5))
P.E./Health - 1 credit
Fine Arts or CTE - 1 credit
Electives - 6 credits
Total 22 credits
*Students must pass the Civics Test and CPR Requirements in order to graduate*
CORE COURSEWORK
English
Valley Vista uses the myPerspectives curriculum by SAVVAS for the instruction of English. The school requires four credits of English for students to graduate (English 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8). Additional English course offerings can include Pre-AP, APLanguage and Composition, AP Literature and Composition, and such electives as Speech and Debate, Creative Writing, Mythology, and Philosophy.
Social Studies
Valley Vista High School uses the McGraw Hill Networks curriculum for the instruction of Social Studies. The school requires 3 credits of Social Studies for students to graduate (World History, United States History, United States Government .5 credit, and Economics .5 credit). Additional Social Studies course offerings can include AP Courses, and such electives as Psychology.
Math
Valley Vista High School uses the Illustrative Mathematic curriculum delivered by McGraw Hill for the instruction of Algebra 1-2, Geometry and Algebra 3-4. The school requires four credits of Mathematics to graduate, one of which must be above the Algebra 3-4 level, which could include: Financial Mathematics, College Algebra, Precalculus Honors, AP Statistics or AP Calculus. Additional Mathematics course offerings include Pre-AP.
Science
Valley Vista High School requires 3 lab science credits for graduation. Course options include; Integrated Science, Conceptual Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Integrated Science, Physical Science, Environmental Science, and Physics 1-2. Biology and Chemistry curriculum is delivered via the HMH platform. Conceptual Physics and Physical Science curriculum is provided by Pearson/Savvas. Environmental Science curriculum utilizes Cengage. Physics 1-2 uses McGraw Hill curriculum. Integrated Science uses both Pearson/Savvas and HMH curriculum resources.
Please note that course offerings are subject to change based on student interest and teacher availability. Please check with your counselor for the most up-to-date offerings available. For a more comprehensive list of potential classes available, please view the Course Selection Guide.
SPECIALTY PROGRAMS
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an international program to increase student performance, is a four-year program for students who are capable of completing the most rigorous curriculum but are falling short of achieving their academic potential. AVID students are required to be enrolled in the schools toughest classes such as Advanced Placement as well as enrolled in the AVID elective throughout their high school career. The AVID elective provides academic instruction and support to prepare students for eligibility and success at a four-year college or university.
