Mesa Ridge High School
Academics
Mesa Ridge High School offers a wide variety of classes that will suit every students' interests and goals. Below you can read short overviews of our programs.
On mobile devices, select "Menu" in the left hand corner and then click the "+" for the drop-down menu to then select which academic you which to view.
- AVID
- Band
- Career & Technical Education (CTE)
- Choir
- Honors & AP Classes
- Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC)
- Performing Arts Programs
- Project Lead the Way (PLTW)
- Schools to Career (S.T.E.P.)
AVID
What Is AVID?
AVID's mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing all students for college readiness and success in a global society.
AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college readiness system designed to increase the number of students who enroll in four-year colleges.
AVID Photos
Band
Career & Technical Education (CTE)
What is CTE?
A Career & Technical Education (CTE) pathway is a sequence of courses that provides students with the academic, technical, and real world knowledge, skills, and experience they need to be prepared for a variety of career options.
Please see the home high school course guides to see all of the CTE offerings at the home high school.
Contacts
Nikki Carter - CTE Director
Office at the MiLL
Cell: 719.205.6012
Office: 719.391.3680
Email: cartern@wsd3.org
Branda Morgan - CTE Programming Coordinator
Office at the MiLL
Cell: 719.205.6012
Office: 719.391.3595
Email: morganb@wsd3.org
Kathleen Mena - Work-Based Learning Coordinator
Office at the MiLL
Office: 719.391.3592
Email: menak@wsd3.org
Sarah Anding - CTE Secretary
Office at the MiLL
Office: 719.391.3691
Email: andings@wsd3.org
CTE Pathways
- Business, Management, and Marketing
- Cabinet Manufacturing
- Catering
- Computer & Digital Technologies
- Construction
- Family and Consumer Sciences
- Health Science (Bio Medical Technology)
- Multimedia (Commercial Art/ Design/ Photography)
- Music Production
- PLTW Engineering
- Teacher Cadet
- Theatre Technology
- Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies (Auto Technology)
- Welding
Business, Management, and Marketing
Business and Marketing Education is a program of study whose purpose is to provide students with the skills, attitudes and competencies to be successful in post-secondary study, the workforce, and as adult consumers. Students will gain knowledge and skills in finance, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, accounting, communications and business technology.
Career & Technical Student Organization: DECA & FBLA
Click on the following links to learn more about occupations in Business, Marketing & Public Administration.
Cabinet Manufacturing
Students enrolled in the Cabinet Manufacturing Pathway will learn and master techniques of "Lean Manufacturing" which is the systemic method of eliminating waste within a manufacturing environment. Students are also trained and certified in state-of-the-art tools and machinery, including CNC automated technology.
Career & Technical Student Organization: SkillsUSA
Click on the following link to learn more about occupations in Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences.
Catering
This program is designed for students with career interests in the food industry as well as owning their own catering business. The purpose of this course is to develop skills in quantity food preparation, safety and sanitation, planning, customer service, business plans and entrepreneurship.
Career & Technical Student Organization: FCCLA
Click on the link below to explore occupations in Hospitality & Tourism.
Computer & Digital Technologies
This pathway is designed to help students understand, communicate and adapt to a digital world as it impacts their personal life, society and the business world. Exposure to foundational knowledge in hardware, software, programming, web design, IT support and networks.
Click on the link below to learn more about careers in Computer & Digital Technologies.
Construction
The Construction Program provides a strong foundation for the skills required by the construction industry. Students learn about woodworking, carpentry skills, residential plumbing and electrical systems, and advanced trade skills used by industry professionals. Construction classes are taken off-site at The MiLL.
Career & Technical Student Organization: SkillsUSA
Click on the links below to learn more about occupations related to Construction.
Family and Consumer Sciences
Family and consumer sciences, or FACS, is an academic discipline that combines aspects of social and natural science. FACS deals with the relationship between individuals, families, communities and the environment in which they live. The field represents many disciplines including consumer science, nutrition, food preparation, parenting, early childhood education, family economics and resource management, and human development.
Career & Technical Student Organization: FCCLA
Click on the links below to discover occupations in Hospitality, Human Services & Education.
Health Science (Bio Medical Technology)
The Biomedical Science Pathway is a strong fit for students interested in the field of medicine or who would like to learn about life science. Students will explore the roles of the biomedical professionals while studying the concepts of human medicine, physiology, genetics, microbiology and public health.
Career & Technology Student Organization: HOSA
Click on the link below to learn more about occupations in Health Sciences.
Multimedia (Commercial Art/ Design/ Photography)
The courses in Multimedia are designed to help students refine their visual arts experience through project-based learning and teaching students new technology-based art and design tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
Career & Technical Student Organization: SkillsUSA
Click on the link below to learn more about occupations in Commercial Art/Design/Photography.
Music Production
Currently only offered at Widefield High School, this program is designed to offer students instruction in basic and advanced techniques of music production including recording MIDI and audio, advanced editing, mixing and mastering skills. Music Business Internship will provide an introductory overview of the commercial music industry which will include a capstone.
Click on the link below to learn more about occupation in music production.
PLTW Engineering
From launching space explorations to delivering safe, clean water to communities, engineers find solutions to pressing problems and turn their ideas into reality. PLTW Engineering empowers students to step into the role of an engineer, adopt a problem-solving mindset, and make the leap from dreamers to doers. The program’ s courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers. Students take from the courses in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.
Career & Technical Student Organization: SkillsUSA
Click on the links below to discover the various occupations for engineering.
Teacher Cadet
The primary goal of the Teacher Cadet program is to encourage academically talented, high achieving, high school students with exemplary interpersonal and leadership skills to consider teaching as a career by providing students an in-depth look at the profession of teaching.
Click on the link below to find out more information regarding teaching as an occupation.
Theatre Technology
Students enrolled in this pathway will be introduced to theater production with an emphasis on technical elements. With the use of professional grade equipment and software, students will be able to create student-lead productions. They will learn digital video editing software, the basics of shooting video, and the creating digital finished products. Technical theater introduces students to the methods of constructing sets, stage lighting and sound, and implementing multimedia.
Click on the link below to learn more about occupations using theater technology.
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies (Auto Technology)
These classes prepare individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. Students receive instruction on basic automobile maintenance requirements, specific tool uses and safety procedures. Inspection and repair of automotive systems is stressed in the areas of brakes, electrical, suspension, fuel, emissions and tune up procedures.
Career & Technical Student Organization: SkillsUSA
Click on the link below to find out more about occupations in Automotive & Transportation.
Welding
Welding students will learn the foundational understanding of welding and welding processes. They will learn the basics of oxy-acetylene welding and torch cutting, plasma cutting, shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, wire feed/MIG (metal inert gas) welding and stick arc welding.
Intro to Welding Technology is taught at each high school and is a prerequisite for Welding A/B which is taken off-site at The MiLL.
Click on the link below to learn more about occupations in welding.
Work Based Learning
- WHAT IS WORK-BASED LEARNING?
- HOW IS WIDEFIELD INVOLVED?
- HOW WBL WORKS?
- HIGH DEMAND OCCUPATIONS IN THE REGION:
WHAT IS WORK-BASED LEARNING?
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is the bridge between K-12 educational practices and the application of post-secondary workforce readiness skills. It is learning about work, learning through work, and learning at work.
HOW IS WIDEFIELD INVOLVED?
Widefield School District 3 (WSD3) will be utilizing the Colorado Work-Based Learning Continuum to increase opportunities for our students so that when they graduate from high school they are prepared for high wage, high skill jobs, and careers.
There are many WBL activities that will supplement our academic content areas and provide students an opportunity to explore careers, learn more deeply about specific jobs or occupations, receive training and resume enhancements, and earn industry-recognized certificates in a career of interest.
HOW WBL WORKS?
As the new WBL coordinator, Kathleen Mena will be collaborating with our Career Technical Education (CTE) teachers to create a framework for post workforce readiness. Each student enrolled in our CTE classes will discover their skills, interests, talents, and aptitudes so they are equipped to make pathway choices for future success. In partnership with the Pikes Peak Business Education Association (PPBEA) Marketplace, students and teachers will be empowered to create an account, search for opportunities, and complete WBL experiences.
HIGH DEMAND OCCUPATIONS IN THE REGION:
- Nursing and related healthcare occupations
- Information technology, computer science, and cybersecurity
- Skilled trades and technical sciences in advanced manufacturing & construction
- Culinary arts and hospitality occupations
- Business operations & customer service occupations
WSD3 offers classes in each area; students can enter the workforce as they earn industry certifications or they can enter the workforce after earning an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. For more information, email Kathleen Mena at menak@wsd3.org.
Choir
The Choral Music program at Mesa Ridge consists of 5 performance choirs. In addition, there are the additional extracurricular groups—Ridgeline (our jazz choir) and our student led R & B Choir. These groups present several concerts throughout the school year and perform in competitions and events outside of the school.
Honors & AP Classes
Honors and AP courses offer accelerated and more rigorous curriculum to challenge students and prepare them for next level learning. Advanced Placement courses offer the potential for students to earn college credit through qualifying scores on the College Board exams. To learn more about the AP Program, view the AP Program Website.
For more information on honors and AP Courses, check out the Course Guide. Course offerings may be impacted by enrollment and may not be offered every year.
|
Honors Courses |
AP Courses |
|
Honors English 9 Honors English 10 Honors Algebra 2/Trigonometry Honors Pre-Calculus All PLTW Courses (except CAD I & II) Honors Chemistry Honors Human Physiology Honors World History |
AP English Language & Composition AP English Literature & Composition AP Calculus AB (Calculus 1) AP Calculus BC (Calculus 2) AP Statistics AP Environmental Science AP Biology AP Chemistry AP Physics AP European History AP Human Geography AP US History AP American Government |
Students interested in advanced academics should also consider the Dual Credit Program (CU Succeeds).
Summer Work
- AP Biology
- AP Calculus
- English (Honors 9 & 10/AP Comp & Lit-12th)
- Honors Chemistry
- PLTW Medical Interventions
AP Biology
AP Calculus
"AP CALCULUS SUMMER STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW COLD!"
AP Calculus Students-2024-2025!
This is an optional Summer activity that will serve as a good review, and may help you learn new concepts that require you to perform these tasks. IT IS COMPLETELY OPTIONAL!
If you have any questions, feel free to email me at johnsonjames@wsd3.org
I look forward to seeing you in August!
Mr. Brett Johnson.
English (Honors 9 & 10/AP Comp & Lit-12th)
Honors Chemistry
PLTW Medical Interventions
Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC)
Contacts
LCDR Heath Floray
florayheath@wsd3.org
(719) 391-3624
Sr. Chief Andrew Pearson
pearsonandrew5@wsd3.org
About Us
Naval Science/JROTC is a high school citizenship development education program built on a model of Education, Responsibility, Discipline, and Respect. It is a high school course, with co-curricular activities, contributing to graduation requirements.
Naval Science includes academic course material as well as military drill, athletics, and STEM. It has an co-curricular outreach, which encourages cadets into competition, orientation visits to military installations, community service, and institutions of higher learning.
Naval Science is a Leadership Development course which allows cadets to learn and practice leadership techniques and methods. By its nature, the program helps cadets learn responsibility and self-discipline by leading their peers and others within the JROTC program.
Each academic, citizenship, and leadership topic is taught by One retired Naval Officer and One Retired Senior Enlisted person for 100-150 cadets and are employed by the local school system.
Four Year Curriculum
Naval Science-1
Introduction to NJROTC
(Including: Foundations of Government; Navy Ships & Aviation; Military Customs, Courtesies, Uniforms; Military Drill; Health & Physical Fitness, First Aid, Orienteering, Survival)
Naval Science-2
Naval Leadership; Nautical Sciences
(Including: Maritime Geography, Oceanography, Meteorology, Astronomy, and Physical Sciences such as Physics of Flight, Buoyancy, Electricity & Electronics, and Sound Propagation in Water)
Naval Science-3
Naval Knowledge and Naval Skills
(Including: Sea Power & National Security, Naval Operations, Communications & Intelligence, Logistics, Military & International Law of the Sea, Ship Construction and Damage Control, Shipboard Organization, Seamanship, Nautical Rules of the Road, Navigation & Time, Maneuvering Boards, Naval Guns, Aircraft & Missiles)
Naval Science-4
- Seminars in Practical Leadership
- Supplemental Curriculum Materials
- Cultural Awareness / NEFE / SAT / ACT Prep / Suicide Prevention-Bystander Intervention Pilot Program
Class Expectations
| Pride | Respect | Integrity | Determination | Engagement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Be on time to class with materials ready to learn | Respect yourself and others | Do the right thing even when nobody is watching | Be attentive in class and PT | Teamwork |
| Wear correct uniform | Be mindful of others when speaking | Complete assignments on time | Use your time wisely | Pay attention, participate, ask |
| Recite the Pledge of Allegiance | Foster a positive environment for all cadets | Be responsible for your actions | Develop grit and resilience | Stay committed |
| Do a little extra | Put away electronic devices | Social etiquette | Set and work toward goals | Grow as a person |
Cadet Staff
Company Commanding Officer (CO) - C/LCDR Joshua Ramberg
Company Executive Officer (XO) - C/LT Ariel Hobbs
Company Senior Enlisted Leader (SEL) - C/CSCPO Garrett Steward
Operations Officer - C/ENS Alyssa Presley
Administration Officer - C/ENS Josh Willson
Supply Officer - C/ PO1 Christian Hunt
Education service Officer - C/PO1 Brendan Toves
(Training Officer) -vacant
Special Services Officer C/PO1 Joey Martinez
Adjutant - C/CPO Alex Thorp
Recruiting & Retention Officer - C/PO1 Devon Peters
Public Affairs Officer - C/PO2 Gibson
Fundraising Officer - PO1 Nomura
Armory Officer - C/PO3 Williams
Assistant Supply Officer - vacant
Practices
Performing Arts Programs
Mesa Ridge has a long tradition of excellence in the performing arts. Whether it is our award-winning bands, outstanding choirs, or talented theatre program, the arts enrich our community. Our arts programs welcome all abilities. No matter where you are starting, Mesa Ridge arts will help you grow!
Project Lead the Way (PLTW)
PLTW is a national program, a collaboration among industries, colleges and universities, and public schools. The goal is to encourage students to continue on in science and engineering fields. Widefield School District offers three PLTW pathways: Biomedical Science, Computer Science, and Engineering Computer Assisted Drafting.
Schools to Career (S.T.E.P.)
School To career Partnership (STEP) program provides an opportunity for Widefield School District 3 learners to gain career experience through a wide variety of partnerships with businesses, professionals, and agencies in the El Paso County area. Options for students include volunteer, shadows, intern, apprenticeship, and paid work experiences. When possible, these experiences are closely related to the student’s occupational interest areas. We have had successful partnerships with businesses for some time and hope to continue to broaden opportunities for students through the STEP program. At the same time STEP provides businesses and local organizations needed assistance from our students.
All STEP students must be enrolled in a Vocational / Career and Technical Education (CTE) class to receive work study credit. These classes, which were developed by business people and educators, offer self-assessment, career guidance, job skills, and work ethics as part of the curriculum. Students in CTE programs can gain work experience that allows them to apply the specific occupational skills and knowledge they have learned in their course work.
With prior authorization from the STEP Coordinator, juniors (11th grade) and seniors (12th grade) may be able to participate in volunteer options, an internship, and/or apprenticeship. Learners receive one credit for every 108 hours of experience for volunteer/internship/apprenticeship service hours (i.e. legal/court mandated hours "do not" count).
Learners working in paid positions receive one credit for every 135 hours of experience.
Not to exceed two (2) credits per semester.
(Located in the Library Learning Center)
Work-Study Length: Semester or Year
Prerequisite: Work a paid job and provide pay stub
Grades: 11 - 12
Electives Credit(s): Maximum = 2 per semester
STEP Grades
Infinite Campus will either show an "NM" (No Mark) or a letter grade of "F" (Fail) until I receive a completed evaluation form from your employer/mentor.
An "NM" is simply a grade filler until a completed evaluation form is received from the employer/mentor. An "NM" does not impact a learner's Grade Point Average (GPA) or Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) events. If you see a ninety-nine percent (99%) grade associated with the "NM," then that is NOT your grade!
An "F" means I have not heard from the student and I cannot verify employment status, the student has more than 10 absences (including excused) during the semester, or I have received a completed evaluation form back from the employer/mentor and the grading evaluation indicated a grade of "F."
If you feel that you deserve a better grade, then please see your employer/mentor immediately and ask how you can improve your performance during work.
Learners earning a grade of "B" or better, in this work-study, will be
eligible for college credit at Pikes Peak State College.
For more information, please visit Pikes Peak State College or contact your school counselor.