Board hears proposals for virtual-reality work-based learning course and prep for Integrated Math 3

The board heard two new-course proposals at its Jan. 14 meeting: a virtual-reality work-based-learning class aimed at 10th–12th graders and a trimester preparatory course to support students entering Integrated Math 3.

Workplace-learning coordinator Miss Duncan described a planned virtual-reality lab that will use virtual-reality experiences for career exploration and allow students to pursue OSHA and other short certifications. The district has an initial grant of $15,000 to equip a virtual-reality lab; the course would expose students to career paths and certifications and support internship and workplace-preparation opportunities. Duncan said the course will be available to 10th–12th graders and is intended to feed CTE pathways.

The second proposal is a trimester-long prep course for Integrated Math 3 (algebra 2 level). The course is designed as a targeted intervention or referral option for students who need additional preparation before taking the rigorous two-trimester Integrated Math 3 sequence. Teachers and counselors would use prior course grades and PSAT data to identify students for referral to the prep course; it would not replace existing acceleration options for students who advance more quickly.

Administrators said staffing and course-prep considerations guide which new offerings the district can sustain, and that new courses typically follow a review of student interest, staffing certification and alignment to graduation requirements. Trustees acknowledged that some course proposals grow enrollment over time and that new courses sometimes require early patience as awareness increases among students.

Both course proposals were presented for board information; the transcript does not record a formal board vote on these course requests during the Jan. 14 meeting.