Keeping it classy

-Perri Lieberman

Math and English better watch out there are new classes taking over the curriculum. This year, Westlake welcomed a handful of unique classes, including Multivariable Calculus, Robotics, Independent Study Mentorship, Chinese I, Ready, Set, Teach, Business Image Management and Multimedia, Health Science Technology and Medical Terminology.

“The new classes give kids opportunities for more innovative electives that tie into their interests,” principal Linda Rawlings said.

Like many top-notch schools around the country, Westlake has started offering classes that challenge and excite students.

“These are new, 21^st century types of classes; 21^st century education,” counselor Jeff Pilchiek said. “Students were topping out of math, so we had to create a math class to keep them interested and involved—and we got Multivariable. Our students are off the scales, so we had to create new classes for them.”

Other courses that have been added in recent years include Chemistry III (Organic Chemistry), Independent Study Computer Science and Independent Study English.

“There is a program called Achieve Texas which requires high schools to offer classes along career pathways to help students begin to figure out what they do and don’t like,” Rawlings said.

According to the Texas Education Agency’s website, Achieve Texas is based on the belief that school curriculums should “combine rigorous academic classes with relevant career education” to help students see how what they’re learning applies to the real world. Students find these new classes extremely beneficial to their futures.

“Chinese is the language to be learning,” senior Rebekah Wood said. “It’s the new language of international business. The first few weeks we worked on pronunciation, and now we’re learning to write the symbols. We also learn a lot about the culture. It’s all about mannerisms and being respectful. When we enter the classroom, we have to bow and greet each other in Chinese. It’s a doozy!”

Many classes were created to help further student interest in future careers. Classes that will better prepare students for college and life afterwards are becoming an increasingly high priority. Classes such as ISM allow students to go off campus and be mentored by a professional in their individual field of interest.

“You won't find a course on this campus that teaches someone about preliminary aircraft design, or how to build a guitar, or how to specifically design a house or work with public policy makers that influence our laws,” ISM teacher Amy Kilian said. “[ISM] is a very unique opportunity for students to experience the real world in a field that intrigues them specifically.”

All new classes received great interest when released last year for course selection.  Classes to look for in the future include an EMT certification, film, broadcasting media, and a biotechnology lab.

“I think it [the new classes] are great,” Rebekah said. “We’re learning about whole new parts of our world, and it really broadens Westlake’s horizons.”