Important Information for 8th Graders Only – January 2022
Dear FCA Parents/Guardians,
It is an exciting time in your 8th grader’s academic journey as they transition into their high school years. St Johns County Programs of Choice include the high school career academies, IB and AICE acceleration programs, JROTC, Early College Program, and St. Johns County Center for the Arts (SJCCA) at St. Augustine High School. Students currently in 8th (and 9th grade) may apply for enrollment in a Program of Choice for any of the St. Johns County School District high schools. However, there are application rules and a timeline that must be followed in order to be considered.
In the first two weeks in January, representatives of the high school career academies will visit the middle schools and give the students an overview of the various academies that are offered. After that, the students will have the opportunity to attend several events to learn even more about their options in high school. Please see the information below for these dates and important reminders.
Please Note: St. Johns County also offers a Center for the Arts program at RJ Murray Middle School. Interested 5th grade students must also follow the application process and rules as outlined below.
| Date(s) | Event |
| January 6, 2022 |
Online Application OPENS Begins at 8:00 AM For newly applying 5th, 8th and 9th graders Students apply online through the student’s Home Access (HAC)Account. Directions can be found on the CTE website and in the FAQ linked below |
| January 13, 2022 |
High School Showcase 3:30-7:00 PM World Golf Village Convention Center, 500 S Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32092 Learn about the high school Programs of Choice and meet representatives from each high school. |
|
January 18, 2022-February 3rd January 18-St. Augustine High School January 20-Allen D. Nease High School January 24-Tocoi Creek High School January 25-Bartram Trail High School January 26-Pedro Menendez High School January 27-Creekside High School February 1-Beachside High School (Virtual) February 3-Ponte Vedra High School |
Academy Nights 6:00-7:30 PM Each high school will host an informational 2022 Academy Night. All parents, with a student interested in attending one of the academies, should make plans to attend these events. Please note Beachside High School will be a virtual event.
|
| February 6 |
SJCCA and RJ Murray Middle School Application Deadline Students applying for the St. Johns County Center for the Arts and RJ Murray Middle School Center for the Arts program must apply by this date.
|
| February 7 |
SJCCA and RJ Murray Middle School Auditions SJCCA auditions will be held at St. Augustine High School. Middle School auditions will be held at RJ Murray Middle School (please bring your printed audition form). |
| February 10 |
Registration Deadline Online registration closes at 5:00 PM |
| February 11-February 25 |
Late Applications Late applications will be available on the CTE website or at your child’s guidance department when the window for late applications opens. |
Helpful Links
Career Academies and Programs of Choice: https://cte.stjohns.k12.fl.us/
Registration Timeline: https://cte.stjohns.k12.fl.us/timeline/
Applying to a Program: https://cte.stjohns.k12.fl.us/join/
Program of Choice FAQ: https://cte.stjohns.k12.fl.us/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Frequently-Asked-Questions-Programs-of-Choice.pdf
Middle School Blitz Featuring Bartram High School and Creekside High School-Monday, January 10th
This presentation is delivered during the school day for all 8th graders. Students will receive a brief description of the Programs of Study, Programs of Emphasis and other specialty programs available at each high school.
High School Showcase-January 13th– 3:30 – 7:00 p.m. (World Golf Village Convention Center, 500 S Legacy Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32092)
This event is sponsored by the St. Johns County School District Career and Technical Education Department and various business partners. Eighth grade students attend this event for the purpose of gathering information on high school Programs of Choice and specialty programs. Students are encouraged to attend during evening hours with parents / guardians to gather information needed to select a high school and program of enrollment. Career and accelerated academies, along with specialty programs, set up display booths where staff and student representatives meet with parents and eighth grade students to assist in the decision making process concerning high school registration. For more information please visit our web site https://cte.stjohns.k12.fl.us/high-school-showcase/
High School Registration Dates for FCA 8th Graders
Bartram High School- March 12t, 3rd, and 4th
Nease High School- March 9th
Creekside- TBA
*High School IEP transition meetings are held in April and May with the FCA team and High School representatives.
For more information about High School Showcase, Career Academies and Programs of Choice, and High School Registration, please contact Mrs. Brazil, 8th Grade School Counselor at [email protected]
2021-2022 Elective Course Options – The following descriptions are for the elective courses that are listed on your child’s Request Verification Form, and/or the Core and Elective Registration Form. We will do our best to give you the requested course; however, we cannot guarantee that the course chosen will be available or offered.
Most course descriptions have a video with information presented by the teachers. Click on the link to view the video.
Art
Video coming soon.
The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students to the rigor and routine of the art production process including: planning, producing, and reflecting on art. With an emphasis on studio arts, students explore a wide range of 2D and 3D media, skills and techniques, as related to contemporary and historical art perspectives. Projects may include but not be limited to: drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, mixed media, pottery, and sculpture. Students develop technical skills, foster their expressive abilities and employ the use of the elements of art throughout the production process.
Band Courses
https://vimeo.com/513137724
Beginning Band – This full-year course is designed for 6th, 7th , or 8th grade students who have no previous band experience. They will develop their basic musicianship while performing in three concerts per year. Instrument selection will be done the first two weeks of school, and instrument rentals are available. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, music, clinicians, professional fees, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website for more information. https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Concert Band – This full-year course is designed for 6th, 7th , or 8th grade students who have at least one year prior band experience. They will continue to develop their musicianship while performing at least three times a year. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website.
https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Jazz Band – This full-year course is designed as an enrichment performance group, open to intermediate level band students. This class is an introduction to jazz improvisation, swing, blues, rock, and Latin music. There will be three concerts per year. Students must take Concert Band or Symphonic Band in addition to Jazz Band unless the director approves. There is no extra fair share for this class, unless this is the student’s only band class.
Drama Courses
https://vimeo.com/user101422664/review/511428157/0c4ca47c0b
Drama 1 – The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students to the basics of building a character through such activities as pantomime, improvisation, and effective speaking using articulation, projection, and breathing. Students also learn the importance of technical theatre and explore the use of such elements as costumes, props, and scenery. Students practice writing for the theatre and explore various theatre roles and functions. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend and assess learning in the classroom.
TV Production
https://vimeo.com/user101422664/review/511427805/50d8ab3111
The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students to the basics of TV production, digital tools used in production, communication, and broadcasting skills. Students in this elective will assist with the creation of the school closed-circuit morning news along with other broadcasting opportunities. (One teacher recommendation will be required- details forthcoming.)
Elective Courses – required for all 6th grade students
Physical Education (Year long)
https://vimeo.com/512773242
This fitness course is designed for 6th grade students. The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become healthy and physically active for a lifetime. This course addresses both the health and skill-related components of physical fitness, which are critical for students’ success including educational gymnastics and dance sequences in a variety of settings. “Educational” gymnastics is intended to have an emphasis on body awareness, body management, maximum participation, high success rates, and open-ended responses from students. Integrating fitness throughout the content is critical to the success of the course.
Computer Science Discoveries
https://www.loom.com/share/565e8e8939ba48819e86a8b736b47b92
The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop basic knowledge and skills in the computer science. Topics will also include instruction in digital tools, digital citizenship, multi-media and word processing. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a lab setting using hands-on experiences with the equipment, materials and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices.
Optional Course – FSA Data will be used for placement
Intensive Reading
https://vimeo.com/513425007
The purpose of this course is to provide instruction that enables students to accelerate the development of reading and writing skills and to strengthen those skills so they are able to successfully read and write middle grade level text independently. Instruction emphasizes reading comprehension, writing fluency, and vocabulary study through the use of a variety of literary and informational texts encompassing a broad range of text structures, genres, and levels of complexity.
Art Courses
Video coming soon.
3D Art – The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students to the rigor and routine of the art production process including: planning, producing, and reflecting on art. With an emphasis on studio arts, students explore a wide range of 2D and 3D media, skills and techniques, as related to contemporary and historical art perspectives. Projects may include but not be limited to: drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, mixed media, pottery, and sculpture. Students develop technical skills, foster their expressive abilities and employ the use of the elements of art throughout the production process.
Band Courses
https://vimeo.com/513137724
Beginning Band – This full-year course is designed for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade students who have no previous band experience. They will develop their basic musicianship while performing in three concerts per year. Instrument selection will be done the first two weeks of school, and instrument rentals are available. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, music, clinicians, professional fees, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website for more information. https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Concert Band – This full-year course is designed for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade students who have at least one year prior band experience. They will continue to develop their musicianship while performing at least three times a year. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website. https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Jazz Band – This full-year course is designed as an enrichment performance group, open to intermediate level band students. This class is an introduction to jazz improvisation, swing, blues, rock, and Latin music. There will be three concerts per year. Students must take Concert Band or Symphonic Band in addition to Jazz Band unless the director approves. There is no extra fair share for this class, unless this is the student’s only band class.
Drama Courses
https://vimeo.com/user101422664/review/511428157/0c4ca47c0b
Drama 1 – The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students with no prior drama experience to the basics of building a character through such activities as pantomime, improvisation, and effective speaking using articulation, projection, and breathing. Students also learn the importance of technical theatre and explore the use of such elements as costumes, props, and scenery. Students practice writing for the theatre and explore various theatre roles and functions. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend and assess learning in the classroom.
Drama 2 – This full-year course is designed for students with previous theatre experience and instruction to continue to study acting, design, and dramatic literature to increase the enjoyment and understanding of what is required to prepare plays for the public. Students explore theatre history, study the great American playwrights, examine the cultural and historical contributions to theatre, and begin to use the information to inform and improve their theatre knowledge and skills. Students begin to use the basic elements of theatre design through practical application and projects. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
Computer Education
https://vimeo.com/user121951671/review/512772110/22d9ca6d70
ICT 1– The purpose of this course is to introduce students to core concepts associated with computers and their use. The content includes hands-on opportunities to explore various software applications, including the creation of a template-based webpage and a basic computer program. Students will also be given opportunities to pass certification tests.
Spanish Courses
https://vimeo.com/512960354
This full-year course is to introduce students to the Spanish language and its culture. Students who complete two years in middle school have the option after the 2nd year to convert those two years to high school credit.
TV Production
https://vimeo.com/user101422664/review/511427805/50d8ab3111
The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students to the basics of TV production, digital tools used in production, communication, and broadcasting skills. Students in this elective will assist with the creation of the school closed-circuit morning news along with other broadcasting opportunities. (One teacher recommendation will be required- details forthcoming.)
Elective Courses – all 7th grade students
Physical Education (Year-long)
https://vimeo.com/512773242
This fitness course is designed for 7th grade students. The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become healthy and physically active for a lifetime. This course addresses both the health and skill-related components of physical fitness, which are critical for students’ success including team sports.
Optional Course – FSA Data will be used for placement
Intensive Reading
https://vimeo.com/513425007
The purpose of this course is to provide instruction that enables students to accelerate the development of reading and writing skills and to strengthen those skills so they are able to successfully read and write middle grade level text independently. Instruction emphasizes reading comprehension, writing fluency, and vocabulary study through the use of a variety of literary and informational texts encompassing a broad range of text structures, genres, and levels of complexity.
Art Courses
Video coming soon.
3D Art – The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students new to art to the rigor and routine of the art production process including: planning, producing, and reflecting on art. With an emphasis on studio arts, students explore a wide range of 2D and 3D media, skills and techniques, as related to contemporary and historical art perspectives. Projects may include but not be limited to: drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, mixed media, pottery, and sculpture. Students develop technical skills, foster their expressive abilities and employ the use of the elements of art throughout the production process.
Visual Art – This full-year course is designed for 8th grade students to use advanced level techniques to create a variety of 2-D and 3-D artworks through developing skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sculpture, and pottery. Students proficiently manipulate the structural elements of art with increasing independence to promote creative risk-taking in their artwork. Investigation of artworks from Western and non-Western cultures provide a means for students to expand their understanding and appreciation of the role of art in global culture. Student artists use an art criticism process to evaluate, explain, and measure artistic growth in personal or group works.
Band Courses
https://vimeo.com/513137724
Beginning Band – This full-year course is designed for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade students who have no previous band experience. They will develop their basic musicianship while performing in three concerts per year. Instrument selection will be done the first two weeks of school, and instrument rentals are available. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, music, clinicians, professional fees, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website for more information. https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Concert Band – This full-year course is designed for 6th, 7th, or 8th grade students who have at least one year prior band experience. They will continue to develop their musicianship while performing at least three times a year. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website. https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Symphonic Band – This full-year course is designed for 8th grade students who have at least two years prior band experience. They will continue to develop their musicianship while performing music at least three times a year. Financial obligations and occasional time commitments outside of school hours are part of this course. There will be a fair share fee for this course which covers uniform shirt, band books, binder, small accessories, reeds, rewards and other class essentials. Before making this selection, parents are encouraged to visit our music page on our website. https://teachers.stjohns.k12.fl.us/zentz-l/band/
Jazz Band – This full-year course is designed as an enrichment performance group, open to intermediate level band students. This class is an introduction to jazz improvisation, swing, blues, rock, and Latin music. There will be three concerts per year. Students must take Concert Band or Symphonic Band in addition to Jazz Band unless the director approves. There is no extra fair share for this class, unless this is the student’s only band class.
Jazz Band 2 – This full-year course is designed as an enrichment performance group, open to students who have one year of jazz band experience or director recommendation. This course continues working on fundamentals of jazz. There will be three concerts per year. Students must take Concert Band or Symphonic Band in addition to Jazz Band unless the director approves. There is no extra fair share for this class, unless this is the student’s only band class.
Computer Courses
https://vimeo.com/user121951671/review/512772110/22d9ca6d70
ICT 1– The purpose of this course is to introduce students to core concepts associated with computers and their use. The content includes hands-on opportunities to explore various software applications, including the creation of a template-based webpage and a basic computer program. Students will also be given opportunities to pass certification tests.
Emerging Technology in Business – The purpose of this course is to give students an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills related to the area of Emerging Technology in Business. The content includes but not limited to electronic research methods; business communications including speaking, listening, writing, and telecommunicating; multimedia presentation skills; ethical considerations related to technology; and emerging technologies affecting business environments. Instruction is designed to provide an understanding of the advances being made in technology today and in the future. Students will earn ONE high school credit upon completion of this class.
Drama Courses
https://vimeo.com/user101422664/review/511428157/0c4ca47c0b
Drama 1 – The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students with no prior drama experience to the basics of building a character through such activities as pantomime, improvisation, and effective speaking using articulation, projection, and breathing. Students also learn the importance of technical theatre and explore the use of such elements as costumes, props, and scenery. Students practice writing for the theatre and explore various theatre roles and functions. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend and assess learning in the classroom.
Drama 2 – This full-year course is designed for students with previous theatre experience and instruction to continue to study acting, design, and dramatic literature to increase the enjoyment and understanding of what is required to prepare plays for the public. Students explore theatre history, study the great American playwrights, examine the cultural and historical contributions to theatre, and begin to use the information to inform and improve their theatre knowledge and skills. Students begin to use the basic elements of theatre design through practical application and projects. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
Drama 3 – this full-year course is designed for students who have had 2 prior years of drama experience. Students will continue to build skills and knowledge as they explore aspects of theatre. Students will explore theatre history, study the great American playwrights, examine the cultural and historical contributions to theatre, and improve their theatre knowledge and skills. Students learn about and begin to use the basic elements of theatre design through practical application and projects. Public performances may serve as a culmination of specific instructional goals. Students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom.
Leadership/WEB
https://vimeo.com/513206007/c8f1339ab2
This full-year course is designed for students to develop leadership, personal, and business skills. They will learn to develop a healthy self-concept and healthy relationships, and to understand personal responsibility. Students will develop skills in public speaking and communication, and an understanding of personal image. They will come to understand the concept of principle-based decision making and develop their own personal mission statement. Students will practice and develop skills for conflict resolution and acquire an understanding of the effects of peer pressure. Students may also practice leadership through an internship at various locations around the school. There will be a nominal materials fee for this course.
Spanish Courses
https://vimeo.com/512960354
Beginning Spanish – This full-year course is to introduce students to the Spanish language and its culture.
Intermediate Spanish – This full-year course is a continuation of Beginning Spanish. Students will expand their knowledge of the language and its culture. After successful completion of two years of middle school Spanish, students have the option to exchange these two years towards ONE high school credit.
TV Production
https://vimeo.com/user101422664/review/511427805/50d8ab3111
The purpose of this full-year course is to introduce students to the basics of TV production, digital tools used in production, communication, and broadcasting skills. Students in this elective will assist with the creation of the school closed-circuit morning news along with other broadcasting opportunities. (One teacher recommendation will be required- details forthcoming.) Students will only be able to take a maximum of two years of TV Pro, so if they have already taken it in 6th and 7th grade they will not be allowed to take it in 8th grade.
Elective Courses for all 8th Grade Students
PE (Physical Education)
https://vimeo.com/512773242
This fitness course is designed for 8th grade students. The purpose of this course is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to become healthy and physically active for a lifetime. This course addresses both the health and skill-related components of physical fitness, which are critical for students’ success including individual and dual sports.
Optional Course – FSA Data will be used for placement
Intensive Reading
https://vimeo.com/513425007
The purpose of this course is to provide instruction that enables students to accelerate the development of reading and writing skills and to strengthen those skills so they are able to successfully read and write middle grade level text independently. Instruction emphasizes reading comprehension, writing fluency, and vocabulary study through the use of a variety of literary and informational texts encompassing a broad range of text structures, genres, and levels of complexity.