At VCSD, we are committed to offering a wide range of academic programs that promote student growth and college and career readiness. One way we do this is to offer advanced coursework to middle and high school students.
What is Advanced Coursework?
Advanced coursework refers to classes that exceed grade-level standards. These may include:
- Honors and accelerated classes
- Regents and Advanced Placement (AP) courses
- College in the High School (CHS) courses
- Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Why Take Advanced Courses?
Participating in advanced coursework offers students many benefits, including:
- Preparation for college-level academics
- Opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school
- Exposure to challenging, engaging content
- Development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Increased academic confidence and independence
- Enhanced college applications and scholarship potential
- Potential cost savings on future college tuition
Advanced Courses Offered at VCSD
Please note: Course availability may vary annually based on student interest, staffing, enrollment, and scheduling.
Middle School
Algebra I
Earth Science
Math 7X
High School
AP Calculus (CHS)
AP Chemistry
AP English Language and Composition (CHS)
AP English Seminar
AP Literature and Composition
AP Macroeconomics/Microeconomics
AP Music Theory
AP Psychology
AP Physics
AP Spanish Language (CHS)
AP Statistics (CHS)
AP United States History (CHS)
AP World History (CHS)
College Composition (CHS)
Digital Graphics
Honors Geometry
Literature and Writing (CHS)
Precalculus (CHS)
Principles of Engineering (Project Lead the Way)
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Please note: Course availability may vary from year to year.
Auto Body Collision and Refinishing
Auto Trades
AYES Auto Technician
Building Trades
Construction (residential and commercial)
Cosmetology
Criminal Justice
Culinary Arts
Diesel Technology
Digital Media Design
Early Childhood Education
Electrical Trades
Entertainment Technology
Gaming Design and Implementation
Global Fashions
Health Careers (CNA/PCA/DSP/HHA)
HVAC/Heating and Refrigeration
Manufacturing and Machine Technology
Network Cabling/Smart Home Tech
New Visions Emerging Technology
New Visions Health Careers
Plumbing
Sterile Processing Technology
Welding
How to Prepare for Advanced Coursework
To be eligible for advanced courses, students must prepare by taking the necessary prerequisite courses and maintaining good academic standing. Students may be placed in advanced coursework through teacher recommendation and/or student or parent request. Counselors are available to support students and families in planning an appropriate academic pathway. See the curriculum guide for additional information.
Support for Advanced Coursework
If you would like more information on the requirements for entry into advanced courses, please email Director of Curriculum Karen Conroy. In some cases, families are responsible for tuition to take these courses or AP exam fees. Information on academic and financial assistance will be made available to interested students.