Electives

Introduction to different forms of visual art such as: line, shape, color, value, space, form, and texture while being exposed to different mediums to develop skills. These include: painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, and photography. This class is considered the introduction to art that will allow students to explore their creativity and build the foundations to move on to a more advanced class next year.

In this class students are exposed to multiple computer applications and learn how computers have influenced our world. Students learn specific digital skills related to education that they can use across the curriculum and learn how to be a positive digital citizen.  Students are encouraged to design, create, and explore multiple digital media platforms. Students create and complete project-based assignments like game design, coding, digital music, and architecture.

In this course, students explore band instruments, develop their voice, and learn how to read music in preparation for beginning band or choir. Music literacy, theory, and piano skills will be taught so all students can have an appreciation for music and prepare them for any type of music class.

Introduction to Middle School is a study skills and strategies course designed to help Middle School students become efficient and effective learners throughout their secondary education.

For students with NO experience playing a band instrument. The only requirements are an interest in music, determination, and a desire to learn. Spots are limited for percussion & bass guitar. Students do not need to supply their own instruments; the school has instruments available for loan. Performances outside of the school day are required and we perform at least two times a year for family, friends, school, and the community. Beginning bands can learn to play great songs like Star Wars and Pirates of the Caribbean, with more to come!

For students who have at least one year of experience on a band instrument (flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, baritone horn, tuba, bass guitar, percussion) and/or have completed book one of a method book. Students may need to audition for final placement. Performances outside of the school day are required and we perform at least three to four times a year outside of school hours for family, friends, school, and the community. Experienced bands can play fun songs from movies, popular music, and more while preparing them for music in high school. Students will also have additional playing opportunities such as district and regional honor bands

This year-long elective focuses on cultivating young leaders for both students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. Students are encouraged to serve as officers (president, vice president, secretary, etc.) and facilitate positive peer-relationships in sharing similar interests, experiences, and social activities. Students will be responsible for planning different activities during the school year (lunch, flex/advisory) and/or after school events. The program is backed by both special and general education teachers with the focus of empowering students to drive change in their school and local communities.

Students study acting theory and methodology to improve their acting skills using improvisation as well as memorized scenes.  Various types of media are studied such as: theater history, technical theater, and some musical theater, film, and television. Students also learn how to be an appropriate audience member and critique others’ performances and productions. This course culminates in a Broadway show performance over 4 nights for 2 consecutive weeks. If you like to perform, sing, and dance; then this is the class for you!

Elected student representatives and other members join for the following reasons:

• Promote school spirit 
• Address student-identified school issues with Administration
• Plan and organize school-wide activities
• Organize community service projects
• Explore leadership styles through weekly games and activities

Students will be required to be available for school activities outside of regular school hours.

This class is an introduction to video production and broadcasting and with  limited space for 6th-grade students. Students will film, create, edit, and produce a weekly broadcast of Bronco TV (BTV). Students will participate in the Student Educational Video Awards by creating and producing public service announcements, documentaries, and instructional videos. Students who successfully complete this course can continue on with the media production pathways at the High School level.

Students learn the fundamentals of art: color, composition, value, form and perspective by exploring various mediums like graphite/colored pencil drawing, illustrations, watercolors, acrylic/tempera painting, pastels, and clay sculpture. The class format combines projects to teach a specific skill with the freedom to explore various mediums from personal perspective and interest.

In this class students are exposed to multiple computer applications and learn how computers have influenced our world. Students learn specific digital skills related to education that they can use across the curriculum and learn how to be a positive digital citizens.  Students are encouraged to design, create, and explore multiple digital media platforms. Students create and complete project-based assignments like game design, coding, digital music, and architecture.

Advance Art builds on skills learned in Beginning Art using similar mediums and class format. Students in Advanced Art have more freedom to explore personal interests.  At the end of the year, student portfolios will be presented in the San Juan Unified School District Art Showcase.

AVID is for students with mid-level academic achievement that want to learn more about college and career opportunities. Students will learn how to take notes, study for tests, research careers and colleges, and complete team-building activities. Students will have the opportunity to visit colleges and learn what awaits them after high school.

Pending District approval, Barrett Middle School students would be introduced to the basics of American Sign Language (ASL).

Pending District approval, Barrett Middle School students can develop their foreign language skills and learn about other cultures. 

This elective is for students interested in sports and/or fitness. Students work to improve individual fitness, and develop skills in any sport(s) they may already play. 

This course offers an innovative approach to learning in which students use problem-solving skills and the engineering design process to tackle hands-on learning activities. Creativity and collaboration will be encouraged as students face realistic problems. Skills developed in this course will improve critical thinking and propel students toward a successful career in STEM fields. Students interested in this elective should enjoy research, the engineering process and believe that nothing is impossible. Fields of study include:

• Structure and Function
• Aeronautics/Space Exploration
• Mechanics
• Environmental/Humanitarian Engineering
• Electronics
• Coding
• Design Process.

STEM students must be Curious, Motivated, Disciplined, and Collaborative.

Student assistants help staff with a wide variety of activities on campus.  Available Positions:

• Teachers Assistant- Assist your assigned teacher in their classroom
• Custodial Assistant - help keep our campus beautiful
• Cafeteria Assistant- serve food during lunches
• Office Assistant -  Deliver messages, collect attendance, and run errands.

Becoming a student assistant is a privilege. If you are accepted you must remain in good standing. Students with a history of behavioral discipline and/or students in poor academic standing are not eligible.

Students learn basic principles of yearbook production and develop skills that include writing copy, captions and headlines, digital photography, desktop publishing, and using appropriate technology tools for media production.  Students in this course participate in creating our school yearbook. 

Please note that yearbook students may be asked to spend extra time during lunch, before and after school, and during school breaks to help the publication meet strict deadlines set by the publisher.