Course Guide Home

Students who are interested should contact their counselor regarding the process for enrolling in these courses or contact Dr. Jennifer Stanfill, Director of Choice Programs at jstanfill@parkwayschools.net or 314.415.8450. For more information on Choice Programs visit https://www.parkwayschools.net/Page/3036

S P A R K

Spark! provides high school students in the Parkway and Rockwood School District with dynamic, immersion-based student learning experiences to ensure students can understand and respond to an ever-changing world.  To accomplish this task, the districts actively engage and work collaboratively with business partners, community service and educational leaders to design and develop mutually beneficial learning experiences based on the interests of students and stakeholders. Spark! serves students from Parkway North, Parkway South, Parkway West, Parkway Central, Fern Ridge, Eureka, Marquette, Rockwood Summit, and Lafayette High Schools.  Spark! is an example of how business, community and public education can partner to produce personalized learning experiences that educate the workforce of the future, especially in high skill, high demand jobs. Click here for a brief, informational video. Please visit parkwayspark.com to apply.  Applications open December 1, 2023.  The deadline to apply for Spark! is February 4, 2024.

207491 & 207492 (Year-long) - SPARK! BIOSCIENCE
Grades: 11-12
2 CTE credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

Want to learn more about living organisms through regular interactions with academic and business experts and trips to local institutions?  Try out Spark! Bioscience.  This program provides students with a passion for the biological sciences the opportunity to work with experts in the field.  If your interests lie with the micro or macro, with plants, animals, or humans, this experience will provide opportunities for research, inquiry, and project based learning.

207431 & 207432 (Year-long) - SPARK! ENGINEERING HONORS
Grades: 11-12
2 Electives credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

Spark! Engineering is modeled after cutting-edge engineering schools like, MIT School of Engineering, Olin College of Engineering, Stanford School of Engineering, Purdue University, inspired by Project Lead the Way, and endorsed by local universities. The course is designed for students who are interested in engineering and manufacturing fundamentals, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Immerse yourself with engineers and manufacturers using state-of-the-art tools and software to create and test 3D prototypes solving complex problems. Apply lean manufacturing processes that create value for customers and drive out the waste in production. Students experience hands-on, active learning with full immersion in real-world projects sponsored by business partners. Students work in multi-disciplinary teams to provide innovative solutions to a company's real-world problems. Engineering projects are tailored to student interest in the fields of chemical, electrical, mechanical, civil, environmental, software/ computer, architectural, advanced manufacturing, robotics, biological, and environmental. College credit is available through St. Louis Community College Spark! Engineering meets at Maryville University in the Cyber Fusion Center. All Spark! students will be able to earn 4 elective credits for the year-long experience based on the number of competencies mastered. More information regarding the competency-based credit model will be shared prior to the start of the school year.

207481 & 207482 (Year-long) - SPARK! INCUBATOR
Grades: 11-12
2 CTE credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

All Spark! students will be able to earn up to 4 elective credits for the year-long experience based on the number of competencies mastered. More information regarding the competency-based credit model will be shared prior to the start of the school year.

207441 & 207442 (Year-long) - SPARK! PRE-PROFESSIONAL HEALTH SCIENCES ACADEMY
Grade: 12
2 CTE credits
Prerequisite: Senior standing

Spark! Health Sciences is an engaging experience that examines the dynamic and diverse field of medicine and healthcare. During this experience, students will be exposed to the variety of opportunities and benefits of careers related to health sciences. Spark! Health Sciences participants will expand upon principles of human physiology, develop fluency in basic medical terminology, formulate treatment plans for patients and engage in First Aid and CPR training. Students will receive essential foundational knowledge based on industry demand, while also participating in clinical experiences across the continuum of care that may consist of job shadows, group projects, service learning and individualized mentorship. Diverse healthcare professionals will serve as guest lecturers and outside learning experiences will involve site visits to a variety of medical and healthcare facilities. Articulated credit is available through St. Louis Community College.

207541/207542 - SPARK! SPORTS MEDICINE
Grades: 11-12
2 Elective credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

Spark! Sports Medicine is designed for students interested in professions in sports medicine such as athletic training, physical therapy, orthopedics, and sports performance. In this program, students will gain a fundamental understanding of the human body, human performance, and human movement. Students will acquire skills to prevent, evaluate, and treat sports injuries. In addition, students will understand current trends in the healthcare industry and the importance of interprofessional collaboration to improve patient care.

Relevant industry topics such as sports medicine principles, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, exercise physiology, and therapeutic modalities will also be discussed.  Throughout the Spark! Sports Medicine experience students will connect with expert healthcare professionals and engage in fieldwork, simulations, case studies, and internship experiences for authentic observation and skill application.

207551 & 207552 (Year-long) - SPARK! TEACHING & LEARNING
Grades: 11-12
2 CTE credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

Spark! Teaching and Learning immerses students in teaching and learning.  Students will understand learning styles, teaching methodologies, technology integration, cultural responsiveness and a focus on data-driven decision making in the schooling system.  Students will engage in a collaborative relationship between teachers, administrators, students and families.  This experience will focus on the general theory and practice of learning and teaching; the basic principles of educational psychology; the art of teaching; the planning and administration of educational activities; school safety and health issues; and the social foundations of education. Students will experience the true essence of the teaching and learning process through observation, interaction and teaching. Dual credit is available for this course.

2074501 & 207502 (Year-long) - SPARK! TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
Grades: 11-12
2 CTE credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

For independent juniors and seniors who want to solve problems with digital technologies, Spark! Technology Solutions is a course that provides time, resources, and professional connections. Unlike a typical class, students determine what skills they focus on and deeply learn. Students may pursue passions in app development, cybersecurity, web development, data analytics, game design, geospatial technologies and more. During first semester, students apply their learning to team projects sponsored by industry partners, and, in second semester, to micro-internships with local and remote businesses. At least one year of successful technical coursework or equivalent experience is highly recommended.

207511 & 2075012 (Year-long) - SPARK! DIGITAL MEDIA
Grades: 11-12
2 CTE credits
Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing

For independent juniors and seniors who want to deliver real products to clients outside of school, using a wide array of digital assets (graphic design, photography, animation, video and audio), Spark! Digital Media is a course that provides time, resources, and professional connections. Spark! Digital Media is designed as a small multimedia agency that promotes companies, people and products. Students enrolled develop the communication, project management and professional skills necessary to succeed in today’s creative business environment. In addition to delivering products to clients, students meet with and learn from professionals who hold different roles and careers within the creative industry.

Visit www.parkwayspark.com to apply for Spark! Experiences.

F E R N   R I D G E

Fern Ridge serves as an extension of Parkway’s four traditional high schools. Designed for students in grades 10 through12 who prefer a small and personalized school setting, the program provides individual, small group, and whole group learning opportunities.  Teachers utilize Parkway curriculum and students receive Parkway credit.  Transportation is provided.

Admission is based not only on the program’s ability to meet a student’s academic, social, and emotional needs, but also on a student’s desire and level of commitment to be successful.  Attending Fern Ridge is a privilege and space is limited to 110 students. Applications and additional information about the program are located at  www.parkwayschools.net/site/Default.aspx?PageID=57.

In partnership with St. Louis Community College at Wildwood and St. Louis Community College at Meramec

What is the Parkway Early College Partnership?

The Early College Partnership (ECP) is a full-immersion, early entrance to college program located on the campus of St. Louis Community College (STLCC) at Wildwood or St. Louis Community College (STLCC) at Meramec.  Students attend the ECP for two years, replacing the junior and senior years of traditional high school.  While in the ECP, students engage in a curriculum consisting of all college coursework taught by professors at STLCC.  Upon successful completion, students earn an Associate of Arts degree, as well as a high school diploma.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE!

What resources are provided to students participating in the ECP?

• Students will have access to a full-time counselor and college advisor
• Students will have access to the STLCC Student Resource Center, Library, and Computer Labs, as well as student clubs and campus activities

Why should my son/daughter participate in the ECP?

This is a unique and innovative opportunity for students to join a cohort of high school students who are studying in a non-traditional setting on the campus of a community college.  This experience provides schedule flexibility and an associates degree upon completion of the program.

What are the requirements for admissions into the ECP?

• Students must currently be in 10th grade
• Students must complete the online Parkway Early College Partnership application available at parkwayecp.com beginning December 1.
• Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from STLCC.
• Students are responsible for the cost of books/instructional materials.

How are students selected for the ECP?

A committee of administrators and counselors will review:

• Classroom performance for courses taken in 9th and 10th grade
• Attendance
• Academic potential
• Academic engagement
• Time-management skills
• Access to post-secondary learning
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher*
  • *Students with a GPA below 2.5 may apply but will require one recommendation from a Parkway staff member
• Discipline history
• Student responses to application prompts 

How many students will be accepted?

For the 2023-2024 school year, each high school will be allotted 6 spots for rising Juniors for a total cohort of 24 students.

What is the deadline for applying to the ECP?

The online application must be submitted by January 29, 2023.  Supporting paperwork (Expectations and Responsibilities Signature Page and ACCUPLACER scores) must also be submitted by January 29, 2023.  Students will be informed of acceptance to the program by March 1, 2023.  All accepted students will attend an Orientation at STLCC in the spring.

What calendar will my child follow?

Students will follow the STLCC academic calendar and are required to be in attendance for all classes.

Can my child take classes at his/her high school?

This program is designed to take all classes on the campus of the STLCC-Wildwood or STLCC-Meramec; however, in rare cases, a high school course may be approved by the Director of Choice Programs and Principal.  

Can my child participate in extracurricular activities at his/her high school?

Yes, students may return to their home high school for extracurricular activities and sports.

Will students with IEPs or 504s be eligible for participation in ECP?

Yes.  Students will have the opportunity to visit the Access office at STLCC for support, as well as their high school counselor, IEP case manager, and ECP coordinator.

Should my student continue participating in the A+ Schools Program?

Yes, we recommend students continue with the A+ Schools Program for the following reasons:

• There may be opportunities for access to benefits at 4-year colleges and universities
• A+ funds may be utilized for additional STLCC courses beyond the associate's degree
• If a student decides to opt out of the ECP program at any time, they can continue working on A+ eligibility requirements

Will all the STLCC credits transfer to a 4-year institution?

Students who are planning to attend a public, 4-year institution in Missouri will benefit from the CORE 42.  The purpose of CORE 42 is to facilitate the seamless transfer of academic credits. The completion of the CORE 42 at any public institution of higher education will transfer to every other public institution of higher education in the state and substitute for the receiving institution’s general education requirement. 

Many out-of-state and/or private colleges also accept the majority of credits earned through the ECP program. 

Who pays for the ECP?

• The Parkway School District will cover the costs of tuition and fees of college classes for up to sixty (60) total credits.  Students are required to maintain passing grades (C or better) in all classes.
• Students are responsible for the cost of books.

How will students receive high school credit?

All STLCC grades will be posted on the Parkway Schools transcript and will count towards graduation.  Courses taken at STLCC are not weighted on the Parkway transcript since a college GPA and transcript will ultimately override the high school transcript when applying to colleges.

South Tech provides juniors and seniors with real-world experiences, real-world skills, and engaging, hands-on learning to prepare them for college and careers. We celebrate the pursuit of their passion and help them find the right pathway to their own success. Our partial-day schedules keep students engaged in their home high school academics and activities while they enjoy experimental learning in Tech's elective courses. 

Our tuition-free, career and technical education (CTE) majors allow students to explore their career interests before graduation while earning industry certifications, college and high school credits, and skills that will last a lifetime. We work with an impressive list of business and industry partners that provide our students with mentorship, internships, apprenticeships, part-time employment, scholarships, and full-time employment offers after high school. Our students are in demand. 

Students planning to attend Tech in the fall of their junior year can begin applying as early as the beginning of their sophomore year.  Students are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as they have decided they want to attend Tech as space is limited. 

Click HERE for a video of South Tech.   

More information and the application can be found at: www.southtechnical.org

South Tech Program Descriptions

This program focuses on the repair and appearance of the interior and exterior of vehicles. Students learn how to assess, estimate, and repair using modern welding, sanding, masking and painting techniques using the same advanced equipment found in professional auto collision repair companies.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED: Ranken Technical College & State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Automobile Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification in Nonstructural/Paint & Refinishing ~ S/P2 Safety Certification

This program is driven by the 4 main systems of vehicle operation:  brakes, suspension and steering, engine performance, and electrical/electronics, students will diagnose, service, and repair a wide range of vehicles alongside their ASE certified Master Technician instructor. The classroom includes training in the use of modern diagnostic equipment in preparation for multiple ASE certifications.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  Ranken Technical College & State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Automobile Service Excellence (ASE) Student Certification in Brakes, Electrical, Engine Performance, Suspension ~ S/P2 Safety Certification ~ Snap-On Certification

Students will build a skill set that includes framing, estimating, roofing, and interior finishing and learn how to read and interpret blueprints. They will build structures using a wide range of professional power tools and carpentry materials while earning apprenticeship and college credit.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED: Carpenter’s Joint Apprenticeship Training Program, Students who successfully complete the Career Connections Level 3 certifications will obtain two units of elective credit ~ Ranken Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-10-hour Construction Industry Certification ~ CPR

This academy is an honors course in which students learn how to design, install and troubleshoot complex computer networks. Students will navigate a variety of projects as they complete Cisco’s online curriculum in preparation for their certification exams.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 10 credits ~ St. Charles Community College, 25 credits ~ Jefferson College, 5 credits ~ Ranken & State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  CompTIA A+ Certification ~ Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certification ~ Cisco Student Certification

Students customize a year or semester of construction exploration to match their interests by choosing from a variety of quarter long courses which offer a solid foundation of basic knowledge and experience.  Upon completion of the course, students can continue into an Advanced Construction course senior year.

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Home Builders Institute (HBI) - Pre-Apprenticeship Training Core Certification ~ Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - 10-hour Construction Industry Certification ~ CPR

Students build a skill set that includes framing, estimating, roofing, and interior finishing, learn how to read and interpret blueprints and build structures using a wide range of professional power tools and carpentry materials, and hone employability skills through study of the PACT curriculum.

COLLEGE CREDIT:  Ranken Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – 10-hour Construction Industry Certification ~ CPR

This is an exclusive high school program offering the same curriculum as a beauty college without tuition costs.  All aspects of cosmetology including all hair, nail, and skincare services are included.  Students learn in a full-service salon along with classroom instruction from licensed Cosmetologists. By graduation, students will have had the opportunity to earn of all the hours required to take their Missouri State Board certification exam to become a licensed cosmetologist.

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED: Cosmetology Missouri State Board of Certification ~ Barbicide Certification

The Culinary Arts program is taught in a modern, fully equipped, restaurant style kitchen as required by the American Culinary Federation for certification. Students plan, prepare, and cater meals alongside professional chefs in both the classroom, compete at various competitions throughout the year, and participate in exclusive mentorship and shadowing programs with some of our region’s most recognized culinary leaders.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 10 credits ~ Sullivan University, 3 credits ~ Johnson and Wales University, 13.5 quarter hours ~ Robert Morris University, 9 quarter hours ~ Southwestern Illinois College, 8 credits

CERTIFICATION OFFERED:  American Culinary Federation Certification ~ ServSafe Certification

Students are immersed into clinical experience in both the classroom and through internships available during the senior year. Our modern operatory includes real world tools and equipment which allow students to conduct mock exams and perform X-rays, preventative and restorative practices and emergency care.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  Missouri Baptist University, Dual Credit, 8 credits ~ Additional opportunities through State Technical College

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  The DANB’s (Dental Assisting National Board) Missouri Test of Basic Dental Assisting Skills (MBDA), ~ Permit to Assist the Administration of and Monitor Nitrous Oxide Analgesia ~ CPR Certification ~OSHA Healthcare Certification

This engaging program provides students the opportunity to learn the fundamental skills of three dimensional design using cutting edge design software, hands-on building of prototypes of their designs in our State of the Art MAKES lab, and the concepts of design thinking. Throughout the program students will meet entrepreneurs, network with industry professionals and collaborate with their peers to solve real world problems.

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-10-hour Certification ~ S/P2 Safety Certification ~ Certiport

Students become teachers in our certified preschools as they research, create, and implement lesson plans while learning effective preschool teaching techniques. Upon graduation, students will have a portfolio of work to present to colleges and/or employers along with early childhood certifications.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 6 credits

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS)-Early Childhood Certification ~ CPR and First Aid Certifications ~ ServSafe Food Handler Certification

Students will learn how to design, stage, and install commercial and residential electrical wiring for power and telecommunications systems. Skills taught include blueprint interpretation, layout design, and programming equipment and an emphasis on logical thinking.

APPRENTICESHIP CREDIT OFFERED:  American Trade School, 12 quarter hours ~ Ranken Technical College and State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – 10-hour Construction Industry ~ CPR

Exploring the complex electrical, electronic, mechanical, and robotic components used in manufacturing and industry is the goal of this course. Students will also design and program robots for the annual FIRST Robotics Competition using modern equipment and techniques.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 4 credits

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET)-4 certifications in DC Electronics, AC Electronics, Semiconductor, Digital Electronics

Our Firefighting and Emergency Medical Technician major is an academy level course that immerses students into academy level training. Using a wide range of firefighting and life-saving medical diagnostic equipment, students develop their skills through real world emergency scenarios and field experiences.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 10 credits ~ Southwestern Illinois College, 6 credits 

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Fire I and Fire II certifications ~ Emergency Medical Technician Basic certification through National Registry ~ National First Responder certification ~ Hazardous Materials Awareness and Operations certification

Students begin their post-secondary training while in high school in this exclusive apprenticeship. While learning to install hardwood, vinyl, carpet, and ceramic flooring students earn credit that can also lead to an associate’s degree shortly after high school graduation. Paid summer internships with licensed contractors are also available.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  U.S. Department of Labor Journey Level Certificate-Students completing the program will be able to articulate this certificate into college credit with Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana. With an additional 15 hours/5 courses, the student will earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - 10-hour Construction Industry Certification ~ CPR

A students’ passion for art is channeled into advertising and marketing projects using the full Adobe Suite of design software. Through advanced tutorials combined with a study of fonts, color theory, sketching and drawing, students produce a professional portfolio of their work to share with prospective colleges and employers upon graduation.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 3 credits

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Adobe Certifications in Illustrator, In Design, and Photoshop

This course fully immerses students into healthcare through lab and patient care experiences, college-level academic coursework in anatomy and physiology, and clinical rotations at area hospitals and assisted living facilities.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 4 credits ~ Missouri Baptist University, Dual Credit, 8 credits ~ State Technical College-college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)-State of Missouri certification ~ Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA)-10-hour General Industry-Healthcare Certification ~ CPR and First Aid Certifications

EA

Students learn how to design, install, repair, and maintain residential and commercial refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning systems. Blueprint reading, electrical schematics, and operational sequencing charts are taught in preparation for certification exams. COLLEGE

CREDIT OFFERED:  American Trade School, 12 hours ~ Ranken Technical College and State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-10-hour Construction Industry Certification ~ Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-608, Refrigeration Handling Certification

H SCI

Police Academy training is conducted through an array of training exercises, crime scenarios, self-defense, and fitness training.  Students will learn conflict mediation and resolution, investigation techniques, and be trained in the use of advanced security related training equipment, including vehicles.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 6 credits

CERTIFICATIONS:  Missouri Law Enforcement Skills and Knowledge (MOLESK) Certification ~ International Academies of Emergency Dispatch Emergency Telecommunicator Certification ~ 911 Dispatch ~ CPR

Using the same advanced equipment as industry professionals, students test and research drug treatments and interactions.  Students also learn the skills required for multiple careers in this pathway, including those needed in retail, hospital, and medical center pharmacies.

COLLEGE CREDIT:  Missouri Baptist University, Dual Credit, 4 to 8 Credits

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  PassAssured ~ Missouri Pharmacy Technician License ~ OSHA 10-hour ~ CPR

Students invent, design and manufacture tools and components for a wide range of production while learning how to use advanced computer controlled technology, 3D printing, and traditional machining skills.  Project based learning includes training in MasterCAM and Computer Aided Design (CAD) software.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 5 credits ~ Rankin Technical College and State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS)-Measurement, Materials, & Safety Certification, Job Planning, Benchwork & Layout Certification 

The science of veterinary medicine, including animal care and training, clinical procedures, medical terminology, grooming, and disease prevention are key components of this course.  Students interact daily with a wide variety of animals fostered in our facilities and provide their medical care while learning from certified professionals.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  Jefferson College, 2 credits

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Certified Vet Assistant-State of Missouri Vet Med Association

Students will learn how to write and edit source code and applets using several programming languages including HTML and Java. Students will design, create, and maintain software, databases, and web pages while earning certifications.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  St. Louis Community College, 5 credits ~ Rankin Technical College and State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Certification- HTML5 or Software Development ~ Python Essentials

This competitive program teaches students to design, engineer, build, and troubleshoot complex metal fabrication challenges. Through high-level training and challenging competitions, students perfect modern welding processes while earning welding certifications.

COLLEGE CREDIT OFFERED:  Ranken Technical College and State Technical College, college credit opportunities exist through credit for prior learning or credit by assessment.

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED:  American Welding Society (AWS)-multiple entry-level welding certifications available ~ S/P2 Safety Certification