Vista Charter School
Course Catalog 2025–2026
An individualized alternative approach to learning — preparing students for the workforce and career pathways they choose.
Table of Contents
Use this guide to navigate Vista Charter School's full course offerings for 2025–2026.
Section 1 — Graduation Requirements
Section 2 — Social Emotional Learning
Section 3 — Math & Business Courses
Section 4 — English & Language Arts
Section 5 — Science Courses
Section 6 — Social Studies Courses
Section 7 — Career Pathway & Elective Courses
Section 8 — Culinary Arts
Section 9 — Early Childhood Education
Section 10 — More Career & Elective Offerings
Section 11 — Career Planning & ICAP
Section 12 — Online Courses & Work-Based Learning
Section 1
Graduation Requirements
English
4 Credits
Math
4 Credits
Social Studies
3 Credits
Science
3 Credits
Electives
3 Credits
Career Pathways
2 Credits
Capstone (ICAP)
1 Credit
SEL
1 Credit
Also Required
- Individual Career & Academic Portfolio (ICAP) — a Colorado Dept. of Education graduation requirement
- Demonstrated college or career readiness in English & Math via one board-approved measure
Approved measures include: NWEA, ACT, SAT, ASVAB, ACT WorkKeys, or Capstone competency-based assessment.
College & Career Readiness Measures
The State of Colorado has implemented new graduation guidelines. In addition to the above credit requirements, students must demonstrate college or career readiness in English and Mathematics based on at least one of the following board-approved measures. This menu lists the minimum scores required:
NWEA
- Reading: 223 | Mathematics: 233
- Language Usage: 222 | Science: 215
- Overall growth of one year (10 points)
ACT
- English: 18 | Mathematics: 19
- The ACT is a national college admission exam measuring English, Reading, Math, and Science. Highest possible score per subject is 36.
ASVAB
- English: 31 (AFQT) | Mathematics: 31 (AFQT)
- The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) helps determine eligibility and suitability for military careers, and serves as an excellent general career aptitude test for all students. Students who take the ASVAB are not required to join the military.
SAT
- English: 470 | Mathematics: 500
- The SAT is a national college entrance exam. The highest possible score for each section is 800.
Capstone
- Reading: Competency-Based | Mathematics: Competency-Based
- Capstone is the culminating exhibition of a student's project or experience that demonstrates academic and intellectual learning. Capstone projects are district-determined and often include a portfolio of a student's best work.
ACT WorkKeys
- Reading: Bronze or higher | Mathematics: Bronze or Higher
- ACT WorkKeys tests job skills in applied reading, writing, mathematics, and 21st-century skills. Students must score at the Bronze level (score of at least 3) in all three assessments: Mathematics, Graphic Literacy, and Workplace Documents — earning the ACT's National Career Readiness Certificate.
Social Emotional Learning — 1.0 Credit
Section 2
Social Emotional Learning
CBT Group
Evidence-based treatment for several mental health struggles like anxiety, depression, and addiction. CBT group is offered at Vista to help students learn to recognize the distortions in their thinking that are creating problems and then reevaluate them in light of reality. Gain a better understanding of the behavior and motivation of others. Use problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations. Learn to develop a greater sense of confidence in one's own abilities. 0.5 credit
DBT Group
A modified type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). DBT group is offered to Vista students with the goals to teach students how to live in the moment, develop healthy ways to cope with stress, regulate their emotions, and improve their relationships with others. 0.5 credit
Private Outside Therapy
Private therapy is when a mental health professional works independently or in a small group to provide mental health services to clients outside of the school setting. 0.5 credit
Wild Horse Course (TAME)
This course is for individuals looking to heal something within themselves through the help of horses. The Wild Horse Course is a 9-week program that teaches confidence, teamwork, patience, and partnership. Have you ever thought about what it's like to meet a wild horse? Do you ever feel wild, but maybe you need to hold back for whatever reason? Join us in a journey of self-discovery and help give some wild horses a new beginning. 0.5 Elective + 0.5 Career Planning + 0.5 SEL
Math — 4.0 Credits
Section 3
Math & Business Courses
Math Courses
Consumer Mathematics
Real-world problem solving and quantitative reasoning. 0.5 cr
Personal Finance
Managing money, debt, and building wealth with real professionals. 0.5 cr
General Math
Foundational skills: rationals, ratios, exponents, equations. 0.5 cr
Algebra I
Real number system, equations, inequalities, polynomials, quadratics. 0.5 cr
Business & Career-Linked Math
Intro to Accounting
Bookkeeping concepts, career paths in accounting. 0.5 Math
Intro to Business
Start and operate a business; create a basic business plan. 0.5 Math
Intro to Marketing Design
Graphic design principles, software, and marketing strategy. 0.5 cr
Intro to Sales / Intro to IT
Sales process and tech fundamentals — hardware, networks, and the internet. 0.5 cr each
English — 4.0 Credits
Section 4
English & Language Arts
Thematic Reading, Writing & Communicating (9–10 & 11–12)
Theme-based, standards-aligned reading and writing meeting each student's individual skill level. 0.5 cr each
Multi-Media Production
Digital audio, imaging, animation, and Adobe Express. Students build a portfolio including podcasts and short films. 0.5 cr
Project-Based Reading, Writing & Communicating
Research real-world problems, interview experts, create a product, and deliver a final presentation. 0.5 cr
Spanish 1
Speaking, reading, writing, and listening at a basic proficiency level. Focus on grammar, vocabulary, and daily life. 0.5 cr
Independent Project Based Learning
Self-directed, project-based learning aligned to Colorado Standards, emphasizing critical thinking, collaboration, communication, creativity, and self-directed learning. 0.5 cr
Science — 3.0 Credits
Section 5
Science Courses
Forensic Science
Lectures, labs, and assignments on fundamental biological concepts: chemistry, cells, energy, and genetics. 0.5 cr
Anatomy & Physiology
Histology, organ systems, nutrition, and evolution — structure and function of the human body. 0.5 cr
Botany & Herbology
Plant biology, growth cycles, ecosystems, and medicinal herb uses in wellness and sustainable living. 0.5 cr
Zoology
Animal anatomy, behavior, ecology, evolution, and conservation biology with labs and field studies. 0.5 cr
Physics in Action
Hands-on projects: bridges, catapults, CO₂ cars, water rockets, solar panels, and more. 0.25 Science + 0.25 Math
Exploring Earth, Humanity & the Cosmos
Geology, anthropology, and astronomy — plate tectonics, human origins, and star formation. 0.25 Science + 0.25 Social Studies
Social Studies — 3.0 Credits
Section 6
Social Studies Courses
Social Studies Foundation
Chronological development of American people and government — political, economic, social, and cultural events. 0.5 cr
Civics 1 (CDE State Requirement)
Explores the foundations of government from ancient Greek philosophy through the Enlightenment, American Revolution, drafting of the Constitution, and modern citizenship. 0.5 cr
Civics 2 (CDE State Requirement)
Continues the study of government, citizenship responsibilities, and civic participation in modern society. 0.5 cr
Historical Materials
Compare films depicting historical events with actual history; develop research, annotation, and writing skills. 0.5 cr
Current Events
Three research projects on self-selected topics; analyze news, evaluate sources, and engage in critical dialogue. 0.5 cr
World Religions
Origins, beliefs, and history of Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Daoism, Confucianism, and Islam. 0.5 cr
Art History: Human Expression Across Time & Culture
A chronological journey through visual art from prehistoric cave paintings to contemporary movements. Covers Prehistoric, Ancient, Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Enlightenment, Romanticism, Impressionism, Modernism, and Postmodernism. 0.5 cr
United States History: Voices, Struggles & Change
Explores U.S. history from Indigenous foundations through contemporary times, examining colonization, the Revolution, Civil War, industrialization, World Wars, civil rights movements, and 21st-century global leadership. 0.5 cr
World History: Civilizations, Conflicts & Connections
A sweeping exploration of human history from ancient civilizations to the modern global era, covering classical empires, world religions, trade networks, revolutions, imperialism, world wars, decolonization, and globalization. 0.5 cr
Nurse-Family Partnership Infant Program
Introduces students to responsible nurturing and child development theory for infants ages 0–12 months. Topics include bonding, self-care, nutrition, parenting, discipline, guidance, health, and safety. 0.5 cr
Community Engagement & Service Learning
Students complete 45 hours of community service with a local organization, maintaining a reflective journal and photo documentation of their experience. The course culminates in a peer presentation highlighting the impact of civic engagement and social responsibility. 0.5 cr
Career Pathways — 2.0 Credits
Section 7
Career Pathway & Elective Courses
CMU Machining
Precision machining, CNC intro, lathes, mills, and drill presses. 0.5 Career Planning + 0.5 Elective + 0.5 Science + 0.5 Math
Vista Bike Institute
Nationally recognized Level 1 Bicycle Technician certificate; builds mechanical aptitude for any trade. 0.25 Elective + 0.25 Math + 0.25 Science
Barbering 101
Sanitation, shaving, haircutting, chemistry, styling, and shop management. 0.25 Career Planning + 0.25 Elective + 0.25 Science
Property Management
Carpentry, electrical, plumbing, welding, flooring, OSHA, and business start-up skills. 0.25 Career Planning + 0.25 Math + 0.25 Science
Cosmetology
Hands-on experience in beauty and cosmetology. 0.5 Math + 0.5 Science + 0.5 Career Planning
Culinary Arts
Hands-on experience in food service and culinary arts. 0.5 Career Planning + 0.5 Math + 0.5 Science
Sewing
Hands-on experience in fashion design and sewing. 0.5 Elective
Horsemanship
Hands-on experience in equine care and horsemanship. 0.5 Career Planning + 0.5 Science
Industrial Technology
A foundation course exploring careers in industrial and engineering fields through hands-on lab experiences in electricity, wood, metals, and drafting. Students examine the skills and education needed for success in their chosen field. 0.5 Math + 0.5 Career Planning
Culinary — Career Pathway
Section 8
Culinary Arts
Foundations of Culinary
Explore the basics of food service: kitchen equipment and utensil identification, knife skills and safety, kitchen math (measurement conversion, food costing), and sanitation. 0.5 Math cr
Advanced Culinary
Build on Culinary 1 skills by exploring cooking methods, world culinary traditions, food history, and business concepts. Students create their own food truck concept and work as a team to plan, prepare, and serve a meal. Combines math and social studies through the lens of cooking and business. 0.5 Social Studies
Early Childhood Education — Career Pathway
Section 9
Early Childhood Education
Introduction to Early Childhood Education
Introduces students to the roles and responsibilities of early childhood educators and service providers. Explores career options, professional standards, and how quality early education impacts families, communities, and the economy at local, state, and global levels. 0.5 Career Planning
Child Growth and Development
Focuses on physical, mental, social, and emotional development across life stages with emphasis on early childhood. Examines how environment, genetics, and society affect development. Students practice skills to support healthy growth. 0.5 Social Studies
Trauma-Informed Care in Early Childhood Education
Teaches students how to create safe, supportive classrooms for children who have experienced trauma. Covers guidance strategies, emotional and behavioral support, problem-solving, trust-building, and communication skills to help children develop resilience. 0.5 Reading
Language Development in Early Childhood Education
Explores teaching strategies that build language and communication skills in young children. Students plan inclusive, culturally responsive activities aligned with developmental milestones, helping every child reach their full potential. 0.5 cr
Early Childhood Education · Health · Tech · Arts
Section 10
More Career & Elective Offerings
Music Production
Partner program with La Familia Music Group — create original songs, learn music history, and explore how music affects the brain and body. 0.25 Elective + 0.25 Math + 0.25 Science
Digital Media & AutoCAD
3D design pipeline (concept → render) and AutoCAD architectural drafting — floor plans, elevations, and professional drawing standards. 0.5 Career Planning + 0.5 Elective + 0.5 Science + 0.5 Math
Outdoor Education
Experiential learning programs in outdoor environments helping students develop communication, problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, and adaptability while connecting with nature. 0.5 Science + 0.5 Elective
Fishing: Techniques, Tackle & Conservation
Hands-on course covering rod and reel selection, knot tying, baiting, casting, fish identification, habitat understanding, safety practices, and ethical angling principles. 0.25 Elective + 0.25 Science
Creative Expression & Artistic Development
Students explore writing, visual arts, music, performance, or any creative form with individualized instructor guidance. Through workshops, peer feedback, and creative exploration, students build a portfolio reflecting their growth and unique artistic voice. Open to all skill levels. 0.5 cr (applied toward Math, English, or other subject based on student work)
Sports Medicine & Health
Athletic training fundamentals, injury prevention, anatomy, and nutrition — plus a Culinary Nutrition course focused on healthy food preparation. 0.5 Science + 0.5 Math
Health
Focuses on making healthy choices for body, mind, and spirit — including eating healthy for your lifestyle, making healthy lifestyle choices, and necessary changes to become a healthy, whole human. 0.5 cr
Culinary Nutrition
Develops lifelong healthy individuals with an understanding of healthy and nutritious preparation techniques. Covers making healthy nutritional choices, preparing nutrient-dense seasonal foods, and focusing on safety and sanitation. 0.5 Science + 0.5 Math + 0.5 Career Pathway
Career/ICAP — 1.0 Credit
Section 11
Career Planning & ICAP
Career ICAP (CDE State Requirement)
Guides students through career exploration and academic planning to create a personalized roadmap for their future. Topics include self-assessment, career exploration, academic planning, goal setting, resume and cover letter writing, interview skills, financial literacy, workplace skills, postsecondary options, and networking and professionalism. 0.25 cr
Individual Academic & Career Portfolio (ICAP)
Vista's Capstone Project provides a structured means to support students in achieving their potential and being prepared for college, work, and life. A Colorado Dept. of Education graduation requirement in which each student creates a culminating presentation of learning through a student portfolio. Each course and project must meet proficiency requirements based on various rubrics. 1.0 cr (Capstone)
Section 12
Online Courses & Work-Based Learning
Online English Courses
Online English for Business
Enhances communication skills for professional environments. Topics: business vocabulary, professional writing (emails, memos, reports), oral communication, interpersonal skills, digital communication, research & analysis, cultural competence, and ethics. 0.5 cr
Online Intro to Literacy
Explores literary genres, elements, close reading, historical/cultural context, and writing. Featured text: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. 0.5 cr
Online English for English Learners
Supports linguistically diverse students in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Covers language development, reading comprehension, writing skills, cultural awareness, and academic language. Set up through Duolingo; final test accepted at universities as proof of English Proficiency. 0.5 cr
Online Science Courses
Online Astronomy
Journey through the universe covering the solar system, stars & galaxies, cosmology, observational astronomy, astrophysics, space exploration, and exoplanets/astrobiology. Includes night sky observations and data analysis. 0.5 cr
Online Intro to Biology
Covers basic science concepts, scientific data analysis, cell biology, population dynamics, organism classification, geologic time scale, and evolution. 0.5 cr
Online Math Courses
Online Essential Math Concepts
Introductory math concepts needed to complete Algebra successfully; skills students will use throughout their lives. 0.5 cr
Online Pre-Algebra
Foundation for high school math covering integers, rational numbers, expressions, equations, proportional relationships, functions, geometry basics, measurement, data, and probability. 0.5 cr
Online Algebra I
Fundamental algebra concepts: expressions, equations, functions, linear functions, systems of equations, polynomials, quadratic functions, rational and radical expressions. 0.5 cr
Online Algebra II
Builds on Algebra I: functions & graphs, equations & inequalities, polynomials, radical expressions, exponential & logarithmic functions, sequences & series, probability & statistics, and intro to trigonometry. 0.5 cr
Online Geometry
Logical reasoning and spatial visualization: geometric terms, proofs, parallel/perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, circles, geometric solids, and coordinate geometry. 0.5 cr
Online Trigonometry
In-depth trig study: trigonometric functions, angles & measures, graphing, identities, solving equations, inverse functions, Law of Sines & Cosines, vectors, and polar coordinates. 0.5 cr
Online College Algebra
Advanced algebra for STEM: functions & graphs, equations & inequalities, polynomials, exponential & logarithmic functions, sequences & series, matrices, conic sections, probability & statistics, and complex numbers. 0.5 cr
Online Personal Finance (Vista Requirement)
Financial literacy, income & taxes, banking, credit & debt management, saving & investing, consumer skills, insurance, retirement planning, and financial decision-making. 0.5 cr
Online Social Sciences/Studies
Online Geography & World History
Combines geography and world history: geographical concepts, physical & human geography, ancient civilizations, medieval & Renaissance periods, exploration & colonization, revolutions, World Wars, and contemporary global issues. 0.5 cr
Work-Based Learning
Connect classroom learning to real careers. 0.5 credits per 80 hours (14 hrs/week minimum).
01
Internships
Explore a career field and develop professional skills — unpaid.
02
Apprenticeships
Paid, mentor-led training for a specific trade or profession (1–3 years).
03
Job Shadows
Observe real workplace culture and job expectations firsthand.
04
Paid Work & Volunteerism
Any paid employment or community volunteer service qualifies.