At Solon High School, students can explore a variety of career paths by engaging in several types of electives. There are all different types of electives in every subject, ranging from AP European History for history lovers to anatomy and physiology for future doctors. Next year, to add to the bunch, SHS will be introducing seven new electives: AP Research, film studies, media communications, African American history, Facing History and Ourselves, forensics and robotics.

Last year in English, as many students remember, we had to take a survey to see which electives we would want for next year. As I sat there debating between the different kinds of electives, I had decided the top two that I would want to take would be astronomy and forensics. I decided on astronomy because, honestly, I just thought it’d be a cool class to take. But I chose forensics because I actually have an interest in forensic science and may want to develop a career that involves that class. Although astronomy didn’t make the cut, when my anatomy teacher announced that forensics would be a new elective next year, I was absolutely ecstatic.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who felt a lot of excitement as these new electives were announced. SHS has decided to bring forth these new electives to allow students to dabble in different areas of study and to broaden their choices. English teacher Kelly Fishman will be teaching film studies, and she said she’s thrilled to give students an opportunity to try out a new area of English.

“I’ve spoken with several students who are interested in evaluating films,” Fishman said.  “This gives them a [chance] to interact with writing in a different way.”

Another great thing about these new electives (one in particular) is that it’s bringing diversity into the mix. This year at SHS, a new club was introduced to bring awareness to students about diversity, culture and acceptance: the African American Culture Club. For a very long time at our school, the only really specific history class on a certain group of people was AP European History. As a student whose favorite subject is history, I feel like this is such a great way to learn about African American history outside of United States history. Junior Nadia Carr feels like this is an exceptional class to get students to learn about and embrace African culture.

“As a girl who’s a person of color, I think that having an African American class that teaches black culture is really fundamental to teach students about black history,” Carr said. “[I think] it will make students more aware of racial issues and what POC have had to endure throughout history.”

With such interesting electives that are entertaining and promoting issues on diversity and culture, it’s hard not to be enthusiastic about them. I think we’re definitely getting in a new load that appeals to all kinds of students, no matter what race, gender, or interests. Terry Brownlow, one of the assistant principals at SHS, says that the administration is always listening for what we as students want to learn. I think this  is great, knowing that our ideas and opinions are heard.

“We are always in dialogue with students and staff about new offerings,” Brownlow said. “We consider new proposals every year. I hope many students sign up for our new electives this January.”

Brownlow thinks people should give these new electives a try, and I definitely agree with her. If you’re interested in these new electives, you can get more background on them from one of the guidance councilors in the guidance department.