AHHS students have several new class options for 2025-26

It’s that time of year when students at Alexander Hamilton High School are looking ahead to the next school year and completing their schedules. This time around, students have the option of taking several new courses that have been added, including astronomy, creative writing, Intro to Python and many more.

“We spent a lot of time reviewing the course catalogue because our main objective is scholarship and character,” said Interim Principal Jeffrey Capuano, adding that teachers and department chairs were instrumental in determining what additional courses would benefit students most.

There are two considerations that motivated the additions according to Dr. Capuano. First, he said there is the need for experts, in this case teachers, who know the subject material and have a passion for what they are teaching, which often resonates with students.

Secondly, staff looked at what would benefit students most regarding their transcripts and future plans.

In addition, he said too, students requested certain classes.

The new courses cover a wide array of subjects relating to art, music and STEM.

“We really added more robotics, computer science and science courses,” Dr. Capuano said regarding the STEM curriculum, noting that these will help boost the school’s robotics program.

A new World Language class, American Sign Language, will be available to 7-12^thgraders, and can be taken as an elective.

Dr. Capuano recently met with student groups, including underclassmen, to share with them what these new courses are.

“We talked about how to be successful and how many of these options are the keys to get in the door,” the interim principal said. 

Students will still be required to take six core classes consisting of English, Social Studies, Math, Science, Foreign Language and Physical Education. They complete their 9-period day with two electives.

Among the new courses are:

 

       • Multimedia Journalism

 

       • Creative Writing

 

       • Introduction to Python

 

       • Astronomy

 

       • American Sign Language (7-12^th grades)

 

       • Technology and Engineering: Intro to Engineering and Design, Principles of Engineering, Civil Engineering and Architecture, Computer Integrated Manufacturing, UX Design/App Creators

 

• Art, new half-year courses for students in grades 10-12: Drawing and Painting, Printmaking, Abstract and Non-Representational Art, Graphic Design, Digital Photography, Ceramics and Illustration

 

• Music: Percussion Ensemble 1 (9-12), Percussion Ensemble 2 (9-12), Guitar Ensemble 1 (9-12), Guitar Ensemble 2 (9-12)

“I want to thank our staff for their work in helping to make these new options a reality,” said Superintendent of Schools Susan Yom. “I am excited for our students too. The addition of new classes offers students a deep dive in a particular area of interest, something that will help inspire them in their course work and assist them in becoming a well-rounded individual.”

The new courses maintain a number of lessons that incorporate reading, writing and technology, helping to enforce what students learn in their core classes.

Dr. Capuano also noted that several courses that used be half-year, have now been extended to the full school year, including Introduction to Law and Introduction to Python.

“This really helps you focus on your learning,” he said of the additional class time.

There are also an increase in classes that can be used for college credit, including all the math electives, several English and Science courses too.

Regarding the new guitar ensemble classes, Dr. Capuano said they evolved out of asking students what they would enjoy learning. He said the school has a collection of new guitars and students were excited to use them.

“The ultimate goal is to create a well-rounded person of good character,” Dr. Capuano said.

In addition, guidance counselors encourage students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including clubs and sports.

“That’s where they learn teamwork and lessons outside of the classroom,” he said. It also helps students make more of a commitment to their education and their school.

“They enjoy it more and feel more invested in their school,” he said.

And it is something that colleges look at, what extra curriculars were students involved in.

Dr. Capuano said he hopes to show students how to become successful scholars, which in his mind does not mean being the one with the highest grades, but the student who asks questions, takes an interest in their classes, and puts in the work.