A NEW MODEL
The Cyber Science pathway is a unique educational program that blends cutting edge technologies and curriculum in a traditional learning environment. Students first complete two foundational courses that cover various IT topics. After the foundational coursework is completed, students take one or two advanced courses in either an applied (Help desk) or Academic (Cyber security) pathway. Motivated students can complete both pathways and additional advanced courses are offered on demand. This blend of foundational and advanced course structure allows students to have a well rounded education with advanced knowledge in a specific subject area.
The advanced curriculum prepares students to pass industry certifications and obtain college credit. Onsite testing is available for various Certiport and CompTIA exams and students can earn up to 12 college credit hours at regional colleges.
Foundational Coursework (2 courses)
Foundational Course 1: AP Computer Science Principles (9th Grade)
AP Computer Science Principles (AP CSP) is an introductory, college-level course that explores the foundational concepts of computer science and its impact on society, accessible to students with little to no prior coding experience. The curriculum covers topics like creativity, algorithms, data analysis, and programming, emphasizing problem-solving and computational thinking through hands-on projects. Student assessment includes a Create Performance Task and an end-of-course AP exam.
Foundational Course 2: Computer Hardware and Software (10th Grade)
This course presents a practical view of computer hardware and client operating systems. Covers computer hardware components; troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance; operating system interfaces and management tools; networking components; computer security; and operational procedures. Students will prepare for the CompTIA Tech+ and A+ certifications and have the opportunity to secure 4 hours of college credit at KCTCS (CIT 111).
Advanced Coursework (2 courses)
Help Desk Operations (Applied Option)
Help Desk Operations (11-12th Grade)
This class introduces a variety of tools and techniques to provide user support in help desk operations. Students learn help desk concepts, customer service skills, troubleshooting problems, writing for end users, help desk operations and software, needs analysis, facilities management, and other topics related to end user support.There will also be opportunity to apply for 3 hours of college credit at KCTCS (CIT 232).
Management of Support Services (12th Grade)
Students gain management skills by overseeing the school based Help Desk program. This is a leadership based class and students must get a recommendation from an academy instructor for acceptance into the class.
Cyber Security Option (Academic Option)
Intro to Networking Technologies (11th-12th)
This course introduces technical level concepts of non-vendor specific networking including technologies, media, topologies, devices, management tools, and security. Provides the basics of how to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, operate, and configure basic network infrastructure. Students prepare to sit for the Certiport ITS-Networking and CompTIA Network+ certifications.
Security Fundamentals (12th)
This course Introduces basic computer and network security concepts and methodologies. Covers principles of security; compliance and operational security; threats and vulnerabilities; network security; application, data, and host security; access control and identity management; and cryptography. Helps to prepare students for the Certiport ITS-Networking Security and CompTIA Security+ examinations and can qualify for 3 college hours at KCTCS (CIT 180).
Additional Courses
Internet Technologies (11-12th)
This course provides students with a study of traditional and emerging Internet technologies. Covers topics including Internet fundamentals, Internet applications, Internet delivery systems, and Internet client/server computing. Provides a hands-on experience and some rudimentary programming in an Internet environment (HTML/CSS/Javascript). Students have the opportunity to take the Certiport HTML5/CSS industry certification and may qualify for 3 college hours at KCTCS (CIT 150).