Meridian Early College High School (MECHS) is a school of approximately 430 students in grades nine through thirteen. Meridian Early College High School is the only comprehensive community high school that is also a five-year early college. With this distinction, we sent over 120 students to Delta College during the 2018-2019 school year. These students earned nearly 2900 college credits with 87% of the grades earned were a C or above.
MECHS offers all students the opportunity to take college and/or vocational training courses during their traditional 4-year sequence, as well as extending enrollment through a fifth year for students interested in pursuing additional college and/or vocational training enrollment. We offer a comprehensive academic program designed to lead students toward successful young adulthood. These on campus courses offered are listed below.
| Mathematics | |
Algebra 1
Introduces students to algebra as a tool to solve challenging, real-world problems. Includes exploration of natural numbers, integers, equations and inequalities, slope-intercept form, systems of equations, exponents, polynomials, factoring, and quadratic equations. |
Algebra 2
Designed to build on algebraic concepts. Develops advanced algebra skills such as systems of equations, advanced polynomials, imaginary and complex numbers, quadratics, and concepts and includes the study of trigonometric functions. It also introduces matrices and their properties. |
Geometry
This course introduces the student to the basic structure of Geometry through the use and application of points, lines, angles, triangles, polygons, areas, ratios, proportions, similar polygons, circles, areas of solids, volumes of solids, right triangles and coordinate geometry. Appropriate technology will be used to enhance mathematical understanding and problem solving skills. |
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| English | |
BioLit Course Number(s): BIO 095; ENG 091 This course integrates high school biology with ninth grade English Language Arts. Students complete projects and solve problems centered on the concepts, principles, theories, and literature surrounding living organisms. They write routinely, conduct research, and comprehension,informational,narrative,and argumentative texts in and around the subject of biology. |
American Studies Course Number: HIS 093 / ENG 091 This interdisciplinary humanities course integrates an English and History course which seeks to improve learner's knowledge of American history while improving their skills in critical thinking, analysis, and close reading. Studying history assists in the growth of an individual's knowledge of the world while developing the habits of mind essential for democratic citizenship. American Studies will explore the history of the United States (post Civil War) through six thematic units. Learners will read a wide variety of texts improving critical thinking skills and developing clear and coherent writing within the course. |
Classical Literature and Writing Course Number: ENG 095 Classical Literature and Writing is a class designed to encourage learners to reflect upon the ideas and themes of the past in order to think responsibly about the future. Learners will develop a world perspective by analyzing classical texts in a variety of genres. They will also refine reading, writing, listening, problem-solving, vocabulary, verbal and nonverbal skills so that they can be successful in the workplace and in society. |
Contemporary Literature and Writing Course Number: ENG 097 Contemporary Literature and Writing is a class designed to encourage learners to reflect upon the ideas and themes of the past and present in order to think responsibly about the future. Learners will develop a world perspective by analyzing contemporary texts in a variety of genres. They will also refine reading, writing, listening, problem-solving, vocabulary, verbal and nonverbal skills so that they can be successful in the workplace and in society. |
| Science & Engineering | |
GeoDesign Course Number(s): MTH 095; EGR 095 Use modern drafting tools to solve real-world design problems while learning geometry. Includes congruence, similarity, right triangles, trigonometry, circles, expressing geometric properties with equations, geometric measurement and dimension, modeling, and the fundamentals of mathematical practice. Students who earn a C or better in GeoDesign receive six (6) articulated credits in Delta College's CAD 114 and DRF 121 courses. |
Principles of Engineering Course Number: EGR 097 Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. |
| Computer Science Discoveries Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Science OR 1.0 Math Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: Grade of C- or better in GeoDesign Computer Science Discoveries is an introductory computer science course - taking a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as problem solving, programming, physical computing, user centered design, and data. Projects may include building your own website, app, animation, game, or physical computing system. |
BioLit Course Number(s): BIO 095; ENG 091 Graduation Credit(s): 2.0 MMC Credit(s): 2.0 (1.0 Biology; 1.0 English 9) Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 85 min. Prerequisite: None This course integrates high school biology with ninth grade English Language Arts. Students complete projects and solve problems centered on the concepts, principles, theories, and literature surrounding living organisms. They write routinely, conduct research, and comprehend informational, narrative, and argumentative texts in and around the subject of biology. |
Physics Course Number: PHY 097 Introduces the laws and principles of the natural world, providing the essential and core elements of physics including motion, force, conservation laws, waves, sound and light, thermodynamics, and electricity and magnetism. Students will apply mathematical rules to explain and predict natural phenomenon. |
Chemistry Course Number: CHM 097 Students explore the fundamental principles of chemistry which characterize the properties of matter and how it reacts. Conclusions are developed using both qualitative and quantitative procedures. Topics include, but are not limited to: measurement, atomic structure, electron configuration, the periodic table bonding, gas laws, properties of liquids and solids, solutions, stoichiometry, reactions, kinetics, equilibrium, acids and bases, and nuclear chemistry. |
Principles of Biomedical Science Course Number(s): BMS 093 This introductory course offers students the opportunity to explore the concepts of basic biology, human physiology, medicine, and contributions of biotechnology to health and the human condition. Students are required to master technical terminology, learn proper laboratory techniques, understand biotechnology policies and procedures, and participate in dissections. |
Human Body Systems Course Number(s): BMS 095 Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis in the body. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Maniken®; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration; and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases. |
Physical Science Course Number: PSC 095 This course is designed as an introduction to the major concepts of chemistry and physics. Includes concepts such as: structure of atoms, periodic table principles, motion, forces, conservation of matter and energy, gravity, machines, electricity and the behavior of waves. These concepts are investigated through laboratory experiences designed to promote and develop appropriate skills in science inquiry. |
Environmental Science Course Number(s): ENV 097 Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Science Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: None This is a science course designed to investigate the role of humans in their environment. Students develop a knowledge base about their biological and physical environment. This information leads to exploration of human dependence on, technological control over, and interactions with the environment. Emphasis is placed on sustaining resources and making informed choices concerning environmental issues. |
| Science Skills Course Number(s): SCI 091 Graduation Credit(s): 0.25 MMC Credit(s): Science Offered: 1 Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 25 min. Prerequisite: None Scientific exploration is designed to allow the students explore the scientific world through hands on and problem solving activities. Students will explore concepts and ideas from all of the different branches of science including life sciences, physical sciences and earth sciences. |
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| Social Studies | |
| American Studies Course Number: HIS 093 / ENG 091 Graduation Credit(s): 2.0 MMC Credit(s): 2.0 (1.0 US History / 1.0 English 10) Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 85 min. Prerequisite: Successful completion of English 9 (Bio Lit) or comparable course. This interdisciplinary humanities course integrates an English and History course which seeks to improve learner's knowledge of American history while improving their skills in critical thinking, analysis, and close reading. Studying history assists in the growth of an individual's knowledge of the world while developing the habits of mind essential for democratic citizenship. American Studies will explore the history of the United States (post Civil War) through six thematic units. Learners will read a wide variety of texts improving critical thinking skills and developing clear and coherent writing within the course. |
World History Course Number: HIS 091 Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 World History) Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: None World History is a survey course that begins in ancient Rome and extends to the 21st Century. Citizenship in the current world demands global understanding. Learners will analyze a wide variety of historical sources (primary and secondary readings, historical videos, and podcasts) and complete various individual and group projects aimed at improving critical thinking skills and knowledge of the world. |
Civics Course Number: POL 097 In this course students will identify the purposes of national, state, and local governments in the United States, describe how citizens organize government to accomplish their purposes, and assess their effectiveness. They will describe the political and legal processes created to make decisions, seek consensus and resolve conflicts in a free society. Students will understand how the world is organized politically, the formation of American foreign policy and the roles the United States plays in the international arena. |
Economics Course Number: ECN 095 This introductory economics course provides opportunities for students to understand the structure of economic systems and to apply fundamental economic concepts to personal, community, national, and global economic issues. Students of economics should expect to use readings, tables, charts, and graphs to understand and interpret relevant data. |
Personal Finance Course Number: OAT 095 Prepares students to understand economic activities and challenges of individuals and families, the role of lifestyle goals in education and career choices, procedures in a successful job search, financial forms used in independent living, and shopping options and practices for meeting consumer needs. The course also prepares students to understand real world consumer rights, responsibilities and information, protect personal and family resources, income management, spending, savings, investments, and apply procedures for managing finances. |
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| Life Wellness | |
Wellness Course Number: LW 091 This course integrates high school Health with ninth grade Physical Education. Learners will complete projects and solve problems centered around maintaining a lifelong active healthy lifestyle. | Team Sports Course Number: LW 095 In Team Sports, students will be required to actively engage in a wide variety of physical activities providing an opportunity for students to experience lifetime sports and activities that will promote the concept of physical fitness for a lifetime. The course will educate students on the basic rules, strategies and knowledge of team sports. |
Speed & Strength Course Number: LW 097 This course integrates high school physical education with speed and strength training. Learners will complete weekly lifting logs centered on the concepts, principles, and theories of developing athletic ability. |
Social Dance Course Number: Pending Board Approval Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Physical Education; 1.0 Performing Arts Offered: 1 Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: None This is an introductory Ballroom Dance class geared to beginners and taught with an emphasis on the social aspects of dance. The basics of several dance styles are taught, with attention paid to footwork, posture, and the arts of leading, following, and co-creating a dance. Each semester dances are selected from the following list: East Coast Swing, Triple Step Swing, Slow Waltzes, Cha cha, Night Club Two- Step, Tango, Foxtrot, Rumba, Merengue and Salsa. No prior experience needed. Sample Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJ7s7X6CDzs |
| World Languages | |
Spanish 1 Course Number(s): SPA 091 First year Spanish begins with the oral/aural approach to language learning. Students learn to transfer thoughts from English to Spanish. Emphasis throughout the year is based on vocabulary, oral participation, listening skills and conversation. Students will be able to communicate in Spanish in simple everyday language. Students will also be introduced to cultural, political and current events in Spanish speaking countries. |
Spanish 2 Course Number(s): SPA 093 Spanish 2 begins with a 12-week review of basic vocabulary, language concepts, idiomatic expressions and sentence structure. Students participate alone and in groups in more complex language settings. Second semester is a conversation class adhering to the Spanish structure; students should be able to "think" in their second language. |
| Visual and Performing Arts | |
Band Course Number: MUS 097 High School Band is year-long curricular-based performance class for 9th-12th grade learners enrolled in the band program, which gives those involved the opportunity to cultivate and develop musical skills as well as the ability to work within both large and small groups. Required elements of the course include class rehearsal, scheduled sectionals and several after school performances, including, but not limited to: concert band festival, concerts and performances at school athletic functions. Practicing outside of school is also a necessity for the learner to be successful in the program. Extra curricular involvement in jazz band, solo and ensemble, private lessons and summer camps is also available to each learner. | Beginning Art Course Number: ART 085 This entry-level choice-based art class provides an experience with basic techniques in two and three-dimensional art as well as digital design. Projects are integrated with other subjects while exploring design, perspective, color theory, sculpture, drawing, painting, and other media. Beginning Art is the foundation course for all of the other secondary art courses. |
Intermediate Art Course Number: This choice-based art class is a continuation of Beginning Art including further exploration in two and three-dimensional mediums. Projects options include a variety of sculpture, drawing, painting, and other media to strengthen and advance art skills. |
Advanced 2-Dimensional Art Course Number: This accelerated choice-based drawing and painting class is for motivated students committed to improving their art skills. Design is emphasized. Individualized portfolio development and review for art school placement is a priority. Media includes: acrylic, charcoal, colored pencil, graphite, ink, oil, pastel, watercolor, etc. Techniques include drawing, brush, palette knife, printmaking, etc. Excellent art projects are expected in this rigorous course. |
| Advanced 3-Dimensional Art Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Visual Arts Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF; Fall/Winter semester Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: Sophomore, Junior, or Senior class status. Instructor approved portfolio from Beginning Art This accelerated choice-based sculpture and three dimensional design class is for motivated students committed to improving their art skills. Design is emphasized. Topics include sculpture, jewelry, pottery, architecture, and mixed media. Individualized portfolio development and review for art school placement is a priority. Excellent art projects are expected in this rigorous course. |
Studio Art Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Visual Arts Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF; Fall/Winter semester Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior class status. Instructor approved portfolio from 2D and or 3D This accelerated class is for highly motivated art students who have completed the prerequisite class and have an approved portfolio demonstrating superior work. Throughout this class, students will work independently and on an individual basis with the instructor. Students are expected to explore media and ideas in depth with emphasis toward college advanced placement, scholarships, and career preparation as specified by the College Assessment Board Guidelines for Studio Art. |
| Digital Design I: Intro to Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Visual Arts Offered: Fall Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: Sophomore, Junior, or Senior class status A basic graphic design course that provides an overview of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as the art fundamentals necessary for designing effective print layouts. This project-based, computer class will teach students the essential tools and functions of each application from the perspective of the working graphic designer. Students will be given the opportunity to put what they learn to work by tackling design projects from concept to completion. |
Digital Design II Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Visual Arts Offered: Winter Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: Sophomore, Junior, or Senior class status. Digital Design 1 or a portfolio of work showing knowledge of Photoshop A comprehensive graphic design course that is a continuation of the skills learned in Digital Design 1. This project-based computer class is for serious design students who wish to enhance their Photoshop and Illustrator skills, are considering a career in graphic design, or who wish to build an art portfolio for college admission. It will include tips, tricks, and techniques for using Photoshop and Illustrator for more in-depth design projects. |
| Fundamentals of Digital Photography Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Visual Arts Offered: 1 Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: None This course is for students interested in capturing the world around them through photography. This beginning class will cover the history and evolution of photography and learning about photo composition in several types of photography including portraiture, landscape, still life, photojournalism and action photography. We will learn tricks of auto mode as well as the basics of manual mode, including camera features, resolution, exposure, shutter speed, aperture, ISO, white balance, and flash. We will also explore the basics of editing with Adobe Photoshop and Light Room as well as printing. |
Social Dance I Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Performing Arts; 1.0 credit Physical Education Offered: 1 Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min. Prerequisite: None This is an introductory Ballroom Dance class geared to beginners and taught with an emphasis on the social aspects of dance. The basics of several dance styles are taught, with attention paid to footwork, posture, and the arts of leading, following, and co-creating a dance. Each semester dances are selected from the following list: East Coast Swing, Triple Step Swing, Slow Waltzes, Cha cha, Night Club Two- Step, Tango, Foxtrot, Rumba, Merengue and Salsa. No prior experience needed. Sample Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJ7s7X6CDzs |
| Drama Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 credit MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Performing Arts Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: None The Drama course is designed to explore the history of theatre, develop strong skills with the use of body and voice, handle improvisation, adapt stronger listening and relation skills, learn techniques for memorizing and rehearsing and understand basic character and plot details through four thematic units. This course is designed to promote intellectual growth by strengthening learners’ abilities to think critically, collaborate well with others and compose performances. In the process, learners will work independently and collaboratively as well as analyzing different forms of drama. |
Publication Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 credit MMC Credit(s): 1.0 Visual Arts Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: None Students in this course design, produce, and finance Meridian Early College High School’s yearbook and a monthly newsletter. Students work in groups on projects to develop the following knowledge and skills: understanding of digital photography and photographic equipment, basic journalism techniques, basic layout design, using design software, sales of commercial advertising and product, bookkeeping, and distribution of product. Students are expected to work in a group setting, be self-directed while following a set schedule of production deadlines, honor confidentiality and exhibit good organization skills. The goal of our course is to create and maintain a variety of tools for the school district that includes: Facebook, digital signage inside the school and the high school website. The course is designed to prepare learners with both the knowledge and skills in developing competence in an artistic/creative process. |
| Experiential & Work-Based | |
Foundations of Teaching Course Number: EXP 095 Foundations of Teaching is an elective course for students interested in working with younger students and teachers in a classroom environment. Students in this course work alongside teaching staff and students on the day-to- day management of a classroom and are involved in such activities as supporting student learning, reflecting upon classroom management practices and pedagogies, leading classroom activities or routines, and special projects as assigned. |
Co-Op Course Number: ACE 097 Cooperative education is a planned learning experience, for which credits are earned, that integrates classroom theory and learning experiences at a workplace to enable students to apply and refine the knowledge and skills acquired in a related curriculum course or a locally developed course. |
| Teacher Academy Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 MMC Credit(s): 1.0 cr Visual Performing Arts & 1.0 cr Final Math Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52-85 min. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior Year Teacher Academy is an elective course for students interested in working with younger students and teachers in a classroom environment. Throughout the course, students complete projects by answering essential questions related to the focus areas of: The Teaching Profession, Learners, Instruction, Assessment, Diverse Learners, and Curriculum. Students in this course work closely alongside teaching staff and students on the day-to-day management of a classroom and are involved in such activities as supporting student learning, reflecting upon classroom management practices and pedagogies, leading classroom activities or routines, and special projects as assigned. Students have an opportunity to earn articulated credit from Delta College upon successful completion of the course. |
Peer Counseling Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 0.5 MMC Credit(s): Electivel Student Service Learning hours Offered: 1 Semester, Fall, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: Teacher Approval This course focuses on developing human relation skills and fostering the personal growth of its members. Course curriculum includes peer influence, communication, stress and coping, assertiveness training, decision-making, problem solving, depression, bullying, life planning, anger management, goal setting, and other topics facing teens in today’s world. Self-awareness, assertiveness, and helping others will be incorporated. |
| Peer Counseling II Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 0.5 MMC Credit(s): Elective; Student Service Learning hours Offered: 1 Semester, Winter, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: Teacher Approval; Peer Counseling I This course is designed for students to staff two peer counseling rooms at Meridian Early High School on an hourly basis. These students will help other students with personal problems, conflict resolution, and tutoring. They will also facilitate support groups and provide other services based on a needs assessment. |
Peer Counseling III Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 0.5 MMC Credit(s): Elective; Student Service Learning hours Offered: 1 Semester/2 Semester, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: Teacher Approval; Peer Counseling II This course is designed for students to staff peer counseling rooms at Meridian Early College High School on an hourly basis. These students will help other students with personal problems, conflict resolution, and tutoring. They will also facilitate support groups and provide other services based on a needs assessment. |
| Introduction to Leadership Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 credit MMC Credit(s): Elective; Student Service Learning hours Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: None The attributes of successful leaders can be identified and taught. This yearlong course is designed to give students the opportunity to learn the ways in which they can become successful leaders in our school and community. |
Leadership Development Course Number: Graduation Credit(s): 1.0 credit MMC Credit(s): Elective; Student Service Learning hours Offered: Yearlong, MTWRF Class Length: 52 min Prerequisite: None This course is based on the belief that good leaders are created - not born. Therefore, it is designed for students to learn and practice leadership skills. Students will be expected to become involved in a wide variety of school and community service learning projects and study the basics of leadership and fellowship. Major topics of study include: fundamentals of leadership, dealing with people, goal setting, organization, ethics and leadership, self-awareness and personal growth. This course requires students to participate in projects and events outside of school hours. |
| Other | |
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Resource
Course Number: RES 091
Resource provides students needing additional support on academic coursework time and space to work with academic coaches toward successful completion of coursework. |
Postsecondary Prep
Course Number: PSP 095
Students who take this 30-minute course participate in practice tasks
such as silent sustained reading, online math practice, SAT prep, etc., designed to prepare them for eligibility for postsecondary coursework. |
Advisory Course Number: ADV 091, ADV 093, ADV 095, or ADV 097 All students are assigned an advisory upon enrollment. This zero credit course provides students structured time to meet with teachers of courses where improvement is needed, fulfill service learning requirements for graduation, and complete postsecondary readiness and planning tasks. |
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