English and Communications

Literacy Center Video

The major goal of the Department of English & Communication is to assist students in their development as articulate, effective speakers and writers of English, and to foster in them an appreciation of classic and contemporary literature.

Four units of language arts credit are required to complete the language arts requirement. Additional credits may be selected to meet college entrance requirements, career goals, or interests.

Freshmen through Juniors may choose from a small group of courses which have been designed to respond to a variety of needs of students at each grade level. In addition, students in these grade levels may also concurrently enroll in some electives: journalism, speech, drama, radio, television, and humanities. Seniors may elect from a large group of courses, some of which satisfy the language arts requirement, some of which offer general credit.

As students and parents discuss courses during the registration process, the following links will provide an overview of the possible courses available through the English and Communications Department:

• Sophomore - Course Options
• Junior - Course Options
• Senior - Course Options
• Senior English & Communication Course Descriptions
• English & Communication Elective Course Descriptions

Incoming Freshmen Honors English Placement Essay Update - as of Oct. 29, 2020

Given the nature of school right now and the restrictions placed upon schools with regards to large groups assembling, and uncertainty moving into the winter, the District 99 English Departments will not be offering/requiring the Honors English placement essay like in previous years.  We will continue to rely upon any/all data we receive from the sender school as well as the teacher recommendation.  We appreciate your understanding given the constraints placed upon us this year.  If you/your student is interested in honors, they should be sure to communicate that with their current 8th-grade teacher.