Electives
Our school is committed to expanding the range of elective courses available to students, aiming to enhance their knowledge and foster intellectual curiosity. For the 2026/27 academic year, the following electives were offered to students:
If interested in any of the courses below, fill out the individual application in the respective section.
Once completed, fill out the general form here: Electives Registration Form
AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination)
AVID is a college prep elective that prepares students for four-year universities. The curriculum features writing, inquiry, collaboration, reading, note-taking, study skills, and college/career/motivational activities. AVID students have access to college tutors in class, college and university campus visits, and representatives from various colleges and universities. Students must commit to AVID guidelines as well as maintain good attendance, citizenship and have a GPA of 2.5 or above.
Current Students Registration Link: Here
Non-Shandin Students Registration Link: Here
Cadet Corps
The California Cadet Corps (CACC) is a state-funded, school-based youth program focused on leadership, citizenship, and personal development for students from elementary through high school. Administered by the California National Guard, it operates in schools across California, teaching military knowledge, civic responsibility, and academic excellence within a structured, military-style framework.
Want more info? Visit the official Cadet Corps website: Here
Music (Band + Orchestra)
Unleash your inner performer! Whether you want to master the woodwinds and brass in Band or find your rhythm with the strings in Orchestra, our music program is the place to be. Students will learn to read music, develop technical skills on their chosen instrument, and experience the thrill of performing as an ensemble. No prior experience? No problem—just bring your passion for sound!
Students with prior experience may qualify to be in Advanced Band and/or Advanced Orchestra-- contact Mr. Habell for details.
The SHMS music program aims to empower students through music education and performance:
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School Rally performances
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Honor Band & Orchestra opportunities
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Events
Music Registration: Click Here
S.T.E.A.M.
Step into the classroom of the future! In STEAM, we don't just study Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math—we use them to solve real-world problems. This hands-on elective is perfect for the creators and the curious. From coding and robotics to structural design and digital art, you’ll spend your time building, testing, and innovating. If you like to get your hands dirty and think outside the box, this is the class for you.
Click on the S.T.E.A.M. header for the site!
ASB (Associated Student Body)
ASB students are responsible for creating and maintaining school spirit, along with providing a fun environment for all students. ASB will host lunch time activities, spirit weeks, talent shows, school fundraisers, assemblies, recycling, and other school related programs and activities.
Spanish (+ Spanish 1 Option)
Our general Spanish elective will focus on conversational skills—the kind you’d actually use to order food, meet new friends, or travel. Through music, games, and group projects, you’ll build a solid foundation in vocabulary and speaking. This is a standard credit course open to all grade-level students who want to explore a new language in a creative, interactive environment!
High School Spanish 1 - (8th Graders Only) This is a high school level course, which is accepted as meeting the Foreign Language “A-G” Requirement needed to attend a university. In order to be accepted into this course, the applicant needs to have a “B” or better grade average and outstanding citizenship marks. We will be using storytelling, speaking, gestures, and readings to learn Spanish. Extensive participation is mandatory.
Spanish Enrollment Link: https://forms.gle/
Ethnic Studies
In Ethnic Studies, students will explore and reflect on themes of culture, race, identity, and history across diverse communities, including Latino/a/x American, African American, Native American, Asian American, and Pacific Islander experiences. Through reading, discussion, inquiry, and critical thinking, students will examine how these histories shape the present and influence individual and collective identities. The course emphasizes building empathy, fostering respect for diverse perspectives, and strengthening a sense of community both inside and outside the classroom!
Registration: Coming Soon!