High School Academies

Career Academy integrates curriculum preparing students for post-secondary careers -- law and public safety, marketing, human services, and early childhood, computer science, and marketing.

• Computer Science
• Marketing
• Human Services and Early Childhood
• Law and Public Safety

STEM Academy integrates curriculum educating students in four specific disciplines -- science, technology, engineering, and mathematics -- in an interdisciplinary and applied approach.

• Natural Sciences (must be in Algebra I in 8th Grade)
• Robotics Honors (must be in Algebra I in 8th Grade)
• Robotics
• Engineering
• Health Services

Visual & Performing Arts Academy is a practical education based on experiential learning in the following concentrations -- band, choir/vocal, dance, drama, orchestra, studio art and tv/video production.

Band
Choir / Vocal
Dance
Drama
Orchestra
Studio Art
TV and Video Production

The Allied Health Services Concentration within the Career Academy is designed for students interested in all aspects of the Allied Health Field. Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of natural sciences as well as more advanced knowledge of Allied Health topics. A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all required courses. Participation in the Pre-Med club is mandatory in the junior and senior year and optional Internships (paid or unpaid) will be available during the senior year. Possible careers related to this sequence include Nursing and Allied Health Careers such as Pharmacy Technician, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomist, Dental Assistant, and Surgical Technologist. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser from the Science department to monitor and guide their progress through the Career Academy. 

 Associated Coursework

• Introduction to Health professions
• Anatomy and Physiology
• Kinesiology
• Allied Health Terminology  

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• Pre-med Club
• STEM Club
• Athletic Trainers Club

The Business Concentration within the Career Academy is designed for students interested in all aspects of the business world.  Students will acquire knowledge of a wide range of topics, from business management and business law to entrepreneurship and corporate structure. Students who complete the schedule of courses will receive a special designation on their transcripts.  Students will participate in the School-to-Work Program in their senior year and also have the opportunity to join the Future Business Leaders of American and DECA.  Possible careers related to this sequence are Business Management,  Business Ownership, Sports Management, along with careers in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry, Logistics, Retail, and Merchandising. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Career Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Marketing Concepts
• Marketing and Advertising
• Business Management and Business Law  

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• CBE / Future Business Leaders of America Club
• DECA
• Financial Management Club

The Human Services and Early Childhood Concentration is designed for students interested in the field of education, and in particular, the Social Sciences, as it relates to individual human behavior, and how such behaviors formulate societal structures. The purpose of the Human Services and Early Childhood program is to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings. Students will discover psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within Psychology. Students will also learn about the methods psychologists use in their science and practice. It is hoped that by students taking the Human Behavior CP and Psychology AP courses, they will acquire perceptions of the world around them, insights into one's own behavior, and an appreciation of the complexity of human behavior. In addition, the said program culminates in the pupil’s senior year with Introduction to Sociology being taken through Passaic County Community College. A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all required courses. Students may be eligible for the CDMA certifications and, as seniors, can apply for the Marie Hakim Future Educator Scholarship. This concentration exposes students to topics related to careers in education, psychology, and human services. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Career Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Human Behavior
• Philosophy
• Future Teachers

Passaic County Community College Options

Introduction to Sociology - after school through Passaic County Community College - 3 college credits

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• Future Teachers Club

The Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security concentration is designed for students interested in all aspects of law enforcement and criminology. The purpose of the Law and Public Safety program is to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and how such behaviors impact society. Students will discover psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with human behavior, as well as, how such behaviors impact human society at large. It is hoped that by students taking the Human Behavior and Sociology courses, they will acquire perceptions of the world around them, insights into one's own behavior, and an appreciation of the complexity of human behavior as it pertains to societal structures. In addition, this program culminates in the pupil’s Senior year with classes, Introduction to Criminal Justice and Criminology, being taken through Passaic County Community College. A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all required courses. Possible careers related to this concentration are Law Enforcement, Legal Services, Emergency, and Fire Management Services and Security and Protective Services among others. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Career Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Human Behavior
• Sociology
• Forensics
• Criminal Justice

 Passaic County Community College Options

• Introduction to Criminal Justice - after school through Passaic County Community College or concurrently during the school day - 3 college credit
• Criminology - after school through Passaic County Community College - 3 college credits

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• Mock Trial Club
• Forensics Club

The Marketing Concentration within the Career Academy is designed for students interested in all aspects of the marketing environment. Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of business and marketing concepts from around the globe. Students will gain skills in advanced elements of Marketing and Career Readiness and will utilize simulation software and 3D printing. A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all required courses. Students will participate in the School-to-Work Program in their senior year. Students will also have the opportunity to join the Future Business Leaders of American and DECA. Possible careers related to this sequence are Public Relations, Market Research Analyst, Advertising/Brand, Management, Media Buyer, Event Planner, Promotion Management and Marketing. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Career Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Marketing Concepts
• Marketing and Advertising
• Business Management and Business Law

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• CBE / Future Business Leaders of America Club
• DECA
• Financial Management Club

The Computer Science Concentration is designed for students interested in the field of computer science and the intricacies of programming. It is designed to give students a solid base in both theoretical and practical topics in computer science, computer engineering, and mathematics while leaving flexibility for scheduling other courses of interest. The study of Computer Science prepares students to deal with using and improving computers as tools for numerous applications. Students who complete the academy will have completed two Computer Science AP courses along with other preceding coursework. If you continue with Computer Science coursework in college, graduates are able to move into high-tech careers as software engineers, systems analysts, technical writers, web developers, researchers, programmers, and software testers. They may also apply their computer skills to enhance careers as biologists, architects, teachers, and psychologists.

Associated Coursework

• Computer Science I
• Computer Science II
• Computer Science AP
• Computer Science Principles AP

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Maker Space 3D Club
• STEM Club
• Robotics Club

The Engineering Concentration within the STEM Academy is designed for students interested in all aspects of engineering design. Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of engineering concepts and computer-aided technical drawing. Students will gain skills in advanced elements of engineering design through the use of AutoCAD and SolidWorks. A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all required courses. Participation in the STEM Club and/or the Robotics Team is encouraged starting in grade 9. The Introduction to Engineering and Fundamentals of CAD courses offer college credit with Passaic County Community College (PCCC). Possible careers related to this sequence are Science - Biology, Chemistry, Marine Biology, Physics - Technology - Computer / Information Systems, Game Design, Developer, Web / Software Developer - Engineering - Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical / Electronics, General & Mechanical Engineering - Mathematics & Statistics - Accounting, Auditors, Financial Specialists. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser from the Science department to monitor and guide their progress through the STEM Academy. Students in the STEM Academy will have access to the STEM Lab in A5.

Associated Coursework

• Tech Drafting I
• Tech Drafting II
• Tech Drafting III

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• Physics and Electricity Club
• Maker Space - 3D Printing Club
• STEM Club
• Robotics Club

The Natural Sciences Concentration within the STEM Academy is designed for high achieving math and science students. Students will acquire advanced foundational knowledge and skills that will prepare them for advanced-level coursework following high school. Students will have an opportunity to earn more than 24 college credits through a wide range of available Advanced Placement classes. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to take part in a senior year internship and guest speaker lectures designed to further develop their understanding of how the knowledge they are developing is being applied in the real world. Upon graduation, students will receive a certificate of completion. Possible careers related to this sequence are Physician, Biologist, Botanist, Physicist, Chemist, and Chemical Engineer among others. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser from the Science department to monitor and guide their progress through the STEM Academy. Students in the STEM Academy will have access to the

Associated Coursework

• Biology AP
• Chemistry AP
• Physics AP or Environmental Science AP

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• National Science Honor Society
• Knights of Pythagoras Club
• STEM Club
• Pre-Med Club
• Physics and Electricity Club
• Language Club (based on world language class taken)

The Robotics Concentration within the STEM Academy is designed for students interested in all aspects of robotics and how they apply across the various STEM disciplines. Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of mechanical and electrical design, fabrication, and programming. Students will gain skills in advanced elements of robotics and engineering. This will include the use of software for design (i.e.: SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and programming (i.e.; Scratch, Robot-C and MAT). A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all courses. Participation in the Clifton Student Chapter of the Montclair Society of Engineers, the Clifton High School Robotics Team, and the Clifton High School STEM club are strongly encouraged. Possible careers related to this sequence include Engineering, Computer-Aided Design, and Computer Programming. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser from the Science department to monitor and guide their progress through the STEM Academy. Students in the STEM Academy will have access to the STEM Lab in A5.

 Associated Coursework

• Intro. to Engineering
• Engineering in Robotics
• Advanced Applications/Engineering

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Language Club (based on World Language class taken)
• Physics and Electricity Club
• Science National Honor Society
• Montclair Society of Engineers
• Robotics Club
• Knights of Pythagoras Club
• STEM Club
• Maker Space Club

The Robotics Honors Concentration within the STEM Academy is designed for high achieving math and science students interested in all aspects of robotics and how they apply across the various STEM disciplines. Students will acquire foundational knowledge and skills for entry and advanced level coursework in higher educational institutions, which includes the fundamental knowledge of mechanical and electrical design, fabrication, and programming. Students will gain skills in advanced elements of robotics and engineering. This will include the use of software for design (i.e.: SolidWorks or AutoCAD) and programming (i.e.; Scratch, Robot-C and MAT). A certificate will be awarded upon successful completion of all courses. Participation in the Clifton Student Chapter of the Montclair Society of Engineers, the Clifton High School Robotics Team, and the Clifton High School STEM club are strongly encouraged. Possible careers related to this sequence include Engineering, Computer-Aided Design, and Computer Programming. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser from the Science department to monitor and guide their progress through the STEM Academy. Students in the STEM Academy will have access to the STEM Lab in A5.

Associated Coursework

• Introduction to Engineering
• Engineering in Robotics
• Advanced Applications/Engineering

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Montclair Society of Engineers
• Physics and Electricity Club
• Science National Honor Society
• Robotics Club
• Knights of Pythagoras Club
• STEM Club
• Maker Space Club

The music concentration of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy is comprised of two sub-strands: one vocal and one instrumental (which includes both band and orchestra). In addition to participation in a required ensemble within the strand, students may select from a wide variety of choral and instrumental ensembles. They may also select from a series of elective classes that will provide them with a comprehensive background in music theory, history, and performance. Students will be immersed in relevant topics that will further assist them in preparing for college, a career in music, or in simply becoming a literate lifelong music enthusiast.

Beyond the classroom, students will be afforded numerous opportunities for individual and ensemble performance, attendance at professional music performances, and workshops with professional musicians. These opportunities allow students to engross themselves in a music-rich environment. Possible careers related to this sequence are Musician, Composer, Conductor, Singer, Arranger, and Music Teacher. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.

 Associated Coursework

• Band I
• Band II
• Band III

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Membership in Mustang Marching Band
• Tri-M Music Honor Society
• Spring Musical

The dance concentration within the Visual and Performing Arts Academy is designed to provide talented male and female students the essential knowledge and skills necessary to pursue an exciting and successful career in the field of dance. The curriculum will encompass classes providing a strong foundation in ballet, modern and jazz. A variety of disciplines will be studied and performed throughout the student’s four years, such as tap, ballet, modern, jazz, and ethnic dance forms. To further enhance the dancer’s understanding of their art, instruction will be provided in dance history, theory, critique, and related areas of interest.

The dance concentration is designed for performers who are dedicated to improving their craft through a balanced approach to instruction in performance, choreography, and critique. Students will be afforded the opportunity to participate in field trips, master classes with guest artists, and a variety of workshops. Performances are an integral part of the program and will provide the student with an outlet for showcasing the development of their talents and abilities. Upon completion of the dance program, participants will find that they are well-prepared for continued growth and involvement at the collegiate and professional levels. Possible careers related to this sequence are Dancer, Choreographer, Dance Instructor, Studio Owner, and Dance Company Director. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Fine and Performing Arts Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Dance I
• Dance II
• Dance III

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Dance
• Musical Theater

The Drama concentration is designed to develop each student’s creativity, talents, and skills to the highest possible level so they will be ready to excel in the area of theater that is their particular passion or interest. This may mean entering a university theater program, becoming a professional actor, working in the technical fields of theater, becoming a director, playwright, or starting a community theater.

The courses in this concentration will use hands-on participatory activities that involve the talents of individual students to explore and become proficient in the technical, creative, and collaborative aspects of theater. Students will participate in complete theatrical experiences that incorporate all elements into a polished product. Lastly, students will be given various opportunities to perform for a variety of audiences including the public community, cross-disciplinary peers, outside students, and students within the drama concentration of the Clifton High School Visual and Performing Arts Academy. Possible careers related to this sequence are Actor, Director, Playwright, Set Designer, and Drama Coach/Teachers. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Drama I
• Drama II
• Drama III

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Fall Play
• Spring Musical
• Drama Club

The music concentration of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy is comprised of two sub-strands: one vocal and one instrumental (which includes both band and orchestra). In addition to participation in a required ensemble within the strand, students may select from a wide variety of choral and instrumental ensembles. They may also select from a series of elective classes that will provide them with a comprehensive background in music theory, history, and performance. Students will be immersed in relevant topics that will further assist them in preparing for college, a career in music, or in simply becoming a literate lifelong music enthusiast.

Beyond the classroom, students will be afforded numerous opportunities for individual and ensemble performance, attendance at professional music performances, and workshops with professional musicians. These opportunities allow students to engross themselves in a music-rich environment. Possible careers related to this sequence are Musician, Composer, Conductor, Singer, Arranger, and Music Teacher. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Orchestra I
• Orchestra II
• Orchestra III

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Orchestra
• Strings Ensemble Club
• Tri-M Music Honor Society
• Spring Musical

The Studio Art concentration is designed for talented high school students who have the dedication and enthusiasm to pursue an intense and structured study in the visual arts. The program offers a curriculum that will guide the student toward the development of skills, concepts, and imaginative exploration in a wide variety of media and techniques. Students experience courses in drawing, painting, graphic design, ceramics, digital photography, stagecraft, and design careers. The Studio Art concentration will help students expand their creativity, knowledge, and discipline through the making of art, discussion, critique, and observation. They will develop their critical thinking skills, fundamental theory, and historical perspective.

A portfolio of individual work that can be used for college admission is initiated at the beginning of study and developed throughout the program. Students will have the opportunity to participate in important programs and exhibits in both galleries and museums in the tri-state area. Students will also have the opportunity to exhibit their work in a culminating, year-end community exhibit. Possible careers related to this sequence are Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Interior Designer, Art Historian, and Photographer. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Studio Art I or Studio Art II w/Portfolio
• Studio Art II
• Studio Art III-H

Art Electives

• Ceramics
• Crafts
• Design Careers
• Graphic Design
• Art History

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Mural Club
• Gallery Club
• Phoenix Art Literary Magazine
• Portfolio Club
• Stage Crew

The combination of non-stop collaborative work, diverse cultures and experiences, and a shared passion for film make our filmmaking workshops and programs an intensely enriching experience. At the end of the student’s sophomore, junior, and senior years, their final films are celebrated in a film festival attended by the school community. Possible careers related to this sequence are Director, Editor, Producer, Camera Person, Sound Engineer, and Production assistant. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Communications and Public Speaking
• CAST I
• CAST II

 CAST Electives

• Drama
• Stagecraft
• Digital Photography

Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Clifton HUB School Newspaper
• Digital Photography Club
• Yearbook Club
• Assisting w/after-school CAST productions

The music concentration of the Visual and Performing Arts Academy is comprised of two sub-strands: one vocal and one instrumental (which includes both band and orchestra). In addition to participation in a required ensemble within the strand, students may select from a wide variety of choral and instrumental ensembles. They may also select from a series of elective classes that will provide them with a comprehensive background in music theory, history, and performance. Students will be immersed in relevant topics that will further assist them in preparing for college, a career in music, or in simply becoming a literate lifelong music enthusiast.

Beyond the classroom, students will be afforded numerous opportunities for individual and ensemble performance, attendance at professional music performances, and workshops with professional musicians. These opportunities allow students to engross themselves in a music-rich environment. Possible careers related to this sequence are Musician, Composer, Conductor, Singer, Arranger, and Music Teacher. Students will be placed with a mentor/adviser to monitor and guide their progress through the Visual and Performing Arts Academy.

Associated Coursework

• Chorus I
• Chorus II
• Chorus III

 Associated extra-curricular clubs

• Chorus
• Spring Musical
• Tri-M Music Honor Society