Curriculum

The coursework at the Ann Richards School is designed to help our students make real-world, relevant connections. Download an overview of our curriculum. (Excel format)

— Jeanne Goka, Principal

Ann Richards provides a challenging college preparatory curriculum with an emphasis in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, Leadership, and Wellness and is designed for our students to graduate on the Distinguished Achievement Program, which has the most demanding diploma requirements offered in the state of Texas.

The ARS curriculum has enhanced programming in place that includes cultural study trips, leadership and wellness summer camps, in-depth tutoring, college tours,service learning, and a speakers’ bureau. Students have access to a breadth of experiences with extra-curricular activities such as band, orchestra, theatre, choir, and athletics, as well as co-curricular activities such as student council, ambassadors, and intramural academic marathons.

High School to College Pathways

The Ann Richards Curriculum has 3 college-career pathways for students: Engineering, which is taught through Project Lead the Way (PLTW); Liberal Arts, which is supported by Media Technology; and Health Sciences, as taught in Bio-Medical. These pathways are taught with an emphasis in project-based, experiential learning culminating with a Senior Thesis Project and additional internship opportunities. All ARS pathways are structured to be one-third theory and two-thirds application. This gives students meaningful, hands-on experiences in problem solving, teamwork and project-based learning.

Engineering

Project Lead The Way engineering program is a successful national program that has a hands-on activity-based curricula that excels at developing students’ problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students are challenged to work though problems, find solutions and design products. They will explore digital electronics, aerospace engineering, civil engineering and architecture.

Liberal Arts – Media Technology

Communication courses allow students to explore many areas of the Liberal Arts and then use media to showcase their student products in filmmaking, broadcasting, script writing, photography, computer graphics, and other creative venues.

Biomedical

The field of biomedical studies provides students with practical and sound research skills in their investigation of the human body, cell biology, genetic disease and other similar topics. Students prepare for continued study in fields such as forensic science, medical careers, and laboratory research.

Internships and Research Projects

The ARS senior year defines what students have learned in their academic studies, selected internships and academic camps.