Exploratory Courses
Workforce Learning: Career and Technical Education (CTE)
At Ransom Middle School, students are supported by a passionate team of educators committed to preparing them for real life. As an A-rated school, Ransom focuses on helping students develop practical skills, confidence, and a strong work ethic through hands-on learning experiences.
Through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, students explore technology, agriculture, and skilled trades while gaining real-world skills that prepare them for future careers and high school pathways.
Exploratory Course Offerings 2025-2026
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Course Name |
Course Description |
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Culinary-Fund of Cul Car & CP Mrs. Bass |
The purpose of this course is to assist students in making informed decisions regarding their future academic and occupational goals and to provide information regarding careers in the Hospitality & Tourism career cluster. The content includes but is not limited to the development of leadership skills, communication skills, and employability skills; resource management; exploration of careers in the culinary field; the importance of health and safety in the culinary environment; and the use of technology in culinary-related careers. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a laboratory setting using hands-on experiences with the equipment, materials and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices. ![]()
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OR Car & Tec Ms. Mack |
ICT Digital Citizenship and Ethics provides an innovative program of instruction and digital literacy assessment that works well for students within the following digital citizen topics: Internet technologies, email browsers, communications, social media applications, cybersecurity, global awareness and digital citizenship. This program is designed to introduce digital technology literacy and prepare students for opportunities in a world of technology. |
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Speech/Debate Mrs. Lackey |
This course is focused on the use of correct and effective language and organizational skills in preparing, delivering, and evaluating different types of oral presentations and debate. Students will critique speeches, paying attention to content, organization, language, and delivery style, and produce and present well-structured, developed speeches. |
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M/J 2-D Studio Art 1 Mrs. Discepolo |
Studio Art 1 (full year) Students explore media and techniques used to create a variety of artworks through developing skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, digital art and sculpture. Students practice, sketch, and manipulate the structural elements of art. Investigation of artworks from Western and non-Western cultures provide inspiration, as well as a means for students to expand their understanding and appreciation of the role of art in global culture. This course incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials. |
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M/J 2-D Studio Art 2 Mrs. Discepolo |
VARSITY ART CLUB - CLASS PERIOD: Students refine techniques used to create a variety of artworks through developing skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, digital art and sculpture. Students manipulate the structural elements of art to promote creative risk-taking. Investigation of artworks from Western and non-Western cultures provide inspiration, as well as a means for students to expand their understanding and appreciation of the role of art in global culture. This course incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials. Requires teacher approval. |
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M/J Dig Art & Des 1 Mrs. Discepolo |
This course focuses on digital literacy as it applies to design and fine art. Students explore the fundamental concepts, terminology, techniques, and applications of digital design to create original mixed media artworks that combine traditional art forms with technology. Students produce artworks through the single or combined use of computers, digital cameras, scanners, photo editing software, drawing tablets, printers, new media, emerging technologies and traditional art materials including drawing, painting, and printmaking, etc. Through the critique process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers to measure artistic growth. This course incorporates hands-on activities, the use of technology, and consumption of art materials. |
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M/J Chorus 3 Mrs. Horne |
Chorus is a performing class designed to teach students the fundamentals of reading and performing vocal music. There will be at least two performances each year which are part of the grade for this course. Students will learn how to read rhythm, melody, and perform songs from all styles and genres. |
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Band Mr. Rigdon Mr. Kershaw |
Band is an instrumental performance class that is offered to students at all levels, and experience is not required to join. If you are new to band, and would like to join as a beginner, please email Mr. Rigdon or Mr. Kershaw at rrigdon@ecsdfl.us or skershaw@ecsdfl.us. Band focuses on the fundamentals of music theory and music performance. In addition to beginning band, there are 4 performance classes offered for students in their second or third year playing: Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band I and Jazz Band II. Placement in these ensembles is based on audition. Required performances are part of each class. |

