Our Departments

The AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program at South Central High School is designed to empower students to reach their full potential academically and personally. Students join AVID through an application and interview process that identifies motivated learners who would benefit from extra support in developing strong study habits, organizational skills, and college readiness. Once accepted, students become part of a supportive classroom community where they are challenged to set high goals and provided with the tools to achieve them.

At SCHS, AVID is more than just a class—it’s a pathway that equips students with skills for success both in and out of the classroom. The curriculum emphasizes writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading strategies, while also introducing students to college-level expectations through activities like Socratic seminars and tutorial sessions. With the guidance of the dedicated AVID Site Team, made up of teachers from across content areas, the program provides consistent support that helps students grow into spaces of rigor. Many AVID students begin their journey in honors courses but soon spread their wings into Advanced Placement (AP) classes, challenging themselves and raising their academic confidence.

Beyond the classroom, AVID students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular opportunities that strengthen leadership and community involvement. Whether volunteering in the community, taking part in enrichment activities, or representing AVID at school events, students build confidence and connections that enhance their high school experience. These opportunities help foster a sense of belonging, making AVID students proud, active members of the Falcon family.

Most importantly, AVID prepares students for life after graduation. Graduates leave SCHS with practical skills—such as effective note-taking, public speaking, and time management—as well as the confidence to thrive in college, careers, and beyond. Our school has been recognized as an AVID Schoolwide Site, and we are continuing to grow toward becoming a National Demonstration School, a distinction that reflects the high quality and impact of the program. Many of our AVID students go on to become first-generation college students, breaking barriers and setting new standards for their families and communities. AVID at SCHS is not just about preparing for the next step, it’s about ensuring students are ready to succeed wherever their journey takes them.

Theatre:
Theatre classes offer students an engaging, creative space to explore the world of acting, storytelling, and stagecraft.  Classes are designed to build confidence, sharpen communication skills, and ignite the imagination. There are 4 different levels: Theatre Arts Foundations, Theatre Intermediate, Theatre Proficient, and Theatre Advanced. Throughout all levels students will learn the fundamentals of performance, including voice and movement, character development, improvisation, and scene work. Classes often include group exercises, script analysis, and live performances that encourage collaboration and self-expression. Whether you're preparing for the stage or just looking to grow personally and creatively, theatre classes provide a supportive environment to take risks, explore emotions, and connect with others through the shared experience of live storytelling.

Technical Theatre:
Technical Theatre class offers students an in-depth look at the essential elements that bring a live production to life—everything behind the scenes. There are 4 different levels: Technical Theatre Beginning, Technical Theatre Intermediate, Technical Theatre Proficient, and Technical Theatre Advanced. From lighting and sound to set construction, costumes, props, and stage management, this course provides hands-on experience in the technical and design aspects of theatre. Students will learn the fundamentals of theatre technology, including:

• Lighting design and how to operate lighting equipment

• Sound design and basic audio setup and mixing

• Set design and construction, using tools and materials safely

• Costume and prop creation, including basic sewing and fabrication techniques

• Stage management and running a live show from backstage

Collaboration is at the heart of Technical Theatre. Students will work as a team to support productions, learning how each technical department contributes to the success of a show. This course is ideal for creative problem-solvers, hands-on learners, and anyone interested in the artistry and logistics of theatrical production. Whether you're interested in pursuing a career in theatre or simply want to gain valuable technical and organizational skills, Technical Theatre is your backstage pass to the magic of live performance.

The Career and Technical Education, CTE, Department at SCHS is dedicated to providing students with engaging learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge to real-world applications. Our signature courses and specialized pathways allow students to explore their interests in depth while building skills that prepare them for the future. We offer the following program areas and course offerings include:

Business, Finance, and Marketing
Career Development
Computer Science and Information Technology
STEM and Engineering
Drone Technology
Family and Consumer Sciences
Trade and Industrial Technology
Health Sciences 

Beyond the classroom, students can take part in a variety of extracurricular and enrichment opportunities that extend their learning, foster creativity, and encourage teamwork. Whether through clubs, CTSOs, Internships, or service experiences, South Central CTE creates spaces where students can grow and experience their potential.

Our South Central Career and Technical Department faculty bring a variety of backgrounds, partnered with industry knowledge, community connections, and experience. Our educators strive to grow through professional development, higher education, AVID, and CKH programs so that we can continuously learn how to connect with your student learner.  We are dedicated to supporting and encouraging students to feel like valued members of the Falcon family. By celebrating individual strengths and giving guidance along the way, we help students work hard, inspire others, never give up, grow daily, and show respect. 

Together we are Falcon Proud!  

The South Central English Department is made up of enthusiastic teachers who are passionate about guiding students through the art of language. Each grade level has a specific focus, and courses are carefully aligned to build on the knowledge and skills from the previous year. Our department is dedicated to helping students grow as learners so they can achieve success not only in school, but also in the community and in life.

English I (9th Grade)
Freshmen begin their high school English journey with English I, a genre-based course designed to help students explore and distinguish among fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. Students practice writing strong, evidence-based paragraphs and learn to elaborate effectively on their ideas. Ninth grade emphasizes skills that require abstract thinking, such as identifying themes and tracing their development throughout a text. Students also strengthen their vocabulary skills by using context clues to determine the meanings of unfamiliar words. Throughout the year, students compile a writing portfolio to showcase their growth. By the end of English I, students are well-prepared for the rigor of English II.

English II (10th Grade)
Building on the foundation of English I, English II challenges students with more complex texts from around the world and higher-level thinking skills. Students analyze a variety of genres using specific criteria to deepen their understanding of how literature is crafted. A central focus of the course is the study of Holocaust literature, which encourages students to recognize the injustices of humanity and reflect on ways to prevent such injustices in the future. At the end of the year, students take a standardized assessment that covers both 9th- and 10th-grade standards.

English III (11th Grade)
English III focuses on the study of American literature, with an emphasis on how historical and cultural contexts shape themes, tones, and styles of writing. Juniors deepen their skills in literary analysis by examining how society both influences and is reflected in literature. In addition to exploring key works of American authors, students engage in practice that supports ACT preparation to strengthen their college- and career-readiness.

English IV (12th Grade)
English IV centers on the study of British literature, guiding students through an exploration of how literature evolves across time in response to societal change. Seniors analyze texts to understand how social, political, and cultural forces influence literary movements and forms. This course prepares students for higher-level education by refining critical reading, writing, and communication skills, while also encouraging habits of lifelong learning.

The EC Department helps exceptional children of all levels succeed at South Central High School.

The Extended Content Standards classrooms help students learn functional skills, and use the Unique Learning System to give quality instruction. The Occupational Course of Study classroom prepares students to be successful in the workforce. The Curriculum Assistance and RISE sessions provide students with the support they need to successfully graduate with a full NC high school diploma.

Together we RISE to be Exceptional every day!

JROTC (Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps) is a high school program that aims to motivate young people to become better citizens and leaders by teaching them discipline, character, and citizenship skills. The program is a partnership between the school and the U.S. Armed Forces, and it provides instruction on leadership, life skills, and community service through a curriculum taught by retired military instructors. While the program is military-regulated and offers potential benefits for military enlistment and college applications, it does not require students to join the military. 

What JROTC Teaches:

• • Leadership Skills:
    Students learn to act with integrity, lead others, and manage time effectively. 

  • Citizenship:
    The curriculum emphasizes patriotism, community service, and social awareness. 

  • Character Development:
    JROTC helps students build self-confidence, discipline, accountability, and problem-solving skills. 

  • Life Skills:
    Instruction includes financial planning, communication, and physical fitness. 

How the Program Works:

• • Instructors:
    Retired officers and enlisted personnel from various military branches serve as instructors. 

  • Curriculum:
    Classes include leadership, drill and ceremony, military customs, and physical training. 

  • Extracurriculars:
    Students can participate in community service, field trips, competitions, and clubs focusing on STEM and other subjects. 

  • Uniforms:
    Cadets are required to wear a uniform and attend events at least twice a month. 

Key Benefits:

• • No Military Obligation:
    Participants are not joining the military and receive credit for the class. 

  • College and Career Advantages:
    JROTC participation is viewed favorably by colleges and can lead to college scholarships and faster enlistment promotions in the military. 

  • Skill Development:
    Students gain valuable skills applicable to various career paths and adult life. 

The Math Department at South Central High School offers a wide range of courses designed to meet the needs of all learners. Students can take everything from Math 1 through Calculus, with honors options available at every level. For those seeking advanced opportunities, AP Pre-Calculus and AP Calculus AB & BC are offered, giving students the chance to earn college credit while still in high school.

In addition to building strong mathematical foundations, our department emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare students for college, careers, and life beyond the Nest. Students are encouraged to analyze problems from multiple perspectives, recognize patterns, and apply logical reasoning to real-world situations. These skills not only prepare them for success in higher education but also strengthen their ability to think independently and make sound decisions in their daily lives.

The Math Department is committed to meeting students where they are and helping each learner grow. Teachers provide scaffolding, interventions, and extra support for students who need additional help, while advanced and AP classes offer deeper challenges for students ready to push themselves further. This balance ensures that every student can feel confident in their progress and find success and growth at their own level.

Just as importantly, we believe in creating a welcoming and supportive learning environment. Using Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) strategies, our math teachers build meaningful relationships, foster respect, and encourage collaboration so that students feel comfortable taking risks and asking questions. Group work, peer learning, and celebrations of progress help students know they are valued as members of the Falcon family, not just as math students.

The Physical Education Department at South Central High School provides instruction in both health and physical education. On top of standard 9th grade PE classes, we offer Advanced PE , Adapted PE, Sports Medicine, Weightlifting and Women's Weightlifting.

Our department participates in several extracurricular activities. Our educators are involved in coaching Football, Basketball, Track, Women's and Men's Golf,  and Tennis.  We prepare students for the future by teaching them about health, living a physically fit lifestyle and participating on a team, both through games played in class and the extracurricular activities we coach.

Our department is vital to student success at South Central because we teach collaboration and organization through health lessons and team sports.

The Science Department at South Central High School offers a variety of courses designed to challenge all levels of students.  Students can take several courses including Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physical Science, with a challenging curriculum also incorporated into our electives and Advanced Placement courses.  Anyone interested in more rigorous content may take our AP Environmental Science, AP Biology or AP Chemistry.  For students looking to continue their science exploration, we offer electives such as Honors Forensic Science and Honors Marine Science.  The diversity of these courses can be seen in both our standard, honors, and Advanced Placement curriculum. 

Furthermore, building an analytical and hands-on approach to our content with an emphasis on critical thinking skills will help to prepare our students for further educational opportunities in college, their professional careers and their future lives.  Students are challenged in our laboratory settings with real life scenarios.  Our staff helps drive the problem solving viewpoint, recognizing complex trends, and application to real world situations.  The driving force behind our department's efforts is to prepare all students for a successful future and eventually a successful career.

The Science Department is devoted to helping meet the needs of all of our students and helping them become confident learners.  The extra support provided in our RISE program, Falcon Prep, Capturing Kids Hearts, and Rising Falcons Program demonstrates our commitment to serving our students with the highest quality of education.  We firmly believe that creating a safe and welcoming environment will promote the desired success that our students strive for here at South Central High School.

The Social Studies Department is a diverse and dynamic department in our school. Guided by the North Carolina Standard Course of Study, we provide students with essential graduation requirements, including World History, American History: The Founding Principles, Civics and Economics, American History, and Economics and Personal Finance. In addition, we are proud to offer AVID classes within our department, along with rigorous and engaging electives such as African American Studies and Advanced Placement courses like Psychology, United States History, and United States Government & Politics.

Beyond the classroom, our team is deeply involved in the life of the school. We support and sponsor organizations such as the Student Government Association, Beta Club, and Rho Kappa, the Social Studies Honor Society. Many of our teachers also serve as coaches and leaders in athletics and color guard, extending their mentorship to students in multiple arenas.

At our core, we prepare students to be leaders and global citizens in a digital and interconnected world. Through meaningful coursework and strong relationships, we challenge students to grow academically and socially, equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed not only in high school, but in college, careers, and beyond.

The World Languages Department comprises a diverse group of staff from native to non-native speakers of Spanish and French that love language!  

Some courses offered in our program include Honors Spanish 1, 2, 3 and 4; along with Honors French 1 and 2. However, we  offer French and Spanish  1 and 2 as a standard course as well. 

These courses aim to empower students to make connections within the community while also preparing them for real-world experiences like college and beyond! Other extended opportunities provided within our program  include the Spanish Honor Society and French club, which are great ways to stay connected with the language and culture. 

Essentially, the World Languages department prepares, inspires and empowers our students to succeed by making connections, rising above challenges and always remembering that language bridges the gap of understanding between people around the world!