An understanding of the American past is vitally important for an informed citizen in our constitutional republic, although that alone is not enough. The examination of other cultures and their history is also crucial for broadening understanding of an interdependent world and, therefore, the study of international cultures is integrated throughout the department’s program. Courses in history in the middle school years emphasize Texas history, as well as introductory political science and world geography. In these courses, students learn skills and concepts essential to the study of history and the social sciences, thus preparing students for more advanced courses in these fields. In high school, students take a minimum of four years of social studies, including the required courses of: World History, U.S. History, and the capstone courses Macroeconomics and U.S. Government. Students may also take elective courses that broaden their understanding of the world and other cultures. These electives include: AP European History, Human Geography, World War II, and AP Art History. Finally, students who desire to develop their critical thinking and communication skills further can choose to participate in debate and mock trial.
