Puyallup School District's newest high school, Emerald Ridge opened in September 2000. Serving students in grades 10-12, Emerald Ridge will have a population of approximately 1500. Offering an aviation career pathway program, the campus is strategically located one mile from the new Clover Park Technical College Aviation Training Facility, and the Pierce County Airport.

The new facility and curriculum is designed to support integration of disciplines, collaboration, application of learning and connections to the larger community. Four overarching goals guide the work of the Emerald Ridge staff. These goals state that, at Emerald Ridge, every student will be:

1. Known well, both personally and academically, by at least one staff member.
2. Challenged to use his or her mind well to meet rigorous academic standards.
3. Given the opportunity to experience the benefits of community membership and to develop and practice leadership skills within that community.
4. Prepared upon graduation to pursue whatever path he or she chooses, with a plan, a career focus, a strong transcript, and a professional portfolio.

Each student at Emerald Ridge is in an advisory group with about 20 other students and a staff advisor. During this time they work on educational and career planning, leadership development and community involvement. Students assess and research their interests to assist them in selecting appropriate courses. Some of the career pathway courses available include: CAD/CAM Aircraft Engineering, Physics of Flight, Web Design, Microsoft Office User Systems (MOUS), Cisco Networking Academy, Oracle Internet Academy, Teaching Academy, Sports Medicine, and Marine Resources.

Engineering and Technology Pathway
The Engineering and Technology Pathway is for students who are interested in the wide array of technological careers. Individuals who succeed in these types of careers tend to be detail oriented, genuine, modest, practical, persistent, and inquisitive. Some typical occupations would include mechanic, carpenter, truck driver, electronic technician, mechanical engineer, welder, civil engineer, architectural engineer, manufacturer, telecommunications technician, and computer network specialist.

Technology and Visual Communications Course Descriptions
Digital Photography
Grades 10, 11, 12 / One Semester or Full Year
This class is an application-based class incorporating principles of digital cameras, computer application, video, image input and output, digital processing, digital software, imaging, and manipulation of image.

Graphic Design I
Grades 10, 11, 12 / Full Year
This class is an introduction to art techniques related to materials, techniques, design principles, typography, and beginning computer instructions. Students will learn software which is used in the graphic arts industry and will also be introduced to various areas of employment in the graphic arts field.

CAD/CAM Aircraft Systems and Structures
Grades 10, 11, 12 / Full Year
Students will use CAD/CAM to demonstrate familiarity with aircraft structure, aircraft structural materials, coverings, power plants, and aviation systems.

Electronics I
Grades 10, 11, 12 / Full Year
Students will learn basic electrical principles, including applications of simple circuits and devices. They will learn to use electronic circuit simulation software as well as other software programs. They will work on special projects. Finally, they will be introduced to various areas of employment in the electrical and electronic fields.

Introduction to Flight
Grades 10, 11, 12 / Full Year
Students will study and explore the principles of flight, aircraft, flight environment, meteorology, radio communications, flight planning, aircraft performance, accident prevention, FAA regulations, navigation, and the human body in flight. Interaction with aircraft and aircraft systems, flight controls, and flight environments will also be integrated into this course.