Business Academy

The Business Academy equips students with the skills, character traits and knowledge to be successful in ever-changing professional work environments with pathways focusing on accounting, finance, marketing, business management, architecture, culinary and cosmetology. View detailed descriptions for courses offered in the Business Academy below.

Quick Links:

Business Academy Course Descriptions:

Accounting I (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12) Course Number: 5109

Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Management

This course is designed to meet the needs of students interested in studying accounting or business in college, students interested in learning about keeping the financial records for their own businesses in the future, and students interested in general office work. The course provides training in bookkeeping principles, payroll, and financial reports. Students will get practical experience in accounting through the use of spreadsheets and computer-based accounting programs.

Accounting II (1 credit PAR, Gr. 11-12, weighted) College Credit Available, Course Number: 5301

Prerequisite: Accounting I

This course is a continuation of the first year course with an emphasis on cost, managerial, and corporate accounting. There will be additional study in automated accounting and computer-based spreadsheet applications. After completing this course, students planning to major in accounting or business in college will be better prepared for university-level accounting and students seeking employment immediately after high school will be better qualified for entry-level accounting positions.

Advanced Interior Design (1 credit PAR, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 6106

Prerequisite: Interior Design

This second level course will provide students the opportunity to enhance their knowledge in the areas of interior design. Students will discover a variety of visual techniques, research development of designers and career options, and textiles for construction. Students will continue to strengthen their leadership and employment skills.

AP Statistics (1 credit MTH, Gr. 11-12, weighted) College Credit by Exam Available, Course Number: 3124

Prerequisite: Algebra II or Honors Algebra II

This course is equivalent to an introductory, non-calculus based college course in statistics. The course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. There are four themes in the AP Statistics course: exploring data, sampling and experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Students use technology, investigations, problem solving, and writing as they build conceptual understanding.

Architectural Drafting (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12) Course Number: 8105

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design or Introduction to Visual Arts

This course studies principals involved in site selection, room planning, exterior styling, designing structural elements of house dwellings, and computer graphics as it relates to architectural drawing. Students will be introduced to various construction methods, building materials, and terminology used in the architectural fields. Preparation of a complete set of plans and specifications for a house of traditional and/or contemporary design will be required in a CADD environment.

Business Finance at Blue Ridge Bank (2 Credits, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 5121

Prerequisite: Intro to Business Management and Accounting I or Accounting II

This course operates a student-assisted bank, introducing students to banking and personal finance. In collaboration with Blue Ridge Bank located on the Independence Square, this course is designed to familiarize students with all aspects of banking, including savings, loans, operations, and audit functions. Students who take this course for a second time during their senior year complete an immersive internship with the bank. The course provides valuable experience in running a bank while learning to analyze personal financial decisions, evaluate the costs and benefits of their decisions, recognize the rights and responsibilities as consumers and apply the knowledge learned in school to financial situations encountered later in life.

Business Law (0.5 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12) Course Number: 5117

This course will teach students how the laws that govern business are relevant to their everyday lives. Specific areas include laws for minors, families, consumers, contracts, bankruptcy, repossessions, employment contracts, discrimination, landlords, and cyber laws. This course will also discuss entrepreneurship law, family law, and criminal law. Additionally this course combines practical opportunities as well as expertise of a business organization. Students will work with the local community in order to apply practical applications of economics. Entrepreneurial possibilities are available within this course. Students will learn to make economical decisions, keep business records and documents, as well as market products targeting local economical issues and business careers.

College Business (1 credit PAR, Gr. 11-12, weighted) College Credit Available, Course Number: 5312

Prerequisite: Accounting I, Business Finance, Marketing, or Youth Entrepreneurs

This course provides an overview of all phases of business, including ownership, marketing, personnel, finance, managerial controls, communications, and the relationship of business to the social and economic environment in which it operates.

Computer Science Essentials (1 credit PAR, Gr. 9-12, weighted) Course Number: 8182

Designed to be the first computer science course for students who have never programmed before, this course is an optional starting point for the PLTW Computer Science program. Students will work in teams to create apps for mobile devices using MIT App Inventor®. They explore the impact of computing in society and build skills in digital citizenship and cybersecurity. Beyond learning the fundamentals of programming, students build computational-thinking skills by applying computer science to collaboration tools, modeling and simulation, and data analysis. In addition, students transfer the understanding of programming gained in App Inventor to text-based programming in Python® and apply their knowledge to create algorithms for games of chance and strategy.

Computer Science Principles (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted) Course Number: 8172

Prerequisite: Computer Science Essentials

Using Python® as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation, this course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. This course will help students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation.

Cosmetology – 8 credits (7 credits PAR and 1 credit ENG, Gr. 12) Course Number: 8528

The cosmetology program at Herndon Career Center prepares students for the Missouri State Board of Licensing examination and to become employed as a cosmetologist. This full-day unit studies the properties of hair and scalp, hair cutting techniques, chemical applications, skincare and make up, nail care, personal hygiene, business and professional ethics, safety, sterilization and sanitation methods, salesmanship and communication skills, and state laws and rules.

Culinary Essentials (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12) Course Number: 6200

Prerequisite: Introduction to Hospitality and Culinary

This course will provide a foundation in the science of keeping food safe, exploring the influence of social and cultural food practices, applying scientific and mathematical principles to food preparation and meal planning. Through practical laboratory experiences, cooperative learning and organizational skills, as well as time management, students will become familiar with kitchen tools, equipment, terminology, recipes, and communication skills needed for successful food service careers.

ProStart I (4 credits PAR, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 6210

Prerequisite: Culinary Essentials

Culinary I course content will focus on safety and sanitation, kitchen essentials, management essentials, customer service, communication, purchasing, inventory and cost controls, culinary arts, marketing, and nutrition. The course will use the ProStart curriculum from the National Restaurant Association. ProStart is a nationwide, two-year program for high school students. ProStart’s industry-driven curriculum provides real-world educational opportunities and builds practical skills and a foundation that will last a lifetime. This program provides opportunities for industry recognized certification and internships.

ProStart II (4 credits PAR, Gr. 12) Course Number: 6220

Prerequisite: Culinary I

Culinary II course content expands the study of restaurant management and food preparation. Further emphasis is placed on leadership and management skills, current trends in food service sustainability and cultural influences in an increasingly global market. The course will use the ProStart curriculum from the National Restaurant Association. ProStart is a nationwide, two-year program for high school students. ProStart’s industry-driven curriculum provides real-world educational opportunities and builds practical skills and a foundation that will last a lifetime. This program provides opportunities for industry recognized certification and internships.

Design Thinking (1-2 credits ELE, Gr. 12) Course Number: 5126

Prerequisite: Approved Capstone Project

This capstone is a project that allows students to learn about themselves by moving an idea or dream toward a topic of interest, specialization, community need, or career choice. As part of this course, all students must complete a capstone experience which may include, but is not limited to: senior project, virtual enterprise, internship, externship, work-based learning, service learning, community service, etc.

Design Capstone (1-2 credits PAR, Gr. 12) Course Number: 6120

Prerequisite: Advanced Interior Design

This course can be taken as either one or two credits, depending on the chosen project. In the spring semester of the student’s junior year, the student will develop a capstone proposal for approval.

Digital Marketing Capstone (2-4 credits PAR, Gr. 12) Course Number: 5214

Prerequisite: Marketing or Youth Entrepreneurs

This course explores the world of digital media marketing and how it impacts and is integrated along with our traditional marketing channels. Consumers are more active in the marketing process and in influencing how brands communicate with them than ever before. This course utilizes Project Based Learning to explore the latest digital marketing trends by helping local small businesses develop their digital presence. Students will research strategies for success and will aid clients in retaining customers via email marketing, online display advertising, and social media strategies.

Entrepreneurship at All Things Independence (2-6 Credits, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 5316

Prerequisite: YE1 or Marketing

All Things Independence provides students with a unique experiential learning opportunity to gain hands-on business and entrepreneurial skills useful for any career path. Students operate a retail and screen printing business. Students are responsible for all aspects of the business, including management, marketing, sales, product research, purchasing, inventory, merchandising, graphic design, facilities management, customer service, accounting and financial analysis. Students have the opportunity to dive deeper into their specific areas of interest while learning all facets of operating a business.

Graphic Design I (0.5 credit FAR, Gr. 9-12) Course Number: 7128

Prerequisite: Introduction to Visual Arts

This course will explore the elements and principles of art with today’s ever-increasing need of knowledge regarding art technology. This class will utilize computer software, such as Adobe Illustrator, in creation of original artwork. Some basic Photoshop and digital camera skills will be introduced. This is a class for the student who desires to explore their art in a computer-based medium and for future career paths in design.

Graphic Design II (0.5 credit FAR, Gr. 9-12) Course Number: 7129

Prerequisite: Graphic Design I

This second level course will further explore the elements and principles of art with today’s ever-increasing need of knowledge regarding art technology. This class will utilize computer software, such as Adobe Illustrator, in creation of original artwork. Some basic Photoshop and digital camera skills will be introduced. This is a class for the student who desires to explore their art in a computer-based medium and for future career paths in design.

Interior Design (0.5 credit PAR, Gr. 9-11) Course Number: 6105

Interior Design is designed to introduce students to the professional, technical, and aesthetic aspects of the interior environment. It will provide students with applied design principles and elements, traditional drafting methods, and current industry standard technology. Students will produce technical drawings and prepare presentation plans, as well as exploring career opportunities in the field of design.

International Foods (1 credit, PAR, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 6114

Prerequisite: 6200 Culinary Essentials

This course, while focusing on proper food preparation and procedures, introduces the student to international and ethnic cuisines. It includes instructions on the psychological, cultural, and social influences on food choice in world cuisine. Availability of foods due to food production, food supply, legislation and regulation are discussed.

Introduction to Business and Management (0.5 credit PAR, Gr. 9-11) Course Number: 5101

This introductory course is designed to give students an understanding of business practices. It serves as a background of information for those students who plan to continue with other business courses and as a general information course for personal use. It includes the study of such areas as the free enterprise system, economics, exploring business careers, consumerism, and business technology. The course introduces business practices and structure between all levels of an organization. Students are encouraged to approach their work from an entrepreneurial perspective, and focus on the value that an employee can bring to the company.

Introduction to Culinary (0.5 credit PAR, Gr. 9-11) Course Number: 6010

This course was developed with the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute as an introductory course providing students with an overview of the hotel and restaurant industry. It includes an introduction to careers within the hospitality industry and includes topics such as guest services, professionalism, travel and tourism, and food and beverage services.

Introduction to Visual Arts (0.5 credit FAR, Gr. 9-11) Course Number: 7110

This course is designed for all students to review or learn basic knowledge of art by mastering the competencies of art history, criticism, aesthetics, and production. Students will learn the elements and principles of art, know how to use them, and create pieces of artwork that display this knowledge. In addition, students will be participating in subject-related reading and writing activities and assignments. Students will be expected to solve problems using higher-order thinking skills. This course is the prerequisite for all future art courses.

Marketing (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12) Course Number: 5207

Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Management

This course outlines an instructional program for students who are interested in a career in the field of marketing and management. This class is designed to provide an understanding of the fundamental marketing processes and an orientation to the American free enterprise system. Course content will include seven functions of marketing with an in-depth look into: communication & interpersonal skills, promotion, selling, economics, buying, pricing, and much more! When applicable, real-world lessons and examples will be used to reinforce the course concepts.

Nail Technician (4 credits PAR, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 8800

This program is a year-long, half day course at Blue Springs. The purpose of the nail technician program is to prepare students for an exciting career as a nail technician. Students will gain knowledge and experience with basic and spa manicures and pedicures. The curriculum also covers nail enhancements, such as acrylics, wraps, gels and gel polish. In addition safety and sanitation, business marketing, and customer service are skills that are covered. Upon completion of the course, students will take the State Board Exam, and if they receive a passing score the student will be a licensed nail technician.

Office Productivity Suite (0.5 credit PAR, Gr. 9-12) Course Number: 5124

This course is designed to help students master beginning skills in the areas of word processing, spreadsheet software, and the proper creation and application of professional presentations. Students will learn file management, how to save and find files, use a network, and share files with others for collaboration. Students will learn the software skills needed in Microsoft and Google to be effective in school and the workplace. Advanced projects combining all of Microsoft Office and Google software will be included in the course.

Public Speaking/College Speech (0.5 credit ELE, Gr. 10-12, weighted) College Credit Available, Course Number: 1529

This course is designed to improve students’ public speaking skills in real-world communication situations. The class challenges students to become more effective speakers and listeners in a variety of communication tasks. Students will participate in group discussions, research, listening exercises, and prepare various speeches individually, and learn to both give and receive constructive criticism.

Supervised Business Employment (1 or 2 credits PAR, Gr. 12) Course Number: 5209

Prerequisite: Must be concurrently enrolled in a Business course.

The Supervised Business Employment program is a workplace learning experience, which is an extension of the business education classroom. Students can make the connection with the real world expectations in terms of accuracy of work, production, staying on task, responsibility for work –all components which are stressed in the classroom setting. The work experience reinforces the importance of interpersonal skills, which gives students a forum to develop positive workplace experiences as they enter the workforce or prepare for continued education.

Supervised Marketing Employment (1 credits PAR, Gr. 12) Course Number: 5211

Prerequisite: Must be concurrently enrolled in a Marketing course.

Students are placed in employment that directly contributes to the development of the competencies necessary for successful employment in the field of marketing. This is a cooperative vocational education program and must follow guidelines established for these programs.

Supervised Marketing Employment (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12) Course Number: 5212

Prerequisite: Must be concurrently enrolled in a Marketing course.

Sports and Entertainment Marketing (.5 credit, PAR, Gr. 11-12) Course Number: 5215

Prerequisite: Introduction to Business, Marketing and then 1 credit of Business Class.

This course will focus on marketing and management functions and tasks that can be applied in amateur or professional sports or sporting events, entertainment or businesses primarily engaged in satisfying the desire to make productive or enjoyable use of leisure time.

In addition to coursework, student will work a minimum 30 hours each semester with the building athletic director or other district staff planning, organizing and working school events. The internship portion could be supplemented with an internship outside of the district such as the Mavericks or other sports or entertainment venues in the area.

Unmanned Flight Safety & Operation (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12, weighted) College Credit Available, Course Number: 8826

The drone market is exploding. This course will provide valuable learning experiences for anyone entering the utilities field, aviation, marketing, building maintenance, shipping, and many more careers. Course curriculum will be through the Unmanned Safety Institute, a premier instructional group for unmanned flight. This course follows Project Lead the Way’s Aerospace Engineering class and provides the opportunity to earn certification to fly a drone.

Youth Entrepreneurs (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12) Course Number: 5200

Prerequisite: Introduction to Business and Management

This course is designed to offer practical training and experience to students in the field of entrepreneurship and management. Students will gain an appreciation for business and free enterprise, complete a business plan, and have an understanding of the components for a successful business. Through team activities, computer simulations, hands-on experiences (i.e. Market Day, Dare to Dream, etc.), and competitions, students are challenged to start their own business, enhance their business skills for future career opportunities, and continue into higher education. This class will be conducted in partnership with area businesses and Youth Entrepreneurs, which is affiliated with the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship. Participation in DECA is highly suggested. The marketing objectives align co-curricular with the DECA competition and will be used as projects in the classroom on occasion.