The Clear Creek Independent School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Nov. 17 to approve three new secondary courses designed to expand student options and align with the districts Vision 2030 goals.

Dr. Stallings, assistant superintendent for teaching and learning, described the proposals as academically sound, fiscally responsible and responsive to student needs. The courses approved were:

- Intermediate Dance: an introductory course to build foundational skills, provide intermediate PE credit and strengthen the dance pipeline to advanced dance, color guard and musical theater; staffing will include certified K-12 dance/PE instructors with added FTEs to ensure coverage.

- Financial Math: a course emphasizing personal money management and real-world financial decision-making intended to replace a statistics-with-business focus for students who may pursue nontraditional college pathways.

- Engineering Beyond Earth: an advanced practicum focused on aerospace engineering, spacecraft and satellite design, and orbital challenges, developed to bridge high school and postsecondary engineering programs with engagement opportunities described as "with NASA." Dr. Stallings said the course prepares students for careers in space exploration and related technology.

Trustees asked questions about equitable access; Dr. Stallings noted the courses were developed with input from stakeholders including Stephanie Albert (Visual and Performing Arts), Casey Battle (CTE for math), Laura McKay (CNI and Innovative Programs) and Tracy Paddett (Math Department). Trustee Larson moved to approve all three courses, and the motion passed unanimously.

The board said the additions align with district strategic priorities to expand career and college pathways and provide students with practical, applicable skills.