SVT Freshman Survival Guide
By Caellum Giacomino
By Caellum Giacomino
At Spokane Valley Tech & STEM Academy, we explore exciting tech skills (like computer science), earn 3 CTE credits per full-year course, and even get college credits—all for free. We come from Central Valley, East Valley, Freeman, West Valley, and private or homeschool backgrounds, united toward a successful future.
In Project Management with Ms. Baratto, we learn to work in teams, use Trello, and join eCYBERMISSION. This teaches us planning, researching, and presenting real solutions.
Algebra 1 with Mr. Eby helps us build a strong math foundation: variables, equations, inequalities, and quadratics. It’s great practice for future math courses.
In Biomedical Science with Ms. Neilson (using PLTW), we study body systems, diseases, and medical careers, and work with hands-on labs and projects.
9th-grade ELA with Mr. Johnson improves our reading and writing through text analysis, essay writing, and class discussions.
Cybersecurity with Mr. Smith follows Cisco IT Essentials, teaching us online safety, network basics, and real-world tools.
In P.E./Health with Ms. Loncon, we stay active and learn about physical fitness, mental health, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Spanish 1 with Señora Rice uses the VHL curriculum to teach vocabulary, grammar, conversation skills, and Spanish-speaking cultures.
I wish I knew how fast-paced high school can be—it helps to stay organized, make a strong first impression, and join clubs early.