Fine Arts

Floriculture provides students with an in-depth introduction to the floral industry, combining artistic creativity with agricultural knowledge and hands-on design experience. Students will explore a variety of topics, including flower shop operations, floral design history, careers within the floriculture industry, and identification of common floriculture crops.

A major emphasis of the course is on the elements and principles of design, which students will apply through the creation of floral arrangements and other floral art projects. This course includes a significant lab component, allowing students to develop technical skills in arrangement construction, plant care, and floral handling techniques.

All students enrolled in Floriculture are also required to be active members of the Neosho FFA Chapter, where they can participate in floral design competitions, Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs), leadership activities, and Career Development Events (CDEs).

Floriculture is ideal for students who enjoy art, creativity, hands-on projects, plant science, or careers in floral design and the ornamental horticulture industry.

Art Explorations is designed to introduce students to a wide variety of two-dimensional (2D) art forms and art-making techniques. Students will discover new and exciting ways of looking at art, thinking about art, and making art through hands-on exploration and creative problem-solving.

This course provides foundational instruction in the elements and principles of art while encouraging experimentation with drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, and mixed media. Students will engage in structured projects that promote visual literacy, technical skill development, and personal expression. Instruction emphasizes the creative process, safe and responsible use of materials, and reflection on artistic choices.

Throughout the course, students will analyze and discuss artwork from diverse cultures, historical periods, and contemporary artists to deepen their understanding of artistic context and meaning. By the end of the course, students will have developed a portfolio of 2D artwork that demonstrates growth in skills, creativity, and confidence in visual communication.

Clay and Sculpture is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of three-dimensional design and art-making. Over the course of the semester, students will explore sculptural techniques using a variety of materials, including clay, papier-mâché, recycled materials such as cardboard and plastic, and fiber-based processes such as yarn weaving.

Students will learn basic hand-building techniques, construction methods, and surface design while developing an understanding of form, space, texture, balance, and proportion. Emphasis is placed on creativity, problem-solving, and safe use of tools and materials. Through hands-on projects and reflective critique, students will learn to think spatially, evaluate their work, and appreciate three-dimensional art from diverse cultures and time periods.

By the end of the course, students will have created multiple sculptural works demonstrating technical skill, creative expression, and an understanding of three-dimensional design principles.

Drawing and Painting is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of drawing and painting while building artistic skills, confidence, and the ability to express ideas creatively through a variety of media. Students will explore techniques using pencils, charcoal, ink, watercolor, acrylics, and mixed media.

Throughout the course, students will develop an understanding of line, value, color, composition, texture, and perspective through guided practice and creative projects. Emphasis is placed on observation, experimentation, and the creative process. Students will participate in individual and group critiques to build visual literacy and reflective thinking skills.

By the end of the course, students will have created a portfolio of original artwork that demonstrates technical growth, creative exploration, and a developing personal artistic voice.

Upcycled Art allows students to explore creativity while learning about the impact humans have on the Earth’s environment. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students will give new life to recyclable, old, forgotten, and broken materials by transforming them into original and functional works of art.

Students will experiment with a variety of materials and construction techniques while developing an understanding of design, form, and problem-solving. The course emphasizes sustainability, responsible material use, and creative thinking as students explore how art can promote environmental awareness. Reflection and critique are incorporated to help students articulate artistic choices and evaluate their work.

By the end of the course, students will have created multiple upcycled artworks that demonstrate creativity, craftsmanship, and an understanding of environmental responsibility.

Art Foundations serves as the introductory course for all other art offerings and provides students with a comprehensive exploration of the elements and principles of art and design while utilizing the Studio Habits of Mind. Students will develop foundational skills through hands-on experiences that emphasize observation, experimentation, reflection, and creative problem-solving.

Throughout the course, students will be introduced to a variety of media, including drawing, painting, ceramics, and sculpture. Color theory, art history, and critical thinking are integrated through projects, critiques, and class discussions. Emphasis is placed on process, craftsmanship, and visual communication.

Successful completion of Art Foundations is required for students to advance into specialized art courses.

Painting is designed for students who are eager to learn and strengthen the fundamentals of painting using tempera and acrylic media. Students will develop technical skills and artistic confidence while exploring key concepts such as value, color mixing, proportion, and composition.

Through hands-on projects, students will apply painting techniques to a variety of subjects, including landscapes, portraits, and abstract compositions. Instruction includes methods for planning and transferring images, such as the grid method and transfer techniques, to support accuracy and design development. Emphasis is placed on experimentation, creative expression, and the painting process.

This course provides a strong foundation in painting while encouraging students to explore different styles and techniques.

Ceramics is an introductory course that focuses on the fundamentals of working with clay. Students will create functional and sculptural forms, including pots, vessels, and other three-dimensional pieces, using a variety of hand-building techniques.

Instruction includes surface decoration, glazing methods, and an overview of firing processes. Students will apply the Elements of Art and Principles of Design while developing craftsmanship, problem-solving skills, and individual creativity. Emphasis is placed on safe studio practices, creative exploration, and appreciation of ceramics as both an art form and a functional medium.

Drawing is a hands-on course that emphasizes the exploration of a wide range of drawing techniques and media. Students will work with materials such as graphite, charcoal, conté, pen and ink, printmaking processes, and decorative techniques applied to ceramic surfaces.

Projects will range from realistic to abstract and non-objective compositions, allowing students to explore both observational and expressive approaches to drawing. Instruction focuses on line quality, value, texture, composition, and creative problem-solving. This course is designed for students who are passionate about drawing and eager to further develop their technical skills and artistic voice.

Mixed Media invites students to explore and combine a wide range of art media, including clay, printmaking, fibers, collage, and jewelry making. This course emphasizes experimentation and creative risk-taking as students learn to layer materials, techniques, and ideas into original works of art.

Students will focus on developing craftsmanship, creativity, and problem-solving skills while discovering and refining their own artistic style. Through diverse projects and reflective discussions, students will explore how different materials interact and how mixed media can be used to communicate ideas visually.

This course is designed for students who want to experiment, grow their artistic skills, and create a varied body of work.

Sculpture is a hands-on course that allows students to explore a variety of three-dimensional sculpting techniques using media such as clay, paper, wire, plaster, wood, and metal. Students will develop skills in construction, form, balance, texture, and spatial design.

Projects will range from realistic to abstract and may include portraits, figures, animals, and object-based sculptures. Instruction emphasizes craftsmanship, problem-solving, and creative expression. Students will apply the Elements of Art and Principles of Design while refining their sculpting techniques and developing their own artistic style.

This course is designed for students who are passionate about three-dimensional art and eager to further refine their sculpting skills.

Advanced Ceramics builds upon the skills developed in Ceramics and is designed for students ready to deepen their understanding of ceramic art. Students will master more complex hand-building techniques and have the opportunity to learn wheel-throwing methods.

The course emphasizes the Studio Habits of Mind while exploring advanced glazing, surface decoration, and firing processes. Students will apply the Elements of Art and Principles of Design to create more sophisticated and expressive ceramic works. Strong emphasis is placed on personal creativity, craftsmanship, and independent artistic decision-making.

Advanced Drawing is a hands-on studio course designed for students who wish to further develop and refine their drawing skills. Students will explore advanced techniques using a variety of media, including graphite, charcoal, conté, pen and ink, printmaking processes, and decorative applications on ceramic surfaces.

Projects will range from realistic to abstract and non-objective compositions, encouraging both technical precision and expressive exploration. Emphasis is placed on craftsmanship, conceptual development, and personal artistic style. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about drawing and eager to push their skills to a higher level.

Advanced Sculpture builds upon the foundational skills developed in Sculpture and is designed for students ready to deepen their exploration of three-dimensional art. Students will refine and master advanced sculptural techniques using a variety of media, including clay, wire, plaster, wood, and metal.

Projects will focus on more complex and abstract forms, encouraging students to push creative boundaries and take artistic risks. Emphasis is placed on conceptual development, artistic problem-solving, and craftsmanship. Students will apply the Elements of Art and Principles of Design while developing a strong personal approach to three-dimensional work.

This course is intended for students who are eager to advance their skills and take their sculptural practice to the next level.

Advanced Mixed Media builds upon the skills developed in Mixed Media and is designed for students ready to deepen their exploration of combined media practices. Students will refine techniques while working with a variety of materials and processes, engaging in more complex and concept-driven projects.

The course emphasizes advanced craftsmanship, artistic experimentation, and creative risk-taking. Students will continue to develop a personal artistic style while exploring how materials, techniques, and ideas interact to communicate meaning. Reflection and critique are incorporated to support artistic growth and conceptual development.

This course is intended for students who want to elevate their mixed media practice and expand their creative capabilities.

Advanced Painting builds upon the skills developed in Painting and is designed for students seeking to deepen their technical and creative painting abilities. Students will explore advanced techniques and concepts such as value, color theory, composition, and expressive use of color.

Working primarily with tempera and acrylic media, students will create more complex landscapes, portraits, and abstract works. The course emphasizes refining a personal artistic style, pushing creative boundaries, and experimenting with painting on unconventional surfaces and textures. Instruction focuses on advanced craftsmanship, conceptual thinking, and artistic risk-taking.

This course is intended for students who wish to elevate their painting practice to a higher level.

Art Appreciation is a survey course that explores major concepts in the visual arts and their relationship to the societies and cultures that produced them. This course provides an introduction to art history, contemporary art, art theory, artistic media, and creative processes.

Students will examine artworks from various styles, periods, and cultures while developing an understanding of how visual art functions as a form of communication. Emphasis is placed on visual analysis, cultural context, and critical thinking. Through discussion, observation, and reflective activities, students will develop a greater appreciation for the visual arts and their role in human expression.

Senior Capstone is an advanced studio course designed to support students in developing a focused and cohesive body of artwork aligned with their individual artistic interests and career goals. Students receive personalized instruction, mentorship, and ongoing critique while exploring their chosen media, techniques, and concepts in collaboration with the instructor.

Throughout the course, students will plan, develop, and refine a series of projects that demonstrate advanced technical skill, conceptual depth, and personal artistic voice. Emphasis is placed on independent work habits, artistic problem-solving, and professional presentation.

By the end of the course, students will produce a cohesive portfolio of work that will be showcased in the Senior Capstone Art Show. Students will also receive guidance in photographing their artwork and preparing materials for college art programs, scholarships, and other postsecondary opportunities.

Exploratory Band is designed for students who are interested in beginning band in 7th or 8th grade, as well as for current band students who wish to enroll in an additional band course during the school day. This course provides a supportive environment for students to develop fundamental instrumental skills while exploring band participation.

Beginning students will receive instruction in basic music reading, rhythm, tone production, and proper playing techniques. Students using this course as an additional band period may use the time to further develop their skills or learn a second instrument. Emphasis is placed on individual growth, practice habits, and musicianship.

Concert Band prepares students to perform a variety of band literature while developing both individual musicianship and ensemble performance skills. Students will focus on proper breathing techniques, tone quality, intonation, articulation, range development, and music reading skills. Instruction emphasizes collaboration, discipline, and musical expression within a large ensemble setting.

Throughout the course, students will participate in regular rehearsals and public performances. Students will perform in a minimum of two concerts, one large group contest, and may participate in additional festivals throughout the school year. Opportunities are provided for students to audition for All-District Honor Band, prepare and perform a solo, and participate in small ensemble performances.

Jazz Band provides students the opportunity to perform and study jazz, an American art form rooted in rich historical and cultural traditions. Students will explore the origins and evolution of jazz while developing an understanding of jazz theory, style, and performance practices.

Throughout the course, students will refine playing techniques with an emphasis on jazz-specific style, articulation, rhythm, and phrasing. Instruction also focuses on developing advanced listening skills and ensemble awareness. All students will be introduced to basic improvisation and will be asked to improvise solos on a limited basis to build confidence and musical creativity.

Students may perform at concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the school year. Written assignments may be required to support students’ understanding of jazz history, theory, and performance practices.

Wildcat Beat is an interactive course that introduces students to the fundamentals of music through singing, movement, instrumental activities, and focused listening experiences. Students will explore core musical concepts—including rhythm, melody, harmony, dynamics, and tempo—using creative and engaging methods.

Instruction emphasizes active participation, musical expression, and foundational music literacy. Students will develop listening skills, rhythmic accuracy, and an appreciation for a wide variety of musical styles and cultures. This course is designed to build confidence, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for music.

Music Exploration offers a comprehensive introduction to a wide range of musical genres, instruments, and fundamental music concepts. Students will engage in listening activities, creative projects, and hands-on exploration to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of music.

Instruction focuses on rhythm, melody, harmony, dynamics, tempo, and form through interactive and age-appropriate activities. Students will explore music from diverse cultures, historical periods, and contemporary styles while developing music literacy and critical listening skills. This course is not a vocal performance-based course and is designed for students interested in learning about music beyond singing.

Color Guard combines dance, drama, performance, and the skilled manipulation of flags, sabers, and rifles as part of the pageantry arts. This performing ensemble is an integral component of the Wildcat Pride Marching Band and contributes to the visual and expressive elements of marching band performances.

The purpose of Color Guard is to perform at home football games, marching band competitions, pep rallies, parades, and community events. Students develop performance technique, coordination, teamwork, and stage presence through rehearsals and public performances.

Eligibility requirements for participation must be met in accordance with Wildcat Standards and MSHSAA guidelines for competitive events.

Jazz Ensemble is an advanced performance course for ensemble members focused on the study and performance of jazz, an American art form rooted in rich historical and cultural traditions. Students will explore the history and cultural significance of jazz while developing advanced musicianship, stylistic interpretation, and ensemble performance skills.

Instruction emphasizes advanced music theory, jazz harmony, rhythm, articulation, phrasing, and listening skills. All students will be expected to improvise solos on a regular basis as part of ensemble performance and skill development. Writing assignments may be required to deepen students’ understanding of jazz theory, history, and performance practices.

Students will perform at concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the school year and will participate in the spring competitive travel season. Eligibility requirements for participation must be met in accordance with Wildcat Standards and MSHSAA guidelines for competitive events.

Instrumentation for this ensemble includes alto, tenor, and baritone saxophone; trumpet; trombone; guitar; bass; piano; vibraphone; and percussion. Students who wish to study a second instrument may participate in a lab band until their skill level prepares them for placement in a competitive ensemble.

Honors Credit Requirements for Jazz Ensemble (12th Grade Only)

Honors credit opportunities for Jazz Ensemble are independent of Honors Band credit requirements. To earn honors credit, students must complete at least two requirements from each category below.

Category One (Choose at least two):

• 10 hours of tutoring junior high or middle school band students (coordination with the director required)
• Member of SWMMEA District Jazz Band
• Member of Missouri Bandmasters State Jazz Band
• Recognized as an outstanding soloist at a contest
• Attendance at a local jazz clinic, camp, or masterclass
• Perform an approved transcribed solo over chord changes

Category Two (Choose at least two):

• Alternate for SWMMEA District Jazz Band
• Perform improvisation at a solo contest
• Perform in a combo at a local community event
• Transcribe an approved jazz solo

Music Appreciation is a survey course that examines the development of music from the Middle Ages to the present day. Students will explore the cultural, historical, and social forces that shaped the musical expressions of each era.

The course is designed to provide students with the musical vocabulary, listening skills, and analytical tools necessary for a meaningful and enriching understanding of music literature. Through guided listening, discussion, and reflection, students will develop a deeper appreciation for a wide range of musical styles, genres, and traditions.

Unified Music Exploration is an inclusive course designed for students with special needs in grades 9–12, as well as seniors who wish to serve as peer mentors and earn A+ tutoring hours. This uniquely designed program celebrates the joy of music while honoring individual abilities, learning styles, and needs.

In a supportive and collaborative environment, students will engage in a variety of musical experiences that promote self-expression, creativity, and personal growth. Activities may include listening to and discussing music, creating music, participating in movement-based activities, and singing as appropriate for each student. Peer mentors will support engagement, encouragement, and positive social interaction.

This course emphasizes inclusion, cooperation, and the power of music as a means of communication and connection.

Accompanist is designed to meet both individual and class needs by serving as accompanists for choir classes during the school day, focusing on sight-reading, score interpretation, balance, and ensemble awareness.

The course introduces students to music technology, including synthesizers and MIDI software, to support performance, rehearsal, and creative exploration. Instruction is individualized to support varying skill levels and musical goals.

Students enrolled in this course must be available to perform as accompanists at concerts, contests, and competitions as required. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, preparation, and reliability in performance settings.

Choir provides students with the opportunity to develop the vocal production skills required for healthy and expressive singing. Students will study proper vocal technique, including breath support, diction, resonance, vocal registers, and the physiology of singing.

The repertoire will include a variety of musical literature representing different styles, cultures, and historical periods. Emphasis is placed on musical interpretation, ensemble skills, and vocal confidence. Students will apply learned techniques through rehearsals and performances while developing listening skills and musical literacy.

Students may participate in concerts, festivals, and other performance opportunities throughout the school year.

Mixed Chorus provides students with the opportunity to develop the vocal production skills required for healthy and expressive singing. Students will study proper vocal technique, including breath support, diction, resonance, vocal registers, and the physiology of singing.

The repertoire will include a variety of choral literature representing diverse styles, cultures, and historical periods. Instruction emphasizes ensemble skills, musical literacy, and interpretive performance. Students will apply vocal techniques through rehearsals and performances while developing confidence and collaboration as choral musicians.

Students may participate in concerts, festivals, and other performance opportunities throughout the school year.

Wildcat Singers is a coed choir course that provides students with the opportunity to develop the vocal production skills required for healthy and expressive singing. Students will study proper vocal technique, including breath support, diction, resonance, vocal registers, and the physiology of singing.

The repertoire will consist of a variety of choral and contemporary literature performed through both song and dance. Emphasis is placed on musical interpretation, stage presence, movement, and ensemble performance. Students will apply learned skills through rehearsals, concerts, contests, and community performances.

Sho-Stoppers is a show choir course designed for 7th and 8th grade girls. Students will develop vocal technique, master choreography, and refine performance skills while preparing for competitive and community performance opportunities.

Instruction focuses on vocal production, blend, balance, musical interpretation, movement, and stage presence. Students will apply these skills through rehearsals and performances that combine singing and choreography. Emphasis is placed on teamwork, discipline, confidence, and professionalism.

Students will prepare for and participate in multiple competitions and community performances throughout the school year.

Concert Choir provides high school students with the opportunity to develop essential choral fundamentals that prepare them for advanced and competitive choral ensembles later in their high school experience. Instruction emphasizes music literacy, sight-singing, and proper vocal production to build a strong technical foundation.

Students will develop the skills necessary to rehearse and perform more advanced choral literature representing a variety of musical styles and traditions. Emphasis is placed on ensemble skills, musical interpretation, and vocal confidence.

Students will participate in concerts, contests, and community performances throughout the year. Performances are a significant component of the course grade and require a high level of commitment and preparation.

Choraleers is for students working primarily with the popular idioms of jazz, swing, and rock music. Students will gain the skills needed to be successful in collegiate and professional music, gain a greater understanding of popular vocal and dance techniques. Students will have frequent opportunities for public performance. Attendance at all performances and rehearsals held before, during, and after school is required and is part of the student’s grade. This course if for an elite group of singers and dancers that will travel to several competitions and performances outside of school each year and every student is expected to exhibit positive character and behavior at all times. 

Honors Credit Requirements for Choraleers (12th Grade Only)
These requirements are independent and separate from honors credit for Cecilian Choir. Students must have been enrolled in a choir prior to their senior year and enrolled in their entire senior year to earn honors credit. To obtain honors credit, students must complete the following requirements: 

Must complete at least 2 of the following: 
● Member of SWMMEA District Honor Choir 
● Member of MCDA All-State Choir 
● Member of SWACDA or National ACDA Honor Choir (alternate years) 
● 1 Exemplary Rating at District Solo / Ensemble Contest 
● 1 Exemplary Rating at State Solo / Ensemble Contest 

Must complete at least 2 of the following: 
● Cadet for Jr High Show Choir for the entire year. Coordination with the director is required. 
● Alternate for the MCDA All-State Choir 
● Member of the MCDA All-State 9th and 10th Grade Choir the summer prior to the school year 
● Member of the MCDA All-State Show Choir the summer prior to the school year 
● Be cast in the Fall Musical and follow through to the performances 
● Perform the National Anthem at a sporting event as a solo or with a small ensemble with teacher approval 
● Attend the Men’s Choir Festival at MSU 
● Attend the Men’s or Women’s Choir Festival at UCM 
● Attend the Invitational Honor Choir at MSU (members selected by teacher) 
● Chamber Choir Member

Cecilian Choir represents the highest level of choral performance and is designed to prepare students for musical study and performance at collegiate and professional levels. This elite ensemble emphasizes artistic excellence, advanced musicianship, and expressive performance.

Students develop an aesthetic understanding of music while receiving advanced instruction in sight-reading, ear training, and vocal technique. Repertoire includes a wide range of musical styles studied within their historical and cultural contexts. The ensemble strives for excellence in tone quality, blend, balance, intonation, and musical interpretation.

Students will perform in both school-based and travel performances throughout the year, including contests and community events. All performances are required and are a major component of the course grade.

Honors Credit Requirements for Cecilian Choir (12th Grade Only)

Honors credit opportunities for Cecilian Choir are independent of honors credit for Choraleers. To earn honors credit, students must have been enrolled in a choir prior to their senior year and be enrolled in Cecilian Choir for the entire senior year.

Students must complete at least two requirements from each category below.

Category One (Choose at least two):

• Member of SWMMEA District Honor Choir
• Member of MCDA All-State Choir
• Member of SWACDA or National ACDA Honor Choir (alternate years)
• One Exemplary rating at District Solo / Ensemble Contest
• One Exemplary rating at State Solo / Ensemble Contest

Category Two (Choose at least two):

• Cadet for Junior High Choir for the entire year (coordination with the director required)
• Alternate for MCDA All-State Choir
• Member of MCDA All-State 9th and 10th Grade Choir (summer prior to the school year)
• Cast member in the Fall Musical with full participation through performances
• Perform the National Anthem at a sporting event as a soloist or in a small ensemble with teacher approval
• Attend the Men’s Choir Festival at MSU
• Attend the Men’s or Women’s Choir Festival at UCM
• Attend the Invitational Honor Choir at MSU (by teacher selection)
• Chamber Choir member

Wildcat Chorale is an entry-level choral course open to students in grades 9–12 and does not require an audition. This course is designed to build a strong foundation in choral singing and musicianship.

Instruction emphasizes the fundamentals of music literacy, tone production, sight-reading, and intonation. Students will work to improve vocal technique, develop accurate pitch and blend, and gain familiarity with basic musical terms and theory. Daily singing is an essential component of the course, and students will build the skills necessary to perform intermediate-level choral literature.

Students are required to participate in up to three performances throughout the school year. Performances are a component of the course grade and support the development of confidence and ensemble skills.

Vocal Techniques is an advanced vocal music course designed to improve individual performance through rigorous individual and coached rehearsal time. This course is intended for students who are interested in strengthening their solo singing voice while developing advanced sight-reading and ear-training skills.

Students will receive focused instruction on vocal technique, interpretation, and performance preparation. Each student enrolled is required to audition for All-District Choir during the fall semester and to participate in the District Solo/Ensemble Contest in the spring.

This course also serves as preparation for students planning to pursue vocal music at the collegiate level, including guidance for college entrance and scholarship auditions.

Phenomenon is an audition-based, all–tenor and bass show choir that focuses primarily on popular musical styles, including jazz, swing, and rock. This ensemble provides students with the opportunity to perform in a professional-level musical and dance setting while developing advanced vocal technique, choreography, and stage presence.

Students will gain a deeper understanding of vocal performance, movement, and ensemble collaboration through rehearsals and public performances. Choraleers frequently perform at community concerts and represent Neosho in competitions throughout the state.

Attendance at rehearsals, performances, and competitions is a significant component of the course grade. Students are expected to remain in good academic standing and demonstrate a high level of responsibility and character both in and out of school.