Information Technology

Location: Chinook Middle School, Highland Middle School, Odle Middle School, Tillicum Middle School, Tyee Middle School

Interested in computer science? If so, this introduction to computer science course will empower students to create authentic artifacts and engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem solving, and fun. Students will learn how computers process information and apply a problem-solving model to help humans address problems and real-world scenarios. Students will learn the basics of HTML and CSS as they create their own website, and the basics of JavaScript as they create their own animations and interactive programs. This course is perfect for any beginner interested in computer science!

Location: Big Picture, Chinook Middle School, Highland Middle School, Odle Middle School, Tillicum Middle School, Tyee Middle School

This computer science course uses Python, a professional programming language widely used in the software industry. Python is an excellent first programming language for students new to line-based coding in that it provides simpler syntax, semantics, and higher code readability than other programming languages (such as Java and C++). This minimizes complexity and allows students to focus on core computer science concepts, problem-solving, design and programming. 

Students learn fundamental computer science concepts such as data statements, expressions, variables, values and errors, control structures, conditionals, while loops, indentation and function call, drawing- coordinate system, colors, animation, key and mouse input, lists, for each loops, for-in-range loops, sprite- based graphics-sprites, program structure, collision detection, functions definition, parameters and arguments, return values and types. 

Coding In Python 1B is an exciting class where students use creativity and the design thinking process to create animation, games, and visual programs. Students have access to professional-quality characters, backgrounds, animations, and sounds to create their programs. This course introduces students to the key coding techniques of functions, dictionaries, multidimensional lists, and sprite-based graphics, as well as expanding their knowledge of loops, lists, conditionals, libraries, and input by using them all in exciting and creative new contexts. After learning how to create and manipulate these sprites in Python, students will use proper product development processes and the design thinking process to make advanced and impressive programming projects. The new concepts introduced will include Functions, Parameters and Arguments, Return Values, Dictionaries, Two-Dimensional Lists, Sprites, Sprite sheet Animation, Collision, JSON, Product Development Lifecycle, and Kanban Board. 

Location: Newport High School (Available to all schools)

This course is part of Washington Network for Innovative Careers (WANIC), a seven-district partnership whose primary mission is to provide quality, diverse, and cost-effective career and technical education for all students through interdistrict cooperation. WANIC courses are challenging, relevant, specialized programs that meet for 3 periods per day all year. BSD students do not need to fill out a WANIC application for courses held at Bellevue schools. Learn more about all the opportunities available through WANIC at their website.   

Discover how to design, build, manage, and troubleshoot corporate enterprise networks. Learn mitigation of security threats, cybersecurity threat management, and advanced troubleshooting skills with a major emphasis on hands-on learning. Python is introduced for scripting and configuration. Each day half the class time is spent working in a state-of- the-art networking lab. Students take the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam at the completion of the course. Students who successfully complete CCNA may be eligible to apply for a Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification. Program fees may apply. Financial assistance may be available for qualifying students. 

Location: Newport High School (Available to all schools)

This course is part of Washington Network for Innovative Careers (WANIC), a seven-district partnership whose primary mission is to provide quality, diverse, and cost-effective career and technical education for all students through interdistrict cooperation. WANIC courses are challenging, relevant, specialized programs that meet for 3 periods per day all year. BSD students do not need to fill out a WANIC application for courses held at Bellevue schools. Learn more about all the opportunities available through WANIC at their website.    

This is a 3-period Skill Center class that provides 3 high school credits. This advanced course trains students to install, configure, and operate local and wide area networks using protocols and technologies such as TCP/IP, OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, AAA, IPv6, MPLS, STP, DSL, VTP, Gigabit, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet. Labs are used extensively to focus on developing skills to build campus networks using multilayer switching technologies, creating and deploying a global intranet, and troubleshooting. Students will be prepared to take the Cisco Certified Networking Professional (CCNP) exams at the completion of the course. Aspects of cloud computing with Microsoft Azure and Amazon AWS are covered as well as Voiceover- IP (VoIP) and Cisco Unified Communication Manager topics. Students use VMWare and Microsoft virtualization products to build servers in virtual and cloud environments. Students also gain experience in setting up and configuring Microsoft Server products. Program fees may apply. Financial assistance available for qualifying students. 

Location: Newport High School

There has never been a greater need for professionals trained in cybersecurity. In today's world everything is a target from servers, computers, phones and routers to refrigerators and light bulbs. This course is designed to prepare students for certification in this field. Students learn how to select appropriate hardware and software to provide protection against known security threats. Students also perform advanced installation, configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting of CISCO IOS routers and ASA firewalls as well as generic network and server equipment. Intrusion detection and intrusion prevention features of Adaptive Security Appliances (ASA firewalls), switches and routers are discussed. Students learn how to set up site-to-site VPNs between CISCO and non-CISCO devices as well as remote access VPNs between CISCO devices and clients. Encryption algorithms such as AES, IPSEC, 3DES and MD5 are discussed and implemented. This course prepares students for the following industry standard exams: Implementing CISCO IOS Network Security (IINS); Implementing CISCO Secure Access Solutions (SISAS); Implementing CISCO Edge Network Security Solutions (SENSS); Implementing CISCO Secure Mobility Solutions (SIMOS); and Implementing CISCO Threat Control Solutions (SITCS). Completion of these exams earns a student the CISCO Certified Security Professional certification. 

Location: Newport High School

While learning basic computer maintenance and simple management of operating systems in this exploratory class, students will investigate various computer topics based on individual knowledge and interest. These topics may include computer hardware and software, simple networking, graphics, HTML, computer programming, management of computers and Information Technology career areas. Students may pursue certifications such as A+ and Microsoft Certified Desktop Professional. After taking this class, students will be better prepared to take classes such as CISCO, Coding in Python 1, Video Game and Simulation, or AP Computer Science.

Location: Bellevue High School, Big Picture, Newport High School

In this project-based course, students will learn the fundamentals and theory of game and simulation design. Students will plan and design a series of animated games and simulations. The fundamentals of working with sprites, backgrounds, animation objects, game logic and scripting will be covered. This course provides fundamentals that will prepare students for greater success if they choose to enroll in WANIC's DigiPen Video Game Programming course. 

Location: Bellevue High School, Sammamish High School

Mobile Game Development provides students the opportunity to learn the basic skills necessary to develop and deploy mobile applications. The course builds on the Unity platform to enable students to design games for the most popular mobile game engine, build touch screen-based user interfaces, and extend those designs for both virtual and augmented reality. C# scripts will be written in Microsoft Visual Studio Code, and so some coding experience is recommended. Students will design, build, and deploy their own 2D and 3D games for Android and iOS devices in this project-based course. 

Location: Bellevue High School, Interlake High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School, International High School

This course is an introduction to computer science and coding in Python, a professional programming language widely used in the software industry. Python is an excellent first programming language for students new to line-based coding in that it provides simpler syntax and semantics and higher code readability than other programming languages (such as Java and C++). This minimizes complexity and allows students to focus on core computer science concepts, problem-solving, design and programming. Students learn fundamental computer science concepts including data- statements, expressions, variables, values & errors, control structures – conditionals, while loops, indentation & function call, drawing- coordinate system, colors, animation, key & mouse input, lists, for each loops, for-in-range loops, sprite-based graphics- sprites, program structure, collision detection, functions – definition, parameters & arguments, return values & types.

Location: Bellevue High School, Interlake High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School, International High School

Students learn to make professional-looking visual programs and games with sprite-based graphics, sounds, and animation. Coding in Python 2 will introduce students to the key coding techniques of functions, dictionaries, multidimensional lists, and sprite-based graphics, as well as expanding their knowledge of loops, lists, conditionals, libraries, and input by using them all in exciting new contexts. Students will have access to professional-quality characters, backgrounds, animations and sounds to create their programs. After learning how to create and manipulate these sprites in Python, students will use proper product development processes to make more advanced and impressive programming projects than in previous Python courses. The new concepts introduced will include: Functions, Parameters and Arguments, Return Values, Dictionaries, Two-Dimensional Lists, Sprites, Sprite sheet Animation, Collision, JSON, Product Development Lifecycle, Kanban Board.

Location: Bellevue High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School

This course continues the in-depth journey with coding in Python from CS202. During the course, students will master fundamental coding concepts such as file systems, information storage and retrieval, and error handling. Students will also gain proficiency with advanced topics including user-defined modules, data as values, data as references, and graphical user interfaces. In addition, students will learn the product development cycle of user testing, iteration, and automated testing that is ubiquitous in the software industry. Throughout the course, students will continuously demonstrate their knowledge through both traditional assessments and real-world coding projects, growing their professional portfolio.

Location: Bellevue High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School

This course completes the in-depth journey with coding in Python from CS203. During the course, students will master object-oriented programming concepts through the use of classes and domain-driven design. Students will also explore several different possible future paths for study and careers in computer science including web development, data science, and cybersecurity.  In addition, students will research the effects of technology on society and investigate how to build software with a goal of solving social problems. Throughout the course, students will continuously demonstrate their knowledge through traditional assessments and expand their professional project portfolio with a capstone coding project. Upon completion, students will be prepared to step into a variety of coding fields as an entry-level Python programmer.

Location: Bellevue High School, Interlake High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School, International High School

This class is designed for students who plan to pursue a career that relies on computer technology. No computer programming experience is necessary; however, completion of Introduction to Computer Science and a strong math background will help assure success. Students will be learning Java, a widely used programming language that is the current standard for AP Computer Science. Topics include program development cycle, program syntax, writing code techniques, variables, conditionals, iteration, methods, classes and recursion. Students will gain an in-depth knowledge of how computers execute programs. Since the software is free, students will also be able to work at home and/or use district provided equipment. Students will have the opportunity to write original programs in their area of interest such as a GUI, game programming, or data management. Students will be prepared to take the AP exam in the spring.  

Location: Bellevue High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School

Be a part of this fun and engaging class. This course signals a change in direction for AP courses, as its primary emphasis builds on the students' own backgrounds and strengths and emphasizes the importance of collaboration. Students will be surprised by this class's innovative, flexible curriculum that uses the experiences, interests, and strengths of students to shape its path. The course develops computational thinking skills in the context of creative problem solving. The primary goal of the course is to introduce students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenge them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. In this course you will learn about ways to analyze and study data, define and solve algorithms, how the internet works, and the global impact of computing. Rather than a deep dive into computer programming, this class takes a broader impact and overview look at the field of computer science. It will include content and influence from classes offered at Stanford and Harvard. Students will be prepared to take the AP exam in the spring. Passing the AP exam includes a multiple-choice test and delivery of two in-class developed projects. 

Location: Bellevue High School, Newport High School, Sammamish High School, International School

While AP Computer Science focused on control issues (loops, conditionals, methods, parameter passing, etc.), Special Topics in Computer Science focuses on data issues. Topics include: ADTs (abstract data types), stacks, queues, linked lists, binary trees, hashing, recursion, interfaces, inheritance and encapsulation. The course also introduces the notion of complexity and performance tradeoffs in examining classic algorithms such as sorting and searching and classic data structures such as lists, sets and maps. The course will include a mixture of data structure implementation as well as using off-the-shelf components from the Java Collections Framework and Microsoft Visual Studio C#.