A new dual credit class will soon be available at Shadow Ridge High School. Dual credit classes are classes in which high school students can earn college credit while also getting high school credit. The new dual credit class is Art 101/102. This class will consist of the Drawing 1 and Drawing 2 classes offered by Nevada State University.

Shadow Ridge already offers a means to get college credit for drawing courses via AP drawing.

The difference between Art 101/102 and AP Drawing is explained by Shadow Ridge Ceramics and upcoming Art 101/102 teacher, Andrea Brackney who states, “Unlike AP drawing, the dual credit Art 101 and 102 does not require a portfolio judging in order to get credit for the course.  This makes it perfect for the beginning artist looking to earn college credit in these courses.  It is not required to have any artistic knowledge or drawing ability to take this course.  We will teach you and you will be graded on personal growth.”

While it may initially seem that this class will only benefit students planning to major in an art related field, this is not the case according to Brackney who states, “I think anyone who is planning on going to college regardless of their major should take this course.  Almost every college major requires that you take at least 1 fine arts elective.  This is a great opportunity for all students to fill that requirement.”

Dual credit classes offer an opportunity for students to not only make their college years easier, but they also allow students to ease the financial burden caused by college. 

Shadow Ridge counselor Lisa Hebb explains this further, stating, “Students who are planning on enrolling at a college/university benefit from taking dual enrollment courses. They allow you to earn credits for a discounted rate and get classes out of the way.”

Since Art 101/102 is a college level course, it is unaffected by CCSD’s grade reform policy. This leaves things such as the late policy up to teacher discretion, the late policy tends to be stricter than the normal one students are already used to. Students considering Art 101/102 should be prepared to handle a stricter late policy.

For students who have already met with their counselors to pick their classes for the 2025-2026 school year, Brackney offers this advice, stating, “Even if you have  already met with your counselor and you are interested in taking this course,  just send them an email letting them know you would like to change your elective.  This course is open to both juniors and seniors.”