Programs

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY I (828, 829)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course is designed for juniors and seniors interested in understanding, maintaining, and performing minor or major repairs to their vehicle. Classroom activities include a systematic approach to understanding the basic operation of a motor vehicle. Integration of math, reading, communication, logical thinking, and teamwork is a part of Automotive Technology I. Lab activities include removal and installation of parts and the systematic diagnosis of automobiles. Most major systems of a vehicle will be studied. The student will be expected to develop good habits in the areas of work ethic, cooperation, attendance, attitude, leadership, and organization. This course is prelude to Automotive Technology II.
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY II (830, 831)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: C or better in Auto I is recommended
Automotive Technology II is an extension of Automotive Technology I. This course will prepare a student for an entry-level position in the automotive field or additional schooling. College, trade school representatives, and other guest speakers are a part of Automotive Technology II. Classroom activities include group projects, individual critical thinking activities, and study materials used by the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence). Lab activities include a challenging list of automotive repair items. Automotive Technology II students are encouraged to bring in their own “project vehicles.”
CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (870, 871)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
The course is composed of a combination of subject matter and experiences designed to perform tasks of individuals receiving nursing services. The student learns those competencies needed to perform as a nurse assistant under the direction of the registered nurse. The units of instruction should include the role of the nurse assistant while covering general health care topics: medical terminology; patients/clients and their environment; special feeding techniques; psychological support and, in long term and terminal illness, death and dying (e.g., chronically ill, children, new mothers, and so on); and all other basic nursing skills. Topics covered typically include normal growth and development; feeding, transporting patients, hygiene, and disease prevention; basic pharmacology; first aid and CPR; observing and reporting; care of equipment and supplies; doctor, nurse, and patient relationships and roles; procedure policies; medical and professional ethics; and care of various kinds of patients. This program is approved by Illinois Department of Public Health. Upon successful completion, the student is eligible to sit for the competency exam.
COMPUTER MAINTENANCE I (806, 807)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to provide students with the skills needed to install, setup, configure, test, troubleshoot, and maintain personal computers and peripherals. Instruction includes assembling, maintaining, and upgrading personal computers. Students learn how to install, upgrade, and troubleshoot various hardware components such as motherboards, hard drives, CD-ROMS, memory, power supplies, video cards, sound cards, and network cards. Students install and configure various desktop operating systems such as Windows, Apple, and Linux. The course includes adding and removing software programs, installing and updating system drivers, creating startup and recovery disk, and updating the BIOS and CMOS. Students learn to conduct preventive maintenance and perform system backups, data transfer, and recovery routines as well as use diagnostic utilities to troubleshoot hardware and software problems. Students also learn how to disassemble, clean, troubleshoot, and reassemble peripherals such as printers.
*This course has been dual credited with Heartland Community College.
COMPUTER MAINTENANCE II (808, 809)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: C or better in Computer Maintenance I is recommended
This course builds on the skills introduced in Computer Maintenance I. Students learn how to connect and install multiple computers and peripherals together to create a computer network. Students build, configure, and maintain network servers along with installing and configuring various network operating systems such as Novell, Windows, and Linux. Students learn to use troubleshooting services, system monitoring utilities, and data backup and recovery systems. Other topics include learning how to connect various network components such as servers, computers, and printers together using data cabling, hubs, and switches. Students learn to run, terminate, and troubleshoot data cabling. In addition, students learn how to install and upgrade software across the network, as well as map drives and share resources such as printers, software, and files. The course includes setting up and configuring various network services such at TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, VPN, terminal services, e-mail, and web services. Students learn how to secure and protect network servers and data as well as setting up and configuring a firewall, intrusion detection system, and encryption software for identifying and preventing potential network attacks.
*This course has been dual credited with Heartland Community College.
COMPUTER NETWORKING I (810, 811)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Geometry or Administrative Consent
Computer Networking I is a skill-level course designed to provide students with the skills needed to setup, configure, test, troubleshoot, maintain, and administer a data network using various network operating systems such as Windows and Linux. Instruction will include network planning decisions, such as choosing an appropriate network configuration, determining the performance level requirements considering the differences among operating systems, and recommending network interface cards and cabling. Students will also learn how to setup and manage file systems and resources, and network topologies, protocols, and system utilities to efficiently run software applications on a network. Students will learn to use basic operating system commands, install and configure networks, set up user accounts and rights, and establish user security and permissions.

*This course has been dual credited with Heartland Community College.
COMPUTER NETWORKING II (812, 813)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Computer Networking I
Computer Networking II is a skill-level course for students who have completed Computer Networking I. Students will continue to learn skills to set up, configure, test, troubleshoot, maintain, and administer a data network using various network operating systems such as Windows and Linux. Students will learn to use troubleshooting services, system monitoring utilities, and data backup and recovery systems. Instruction will include setting up and configuring various network services such as TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, VPN, terminal services, e-mail, content filtering, and web services. Students will learn techniques to secure and protect network servers and data. Students will be introduced to some basic concepts regarding web server configuration. Students will also learn to use standard software tools to determine system vulnerabilities and correct these vulnerabilities by reconfiguring the operating system. Students will diagnose network problems using public domain network sniffers such as Ethereal. Instruction will include setting up and configuring a firewall, intrusion detection system, and encryption software for identifying and preventing potential network attacks.

*This course has been dual credited with Heartland Community College.
CONSTRUCTION TRADES I (800, 801)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course provides experiences related to the erection, installation, and maintenance of residential buildings and related fixtures. Planned learning activities allow students to understand fundamental principles and methods, and develop technical skills related to masonry, carpentry, and finish work. Instruction includes safety principles and practices, recognition of standard lumber sizes, foundation layout methods, building concepts and procedures, local, state and national codes, cost estimating, and blueprint reading.
CONSTRUCTION TRADES II (802, 803)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Construction Trades I
This course provides learning experiences related to the erection, installation, maintenance, and repair of building structures and related utilities. Student technical skill experiences include instruction and activities in safety principles and practices, performing maintenance control functions, joining pipes, building water distribution lines and drains, installing and maintaining plumbing fixtures and systems, installing switch and outlet boxes, light fixtures, service entrances, roughing in and trimming out electrical devices and appliances, preparing foundations and footings, constructing residential chimneys and fireplaces, laying, jointing and pointing brick, and advanced building and construction methods and codes. All learning experiences are designed to allow the student to acquire job-entry skills and knowledge.
COSMETOLOGY I (916,917)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
The Cosmetology program must be approved and licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations, Division of Professional Regulation and meet all state and federal regulations. Cosmetology I introduces students to the requirements to become a licensed cosmetologist. It offers students instruction in both theory and practical application in the following areas: tools and their use, shampoo, understanding chemicals and use, types of hair, sanitation, hygiene, skin diseases and conditions, anatomy and physiology, electricity, ethics, nail technology and esthetics as they relate to the Barber, Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail Technology Act. Knowledge, skills and activities completed in this course will help prepare students for Cosmetology II, while earning hours towards licensure.
All hours, grades, and classes accumulated during the student’s time in LACC Cosmetology courses are credited towards the completion of the 1,500 clock hours required by the Illinois Dept. of Financial and Professional Regulation.
COSMETOLOGY II (914,915)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 3 Prerequisite: None
The Cosmetology II program must be approved and licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations, Division of Professional Regulation and meet all state and federal regulations. This course offers students continued instruction in both theory and practical application.
All hours, grades, and classes accumulated during the student’s time in LACC Cosmetology courses are credited towards the completion of the 1,500 clock hours required by the Illinois Dept. of Financial and Professional Regulation.
CULINARY ARTS I (890, 891)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
Culinary Arts I provides students with information and experience relating to the planning, selecting, purchasing, preparing and serving of foods. Coursework includes the study of terminology, nutritional values, culinary math, quantity cooking, storage, equipment, sanitation, and knife skills. Instruction is geared to prepare students for entry level positions into occupations in the food industry. Students develop skills through practical experience in the lab and on extended campus. Additional content may include: catering, event planning, customer service, food service styles, menu styles, baking and pastry arts, horsd’oeuvres, breakfast cookery, meat selection and preparation, soups, and sandwiches.
CULINARY ARTS II (892, 893)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Food Service I
Culinary Arts II places emphasis for students to develop operational management skills. Content includes organization of food service systems, human relations, personnel training, and supervision. Students will continue to develop skills through more in depth practical experiences in both the lab and on extended campus opportunities. Additional topics may include: taking inventory, advertising, menu development, and individual mastery of culinary techniques. Employability skills will be emphasized throughout the two year sequence.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION I (880, 881)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course presents the history and philosophy of early childhood education. Areas of development from birth through age 5 are covered. Curriculum styles and observation methods are introduced and practiced. Students prepare for operation of a lab preschool. Career interests and opportunities are covered. Students prepare a professional portfolio including resume, cover letter, lesson plan samples, and class work.
Students earn a Level I Early Childhood Education Credential.
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION II (882, 883)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Child Care I
This course is a continuation of Early Childhood Education I. Emphasis is placed on the management aspects of the lab preschool as well as various early childhood programs. Students explore program types including philosophies and goals, program quality, licensing and registration laws, budgeting, staffing, inventory management, and public relations. Students continue the development of their professional portfolio. Students in good standing will be given the opportunity to intern at local early childhood sites.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNICIAN (864, 865)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
The EMT-Basic course is a cooperative joint venture between OSF Saint James Medical Center and LACC and will be taught in accordance with the 1994 EMT-Basic National Standard Curriculum, and includes a minimum of 120 hours core didactic (classroom) hours and 20 ED non-classroom clinical hours. Classes will be comprised of lectures, demonstrations, and practical given by the instructors approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Emergency Medical Services System.
At successful completion of the course, the students will have the opportunity to challenge the state of Illinois written exam and be licensed as an EMT-Basic.
ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN I (814, 815)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This exciting course is designed for students who are interested in exploring careers in engineering and architecture. During the first semester, students develop competency in sketching and drafting geometric shapes, then develop 2D and 3D models using AutoDesk’s AutoCAD. Throughout this process, they will learn problem-solving design processes and how it is applied in industry to manufacture a product. In the second semester, students will create residential architecture using drafting techniques and the industry leading program Revit, which creates floor plans, section views, elevations, and realistic representations of their houses. In this class, students have the opportunity to gain certification in AutoCAD and Revit, attend competitions, field trips, and problem- solving activities.
ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN II (816, 817)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Drafting/CAD I
In this three hour college credit course, students learn how to use the 3D modeling program Inventor to apply core principles of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to engineering development and design problems. In the second semester, students build on their architectural knowledge by studying structural commercial design process while developing Building Information Models that could be used to design their own building. During this class, students explore careers through a college level program called Roadtrip National where they learn how to pursue their dream job. Similar to Engineering and Architectural Design I, students will have an opportunity to earn certifications in Inventor and Revit, attend competition, field trips, and problem-solving activities.
FIRE SCIENCE I (860-861)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to provide the student with information in the history, traditions, terminology, organization, and roles and operation of the fire service. In addition, the class covers principles of combustion and building construction characteristics. The class also contains typical job and operational functions that should provide insight into the inner workings of the fire service.This course is dual credited with Parkland Community College.
FIRE SCIENCE II (862, 863)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Drafting/CAD I
This course is designed to provide the student with the information needed in transitioning from firefighter level tasks into a supervisory role as a company officer. In addition, the class will cover basic principles in leadership, supervision, management, and instructing the Fire Science I students during company drills. The class will also contain typical administrative duties in addition to the daily emergency operations that a company officer may encounter while working in the fire service.This course is dual credited with Parkland Community College.
INTER-RELATED COOPERATIVE EDUCATION (920, 921, 930, 931)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 3 Prerequisite: Senior status
This course is designed to help students bridge the gap between school and the world of work. The course includes making decisions about the work place, career planning, entering the work force, the individual as a worker, and making financial decisions. Students also study different types of training, completing job resumes, applying for jobs, working with others, using credit, and buying insurance. The purpose of this course is twofold; students are provided practical work experience while still in high school and gain practical experience in applying for and interviewing for jobs. This work experience provides on-the-job training in the career area of the student’s choice. The students will take regularly scheduled classes part of the day and a co-op work experience the other part of the day totaling a minimum of 15 hours per week. Students must apply through the LACC and will be interviewed.
LAW ENFORCEMENT I (872, 873)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
Law Enforcement I is an introductory course designed to prepare students for an exciting career in the field of law or law enforcement. Students will be introduced to the history of the criminal justice system and the advancements in these ever-changing fields. Instruction will also include questioning procedures, legal rights, examination of routine police, court, and corrections procedures. Students will have the opportunity to meet professionals in the field, participate in simulated scenarios, demonstrations, and tour pertinent law enforcement sites. This course is a must have for those interested in the world of criminal justice.
LAW ENFORCEMENT II (874, 875)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Law Enforcement I
Law Enforcement II is an opportunity for those who have successfully completed Law Enforcement I to continue their exciting exploration of the field of law enforcement. Students will participate in an extended campus job shadowing experience with many local law enforcement agencies including careers in police work, telecommunications, courts, corrections, and probation. Students will research infamous killers and illicit drugs and present on their findings. Students will learn the 10-codes, the phonic alphabet, and the many forms police officers use on a regular basis. Students will conduct simulated traffic stops and will investigate simulated crimes. Professionals in the field will be brought in to share their insights and expertise bringing the real world to our classroom. Field trips will cap off the experience to give each student a well-rounded perspective of the criminal justice system.
MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY AND HEALTH CAREERS (866, 867)
Class Level: 11,12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course will provide a solid foundation of Medical Terminology and relate that terminology to various health related careers. Emphasis will be placed on correct spelling, pronunciation and abbreviation use. Combining prefixes, roots, and suffixes to form appropriate terminology and relate that terminology to body structure and function, disease and disorder processes, and medical/surgical procedures will be the structure of the course. The course is focused on providing the student with a basic working knowledge of medical terms and applying those terms to the health care field. It will also provide a foundation of knowledge for the student to build on. Students will also explore many related career opportunities in health related fields. Clinical experience and job shadowing will be offered as part of the course.
OFFICE INFORMATION PROCESSING I (910, 911)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Keyboarding
Information Processing I is a skill-level course that includes the concepts and terminology related to the people, equipment, and procedures of information processing as well as skill development in the use of information processing equipment. Students will operate computer equipment to prepare memos, letters, reports and forms. Students will create rough drafts, correct copy, process incoming and outgoing telephone calls and mail, and transmit and receive messages electronically. Students will create, input, and update databases and spreadsheets. Students will create data directories; copy, rename, move, and delete files, and perform backup procedures. In addition, students will prepare files to merge, as well as create mailing labels and envelopes from merge files. Students will learn to locate and retrieve information from hard copy and electronic sources, and prepare masters for a presentations using presentation software. Students will apply proper grammar, punctuation, spelling and proofreading practices. Accuracy will be emphasized. Workplace skills as well as communication skills (thinking, listening, composing, revising, editing, and speaking) will be taught and integrated throughout this course.
OFFICE INFORMATION PROCESSING II (912, 913)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Office Information Processing I
Information Processing II is a skill-level course for students who have completed Information Processing I. Students will create and update documents using word processing and desktop publishing programs and put together slideshows, speaker notes and handouts using presentation software. Students will revise date in a stored database and use queries to create customized reports. Students will edit and utilize calculation functions in spreadsheets, integrate graphics, spreadsheets tables, text and data into documents and reports, and create graphs and charts from spreadsheets. Students will learn to conduct research on the internet and/or intranet, prepare and answer routine correspondence, organize and maintain a filing system, maintain an appointment calendar, make travel arrangements, prepare itineraries and expense reports, and prepare and process timesheets. In addition, students will maintain inventory, order equipment and supplies, and perform routine equipment maintenance. Students will apply proper grammar, punctuation, spelling and proofreading practices to documents and reports. Accuracy will be emphasized. Workplace skills as well as communication skills will be taught and integrated throughout this course. A simulated information processing center or work based learning experience may be used to provide students with the experience of working in the environment of an information processing center.
VISUAL MEDIA ART I (856, 857)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to provide students with the skills needed for a career in the fields of advertising, commercial art, graphic design, Web site development, and graphic illustrator. Students learn to apply artistic design and layout principles along with text, graphics, drawing, rendering, sound, video, and 2D/3D animation integration to develop various print, video, and digital products. Students use hardware and software programs to create, manipulate, color, paint, and layer scanned images, computer graphics, and original artwork. Students use hardware and software to capture, edit, create, and compress audio and video clips. Students use animation and 2D/3D hardware and software to create animated text, graphics, and images. Students apply artistic techniques to design and create advertisements, displays, publications, technical illustrations, marketing brochures, logos, trademarks, packaging, video graphics, and computer-generated media.
VISUAL MEDIA ART II (858, 859)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Visual Media Art I
This course continues to build on the concepts and skills introduced in Visual Media Art I. In addition to expanding on the activities explored in Visual Media Art I, students work in a project-based environment to create a variety of interactive online and CD/DVD-based products such as web sites, catalogs, publications, marketing materials, presentations, and educational/training programs. Students create dynamic web pages and sites using HTML, HTML editors, and graphic editors. Students create graphic sketches, designs, and copy layouts for online content. Instruction included how to determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, select style and size of type, and arrange layout based upon available space. Students learn how to capture and edit images, sound, and video, and combine them with text and animation. Instruction includes client interviewing skills, product proposal development, and product presentation techniques. Students also learn how to create a product portfolio.
WELDING TECHNOLOGY I (850, 851)
Class Level: 11, 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: None
This course assists students in gaining the knowledge and developing the basic skills needed to be successful in welding technology. Units of instruction include SMAW and MIG welding, metallurgy, cutting metal using arc, plasma and oxy-gas. In addition, students learn the basics of blueprint reading, applied math including use of formulas, geometry, and conversions, precision measuring, applied reading, material layout, and production process planning.*This course has been aligned with the American Welding Societies (AWS) S.E.N.S.E. program, and students are given the opportunity to become an AWS entry level certified welder with the completion of this program.
WELDING TECHNOLOGY II (852, 853)
Class Level: 12 Credit: 2 Prerequisite: Welding Technology I
This course builds on the skills and concepts introduced in Welding I and provides more in-depth skill development in various types of welding including horizontal, vertical, overhead, and circular techniques. Students also explore the use of robotic and automated production welding.

*This course has been aligned with the American Welding Societies (AWS) S.E.N.S.E. program, and students are given the opportunity to become an AWS entry level certified welder with the completion of this program.

Livingston Area Career Center (LACC)

LACC is designed to help students find their place in the ever-changing workforce. Through practical application and hands-on learning, we can help a student find their way to an amazing career or continue their education once they graduate. The content of our programs is designed to engage the student in the process of active learning, enriching your experience.

Enrollment in the Career Center is an excellent way for eligible high school students to get a jumpstart on their college education, engage in career exploration, prepare for a community college or four-year university, and develop skills needed in today’s global economy and workforce. Specialized programs of study are available to high school juniors and seniors. Students are instructed by many of the area’s top career and technical educators. Students use state-of-the-art equipment and experience hands-on skills learning.

 

Why Choose a Career Center Course:

o “Jumpstart” a college education by earning college credit while in high school.

o It is estimated that over 85 percent of jobs require training or education past high school.

o Tuition and transportation are provided by the student’s high school.

o Whether a student plans to pursue a certificate, two or four year degree, or perhaps enter the world of work after completion of high school, the Career Center can help students develop skills.

o Each year the Director of the Career Center awards LACC scholarships to outstanding students representing each of the career and technical education programs.

 

College Credit Agreements

Livingston Area Career Center has worked with the area community colleges to establish opportunities that will allow students to earn college credit while still in high school. Pontiac High School is primarily served by three community colleges. Odell residents attend Joliet Junior College and Saunemin residents attend Kankakee Community College. All other students attend Heartland Community College. Other community colleges within our area include Parkland Community College, Illinois Valley Community College, and Illinois Central College.

In general, to take advantage of the dual credit programs, an academically qualified student enrolls in a college level course. Upon successful course completion, the student earns college credit and the high school may also offer high school credit.

Guided Path to Success Workshops Pathway: The Heartland GPS: Guided Path to Success initiative offers free workshops and the potential to earn college transfer credit to help students plan and prepare for college, career, and life success. Free college IAI elective credit can be earned while developing the skills to succeed in college coursework and plan a college and career path. A student could earn up to 3 credit hours in this option by completing “after-workshop” portfolio assignments.

Roadtrip Nation: This is a program that empowers students to map their interests to future pathways in life. The heart of this experience is students exploring their communities and speaking with local leaders to learn the steps that they took to get where they are today. We partner with the community college so that students can earn elective credit while enrolled in the high school program.

Interested students should contact LACC to receive current requirements. Depending on the program, students currently can earn from two to twelve credit hours when they meet all the necessary requirements. Agreements are continually updated and new programs are being added each year. Contact the LACC office to obtain the most current information.

The following chart shows which community colleges have agreements with LACC:

 

PROGRAM OF STUDY DUAL CREDIT ELECTIVE CREDIT
Automotive Technology
Certified Nurse Assistant
Computer Maintenance HCC HCC – 2nd yr students
Computer Networking HCC HCC – 2nd yr students
Construction Trades
Cosmetology
Culinary Arts
Early Childhood Education
Emergency Medical Technician
Engineering/Architectural Design HCC – 2nd yr students
Fire Science PCC
Inter-related Cooperative Education HCC
Law Enforcement HCC – 2nd yr students
Medical Terminology
Office Information Processing
Visual Media Art
Welding

HCC = Heartland Community College

PCC = Parkland Community College