Teaching
and Learning

Unique Programs at CHS

Unique Programs at Camas High School

Although Camas High School is most often recognized for its strong academic program, other offerings help define the unique “Camas experience” found there. Here are just of few of these specific offerings:

Rigor, Relevance and Relationships in a Unique Facility: With the opening of the new Camas High School in 2003, students were provided with a facility that offers the very best in learning, design, technology support, and architectural innovation. The instructional program, developed with citizen and educator input, creates a sense of personal learning communities for students. The highest emphasis is placed on teacher quality and building relationships with every student.

Camas High School is most often recognized for its rigorous, challenging curriculum. A wide variety of electives and learning opportunities help define the unique “Camas experience.” All seniors at Camas High School must complete a “senior project.” These projects allow students to intensively research an interest area both inside and outside the school day. The project includes a major research paper, 20 to 40 hours of outside exploration and production with a mentor. Students may also participate in Advanced Placement (AP) course work that challenges students to their fullest potential. The participation in these courses has increased over 300% in the past six years. A minimum of 22 credits is required for graduation. The daily schedule consists of six classes. There are two eighteen-week semesters. 

Exciting Extracurricular Programs: Selective colleges tell us that a student’s extracurricular experiences are often as important as his or her academic performance when applications are reviewed. Camas High School has a long and proud tradition of student involvement in the performing arts. Athletic and club participation is varied and student participation is very high.

Our Newest 9-12 Program:  Hayes Freedom High School

In the interest of meeting the needs of all students in the Camas School District, the Camas School Board recently approved the recognition of Hayes Freedom High School as a stand-alone high school designed to provide personalized instruction and individual attention for high school students who prefer to direct their own educations to a greater degree.  Hayes Freedom was known previously as the Camas Alternative High School Program or C.A.P.  Hayes Freedom was named after Denis Hayes, a Camas H.S. graduate who is credited with developing Earth Day, and Freedom for our cherished belief in the importance of this attribute in education.

Hayes Freedom is a non-traditional school where students and staff can learn, grow, and experience life and education in a way that works for each individual.  Projects and courses are designed by staff to align closely to district, state and national learning standards.  In addition, students take control of their own educational plans.  Hayes Freedom High School is a place where students can find their own voices.  Students learn quickly that they have both the right to their opinions but also the responsibility to listen to and respect the views of others.

Students at Hayes Freedom must be self-motivated, responsible, and willing to commit to both long and short term community based service learning projects.  A premium is placed on student integration of learning across disciplines.   Hayes Freedom students are required to analyze problems from multiple viewpoints and articulate comprehensive responses.