Academics
Sierra High Academics & Innovative Programs
What is AP?
The AP (Advanced Placement) Program gives students the chance to tackle college-level work while they're still in high school and earn college credit and placement.
Nearly all colleges and universities in the United States grant credit and placement for qualifying AP scores.
Research consistently shows that AP students are better prepared for college than students who don’t take AP. They’re more likely to enroll and stay in college, do well in their classes, and graduate in four years.
Visit the College Board AP website to learn more about the program.
Taking AP courses in high school could give you an advantage in college by letting you:
Sierra offers several Dual Enrollment (Early College) courses through Citrus College, allowing students to take college-level classes while still in high school.
This is a valuable opportunity for students to earn both college and high school credits simultaneously—at no cost—giving them a head start on their college journey.
Sierra High School offers Dual Enrollment (Early College) Welding courses in partnership with Rio Hondo College, giving students the opportunity to complete college-level Career Technical Education coursework while still in high school. Through this program, students can begin earning credits toward an Associate’s Degree in Welding Technology at no cost, gaining valuable technical skills and industry experience.
Course training prepares students to pursue certification through the City of Los Angeles Certified Welder Exam and aligns with national standards established by the American Welding Society (AWS).
Sierra’s Audio Technology program, offered in partnership with San Gabriel Valley ROP, provides students with hands-on training in music production and post-production for the entertainment industry. As a STEAM-focused pathway at Sierra High School, the program integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through real-world projects, industry-standard equipment, and career-connected learning experiences. Students develop both technical expertise and creative skills that prepare them for college, certifications, and careers in the rapidly growing audio and media production fields.
Sierra's SpyderLab program, offered in partnership with San Gabriel Valley ROP, provides students with hands-on, career-connected learning experiences in technology, design, and innovation. Through project-based instruction, students not only learn but apply design and engineering technical skills while working with modern tools and industry-relevant equipment to create real-world products and solutions.
In addition to technical training, Sierra's SpyderLab program intentionally builds essential soft skills such as communication, customer service, teamwork, professionalism, and project management. Students gain experience interacting with clients, understanding customer needs, and presenting their work—preparing them for both college pathways and career success.