Pierson High School offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to meet every student's unique needs and aspirations. Whether students are preparing for college, entering the workforce, or developing essential life skills, our programs provide the knowledge, support, and opportunities to help every student succeed.

Our Core Curriculum provides students with a rigorous and well-rounded academic foundation across all essential subject areas. Courses are aligned with Arizona state standards and designed to prepare students for post-secondary education, career readiness, and lifelong learning. All students complete coursework in the following disciplines:

• Mathematics — Algebra, Geometry, Personal Finance, and more.

• English Language Arts — Reading, Writing, Literary Analysis, and Communication Skills.

• Science — Biology, Physical Science, and Earth Sciences.

• Social Studies — World History, U.S. History, Government, and Economics.

• Spanish — World language coursework supporting bilingualism and cultural awareness.

The Structured English Immersion (SEI) program at Pierson High School supports English Language Learners in developing academic English proficiency while accessing grade-level content. Through intensive, targeted instruction, students build the listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills needed to fully participate in mainstream coursework and achieve academic success. Our SEI program creates a welcoming, language-rich environment where students are empowered to grow both linguistically and academically.

Our Career & Technical Education (CTE) program provides students with hands-on, industry-aligned learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to real-world careers. CTE pathways equip students with technical skills, professional habits, and industry-recognized credentials that open doors to employment and post-secondary education. Pierson High School currently offers four CTE pathways:

Career Exploration (Learn More)

The Career Exploration pathway is the ideal starting point for students beginning to think about their future. This foundational program introduces students to a broad range of career fields, helping them identify their interests, strengths, and professional goals. Through self-assessments, career research, job shadowing opportunities, and real-world projects, students develop the awareness and decision-making skills needed to chart a clear path — whether that leads to college, a technical program, or direct entry into the workforce.

Skills developed: Career planning, professional communication, workplace readiness, financial literacy, and critical thinking.

Fire Service (Learn More)

The Fire Service pathway prepares students for careers in fire protection, emergency response, and public safety. Students gain a foundational understanding of firefighting principles, fire behavior, hazardous materials awareness, and emergency medical response. Through classroom instruction and hands-on training, students develop the physical discipline, technical knowledge, and teamwork skills essential in the fire service profession. This pathway is ideal for students passionate about serving and protecting their community.

Skills developed: Fire safety and prevention, emergency response, hazardous materials handling, physical fitness, leadership, and community service.

Medical Assistant (Learn More)

The Medical Assistant pathway introduces students to the dynamic field of healthcare and clinical support. Students learn the essential skills required to assist healthcare professionals in clinical and administrative settings — including patient care procedures, medical terminology, anatomy basics, and health records management. This pathway provides a strong foundation for students pursuing careers as medical assistants, nurses, or other allied health professionals, and may include preparation for nationally recognized certification exams.

Skills developed: Medical terminology, patient interaction, clinical procedures, healthcare ethics, vital signs measurement, and health records management.

Digital Printing (Learn More)

The Digital Printing pathway combines creative design with technical production skills to prepare students for careers in the graphic communications and printing industry. Students learn to operate professional printing equipment, design digital graphics, manage print production workflows, and understand color theory and typography. This pathway is ideal for students with an interest in visual arts, design, and technology, opening doors to careers in commercial printing, marketing, packaging design, and media production.

Skills developed: Graphic design, digital layout, color management, print production, typography, and industry-standard design software.

The Transition from School to Work (TSW) program is a specialized offering within Pierson High School's Special Education Department, designed to support students with disabilities as they prepare for meaningful adult lives beyond high school. The program focuses on developing the academic, vocational, social, and independent living skills students need to successfully transition into employment, post-secondary education, or community-based settings.

Through individualized instruction, work-based learning experiences, community partnerships, and person-centered planning, TSW empowers students to explore career interests, practice workplace skills, and build the confidence and independence needed to thrive after graduation. Each student's program is guided by their Individualized Education Program (IEP) and transition goals, ensuring a personalized pathway tailored to their unique strengths and aspirations.

Program focus areas: Vocational skills training, job placement and internships, independent living skills, self-advocacy, community integration, and post-secondary planning.

For more information about the TSW program or to inquire about services for your student, please contact our Special Education Department directly. Follow this link to Learn more.