Geneseo High School Principal Tom Ryerson and members of his staff shared five new courses on Thursday evening for the Board of Education’s consideration.
The proposed courses include American National Government, Agricultural Leadership, Basic Art, Positive Psychology, and Drone Operation and Maintenance.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring these innovative courses forward because they open new doors for our students to discover their passions and build real-world skills,” said GHS Principal Tom Ryerson. “Our teachers have poured their energy and expertise into creating classes that will inspire students, whether they’re exploring government, agriculture, art, psychology, or state-of-the-art technology.”
Ryerson was joined by the teachers who will instruct the classes – Kyle Bess, Matt Furlong, Mike Harrington, Kelly Lawrence, and Jacqueline Walters-Wetzell.
Geneseo’s school board will have an opportunity to approve the courses for the 2026-27 school year at its December meeting.
“I couldn’t be more proud of the opportunities we’re offering to help every Geneseo student grow, thrive, and envision their future,” said Ryerson.
Learn more about the proposed new courses.
American National Government (Mike Harrington)
The dual credit American National Government one-semester course will give juniors the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit while gaining a deeper understanding of the U.S. political system. Students will explore the Constitution, the three branches of government, and the principles that guide American democracy. Through this course, they’ll strengthen their civic knowledge and critical thinking skills while preparing for success in college and beyond. This class reflects the district’s commitment to providing rigorous, college-level learning opportunities for motivated students.
Agricultural Leadership (Jacqueline Walters-Wetzell)
Agricultural Leadership will help juniors and seniors develop essential skills in communication, teamwork, and decision-making through the lens of agriculture. Students will engage in hands-on leadership experiences through FFA involvement, Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects, and classroom instruction. The course will empower students to become confident leaders in their schools, communities, and future careers. By combining leadership development with real-world agricultural applications, it will equip students with lifelong personal and professional skills.
Basic Art (Kelly Lawrence)
Basic Art will provide students in grades 9-12 within the special education program an inclusive and supportive environment to explore their creativity. Designed at a slower pace with simplified projects, this one-semester course will mirror the content of general education art classes while meeting students’ unique learning needs. Through smaller, focused units, students will build fine motor skills, express themselves artistically, and develop confidence in their abilities. The class will also foster social connections and collaboration among students from different classes.
Positive Psychology (Matt Furlong)
Positive Psychology is a one-semester course that will introduce juniors and seniors to the science of happiness, resilience, and personal growth. Students will learn strategies for cultivating gratitude, managing stress, building strong relationships, and developing a growth mindset. Through interactive projects and discussions, they will apply these concepts to enhance their own well-being and leadership skills. This course will empower students to lead balanced, fulfilling lives and to use positive psychology principles to make a meaningful impact on others.
Drone Operation and Maintenance (Kyle Bess)
Drone Operation and Maintenance is an innovative year-long course that will give juniors and seniors hands-on experience with cutting-edge drone technology. Students will learn safe flight operations, maintenance, aerial imaging, and FAA regulations while preparing for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification. The course will connect classroom learning to real-world applications in industries like agriculture, public safety, and infrastructure inspection. By mastering these skills, students will gain a competitive edge in one of the fastest-growing technology fields.