Back-to-School Night
Graphic Design
A year of learning to see, make, revise, and communicate.
Dr. John C. McGarveyThe course year
Fall builds the eye.
Spring builds the design.
Students begin with photography and image editing, then apply those visual foundations to illustration, typography, multimedia, and layout.
& Image Editing
Lightroom · Photoshop · Composition · Lighting
& Multimedia
Illustrator · Typography · 3D · InDesign
How the studio works
A predictable rhythm supports creative independence.
Learn the tool, then apply it.
Build visual judgment and vocabulary.
Create, revise, ask questions, and finish.
Work, Canvas & deadlines
Coursework is designed to be completed in class.
No regular homework. Students receive studio time, equipment, and support during class.
Canvas is the course record. All assignments, directions, and due dates are listed in Canvas.
Friday is the posted due date. Students have one additional week to complete work for full credit.
The extra week provides flexibility for illness, sports, absences, and accommodations in 504 plans and IEPs.
Photography practice is encouraged. Students may practice taking photographs at home and outside of school.
How learning is assessed
Practice and finished work both matter.
& Demos
& Theory
& Assessments
One portfolio, two semesters
Students leave with visible evidence of growth.
The yearlong Canva portfolio brings together photography, editing, composites, illustration, typography, multimedia, layout, reflection, and critique.
Students select, revise, explain, and present their strongest work.
How families can help
Ask about the process—not only the final image.
What did you try?
What feedback changed the work?
What will you improve next?