Student Life / Programs

Student Opportunities 2024-2025

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

Advanced Placement courses at Redford Union High School give students the chance to tackle college-level work while they're still in high school—whether they're learning online or in the classroom. Through taking AP exams, students can earn college credit and placement.

Redford Union High School will offer the following 11 Advanced Placement courses for the 2024-2025 school year:

AP African-America Studies
AP Art
AP Biology
AP Pre-Calculus
AP Calculus
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Drawing
AP English Language and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition
AP United States Government and Politics
English 10: AP Seminar

AP Coordinator - Mrs. Robertson

AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

Below is the current list of after school clubs that take place after school on select days from 2:30PM-3:30PM.

- Dungeons & Dragons Club (Ms. Fross in Room 211)

- Video Game Club (Mr. Rosin in the eSports Studio)

Art and Design Program

Redford Union High School offers the following classes to both accommodate and challenge our student's artistic and design skills:

Art 1

This 2-D course is designed to give students a basic understanding and appreciation of art. This project based class will teach students the basics of two-dimensional art at the beginning level. Project include but not limited to: Basic design elements and principles, shading, color theory, and portrait.

Art 2

This 2-D studio course is planned so that students will learn additional techniques and creative thought processes as well as new applications for the skills and concepts learned in Art 1. The content of Art 2 will focus on the understanding and the use of various aspects of two-dimensional art, and may include drawing, painting, collage, scratch art.

Art 3

This studio course is an upper level art. Students will take what they have learned in Art 1 & 2 or Ceramics 1 & 2 and begin to perfect their techniques and applications. Students will develop their own style and choices in this less teacher-directed situation.

Art 4

This course is a designed for the serious art student who wish to pursue a varied course of study in advanced art techniques while creating a portfolio. Students will develop an individual plan of study; produce visual artwork; analyze, interpret and evaluate works of art. There will be a major emphasis on the development of a portfolio, which will deal with well-developed themes

Ceramics 1

This is an introductory studio course to clay, consisting of hand building methods of construction. The course will include an examination of clay, glaze, decoration methods, and firing process. Aprons provided, your hands will be working with clay every day.

Ceramics 2

This is an advance studio course to clay, consisting of hand building and wheel throwing methods of construction. The course will include an examination of clay, glaze, decoration methods, and firing process.

Ceramics 3

This is an advanced studio course to clay, consisting of hand building and beginning wheel throwing methods of construction. The course will include an examination of clay, glaze, decoration methods, and firing process.

Ceramics 4

Digital Design 1

Digital designers use creativity and computer skills to design visuals associated with electronic technology. This computer-based course explores specific areas of study that include typography, layout design, log design, poster creation, flyers and other desktop publishing methods.

Digital Design 2

Digital design 2 is an extension of Digital Design 1 course. This course is semi-independent and creativity and computer skills are needed for production. This is a computer-based class with specific areas of study that include may projects for the school and/or district.

Independent Advanced Art Studio

Independent art for advanced art students working toward their portfolio.

Art Teacher: Ms. Buerkle

Athletics

Redford Union High School offers 21 sports for student/athletes to choose from. The Panthers compete in the Western Wayne Athletic Conference (WWAC).

In September 2024, Redford Union High School student/athletes will have the opportunity to utilize our....

Newly built football/soccer field - complete with state-of-the-art athletic turf
Newly built competition gym
Newly built fitness center/weight room
Newly built locker rooms/team rooms
Newly resurfaced running track (Summer 2022)

CLICK HERE to the visit the RUHS Athletics website.

Athletic Director: Mr. Lesmeister

Auto Technology Program

Both the auto technology shop and small engine lab at Redford Union High School will see major renovations starting in February of 2023. Additional learning spaces, re-imagined work areas, and upgraded equipment will make it one of the largest auto technology classrooms in Southeast Michigan.

Auto Technology 1 & Small Engine Repair

This class is designed to introduce students to Automotive System Design and their Operation, as well as Small Engine Technologies. A study of basic Automotive Systems and appropriate preventative maintenance techniques is an integral component of this course. In addition, a comprehensive study of internal combustion engines, concentrating on the THEORY of operation, identification of parts, precision measurement and service is included in this course offering.
Two and Four stroke cycle small engines, which the students are asked to furnish are used for hands on lab work. Preventative maintenance, general trouble shooting, fuel systems, ignition systems and engine rebuilding are covered as it applies to lawnmowers, snow blowers, weed whackers and go-carts. The class concludes with a special lab project chosen by the students.

Auto Technology 2

Redford Union High School has implemented a National Skills Standards Automotive Technology Program that meets NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) Standards. This class is designed to prepare students interested in Careers in the Automotive Industry. Vehicle design, development, preventative maintenance techniques, testing and service procedures will be covered during the duration of this class. This course is structured to provide the student with comprehensive instruction in the Theory of Operation, Diagnosis and Service of the following Automotive Systems. A study of the appropriate tools and equipment usage and related safety procedures will be included: Mechanical and Thermal Dynamics of Engine Operation, Lubrication Systems, Cooling Systems, Electrical Systems, Electronics, Ignition Systems, Fuel and Emission Systems, Computer Controlled Vehicle Systems, Suspension Systems and Wheel Alignment, Braking Systems.
Note: Where appropriate, each of the systems listed in the course outline will be covered following the steps listed below:

1. Purpose and Theory of Operation
2. Identification and Operation of System Components
3. Preventative Maintenance Techniques
4. Diagnostic Testing
5. Fault and Service Evaluation
6. R&R Procedures
7. Component Adjustments

Auto Technology 3

This class is designed as a continuation of Automotive Technology 2. The course will begin with a comprehensive review of all Automotive Systems covered in Automotive Technology 2. The student will have the opportunity to greatly increase his breadth and depth of knowledge and will have an opportunity to become more proficient in complying with NATEF performance standards.
In addition, the new Automotive Systems covered in Automotive Technology are :

1. Hybrid vehicle operation and service
2. Advanced Electricity and Electronic Systems
3. Anti-Lock and Traction Control Systems
4. Electronic Suspension and Steering Systems
5. Air Conditioning and Climate Control Systems

Auto Technology 4

This class is a supervised, self-directed study program. The students will choose areas of NATEF Specialization such as Electricity/Electronics, Steering and Suspension or Braking Systems and concentrate the majority of class time to these areas. The students will also review the NATEF areas in which they need additional work. The students will work on their accuracy, proficiency, quality and speed during lab activities.

Auto Technology Instructor: Mr. Juzswik

Career Technical Education (CTE)

During the 2024-2025 school year, Redford Union High School will open its brand new Career Technical Education Center to offer our students skilled-based training and certification programs for a wide range of high-wage, high-skill, high-demand careers.

CTE Programs beginning in 2024-2025

Automotive Technology
Computer Information Systems
Early Childhood Education
Eary Childhood Education Teacher Cadet Program

CTE Programs beginning in 2025-2026

Health Science
Broadcast Media

Early College & Careers Coordinator - Mrs. Lindsey-Taylor

Computer Science, Programming, and Video Game Design (Coding)

Redford Union High School offers computer coding as part of its course offerings using CodeHS.

CodeHS is an interactive online learning platform offering computer science and programming instruction for schools and individual learners. CodeHS is focused on spreading access to and knowledge of computer science and is also integrated into our Video Game Design courses at Redford Union High School.

Coding/Video Game Design Teacher: Mr. Rosin

Credit Recovery

Students who are behind on their required credits, have the opportunity to re-take courses in our after-school credit recovery program - which is supervised by members of our teaching staff.

Our counselors will notify students who should enroll in this program.

Diversity and Inclusion Awareness

Redford Union High School is partnered with the Anti-Defamation League of Michigan to offer diversity and inclusion awareness, also known as No Place for Hate®, to all 9th grade students throughout each school year.

No Place for Hate® empowers schools and communities to promote respect for individual and group differences, while challenging prejudice and bigotry. The initiative has been picked up by over 80 schools in the state of Michigan to date.

No Place for Hate® is an initiative designed to encourage collaboration within schools and communities to develop and implement creative projects that enhance appreciation of diversity and foster harmony between diverse groups.

Diversity and Inclusion Program Coordinator: Mr. McCrea

Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars Program

In March of 2022, Redford Union High School was officially introduced as the Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars' 15th high school partner.

As the nation’s most extensive grassroots scholarship program, Dollars for Scholars provides a wealth of student assistance by harnessing the power of community—thousands of volunteers and donors empowering students in their own backyards.

Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is dedicated to assisting students who fulfill their program requirements with scholarships and other beneficial opportunities.

Partnership made possible by Mr. William C. Young, President & CEO of Plastipak, and Mr. Ben Maibach III, RUHS Class of 1964.

School Advisors: Ms. Shaw and Mrs. Capaldi

Early College and Careers

Students who successfully complete the Early College and Careers program will receive either a college associate degree or a professional certification (careers route) from Redford Union High School, along with their high school diploma.

Established in 2017, the Redford Union High School Early College and Careers program has quickly become recognized as one of the best Middle Early Middle College programs in Michigan, as recognized by the authorizing organization - the Middle Early Middle College Association (MEMCA).

An early middle college (EMC) is a Michigan Department of Education approved five-year program of study. EMCs work closely with postsecondary partners to provide students with an opportunity earn a high school diploma and one or more of the following:

60 transferable college credits
An associate degree
A professional certification
The Michigan Early Middle College Association (MEMCA) technical certificate
Participation in a registered apprenticeship

A professional certification is any certificate or industry recognized credential in which the pupil prepared for by taking course work provided by a Michigan public or private college or university.

College & Careers Coordinator - Mrs. Lindsey-Taylor

Early College Coordinator - Ms. Shaw

College Advisor - Ms. Neal

Michigan College Acccess Network (MCAN) Advisor: Ms. James

Careers Advisor - Mr. Ferrell

Instrumental Music

Beginning Band

In this course students will learn how to play any of our wind instruments; flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and baritone, as well as the the percussion section. Percussionist learn multiple instruments such as snare, bass drum, mallets, timpani, and auxiliary equipment. Beginning Band will also give you the opportunity to participate in extracurricular ensembles such as Marching Band, Jazz Band, and Pep Band. This will be a fast pace course to have you prepared to move forward in your playing abilities.

Symphonic Band

Symphonic Band is designed for highly motivated and talented students. It is competitive in large group competitions and participation in solo and ensemble competition is encouraged. This is the premier group in the instrumental music program. All band students are eligible to participate in Marching Band in the fall semester and in Pep Band and Jazz Band. Attendance at all Symphonic Band performances is required.

Marching Band

The Redford Union High School marching band boasts a proud tradition at RUHS dating back to the 1950's. Our marching band begins each season with a week-long band camp in August and performs at RU football games, pep assemblies and community parades.

After a varsity football victory on Friday, you will hear our marching band playing the school fight song in our hallways on Monday afternoon. On to Victory!

Band Director: Ms. Samojedny

National Honor Society

National Honor Society is an organization of academically outstanding and extracurricular-involved juniors and seniors. They help the community and other students through volunteer work with school-run activities and tutoring.

Selection is based on four criteria: scholarship (academic achievement), leadership, service, and character. The National Honor Society requires some sort of service to the community, school, or other organizations. The time spent working on these projects contributes towards the monthly service hour requirement.

NHS Advisors: Mrs. Lindsey-Taylor & Ms. Shaw

Sideline Cheerleading

The RU cheerleading team supports Redford Union Athletic Department. The team has two seasons, Fall (Football) and Winter (Basketball). There are both junior varsity and varsity squads for each season. The team is dedicated to supporting the school's teams and raising school spirit at games and assemblies.

Each year, cheer team members attend camp to learn how to stunt and improve their skills. The cheerleading team consistently has several members recognized as scholar athletes by the RUHS athletic department, showing that not only do they take pride in their squad, but academics as well.

Try-outs for the Fall Squad are usually held in the spring, and tryouts for the Winter Squad are held in the late Fall.

Cheer Coach: Coach Johnson

S.T.E.M. Activities

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math will be explored through engaging activities and projects. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 30 occupations expected to grow the fastest over the next decade will almost all require some background in STEM. This is a very interactive course in which students will work together to solve problems.

Student Council

Student Council is an organization of representatives from each class who work together to help the student body and it's surrounding community.
Students must maintain a 2.5 G.P.A. and actively participate in Student Council events.

Student Council Advisor: Ms. Fross

Swing4Dreams Golf Caddy Program / Evans Scholars Foundation

Redford Union High School is proudly partnered with Swing4Dreams, a Detroit area non-profit that provides golf caddie services for country clubs in the Metro Detroit area, including: Country Club of Detroit, Detroit Golf Club, Red Run Golf Club, Western Golf and Country Club, and others.

Through the education and mentorship of Detroit youth, Swing4Dreams hopes to contribute to the success of a new generation of responsible and respectful young adults.

The program is also partnered with with Evans Scholars Foundation through the Western Golf Association, which conducts championships for professional and amateur golfers, promotes the use of youth caddies and supports the Evans Scholars Foundation's efforts to award full tuition and housing college scholarships to high-achieving caddies with limited financial means.

Swing4Dreams School Coordinator: Mr. Taylor

Vocal Music

The Vocal Music Program is designed for students of all grades and levels of talent and ability. Students may begin by learning proper singing techniques and the basics of music theory and note reading.

From there they may progress to an intermediate choir that performs and competes at district festivals and community activities. For the more advanced student, advanced choir may be for them. This ensemble regularly performs at district and state level festivals and performs nearly 20 times during the school year.

The intermediate and advanced choir membership is by audition only and students must commit to performance and grade guidelines.

Concert Choir

An intermediate level performance class open only to singers who demonstrate good vocal technique and precise sight reading ability. A wide variety of choral literature is used. Advancing work in vocal skills and music reading is stressed. Attendance at all performances is required.

Madrigal Chorale

Superior vocal training is mandatory for this performance class. Choral literature from all areas and cultures is integrated into the class. Choreography is also included as a part of the class. Dedication and success in music and all core classes is stressed as this ensemble is the primary performance group of the Redford Union Schools.

Vocal Music Director: Mr. Rosser

Women of Tomorrow

Women of Tomorrow engages highly accomplished professional women as mentors in a small group setting. In their partnership with Redford Union High School, all activities are held during the school day, under the auspices of the school district. The schools select at-risk girls for participation based on a broad definition of “at-risk” including low income, abuse, disability, likelihood of dropping out of high school, becoming involved in gangs, drugs, criminal activity, getting pregnant or academic, social, behavioral, medical or other risk factors.

Each group is diverse in its composition with girls in 9th - 12th grade who have varying strengths and weaknesses so they can learn from and empower each other. Girls in the program typically do not know each other prior to joining the group.

School Coordinator: Mrs. Nikonowicz

YMCA Young Leaders Program

Redford Union High School is proudly partnered with the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit Young Leaders Program to connect young people ages 12-18 with adult advisors to develop their leadership potential while fostering a culture of service. With the help of role models and mentors, these teens develop the skills they need to lead positive change in their communities.

Program Sponsor: Mr. Ben Maibach III, RUHS Class of 1964

School Cooordinator: Mr. Taylor, Principal

Resources for Families

Staff Directory