From Mariachi Music to Web Design, New Courses Expand CTE Opportunities

(Moorpark, California) July 17, 2026—From mariachi music to interactive game design, Moorpark High School students will have two new ways to explore their creativity during the upcoming school year.

The Moorpark Unified School District Board of Education unanimously approved the Mariachi and Web Design courses during its June 16 meeting.

Both college preparatory electives will be open to students in grades 9 through 12 and will satisfy the district’s visual and performing arts graduation requirement.

“What I love about these courses is that students will be creating something that is truly their own, whether that’s a musical performance, a website or an interactive game,” Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Dr. Melissa La Belle said. “These are the kinds of opportunities that help students find their interests and see where those interests might take them.”

The Mariachi course builds on the program launched at Chaparral Middle School in 2023, giving students an opportunity to continue developing their musicianship at Moorpark High. The introductory course will be offered during the spring semester.

“The Mariachi course is open to students at every skill level, from beginners to experienced musicians,” Dr. La Belle said. “It also gives students who discovered mariachi at Chaparral a place to continue growing at Moorpark High.”

Students participating in Mariachi must also be enrolled in string orchestra, chamber orchestra, symphonic band or wind ensemble.

Moorpark High already offers two Advanced Placement computer science courses focused on design and programming. The expanded pathway will provide introductory courses in both areas, giving students an opportunity to build foundational skills before advancing to the AP level.

Dr. La Belle said the goal is to encourage students who might otherwise feel intimidated by an AP course to begin with an introductory option. Students can explore design, programming or both and continue their computer science studies better prepared for more advanced coursework.

The new courses will join Moorpark High School’s existing Career Technical Education offerings in engineering, health science, media production, hospitality and culinary arts, performing arts, photography and product innovation and design.