Academy of Criminology and Justice

Mission Statement

Otay Ranch High School’s Academy of Criminology and Justice, will ensure that each student graduates qualified and ready for success at a four year university or the world of work through the empowerment of students through high academic, moral, and civic standards by combining a rigorous A-G (college prep) program with other Academy requirements.

AOCJ Program Goals

Academic

To prepare our students in the program to be college and/or career ready.

Moral

To help create a culture of belonging by building an academic community that represents all students, and backgrounds.

Civic Standards

We will foster informed engagement through real-world projects, encouraging self-reflection and the development of civic knowledge, skills, and dispositions.
Our students exhibit civic-mindedness and a commitment to positively impact their classrooms, schools, communities, and society.

Diploma Sash and Seal Requirements

Successful completion of the program earns a special Academy seal on the diploma and a sash to wear with the cap and gown.

In order to complete the AOCJ program students must:

  • Participate in AOCJ for three years (beginning sophomore year)
  • Meet all AOCJ course requirements, and UC/CSU A-G requirements with a “C” or better
  • Complete all community service opportunities sponsored by AOCJ
  • Earn an overall weighted GPA of 2.5 academic and 3.0 citizenship
  • Follow the AOCJ code of conduct, policies and expectations
  • Participate in civic activities (civically minded club, community organizations, and involvement in impactful project) designated by AOCJ

Code of Conduct/AOCJ Cadet Handbook

Personal Code of Conduct

  • Attend all classes, fundraisers, class field trips and community service/promotional events.
  • In the event you are unable to attend any function due to work or personal emergency, communicate with your sponsoring academy teacher.
  • All students in the AOCJ are required to maintain a 90% attendance and punctuality rate.
  • Be on time to school and every academy function. “If you are not early you are late.”
  • Conduct yourself in such a manner that you bring credit, integrity and honor to yourself, your peers, the program, and your school. Let’s always foster a sense of belonging. GO BIG BLUE!
  • If you have a problem or complaint, speak to your class officer, or the coordinator.

Academics

  • Attend all classes and complete all assignments on time and to the best of your ability.
  • Meet every academic obligation. All students will maintain a 2.5 academic GPA and a 3.0 citizenship GPA.
  • Strive for A’s and B’s. This will ensure academic eligibility.
  • Discuss class conflicts with teachers as soon as you are aware of them. If you are struggling, reach out to your sponsored academy teacher or counselor.
  • Inform the coordinator /class officer immediately of any academic challenges. Study groups and tutoring are available.

Course Requirements

  • Class of 2027 and beyond
Grade 10Grade 11Grade 12
English 10 AccEnglish 11 Honors (or AP)US Govt. / Economics (or AP)
World History Acc (or AP)US History Honors (or AP)CTE Foundations of Legal Practices
PE Course IICTE Criminal Justice CareersBiology Forensics
CTE Legal SystemsMath CourseCSU Expository (English 12)/ (or AP)
Math CourseGraduation Requirement Needs: Science, VAPA/Foreign LanguageGraduation Requirement Needs: English, Math, VAPA/Foreign Language
Graduation Requirement Needs: Science, VAPA/Foreign Language, HealthGraduation Requirement Needs: Science, VAPA/Foreign Language, HealthGraduation Requirement Needs: English, Math, VAPA/Foreign Language, Health
*Courses in BOLD are required academy courses for AOCJ seal and sash.

Who can join?

Any 9th Grade student or parent who is interested in more information about the Academy of Criminology and Justice, please complete the Google Form Below, or email Academy Coordinator, Julian Valdez.

Interest Form

Julian.Valdez@sweetwaterschools.org

Resources