Fine Arts
At Portland Adventist Academy, students are encouraged to explore the creative process through a variety of art forms. They work collaboratively, think independently, express their ideas, critique constructively, research effectively, develop their voice, solve problems creatively, and build self-confidence and respect, all while discovering and developing their unique strengths.
Most importantly, students cultivate a sense of wonder, curiosity, and imagination about the world around them, while deepening their appreciation for God’s creativity and learning to honor their Divine Creator through artistic expression.
Publications
This course teaches students the skills needed to produce a variety of publications in a deadline-driven environment. Students gain experience in graphic design, yearbook production, program publishing, social media concepts, and extensive photography and photo editing. They learn organization, communication, and teamwork while using tools like Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Lightroom, and Josten’s Monarch.
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Through Publications, students develop creativity, collaborative and technical skills, and professional habits, while learning to approach projects with purpose, precision, and a mindset of serving their school and wider community.
Media Arts
This elective course introduces students to the principles of graphic design, photography, and video production, including scriptwriting, editing, photo retouching, enhancements, and manipulation. Students learn the elements and rules of art and design, studio lighting basics, subject identification and composition, as well as camera usage and settings.
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Through Media Arts, students develop technical skills, creative problem-solving, and visual storytelling, while learning to use their talents thoughtfully and purposefully to communicate ideas and inspire others.
Visual Arts
From Foundations of Visual Arts to advanced courses and College Portfolio Projects & Preparation, students learn technical skills, the creative process, and principles of creative thinking to express and communicate visually. Advanced students can explore projects in Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Fused Glass, Woodworking, Metals Sculpture, Fabric Design, 3D Imaging, and Printing.
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Through Visual Arts, students develop artistic skill, creative confidence, and independent thinking, while discovering how to observe the world with curiosity and reflect God’s creativity in their own work.
Technology
PAA offers a variety of technology courses, covering everything from Auto Mechanics to AP Computer Science Principles. Students gain hands-on experience with programming, game design, robotics programming and design, and practical technical skills. Students learn everything from Google Workspace and coding with TEXTRIX robots to vehicle maintenance, lubrication, tune-ups, and oil changes.
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Through Technology courses, students develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and hands-on expertise, while learning to approach challenges with creativity, perseverance, and a mindset of service and responsibility.