With 2026-2027 forecasting just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about what classes you want to take next year, what you’re really interested in, and what credits you may still need. Barlow is a unique school in many ways, but what’s especially unique is its science program. Barlow offers a multitude of science classes that many other schools don’t have access to. Neil Brignell, head of the Barlow Science Department, stated, “At Barlow High School, the Science Department offers students a third-year science elective of choice. Students can choose a science they are interested in to pursue their goals. For example, our curriculum choices are: AP Chemistry/Biology/Environmental Science, Physics, Marine Biology, Anatomy and Physiology, and Environmental Science.”
This year, Anatomy is taught by Mrs. Quirke, who also teaches Biology, says that her class is open to any interested student. “Anyone interested in health sciences, nurses, medical school, x-ray techs, etc. Or you are just interested in your body and how it works,” says Quirke. Anatomy is a two-semester science elective that is available for students to take in their senior year. It explores the human body’s structure and function, as well as diving into the different systems of the body, like the nervous, skeletal, and muscular systems. “We cover the major body systems. It is a lot of memorizing and development of study skills that can be applied to any class and subject,” is how Mrs. Quirke would describe her course to students who are considering taking Anatomy this next year. Although much of this class is just getting familiar with the medical terminology, there are also amazing opportunities that come with taking this class. Anatomy offers many hands-on learning opportunities, such as dissection, as well as field trips to view life-altering surgeries in real time. “We had the opportunity to see an open heart surgery, which was fascinating and gave students a real insight into the inside of an operating room. Some of the students have had opportunities for internships and other experiences outside of school.” Mrs. Quirke not only says that it offers internships, but also what opportunities it offers past high school: “4 credits of Oregon Tech credits that give you the foundation to enter a college-level Anatomy Class and find success. Insight to career internships that are focused on nursing or the medical field.” Anatomy is one of many great classes that can set you up for college effectively and even give you an advantage.
At Barlow, students can forecast for desired classes in the spring. Some science classes that Barlow offers require you to have taken a specific class or classes beforehand so that you have a better understanding of the course. “Anatomy and Physiology is an 11th/12th grade science course that requires successful completion of Biology (10th grade science). In the past, students who have plans to enter the Medical/Health Science fields have greatly benefited from taking Anatomy and Physiology,” saidBarlow counselor Oscar Rethwill about the requirements and the potential benefits of taking this course. Taking Anatomy and Physiology is a great opportunity to expand your knowledge of the human body and systems, and set yourself up for success in a medical career. If you think that this course would be beneficial to your aspirations after high school, or if you just think that learning about the body could be fun, then be sure to forecast for this class this spring.
