Graphic Communications
✅ What to Expect in This Course
📢 New in 2026–2027: Program‑specific course content will be weighted as Honors‑level coursework. See Program Coursework below for more details.
🔍 Prerequisites: Graphic Communications Program
Must be a Junior
🧠 Learning & Coursework
This program provides comprehensive training in print media production through a combination of classroom instruction and applied technical work. Coursework focuses on print workflows, design fundamentals, production processes, and professional standards used in print media environments. Students should expect a structured, focused course that emphasizes accuracy, organization, and meeting production expectations.
🖨️ Hands‑On Production & Print Shop Operations
This is a hands‑on, production‑based course. Students gain experience using industry‑standard equipment while assisting in the operation of the ACE at Hermitage Print Shop, which provides print services across Henrico County Public Schools and local government. Students are expected to support real production workflows, follow procedures carefully, and contribute to completing print jobs that serve real clients.
🧠 Work‑Based Learning & Professional Skill Development
Through high‑quality, work‑based learning experiences integrated into the course, students develop essential workplace skills such as attention to detail, communication, time management, and accountability.
Because work is produced for real customers, students are expected to meet quality standards and deadlines consistent with professional print media environments.
🏅 Student Leadership & Certifications
Students are expected to participate in SkillsUSA, a national career and technical student organization that emphasizes leadership, teamwork, professionalism, and technical skill development within the skilled trades.
In addition to earning course credit, students will work toward industry‑recognized credentials, including:
These credentials allow students to graduate with documented skills, certifications, and career preparation—not just a grade.
👔 Professional Conduct & Daily Expectations
This course operates with expectations aligned to professional creative and media production environments. Students are expected to:
Purchase specific work attire for daily wear when attending ACE classes and events
Display a visible ID badge at all times
Follow all safety, equipment‑use, and production procedures
Demonstrate professional behavior, punctuality, accountability, and respectful communication
Print media production requires reliability and precision. Students are expected to meet these standards consistently, as their work directly impacts clients, program operations, and professional outcomes.
⬇️ Work attire sample images appear in the image carousel below
Program Description
2 years – 6 credits – Advanced Career Education (ACE) Center at Hermitage
This program is designed to be completed in two years during the 11th and 12th grades.
Year 1 ( Junior Year)
Graphic Imaging Technology I - 1 credit (Honors): Graphic Imaging Technology I will introduce students to the graphic communications industry. Students will explore digital file preparation, image capture, color theory, digital file output, press operations, and bindery operations. Students will practice workplace safety and develop skills in measurement, mathematical problem solving, interpersonal communication, and the job application process.
Graphic Imaging Technology II - 2 credits (Honors): Graphic Imaging Technology II will prepare students for a career in the graphic communications industry. Students will gain knowledge and practice their skills in digital file preparation and output, type, page-layout, graphics, photo imaging, color management, and illustration.
Year 2 ( Senior Year)
Communication Systems 1 credit (Honors): Communication Systems provides experiences in the fields of imaging technology, graphic productions, video and media, technical design, and various modes of communicating information through the use of data. Students develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills using the universal systems model. Students also learn about the impact of communication on society and potential career fields relating to communications.
Graphic Communications Systems - 1 credit (Honors): This course provides experiences related to a wide range of tools and materials used to reproduce information and images. Students develop competencies in message design, composition and assembly, and message transfer and product conversion. Various digital and print output techniques and devices are used to develop concepts into finished products.
Imaging Technology - 1 credit (Honors): Students in Imaging Technology apply the principles of design in the creation of images. Students explore the development of imaging as a communication medium and its evolution into the digital realm. Image-editing software allows students to enhance images and develop a portfolio. Investigation focuses on career exploration and the application of photographic and imaging technology across various industries.
Instructor
Visit the ACE Printshop Website