For eons, students have complained that they can't find relevance in everyday life for science and math concepts taught in school.

Two new classes offered this month through a countywide occupational program may help students bridge the gap.

Last month the Ventura County Board of Education approved adding Aviation Operations and Architectural Drafting to the list of courses offered through the Regional Occupation Program.

Robert Wismann, the program's assistant principal, said he expects the new yearlong classes to be full once students discover they're available.

The regional program is designed to prepare high school juniors and seniors for entry-level jobs or for more vocational or academic course work in a specific career. Adults can enroll in these classes if space is available.

Students learn enough information in the courses about possible careers to determine if that's the line of work they want before investing a significant amount of money and time, Wismann said.

In Aviation Operations, math and scientific concepts will spring to life for students as they learn about Newton's laws of motion and force and the aerodynamic forces involved in flight. Students will not, however, fly a plane.

Adolfo Camarillo High School administrators said they think it will be a great course and that students will support it. The course will be taught at the Camarillo Airport's occupation program campus.

Spatial concepts and design principles will give practical meaning in the Architectural Drafting course that will be taught at Oak Park High School in Oak Park.

Cliff Moore, Oak Park Unified School District assistant superintendent, said he also expects students to take an interest in the class.

"With the help of ROP we can up the interest and use some of the resources ROP provides to us," Moore said. "We hope that this will lead to more (classes)."

Wismann said that although these classes are popular, it's difficult to find and keep instructors. One reason is that teachers must have a minimum of five years of professional experience and qualify for a teaching credential.

Another is economics: they can make more money doing what they're teaching rather than teaching it, Wismann said.

Last year, nearly 4,000 Ventura County high school students enrolled in one of the program's courses. At least one course is offered on nearly every high school campus in the county.

The list of courses include floral design, sports medicine, auto body repair, photography, video production and web design. Courses are free to high school students; adults pay a $25 registration fee. Students who complete the course with a passing grade are given a certificate of proficiency.

Classes start Aug. 29. Adult enrollment began Aug. 15.

For information on this program, call (805) 388-4430 or visit www.venturacountyrop.com. The campus is located at 465 Horizon Circle in the Camarillo Airport.