HELM also houses the Criminal Justice Academy; which has a partnership with the Sacramento Police Department and MCJROTC, where students are part of the Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers Training Course.

Program in America and California Explorations is a Small Learning Community (SLC) at John F. Kennedy High School, which focuses on academic excellence, culture and civic events, and community service.

Manufacturing and Design provides opportunities for students interested in pursuing careers in engineering, automotive, and architecture fields with an emphasis on technical skills necessary to secure gainful employment.

Expressing one's creativity is important to being a well-rounded, successful member of society.

VAPA encourages students to participant in events over the summer and throughout the school year.