CLASSES
YOUNG EXPLORERS
Young Explorers
Instructor: Mrs. Bethany Pellerin
Grade Level: K-1
When: 1x weekly (TBD: Tuesdays or Thursdays)
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
Welcome to our Young Explorers, where we will explore language arts, math, science and social studies, through thematic units.
Throughout the course, we will cover a wide range of topics. Past topics included Weather, Community Helpers, Nutrition, Thanksgiving and Christmas, America’s National Monuments, Plant Life Cycle, Biographies, Solar System, Poetry, Horses, and more. Each thematic unit will draw on multiple subject areas and provide a rich and engaging learning experience.
We will use a variety of resources, including books, videos, and hands-on activities, to deepen our understanding of each topic. Our goal is to develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as a deep appreciation for the world around us.
Art Classes
Art 1: Let’s Make Art!
Instructor: Mrs. Roderick
Grade Level: Ages 7 and up
When: 1x weekly (Tuesdays)
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Come explore Art with Mrs. Roderick! In this class, you will experience a wide variety of art materials, techniques, styles of art, and will learn about some famous artists as they relate to our projects. You will dabble in both 2-D and 3-D Art, using art media such as charcoal, chalk pastels, oil pastels, watercolors, printmaking, and papier mache. You will learn techniques in perspective and shading at your level to help make your drawings look 3-dimensional, and just have fun making your own original artworks! Art classes meet one day a week and will be tailored to the level of students enrolled.
English Classes
Elementary Language Arts (2nd/3rd Grade)
Instructor: Mrs. Bethany Pellerin
Grade Level or Ability Level: 2nd-3rd Grade
When: 1x weekly (TBD: Tuesdays OR Thursdays)
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Writing and reading abilities must be at 2nd grade level.
In this class, We will cover all the fundamentals of language and literacy. Our focus will be on phonics, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, reading, and comprehension.
We will begin by exploring the sounds of language and the building blocks of words, mastering phonics and spelling. Then, we will expand our vocabulary, learning new words and their meanings, and how to use them effectively in our writing.
Next, we will delve into grammar, learning how to construct sentences and paragraphs that express our thoughts clearly and effectively. We will also focus on reading and comprehension, developing our skills in understanding and analyzing written texts.
Throughout the course, we will use a variety of materials and methods to engage with the subject matter, including reading assignments, writing exercises, and group discussions.
Writing Skills
Instructor: Mrs. Bethany Pellerin
Grade Level or Ability Level: Ages 11-13
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollments: 4/10
Prerequisite: Writing and reading abilities must be at 5th grade level.
In this writing class, we will explore various genres of writing and develop our skills in crafting different types of texts.
We will create our own Writer’s Notebook, where we will keep track of our writing ideas, observations, and inspirations. By the end of this class, you will have a wide range of writing skills and a valuable tool for continuing your writing journey.
Writer’s L.A.B.
Instructor: TBD
Grade Level or Ability Level: 6th – 7th Grade (At least 12 years old)
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Reading on or above grade level and writing a basic paragraph.
What to do with adolescents who are about to step into the world of vocabulary, novels and eek! -grammar? Well, you Love, Affirm and Believe; hence Writer’s L.A.B. We’ll treat words as if in a laboratory, to inspect and respect but we’ll also delight in them, use them in palatable ways.
This class is ideal for students who need to build foundational skills in all areas of English. An introduction to the literary elements as applied to novels, short stories, biographies, and poems will set the foundation for being more appreciative readers. A significant focus will be writing assignments such as creative, descriptive, & many forms expository such as compare/contrast, definition, reason and 5-paragraph essay. Although all skills are sequential through the year, instruction on parts of speech, grammar, mechanics, and sentence structure will be emphasized in the fall semester. Paragraphing, editing, word choice, and critical analysis in written assignments will be stressed during the spring semester.
At least 4 novels, 300 new words, 20 poems and dozens of essays will be read, learned and written. Challenging yet fun, this class equips and motivates the willing-to-learn student.
Middle School English
Instructor: Mrs. Sue Likkel
Grade Level or Ability Level: 7th – 8th Grade
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisites: Must be reading on or above grade level and have mastered an introductory level of literature, grammar, and writing.
This course will weekly cover reading, writing, grammar and vocabulary. We first re-establish the basics of grammar and build to more advanced grammar of phrases, clauses, as well as a study of punctuation. Students’ writing at the end of the year will demonstrate solid sentence construction with a variety of sentence beginnings, cohesive organization and thoughtful word choice. Better yet, students are able to articulate why they made those writing choices.
We take it a step further as we identify literary elements, tracing theme and analyzing how an author characterizes and chooses words to construct a piece reflective of his or her purpose. Students will write in response in a variety of genres.
Second semester study has students using first semester skills to go beyond essays and literature reflections to research skills that include outlining, gathering & organizing information before crafting a cogent paper of length.
Creative Writing
Instructor: Mrs. Sue Likkel
Grade Level or Ability Level: 8th – 10th Grade
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
This class is for the lover of words – someone who loves to write but may need or want some direction. We’ll focus on one theme each month (devotions, current events, description, etc.) and give each other positive feedback. This won’t be run like a traditional class of homework and assignments but be more collaborative. Students will try different styles and practice their listening skills when giving others feedback. Camaraderie, encouragement and respect of each other’s work is cardinal. A laptop is required.
Freshman English
Instructor: Mrs. Sue Likkel
Grade Level or Ability Level: 9th Grade
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Freshmen English will encompass five major components of language arts at this level: reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and speech. This level of work will require students to be diligent as they read expository and narratives more deeply and write essays more clearly. Students will learn how to read and write poetry, understand the author’s artistry in short stories and speak with focus and clarification. In addition to learning more advanced forms of grammar, students will also read some great American classics.
Sophomore English
Instructor: Mrs. Sue Likkel
Grade Level or Ability Level: 10th, with at least 2 years of 7th – 9th grade English class (not necessarily ALC)
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Sophomore English will focus on vocabulary, literature and non-fiction analysis, and poetry. Students will read four novels from classic and contemporary while analyzing each for structure, character development, and theme. Much emphasis will also be placed on non- fiction essays. Students will continue to study poetic structure and devices, drawing examples from classic ballads, sonnets, and the Bible. Public presentation will be integrated throughout both semesters as students work on successful integration of visual displays, including powerpoint. Successful completion of this course will prepare students for any high school and/or Running Start.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE Classes
Spanish I
Instructor: Mrs. Kristi Andres
When: 2x weekly
Grade Level or Ability Level: Middle School & High School
Min/Max enrollment: 4/10
In Spanish 1, we will be learning about making conversation, family members, the body, food, weather and clothing, daily life, sports and pastimes, places in the community, eating out, animals and their environment. I will include songs, books, art projects, games and more to help the students grasp the concepts better. This class will focus on present tense verbs. Along with that we will be learning a bit about the culture of the different Spanish speaking countries.
Spanish II
Instructor: Mrs. Kristi Andres
When: 2x weekly
Grade Level or Ability Level: Middle School & High School
Min/Max enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Spanish I
In Spanish 2, we will add on to what we have previously learned and include daily routines, celebrations and outings, shopping, the environment and technology. In addition to that, we will start to learn more verb tenses including both past tenses. This class will definitely challenge the student to use their Spanish speaking knowledge by adding classroom translation work as well. I will use songs, books, art projects, games and more to fully engage the student.
Spanish III
Instructor: Mrs. Kristi Andres
When: 2x weekly
Grade Level or Ability Level: Middle School & High School
Min/Max enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Spanish II
In Spanish 3, we will continue to build on previous years by reviewing concepts and previously learned verb tenses. We will be learning the future, conditional, subjunctive, and perfect tenses. In this class the students will push their reading, writing, translating and listening skills in Spanish. I will include songs, books, art projects, games and more to facilitate learning.
Spanish IV
Instructor: Mrs. Kristi Andres
When: 2x weekly
Grade Level or Ability Level: Middle School & High School
Min/Max enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Spanish III
Description coming soon.
MATH Classes
Elementary Math Skills & Operations
Instructor: Mrs. Bethany Pellerin
Grade Level or Ability Level: 2nd -3rd grade, at least 7 years old
When: 1x weekly (TBD: Tuesdays OR Thursdays)
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
In this class , we will explore the basics of numbers and operations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. We will also dive into the world of money and measurement, learning how to calculate and budget effectively.
But don’t worry, this won’t be a boring lecture-style class. We will use hands-on activities that are the key to making learning math fun and engaging. We will use games, puzzles, and other interactive activities to help you develop a strong foundation in math skills.
In this class , we will explore the basics of numbers and operations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. We will also dive into the world of money and measurement, learning how to calculate and budget effectively.
But don’t worry, this won’t be a boring lecture-style class. We will use hands-on activities that are the key to making learning math fun and engaging. We will use games, puzzles, and other interactive activities to help you develop a strong foundation in math skills.
Middle School Math
Instructor: Mrs. Kimberlee Terry
Grade Level or Ability Level: Ages 11-13, or 6th/7th grade level.
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Students are required to have memorized the multiplication facts up to 10, although 12 would be preferred. Students should have been introduced to all four operations with fractions and decimals.
A placement test is required before enrolling. A two-part practice test and answers are provided below. You may contact Mrs. Terry for the actual test or questions.
Students traditionally have two years of math at this level which prepares them for Pre-Algebra. Homework assignments differ between the 1 st year students and the 2 nd year students.
This course introduces topics such as percents, ratios, variables, expressions and inequalities. The class will cover 1-2 topics each week and 1-3 homework hours a week should be anticipated.
Pre-Algebra
Instructor: Mrs. Kimberlee Terry
Grade Level or Ability Level: Ages 13-15, or 7th – 9th grade level.
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Students should have seen exponents, percents, variables and inequalities, although proficiency is not necessary. Students should be able to work with fractions and decimals.
Also required: Students will need a way to access YouTube videos at home for homework assignments. Several lessons in each unit will involve watching a video and taking notes. In addition, a calculator with buttons for pi, square roots, and exponents will be a necessary tool. An example would be a TI-30. The calculator on phones will not be sufficient.
A high school student that does not feel ready for Algebra or a 13 yr old that is strong in math would fit into this class. This is a prerequisite for algebra but is not a high school level course, however, this class can be modified to be a half-credit high school math course for those in high school. Students should have seen exponents, percents, variables and inequalities, although proficiency is not necessary. The class will cover 1-3 topics each class and 3-5 homework hours a week should be anticipated.
Students are introduced to the topics of integers (positive & negative numbers), solving one and two step equations, rules of exponents, graphing, geometry, and statistics. There is a project or activity in each unit for hands-on exploration.
Algebra
Instructor: Mrs. Kimberlee TerryGrade Level or Ability Level: 8th – 10th grade level.
When: 2x weeklyCourse Length: 2 SemestersMin / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Students must have completed a Pre-Algebra course.
Also required: Students will need a way to access YouTube videos at home for homework assignments. Several lessons in each unit will involve watching a video and taking notes. In addition, a calculator with buttons for pi, square roots, and exponents will be a necessary tool. An example would be a TI-30. The calculator on phones will not be sufficient.
This is a high school level class. It is expected that an average student will do 45 minutes to an hour of work on each weekdays that we don’t meet.
Students build on the introduction they had in pre-algebra. Solving equations that require 4-5 steps and graphing in 2 dimensions. Other topics include polynomials, quadratics, and square roots. There is one hands on project per semester that will span several class periods.
Geometry
Instructor: Mrs. Kimberlee Terry
Grade Level or Ability Level: 9th – 12th Grade
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Students must have completed an Algebra course.
Also required: Students will need a way to access YouTube videos at home for homework assignments. Several lessons in each unit will involve watching a video and taking notes. In addition, a calculator with buttons for pi, square roots, and exponents will be a necessary tool. An example would be a TI-30. The calculator on phones will not be sufficient.
This is a high school level class. It is expected that an average student will do 45 minutes-an hour of work on each of the weekdays that we don’t meet.
SCIENCE Classes
Elementary Science
Instructor: Mrs. Bethany Pellerin
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 2-5
When: 1x Weekly (TBD: Tuesdays OR Thursdays)
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
In this class, we will explore the wonders of our universe and our planet, covering a wide range of fascinating topics. We will begin by examining the observable universe, delving into the mysteries of space and the stars beyond our world.
Next, we will move on to mapping our world, learning about the different regions and features of our planet. We will explore the geosphere and the atmosphere, examining the rocks, minerals, and gasses that make up our world.
We will also spend time learning about climate and weather, including forecasting and how these elements impact our daily lives. We’ll delve into the cycles of life, exploring the interactions between living organisms and their environment.
Finally, we will take a closer look at unique places on Earth, from the depths of the ocean to the highest peaks of our mountains. Throughout the course, we will use hands-on activities and experiments to deepen our understanding of the world around us.
Middle School Earth Science
Instructor: Ms. Sierra Spring
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 6-8
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Course Materials: Access to a computer and internet outside of class to make Powerpoints and/or Google Slides.
The aim of this course is for students to develop a deeper level of understanding of the world around us. In this process-oriented course, students will be exploring Earth Science themes such as the Rock Cycle, Natural Hazards, Space, and Oceans. Students will be actively involved in hands-on projects that are designed to reinforce course content.
Students should have a basic understanding of graphing and calculating averages before taking this course.
High School Biology
Instructor: Ms. Sierra Spring
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 9-12
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Course Materials: Access to a computer and internet outside of class to make Powerpoints and/or Google Slides.
Biology is the study of living organisms. Themes that will be covered in this course include Cell Structure and Function, Genetics, Plant and Human Body Systems, Kingdoms of Life (Protists, Fungi, Animals, etc), and Ecosystems. Students will be actively involved in laboratory experiments and projects that are designed to reinforce course content.
High School Anatomy & Physiology
Instructor: Ms. Sierra Spring
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 9-12
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Course Materials: Access to a computer and internet outside of class to make Powerpoints and/or Google Slides.
This Anatomy and Physiology class is designed to give students a high school level understanding of the various body systems and how they work together. Themes that will be covered in this course include homeostasis, body organization, body systems (skeletal, muscular, nervous, etc), cytology, somatic sensation, and special senses. Students will be actively involved in laboratory experiments and projects that are designed to reinforce course content.
SOCIAL STUDIES AND HISTORY Classes
Elementary U.S. History & Geography
Instructor: Mrs. Bethany Pellerin
Grade Level or Ability Level: 2nd – 5th Grade
When: 1x weekly (TBD: Tuesdays OR Thursdays)
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
Prerequisite: Writing and reading abilities must be at grade level.
In this class, we will explore the rich history of the United States, beginning with the first European settlers of America and the Native American cultures that they encountered.
We will examine the major events and trends that have shaped the nation over the centuries, from the founding of the colonies and the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Movement and continue to the present day.
American History for Middle School / High School
Instructor: Dr. Douglas Mangum
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 6-8 (MS); Grades 9-12 (HS)
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Text for Middle School: Everything You Need to Ace American History in One Big Fat Notebook: The Complete Middle School Study Guide, Workman Publishing, 2016.
Textbook for High School: U.S. History, OpenStax, 2014 (https://openstax.org/details/books/us-history).
Experience the history of the United States from the civilizations of the early Americas (pre-1492) up to modern times. We will focus on key people, events, and ideas from American history to understand the events that have shaped our country and the western hemisphere. We will make use of local historical sites, museums, and other opportunities to explore the value of the history that is all around us.
Exploring Countries & Cultures
Instructor: Mrs. Kristi Andres
Grade Level or Ability Level: 3rd-6th Grade
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
Text: My Father’s World
Take a trip around the world and explore diverse countries and cultures while learning geography and being challenged by true stories of Christian missionaries.
Experience different cultures by preparing traditional food, making native crafts, and listening to ethnic music.
World History for Middle School / High School
Instructor: Dr. Douglas Mangum
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 6-8 (MS); Grades 9-12 (HS)
When: 2x weekly, 1st Period Only
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Textbook for Middle School: Philip Parker, World History, DK, 2010, 2017.
Textbooks for High School: World History: Cultures, States, and Societies to 1500, University System of Georgia, University of North Georgia Press, 2016 (https://ung.edu/university-press/books/world-history-cultures-states-societies-to-1500.php) and World History, Volume 2: from 1400, OpenStax, 2022 (https://openstax.org/details/books/world-history-volume-2).
Explore the events that have shaped the world from the beginnings of civilization to the modern day. Discover the people, places, ideas, and objects that played a role in history’s most important events. From major turning points to aspects of daily life, the history of the world will come to life through maps, pictures, first-person stories, and hands-on projects helping engaging with events from the past.
NOTE: The textbook and grading expectations are the primary differences between this class for Middle School and for High School. Min/Max enrollment is for all grades combined.
CAREER
EXPLORATIONS
Introduction to Digital Media
Instructor: Ms. Sierra Spring
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 6-12
When: 2x weekly
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
Students must have a computer or laptop with internet access.
Digital media is used widely in communication and is becoming an essential part of many workplaces. This elective course will focus on image manipulation, 3D computer modeling, animation, videography and more. Content will be tailored to the level of enrolled students and their interests.
Website Design Skills
Instructor: Mr. David Spring M. Ed
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 6-12
Course Length: 2 Semesters
When: 1x weekly (TBD: Tuesdays OR Thursdays)
Min / Max Enrollment: 4/10
Students must have a laptop with internet access they can bring to class.
This is a project based course which begins with creating simple practice websites using HTML and CSS. We will then review how to add images and videos to web pages and combine our practice web pages using a menu. We will then review how to research and obtain a custom domain name. Finally, we will learn how to use a free open source content management system to build a more complex business website and how to protect your website from hacker attacks.
About your course instructor:
David Spring has a Bachelors Degree in Science Education from Washington State University and a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Washington. David created one of the world’s first online stores in 1994. Since then, he has helped more than one hundred business owners build their own online business websites. David has written several books and websites on computer and website security. You can read these for free at the website College in the Clouds dot org.
Intro Economics: Building a Bridge to the Future
Instructors: Mrs. Lorraine Newman & Mrs. Elizabeth Spring
Grade Level or Ability Level: Grades 6-12
When: Tuesdays, 1st Period Only
Course Length: 2 Semesters
Min/Max Enrollment: 4/10
Students must have a computer or laptop with internet access.
Welcome to our course on building a better economic future. Our goal is to help you gain a better understanding of what money is, how money circulates in the economy, along with the practical skills of how to write a budget, how to pay your taxes and even how to start your own successful business.
Learn how assets such as a home are associated with liabilities such as a mortgage. We cover how interest rates and inflation affect financial decisions. We hope to empower you to take more control over your financial future by understanding how earning, purchasing and saving decisions affect every other aspect of your life.
To achieve this goal, we have developed a series of lessons which will give the student hands-on practice in using money and making economic decisions. The course will include three community speakers to discuss their part in our local economy. By the end of the class your student will have the skills to begin to manage their own money, start a business and explore “the ordinary business of life around them”.
The course will be available for parents to follow along on a unique website.
