2026-2027 Jr/Sr High Classes (Descriptions below)

Advanced Cooking and Baking

Jennifer Knight   --   Grades: 7th-`12th   --   Class Supply Fee: $15

This is a more advanced course for those who are mature in the kitchen. You do not need to have taken the Intro course but do need experience in the kitchen. We will be looking at harder techniques and have more ‘homework’, seeing as most of the techniques will be more time consuming. Homework will NOT be every week and  will still usually be up to the discretion of the student, e.g. make a type of gelatin dessert, either marshmallows or cream pie. They are responsible for taking a photo or posting a photo. Students will be given sourdough starter at the beginning of the year and will seek to keep it ‘alive’ until semester. We will be talking more in depth about international foods and techniques, more complex desserts, and the science behind the food. There will be times they may need ingredients for home use, but I always seek to use pantry staples and not incur extra costs to families. Students only need a set of recipe cards (index cards will work).

Agricultural Science 

Kara Eldridge – Grades: 7th-12th

Ag science provides a comprehensive foundation in modern agriculture, food systems, and natural resource management, bridging scientific principles with practical applications. Students explore animal/plant sciences, agricultural technology, agribusiness, and sustainability through laboratory experiments, field studies, and leadership development.

Algebra 1

Josh Jones   --   Grades: 8th-12th, who have completed Pre-Algebra.

Required materials: Math U See Algebra I student pack; may need to purchase a graphing calculator

This course will introduce students to a variety of Algebra I concepts, such as variables, algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, and all their multiple representations.

Automotive

Adam Goodale – Grades: 7th-12th

This hands-on shop class introduces students to the fundamentals of automotive mechanics. Students will learn how vehicles work from the inside out and gain practical experience with tools, parts, and systems that make up modern automobiles.

Students will explore:

• Engine components and how engines operate

• Major automotive systems: electrical, fuel, cooling, braking, and suspension

• Hands-on skills: disassembly, inspection, and basic repairs

• Proper use of automotive tools and shop safety

• Troubleshooting common mechanical problems

Through guided projects and practical exercises, students will develop mechanical skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence in the shop, preparing them for more advanced automotive work or future mechanical training.

No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn and work with tools!

Beginner Cooking and Baking

Jennifer Knight   --   Grades: 7th-12th   --   Class Supply fee: $15

This is an introductory course for all skill levels. We will seek to make a wide scale approach to multiple types of cooking techniques: braise, grill, broil, boil, frying, steaming, etc. We will also talk about kitchen safety with tools and cleanliness. Students are responsible to take photos and either bring in or post when we have ‘homework’, which is usually something simple and with plenty of discretion, e.g., bake a pie of your choice, etc. We also cover the economics of cooking at home, whether it be saving over eating out or meal prep. We cover the basics of sourdough vs yeast breads, freezer meals, and hospitality.  Students only need a set of recipe cards ( index cards will work). 

Beginning Painting

Micayla Harness   --   Grades: 7th-12th   --   special supplies may need to be purchased

Students will learn tips and tricks for painting techniques with acrylic paint.  Students will watch some videos. Students will learn about some artists and their techniques to get ideas for creating a painting of their own.

Bible Study

Mallory Mackie & Amie Kendrick – Grades: 9th-12th

Biblical Worship

Kelsie Wilson – Grades: 7th-12th

We’ll examine together what the Bible says about worship, both corporately and individually, study the Psalms, and look at the evolution of corporate worship from Bible times to present day. This will be an interactive class with some homework/study required.

Biology

Dawn House   --   Grades: 9th-12th – Fees: $20

Required book: ​Apologia Biology, 3rd edition textbook (Audiobook is very helpful), Test booklet

(Student workbook is optional)

Homework:​ Students should expect to have homework 45-60 minutes per day.

We will focus our class time on gaining understanding of what the students have read through lectures and labs. We will be using microscopes and dissections.

Board Games

Rachel Sopok   --   Grades: 7th-12th

In this elective class, 7th-12th graders will be introduced to and learn to play games of all types while focusing on the fruit of the Spirit and incorporating those characteristics into their sportsmanship and behavior, both in class and out. 

British Literature

Instructor: Antoinette Dees

Email: lynnt5270@gmail.com

The course offers a year‑long study of major works in the British literary tradition, guiding 

students through nine influential novels—Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, 1984, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Rebecca, Pride and Prejudice, and The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Each text is 

approached through its historical context, central themes, and character development to highlight 

its lasting significance.

Shakespeare’s work forms a substantial portion of the curriculum. Students read Macbeth, King 

Lear, Hamlet, and The Taming of the Shrew, examining Shakespeare’s imagery, rhetorical 

techniques, and the influence of King James Bible language. Attention is also given to his 

ongoing impact on modern literature, theatre, film, and television.

Writing instruction is woven throughout the year. Students learn the structure and purpose of 

persuasive, expository, narrative, descriptive, compare‑and‑contrast, and reflective writing. One 

polished essay is produced for each mode, with emphasis on revision, clarity, and effective 

communication. A spring research paper introduces students to academic inquiry and 

source‑based writing.

Creative and analytical projects accompany the reading, encouraging deeper engagement through 

character studies, thematic presentations, historical investigations, and imaginative responses 

rather than traditional book reports.

By the end of the course, students will have strengthened their literary analysis skills, refined 

their writing, and developed a meaningful appreciation for the authors and ideas that shaped 

British literature.

Course Ruberic

Understanding of Literature – 40%

Shows clear comprehension of the text and uses appropriate evidence.

Quality of Writing – 30%

Communicates ideas effectively with strong structure, clarity, and mechanics.

Analysis & Insight – 20%

Demonstrates thoughtful interpretation and moves beyond basic summary.

Completion & Presentation – 10%

Meets assignment requirements and submits polished, timely work

Build a Marionette

Andrea Arnold – Grades: 7th-12th   Class Fees: $15

Create a traditional 5-string marionette. We'll begin by creating our own wire armatures for a humanoid figure. We'll build our puppets' bodies using newspaper and tape, connecting them all at the joints. Students will create their own paper mache clay and sculpt the heads and body parts. Using paint, fabric, and embellishments we will create clothes and personalize our puppets before stringing them. Once our marionettes are done, students will focus on creating a traditional crankie moving picture show to accompany the puppets. Students will develop a storyboard, create the ongoing movie scroll, determine the music for their show, and personalize their crankie box. The final products are sure to be amazing! 

Career Exploration

Andrea Arnold – Grades: 7th-12th

No lectures here—just hands-on, high-energy exploration. Students will jump straight into the real world by interviewing for classroom “jobs,” navigating unexpected challenges, and strategizing their way into higher roles throughout the semester. Through activities like career auctions, Myers-Briggs Type Indicator personality assessments, rapid-fire panels with local professionals, and “career myth-busters,” students will actively discover what fits them best.

We’ll explore everything from traditional careers to entrepreneurship, including a “career edition” pitch inspired by Shark Tank. Along the way, we’ll have honest conversations about income, stress, and work-life balance. 

Students will leave with a clearer sense of direction, stronger confidence in their strengths, and practical tools like resumes, interview skills, and a personalized career path.

Chemistry in the Kitchen

Carrianne Burton – Grades: 7th-12th   Class Fees: $10

Chemistry in the Kitchen will be a fun, interactive and tasty high school level class. This class will include outside reading and some home projects. We will come together each week to discuss the weekly lesson, watch recommended videos and create something to demonstrate the current lesson. This class will require weekly reading assignments listed in the syllabus, participation in discussions, some projects at home and creating in the kitchen with the group. This class is described as "practical chemistry you can use in real life" by Guest Hollow. There will be no math required. No textbook needed. Basic kitchen skills will be helpful, but not essential.

Books to read at home throughout the year:

Culinary Reactions: The Everyday Chemistry of Cooking by Simon Quellen Field

Dr. Joe & What You Didn't Know: 177 Fascinating Questions About the Chemistry of Everyday Life by Joe Schwarcz

What Einstein Told His Cook by Robert L Wolke

What Einstein Kept Under His Hat: Secrets of Science in the Kitchen by Robert L Wolke

Taste: Surprising Stories and Science About Why Food Tastes Good by Barb Stuckey

Carbon Chemistry by Ellen McHenry *be sure to get 2nd edition FULL book

Conspiracy Theories: Fact or Tinfoil?

Instructor: Antoinette Dees – Grades: 9th-12th

Contact: lynnt5270@gmail.com

High School Social Studies – One Semester (0.5 Credit)

A semester‑long investigation into conspiracy theories, political intrigue, and historical mysteries 

shapes this high school social studies course. Students explore how theories develop, why they 

spread, and what they reveal about culture, influence, and public perception. Curiosity, humor, 

and independent thought guide discussions as students examine ideas ranging from ancient 

puzzles to modern controversies. Reading assignments include The Da Vinci Code and The 

Creature from Jekyll Island, both chosen for their themes of secrecy, persuasion, and power. 

Class meetings encourage lively conversation, thoughtful questioning, and a willingness to 

follow evidence wherever it leads.

A strong student‑choice element drives the direction of the course. Students help select which 

theories and events receive deeper study, creating a personalized and engaging learning 

experience. Possible topics include the Illuminati, the World Economic Forum, Freemasonry, 

UFOs, Area 51, Jekyll Island and the Federal Reserve with its connection to the Titanic sinking, 

the Romanovs, CIA operations, JFK’s assassination, Y2K, 9/11, the New World Order, the Great 

Reset, COVID‑19 narratives, and additional theories suggested by student interest. Students are 

welcome to email topic ideas directly to the instructor at lynnt5270@gmail.com. Coursework 

blends weekly reading, structured debates, short research assignments, and a final presentation, 

building strong skills in analysis, communication, media literacy, and historical evaluatio

Crochet

Amy Myers – Grades: 7th-12th

DARE: Mastering Your Mind & Habits

Matt Dickens   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Course Description:

This course explores the complex issue of substance abuse among adolescents, emphasizing evidence-based prevention strategies. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the risk factors, protective factors, and socio-cultural influences that contribute to substance abuse in adolescents. Students will critically examine various prevention programs and policies, learn to design effective intervention strategies, and develop skills to implement and evaluate these programs in diverse settings.

Early Childhood Education

Jessica Lee – Grades: 7th-12th

This course introduces students to child development and early childhood education, focusing on physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth from birth through early elementary years. No textbook is required, but readings will be provided. Students will explore major early child development & education theorists and engage in hands-on activities to apply developmentally appropriate practices. The course includes a co-op lab experience, giving students practical experience working with young children in real-world settings. Writing assignments, observations, and collaborative projects will help students connect theory to practice and prepare for careers in education or child-related fields. 

Earth Science - 

Jennifer Palmer – Geared toward 7th - 9th graders

Required materials - Apologia General Science 2nd Edition textbook

Homework - 1-2 hours weekly 

In this class we will learn about the history of science and scientific theory, then dive into geology. We will be using material from the first half of the General Science textbook. In class we will discuss the content of each module, do experiments from the book, and complete study guide questions, homework will be weekly reading and studying for module tests. We will do module tests in class, grades will be given based on tests and participation in class. 

Finance: The Game of Life

Andrea Arnold – Grades: 7th-12th

Through games, debates, and challenges - students will learn about the world of finance and have some fun in the process! Students will participate in an ongoing classroom game that takes us through salaries, regular bills, outings, unexpected events, job loss, taxes and more! We'll use a simulation to test our dream jobs in our ideal locations and see if we can survive by the end of the year. Students will see if they can budget their way out of a "bill shock" pile and complete a grocery shopping challenge. Students will get a chance to "invest" in companies and attempt to build their wealth and follow their stocks over time. We're attempting to cover everything and ensure no kid is bored in the process!  

Guitar

LeAnn Barker – Grades: 7th-12th

This class will focus on concepts in acoustic guitar technique as well as music appreciation related to acoustic guitar culture and history. No previous guitar experience is necessary. This for now is a beginning class, but I will try to be flexible to teach to the class. 

Format: 25 minutes of class guitar instruction with the remaining 25 minutes dedicated to solo or group presentation and music appreciation content. 

Students will be given an opportunity to present weekly to encourage performance aspect but not pressured (required) to do so.

Assignments/Weekly lessons: A semester project of choice: a solo, a book report, a critique of a live performance of an acoustic guitar act, a bio of an acoustic guitar performer

Materials Recommended: Lesson book (can make copies if needed) 

Required: Acoustic guitar. It is recommended to rent or buy from music store to get proper fit for one’s body, as there are many body types of acoustic guitars, as well as proper set up (strings, neck adjusted, etc.). Rummage sale or pawn shop purchases do not guarantee that the guitar is in good shape or a good fit.

Health & Nutrition

Josh Jones  --   Grades: 9th-12th

Required Materials - Apologia Exploring Creation with Health and Nutrition, 2nd Edition

A health and nutrition course to cover the physical, nutritional, emotional, social, mental, and spiritual aspects of growing into a healthy adult in the context of a biblical worldview.

Students will study the human body systems, senses, genetics, and temperaments. The course will give your student insight into how physical influences can have a profound impact on their thoughts and emotions as they enter young adulthood. The course respectfully covers relevant topics such as mental illness and emotional stability, the value of another human being, culture, biological sex as related to our gender roles, families, socialization, communication skills, and conflict resolution skills.

Students will also gain an in-depth knowledge of both macronutrients and micronutrients, including the importance of exercise and proper diet.

🌱 Homesteading 101: Grow It, Make It, Sell It! 🐓

Kelli Oleksiak – Grades: 7th-12th

In this hands-on class, students will learn practical homesteading skills like gardening, cooking, food preservation, and caring for chickens and rabbits. They’ll also create homemade items such as soap while learning the value of self-sufficiency.

This is an interactive, learn-by-doing class—expect to get messy and have fun!

💡 Final Project: Students will create a product (food, handmade goods, or garden items) to sell at a mini farmers market, learning basic business skills along the way.

Indigenous Tribes

Andrea Arnold – Grades: 7th-12th

Starting with the Osage Nation, students will explore Indigenous cultures through hands-on experiences, real artifacts, storytelling, and invaluable community connections. This extremely hands-on class aims to help students understand different cultures and experience history in an unforgettable way. 

Students will:
- Investigate artifacts and how they tell a story
- Build models based on environment and resources for chosen tribes
- Discuss stereotypes, living cultures, cultural resilience, and misunderstandings
- Participate in trade simulations
- Explore the Trail of Tears and the migrant tribes that were temporarily in our area
- Engage with Indigenous storytellers from the local American Indian Center, the MSU anthropology team, and utilize the History Museum's Osage traveling trunk for a full-picture story
- Land mapping and migration movements- Creative exploration of textiles through a simple ongoing weaving  

Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)

Lexi Dienes – Grades: 7th-12th

Required Materials: Narnia Books (3)

Required homework: Yes

Required books: The Chronicles of Narnia (The Magician’s Nephew, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrope, and the Horse and His Boy).

IEW’s unique approach provides the structure that students need to develop confidence in the writing process, while gradually guiding them toward greater independence and creativity. Students will learn nine structural models (note taking, writing paragraphs, stories, simple reports, writing from pictures, research reports, creative writing, essays, and critiques to help them organize any type of composition. Additionally stylistic techniques (strong verbs, quality adjectives, sentence openers, and more) are taught incrementally to gently move students from the basics into more sophisticated writing. The students are required to read the series for this class. This course is for both new and returning IEW students.There will be weekly writing assignments. 

Intro to Anatomy & Physiology

Jenny Acosta – Grades: 9th-12th

This course will provide students with a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the organization, structure, and functional mechanisms of the human body. Students will explore how body systems work individually and together to maintain health and homeostasis.

I expect 1-2 hours of homework/ week.  

There will be a textbook and possibly an anatomy coloring book to purchase. 

Intro to Psychology

Jessica Lee – Grades: 7th-12th

This course explores how people think, feel, and behave, providing a foundation in major psychological concepts and theories. No textbook is required, but readings will be provided. Students will participate in hands-on activities, and class discussions, as well as some light writing assignments to reflect on and apply psychological principles to real-life situations. There may be a final project. Topics covered include the history and approaches of psychology, brain function, learning and memory, development across the lifespan, emotion and motivation, personality, social behavior, and mental health. By the end of the course, students will gain a better understanding of themselves and others, develop critical thinking skills, and learn how psychology connects to everyday life.

Jr High Literature

Mary Bush – Grades: 7th-9th
Required materials: Number the Stars by Lois Lowry; Hatchet by Gary Paulsen; Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell
Homework: weekly reading assignments; some text-based writing assignments
Students will explore a variety of genres while building reading comprehension, discussion, and critical thinking skills. Through historical and survival stories, we will examine themes such as courage, perseverance, and character growth. Students will also develop skills in literary analysis, vocabulary, and group discussion while growing in confidence as thoughtful readers.

Jr. High Writing
Mary Bush – Grades: 7th-9th
Homework: weekly writing assignments; occasional revision and editing work

Students will develop foundational writing skills while growing in confidence as clear and thoughtful communicators. Throughout the course, students will practice a variety of writing styles, including narrative, informative, and descriptive writing, using fairy tales as inspiration for many of their pieces. Lessons will focus on organization, sentence structure, vocabulary, and the writing process, including brainstorming, drafting, revising, and editing. Through guided instruction and practice, students will strengthen their ability to express ideas effectively in written form.

LEGO Geography

Cari Rogers – Grades: 7th12th

Students explore world geography through LEGO! Each week, they will pick and continent and country to focus on, research its flag, landmarks, wildlife and culture, then build their discoveries with LEGOs. Students track their learning in their ‘geography passport’, then finish with a World Showcase at the end of their semester.

National Parks Exploration

Hillary Sario – Grades: 7th-12th

PE (Physical Education)

Cole Jennings  --   Grades: 7th-12th

This Physical Education elective is open to all Jr High and Sr High Students. Students taking this course are required to participate in every activity we do each week.

The goal of a physically educated student is to maintain appropriate levels of cardio-respiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition necessary for a healthy and productive life. This course will cover a range of lifetime sport and recreational activities. Each student will have the opportunity to work on their personal physical skills. We will do a variety of team sports that will allow students to learn teamwork, social behavior, leadership, and encouragement. My hope is for students to have fun, try their best, build confidence and to be encouraging and respectful to each person. This Physical Education course will be conducted both indoor and outdoor depending on the physical activity and weather.

A primary goal of Physical Education is to promote a life of physical health, fitness, and enjoyment. Some of our Physical Education classes will be: Dodgeball, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, Kickball, Ultimate Frisbee, Disc Golf, Croquet, 9 Square, 4 Square, Flag Football, etc.

Photography

Hannah Goodale – Grades: 7th-12th 

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of photography using both DSLR cameras 

and smartphones. Through guided lessons and hands-on projects, students will learn key 

techniques in composition, lighting, editing, and visual storytelling. The class will culminate in a 

student-selected portfolio presentation at Fine Arts Night.

Supplies

Students should bring:

● A working camera (DSLR or smartphone)

● A folder or notebook for handouts

● Access to email or a shared drive for submitting assignments

Pre-Algebra

Kelsie Wilson   --   Grades: 7th-9th

Required materials:  Math U See Pre-Algebra  Instruction Pack and Pre-Algebra Student Pack

Homework: 30-60 minutes daily

Basic pre-algebra concepts including negative numbers, exponents, factoring, and ratios. Includes rules for solving equations using the associative, commutative, and other properties; simple operations with polynomials. Also introduces some basic geometry concepts such as surface area, volume and Pythagorean theorem.

Spanish I

Krystal Dean  --   Grades: 7th-12th

Spanish 1 introduces students to beginning Spanish, it is a high school introductory course designed for students who have never had Spanish or students who want to keep working on their conversational skills. Students will learn basic communication skills - such as asking questions, giving directions, making small talk as well as; grammar, pronunciation, writing, and
listening. Students will be paired up in groups to practice speaking and listening in Spanish amongst each other, it's a great way for them to practice as well as learn to feel comfortable speaking a foreign language with their piers. The curriculum emphasizes practical application and incorporates cultural exploration and biblical integration. This course wilhelp give students the tools to continue learning Spanish. Students wll be expected to spend 1 to 4 hours a week on Spanish homework depending on the amount of lessons we cover during a Chapter. (This is a graded class.)
Que Dios le bendiga! (May God bless you!)

Required materials:
* BJU press - Spanish 1 (2nd Edition) student textbook
*Notebook
.*pencil/pen

Spanish II

Krystal Dean – Grades: 9th-12th

Spanish 2 builds on the foundations of Spanish 1. Students will learn to communicate comfortably at an intermediate level with other classmates during group settings, which will help
them later on in lite being able to communicate with Spanish-speaking people in a variety ofsettings .They will learn key grammatical principles including reflexive verbs, direct and indirect
object pronouns, and imperfect tenses, as well as scripture passages from the bible. This curriculum emphasizes practical application and incorporates cultural exploration. This course will help give students the tools they will need to further their education on learning Spanish at
an intermediate level. Students will be expected to spend 1 to 4 hours a week on Spanish homework depending on the amount of lessons we cover during a Chapter.(this is a graded class.)
Que Dios le bendiga! (May God bless you!)

Required materials:
*BJU press - Spanish 2 (2nd Edition) student textbook
*notebook
*pencil/pen

Student Council 

Angel Deines – Grades: 9th-12th

Student Council is a student-led organization aimed at developing biblical leadership skills in a collaborative environment. Participants will work together to plan school social events, community service projects, and run the snack bar. They will act as the voice of the student body, focusing on encouraging a positive culture rooted in Christ-centered values.

Ukelele

LeAnn Barker – Grades: 7th-12th

This class will focus on concepts in acoustic guitar technique as well as music appreciation related to acoustic guitar culture and history. No previous guitar experience is necessary. This for now is a beginning class, but I will try to be flexible to teach to the class. 

Format: 25 minutes of class guitar instruction with the remaining 25 minutes dedicated to solo or group presentation and music appreciation content. Students will be given an opportunity to present weekly to encourage performance aspect but not pressured (required) to do so. Assignments/Weekly lessons: A semester project of choice: a solo, a book report, a critique of a live performance of an acoustic guitar act, a bio of an acoustic guitar performer

Materials Recommended: Lesson book (can make copies if needed) 

Required: Acoustic guitar It is recommended to rent or buy from music store to get proper fit for one’s body, as there are many body types of acoustic guitars, as well as proper set up (strings, neck adjusted, etc.). Rummage sale or pawn shop purchases do not guarantee that the guitar is in good shape or a good fit.

Wilderness Survival

Jenny Acosta – Grades: 7th-12th

Students will learn the basics of survival.  Skills covered will include knot tying, sheltering, fire starting and safety, water sanitation, navigation, animal tracks, wildlife safety, foraging & plant safety, first aid & emergencies, basic CPR, getting help, and being prepared.  We will also discuss some safety/ preparedness for home and urban settings.  

No homework expectation.  No textbook to purchase.

Yearbook

Angel Deines   --   Grades: 9th-12th

Required materials: laptop, Canva app, internet access at home

Homework: Yes

In this course, you will gain, develop, and master skills in one or multiple areas of the yearbook

creation process. Whether you’re interested in page design or photography, copywriting or

marketing, or any other skill required to create a memorable yearbook, you’ll be able to come to class every day and learn by doing. Outside of developing these individual skills, we’re also

working towards a single, shared goal: to create the most memorable yearbook LHE has ever seen.

MORE TO COME...