2025-2026 Jr/Sr High Classes

Advanced Cooking and Baking

Jennifer Ulven   --   Grades: 7th-`12th   --   Class Supply Fee: $25

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).

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.

Algebra II

Rattiya Amis

Beginner Cooking and Baking

Jennifer Ulven   --   Grades: 7th-12th   --   Class Supply fee: $25

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). 

Beginner Watercolor

Sara Burton Fees: $30

Exploring the genre of Watercolor. Learning techniques that will improve your painting skills.

Biology

Dawn House   --   Grades: 9th-12th

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. 

Criminology

Jarrod Field   --   Grades: 9th-12th, 8th grade with permission

This course will cover the basics of criminal behavior, law enforcement, criminal justice systems and forensic science. Students may study theories of crime, types of crimes, investigative techniques and legal procedures. The curriculum may also include discussions on ethics, psychology, sociology and the role of technology in criminology. Activities such as case studies and guest speakers may be incorporated to enhance learning.

DARE Class

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.

Drawing: Beginning and Advanced

Triston Harness  --   Grades: 7th-12th

Required Materials: TBD

Students will learn to draw using stills (props in the classroom), videos, and nature.  Students will need to purchase a sketch pad and drawing pencils.

Early American History

Hilary Sario - 9th-12th grade

Required materials:  A Narrative of a Revolutionary Soldier by: Joseph Plumb Martin and Company Aytch by: Sam R. Watkins. 

In this class, we will study the exploration of America to the Civil War. We will take and in depth look at the explorers who helped settle the area and the colonies that formed due to their efforts. We will study the hardships that the early colonies faced, from piracy to persecution. That will lead to the rise of the Revolutionay War to the War of 1812. We will then look at pre Civil War America and the actions that led to the conflict. The class will look at the first 400 years of this great nation and help us understand what took place to shape the present.

Early Childhood Lab Hour

Grades: 9th-12th

This class will entail learning about early childhood development in a hands on format. There will be no instructional class time, only a lab hour in a preschool classroom, supervised by a class coordinator. They will engage, observe, and assist teachers with daily tasks. As the year progresses, the student will take on more responsibility until they are ready to begin preparing and presenting age appropriate lessons to the class they are working with. This class may require weekly check-ins with class overseers, as well as performance reviews from class coordinators. 

Gamer Basics
Angel Deines   –   Grades: 9th-12th
This course offers an in-depth exploration of gaming culture, history, and skills enhancement. It covers topics such as gaming history, genres, platforms, streaming, esports, and game analysis. Through discussions, gameplay sessions, and practical exercises, students will deepen their understanding of gaming and develop their skills as gamers.
*Games possibly discussed will range between E-M rating*

Gardening

Laura Bates   --   Grades: 7th-12th Fees: $30

Required materials: Approx. $10 notebooks (one for each student)

Learn the basics of organic gardening. We will be learning about types of gardens, how and when to plant, plant some seeds, learn how to create a bug friendly environment and protect your plants. We will grow some plants, create some bug habitats, planters, and garden crafts and hatch mantises.

Perennial and Annuals

-Plant Stakes

Grow Zones and Freeze Dates

- Green house

- Cold Strati

- Create a Gardening notebook

Types of Gardening

-Look for something from home that you can use as a raised bed

-3 liter soda container garden

Shade and Sun

-observe two parts of the yard and write down light and shade schedules. Pick three plants that could grow in each

Flowers

-plant

Strawberry Plants

-plant one

- strawberry rocks

Birds

Bad Pests/Good Pests

-Bee Hotel

-Butterfly and Bee water station

Insect Control

--Mantis Hatch

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.

High School Writing

Rachel Sopok  --  9th-12th

Required Materials: IEW Student Book (TBD)

High School Writing Class Description-

This high school writing course incorporates the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) curriculum to guide students in developing strong writing habits and techniques. Through structured lessons and thoughtfully chosen creative prompts, students will practice various forms of writing while exploring how to communicate ideas with clarity and purpose. The course integrates biblical principles throughout, encouraging students to engage both their minds and hearts as they grow in their ability to express themselves through the written word.

Improv

Sarah Burton   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Students will watch videos and engage in discussion about the history of theater. They will participate in ice breaker games, warmups, and mock auditions. At the end of the semester, they will present a small play for an audience. Homework will be preparing for class participation, researching characters and plots, memorizing lines, etc.

 Innovators & Trailblazers: Women Who Changed the World

Mary Bush  --  Grades: 9th-12th
Homework: No weekly homework, but will have one end-of-the-year presentation
In this course, students will study the achievements of women who shaped science and history through their brilliance, courage, and resilience. Each week, students will explore the lives and legacies of these trailblazers, from groundbreaking scientists to transformative leaders. 

Jr High Literature - Mary Bush

Myths, Monsters, and Modern Heroes: Exploring Greek Mythology through Percy Jackson

Required materials: The Lightning Thief, by Rick Riordan
Homework: Weekly reading; one end-of-course project

In this course, students will dive into the world of ancient Greek mythology through the adventures of Percy Jackson in The Lightning Thief. They will explore the gods, monsters, and heroes that make up the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, blending traditional myths with modern storytelling.

As they follow Percy’s journey, they’ll discover parallels between his trials and those of legendary figures such as Heracles, Odysseus, and Jason. Students will not only learn about ancient Greek beliefs and stories but also connect these myths to modern-day culture and literature.
 

Jr High Writing: Fairy Tale Remix - Jenny Adkins

 In Fairy Tale Remix: Rewriting the Classics, students will explore traditional fairy tales through a fresh lens. Each week, we’ll dive into a familiar story, then challenge ourselves to reimagine it—either by telling the tale from an alternate perspective (like the Big Bad Wolf's point of view) or by flipping the script and changing key elements of the plot. Students will also be encouraged to create their own modern fairy tales, blending their imagination with the rich themes of the classics. Through creative writing, discussions, and group activities, students will unlock the magic of storytelling while developing their writing and analytical skills.  

This will be a homework and class participation graded class.

Life Science-Jennifer Palmer

Geared toward 7th-9th Graders

Required book: ​Apologia General Science, 2nd edition.

Homework:​ Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week in homework.

We will use the second half of the Apologia General Science, 2nd edition book for our text. We will cover what life is, how to classify it, and then explore the human body systems. Class time will be spent emphasizing things that the students have read in their homework through experiments, hands-on activities, and lecture. Kids will be required to do reading and homework, and take quizzes and tests. Grades will be given in this class.

Life Skills

Tanya Pearson   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Class Topics will be chosen after the questionnaire results from the first day of class.  

These are skills that they will need now and as they plan for the next 5-10 years. Some topics could include:  Legal Aspects for Young Adults, Interpersonal Skills, Time Management Skills, Self Management Skills, Decision Making Skills, Money Management Skills (probably multiple weeks), Home Management Skills, Self Care Skills,  Interpersonal Skills, Car/Bicycle Skills, Nutrition & Healthy Eating

Mystery of History

Emmalee Clift   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Required book: The Mystery of History Volume 1:(Creation – c. A.D. 33)

Homework: Weekly

Worldly taught history and science today leave little to no room for a Creator.  This class is where world history and Biblical history collide.  The curriculum we will be using teaches a “young world”, beginning with creation in the year 4,004BC.  We will jump back and forth between history pulled from our Bibles and people, nations, and events happening in other parts of the world around the same time.  For example - During the time the Israelites were in Egyptian slavery, China and Shang Dynasty were a fast growing nation, famous for silk.  And not long before Ruth and Naomi King Tut ruled as a young Egyptian king.  This will be a year long class and will end in the year 33AD with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  

Students taking this class will need a copy of the Mystery of History, Volume 1, a 1.5” binder, and something to write with.  There will be weekly homework.

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.  Students will need a few canvases.  

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.

Pokemon Trainer Class - Jenny Adkins

Pokemon is a simulation of bug catching with bugs that turn into mythical creatures. These creatures have strange powers. Humans coexist with these creatures.

-Students will learn how to build a creature deck and battle other students 

-Students will learn the primary goals of trainers, energy, and stadium cards.

Overall the moral of Pokemon is about working hard, never giving up, and respect for other players. Students will be putting to use skills like math, reasonable deduction, and problem solving.

Pre-Algebra

Jenny Adkins   --   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.

Reader's Theater

Sarah Burton   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Think of it as "read aloud" theatre class - no memorizing or costuming! Students will "perform" selected scripts while exploring different vocalization techniques and warm ups. Must come willing to participate (speak and listen), learn, grow, and have fun! 

Spanish, a Conversational and Fun Introduction

Krystal Dean  --   Grades: 7th-12th

Required Materials:

* Spanish for Children Primer A student workbook

* writing materials

Course Description:

Spanish 1 is an entry level course suitable for students who have never has Spanish or students who want to keep working on their conversational skills. The students will memorize vocabulary, learn several grammar rules of Spanish, practice speaking and learning to understand Spanish. This course will help give students the tools to continue learning Spanish on their own if they so choose. Students will be expected to spend 1-4 hours a week on Spanish homework depending their interest level.

Student Council

Jen Huie   --   Grades 8th-12th

What do you want to plan for this school year? How can you make a difference in this world? Do you want to grow your friend group while engaging in fun co-op activities? In this class, students will take on leadership roles while having the opportunity to plan events, serve the community, and foster a sense of belonging in their fellow co-op students. Some planned events will be outside of co-op days/hours as well!

US Government

Nancy Hoedl   --   Grades: 7th-12th

Resources Needed:

· Our Constitution Rocks, by Juliette Turner

· You Decide! Applying the Bill of Rights to Real Cases, by George Bundy Smith and Alene L. Smith

· www.prageru.com

Credit: ½ Credit

Who should take this course: This course is recommended for 7th-12th graders. It will count for the MO, recommended credit for the government class.

Course Description: We will tackle the Constitution and structures of Government through these engaging books for teens. This will empower the student to understand why the Constitution matters today. Using critical thinking, we will judge real court cases involving the first 8 amendments to the U.S. Constitution and compare their ruling with the U.S. Supreme Court. Students should expect to work 2- 3 hours outside of class.

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...