6/7 Seminar (Sieglinde & Bryan)

Note: This class is open to middle school students only.

Students entering 6th and 7th grade will take this Fall Term Seminar on Wednesday mornings. We’ll discuss the PSCS Core Commitments and how to Lead with Empathy. We’ll practice core PSCS skills like speaking up and making presentations; we’ll engage in a process of naming and sharing our Layers of Heritage; and we’ll work through activities in a couple of books including, This Book is Anti-racist by Tiffany Jewel and Do the Work by W. Kamau Bell & Katie Shatz.

You do not need to sticker or register, you will be automatically.

The Band (Brayden Puchtler)

Hello! This is a beginner-friendly band aimed at focused improvement! It is for anyone. My goal for this term is to connect musical people who like to try and like to have fun. Enthusiasts of any genre and players of any instrument are welcome, although I might have us try new things in both respects. We’ll cover some music and rhythm theory, song writing, and improvisation. Mostly though, we will play songs we love with the intent to perform!

Final disclaimer: This is new to me too. I’ll do my best but we’re all going to have to have patience with each other.

Outside practice is needed and encouraged.

Typography (Eric Menninga)

Typography originally referred to putting text on paper using inked blocks (think Gutenberg using metal bits to make books).  However, in modern usage – partly due to computer’s central role – the term “typography” has expanded to mean pretty much all graphic design that uses text.
In this class we’ll look at Typography from a number of different angles, including:
1) History: metal type, presses, wood type
2) Font design
3) Poster design (short text)
4) Book typography (long text)
5) Marketing / branding with type

Yearbook, etc! (Sieglinde)

In this yearlong Yearbook Class, students will edit, design, create, and print a 24-25 PSCS Yearbook. The theme will be decided as a team, likely through community process, and applying it to a really cool archive of the year.

Together we’ll plan the layout, timeline, and create a draft in Canva (easy to share, easy to organize, on the cheap). Folks who join will have the opportunity to write copy, take and organize pictures, and create pages/spreads that capture our community and activities. The final result will be printed and shared with the community in June.

Club Party! (Maggie Rogers)

Brat summer is over. But Club Party is just beginning! This yearlong course will focus on planning + executing events throughout the year:  Autumn/Halloween, Winter/Holiday, Spring Creative Cafe (all community FUNdraiser), + two prospective new events: Winter Craft Fair and Spring Music Show! We will work together to make work back plans for all events, decide party themes and vibes, + ensure the community raises money and has fun.

About the instructor: Maggie Rogers is the PSCS Events Coordinator, as well as a Plant Professional, and Theater Maven!

Yoga Flow (Starla Sheen)

Get centered and practice with a certified Yoga teacher and PSCS parent. This class is an all-level Vinyasa Flow style class that will begin with a short meditation and breathing exercise. We will move into a flow series, practice some balance sequences, and then end with another short meditation and intention setting for the day. Materials needed: Yoga Mat (PSCS has mats), Bare Feet, Comfy Clothes (to move around in), Water Bottle.

Intermediate Band: ex-BASASO (Brandon Bermudez)

Please talk with Brandon for scheduling and details.

Advanced Band: Casual Ghost Party (Brandon Bermudez)

Please talk with Brandon for scheduling and details.

Introduction to Sound Design (Brandon Bermudez)

Unlock your creative potential in this Introduction to Sound Design class. Designed for beginners, this class offers a comprehensive foundation in the art and science of crafting compelling audio experiences. Whether you’re interested in film, video games, music, or other multimedia projects, this class will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to start designing and manipulating sound effectively. The class will feature hands-on labs, practical exercises, and project-based lessons. Students will have access to high-quality software and tools, and receive personalized feedback on their work. Lectures and discussions will provide theoretical insights and inspire creativity. Embark on your journey into sound design and discover how to turn your creative ideas into captivating audio experiences!

Key Topics:

-Sound Basics: Understand the fundamentals of sound, including waveforms, frequency, amplitude, and how sound behaves in different environments.

-Sound Recording Techniques: Learn how to capture high-quality audio using various recording tools and techniques. Explore microphone types, placement strategies, and recording environments.

-Audio Editing: Gain proficiency in using digital audio workstations (DAWs) to edit, mix, and refine recorded sound. Familiarize yourself with essential editing tools and techniques.

-Synthesis and Sampling: Explore the basics of sound synthesis and sampling. Learn how to create and manipulate sounds using synthesizers and sample libraries.

-Sound Effects and Foley: Discover how to design and integrate sound effects to enhance media. Practice creating Foley effects to mimic real-world sounds and add depth to your projects.

-Creative Applications: Apply your sound design skills to various projects, including short films, video games, and multimedia presentations. Develop a portfolio of work that showcases your abilities.

Prerequisites:

No prior experience in sound design or audio engineering is required. Basic computer skills and a passion for learning about sound are encouraged.

Election 2024 (Brandon Bermudez)

Dive deep into the dynamics of the 2024 U.S. presidential election in this class. Students will explore the key players, pivotal events, and emerging trends shaping the election cycle. Students will also examine the interplay of political strategies, media coverage, and public opinion. This class will utilize a mix of lectures, videos, case studies, and interactive discussions. Students will engage in real-time analysis of election developments and participate in debates to apply their understanding. Join us to gain a nuanced understanding of one of the most significant elections in recent U.S. history and develop the analytical skills necessary to navigate the complex world of contemporary politics.

Key Topics:

-Candidates and Campaigns: Analyze the platforms, strategies, and backgrounds of the major candidates. Study how their campaigns are structured and the impact of their policies on various demographics.

 

-Media Influence: Investigate the role of traditional and digital media in shaping voter perceptions and election narratives. Assess how social media, news outlets, and advertising influence public opinion and voter behavior.

-Public Opinion and Polling: Examine how public opinion is measured and its role in shaping campaign strategies. Learn about the methodologies behind polling and the challenges of interpreting poll results.

-Political Polarization: Explore the growing polarization in American politics. Analyze how partisan divides affect electoral outcomes and governance.

-Election Integrity and Reform: Discuss issues related to election security, voter access, and electoral reforms. Assess how these factors impact the democratic process.

-Historical Context: Compare the 2024 election to previous presidential elections. Identify patterns and changes in the political landscape over time.

Prerequisites:

A foundational understanding of American government and politics is recommended but not required.

The History of White People (Sam)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

We will be reading the book, The History of White people by Nell Irvin Painter. With this literary work, we will analyze the history of whiteness and it’s origins in Ancient Greece, throughout Europe and abroad.

The book describes attitudes toward and definitions of race among Europeans, and particularly Americans of European descent. The author says the idea of race is not just a matter of biology but also includes “concepts of labor, gender, class, and images of personal beauty”

Our exploration of this book will lead us to group conversations, written expression, defining terms and futher research.

Mandarin Chinese 2 (Kathy & Jeremy)

Chinese is the most common language on the Internet.  Heck, Chinese is the most common language, period.  Mandarin is the most widely spoken version of Chinese, with the number of Mandarin speakers being almost equal to the next three most widely spoken languages combined (Spanish, English, and Hindi).

With all those people speaking Chinese, it makes sense to learn a little.  Chinese can be a very challenging language, but it’s one where even a little can be impressive.  We will focus on some very practical words and phrases so that you can actually use what you learn.  We’ll learn some polite words like “please” and “thank you,” some learning phrases like “What does that mean in English?”, and some food words so maybe you can impress your family the next time you go to a Chinese restaurant.

We will not learn to read and write characters for a couple of reasons: unlike an alphabet, you can’t tell how a word is pronounced by looking at the character (and you may only be able to guess at the meaning), they’re terribly complicated, and I don’t read very well myself.

The homework will involve practicing what we cover in class in various ways.

Note: This class is approved for students who are continuing with their Mandarin studies. Please see the Director of Program if you wish to join.

Danny Woo Community Garden (hannah)

We will volunteer up at our local community garden, Danny Woo. PSCS has established a lovely relationship with this garden which has been providing a space for members of the CID community to grow food since 1975. Volunteer tasks include weeding, planting flowers, feeding chickens, tending to the compost, and infrastructure projects. Open to all.

Adulting (Amy)

Back by popular demand – AND now extended to TWICE a week!!!

 

Becoming an adult is exciting! It does, however, come with new responsiblities.  This class will offer you hands-on opportunities to learn about getting jobs, opening bank accounts, credit cards, loans, and more.  

 

This class is personalized to expose you to life-scenarios that embody what YOU want for your future.

 

Adulting satisfies the WA State recommendation that students receive Financial Literacy education in high school.  Class is open to all students.

Required texts/materials: Books/materials will be acquired for you. The instructor will procure the texts/materials.

French I (yearlong) (Sam)

Students begin their introduction to French by focusing on the four key areas of foreign language study: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The class represents an ideal blend of language learning pedagogy and online learning. Each unit consists of a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, multimedia cultural presentations, and interactive activities and practices which reinforce vocabulary and grammar. There is a strong emphasis on providing context and conversational examples for the language concepts presented in each unit. Students should expect to be actively engaged in their own language learning, become familiar with common vocabulary terms and phrases, comprehend a wide range of grammar patterns, participate in simple conversations and respond appropriately to basic conversational prompts, analyze and compare cultural practices, products, and perspectives.

Note: This class will meet 3 days/week (2 – in class instruction, 1 Learning Lab)

Homegoing – HS Literature (hannah)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

In this high school literature class, we will read Homegoing, a historical fiction book by Ghanian-American author Yaa Gyasi, published in 2016. Each chapter follows a different descendant of an Asante woman, eventually covering several hundred years of history in the short stories of fourteen characters. 

The novel addresses many historical events including the Anglo-Asante wars in Ghana, slavery, segregation, the convict leasing system, the Great Migration, and the jazz age in Harlem.

This is a relatively short book at 320 pages. Reading assignments will include supplemental readings including short stories, articles, or essays. The class will also include regular writing assignments and discussion.

Documentaries & Desserts (Sam)

Take a deep dive into some of the best documentaries of the last few years. We’ll explore this amazing medium through film and have meaningful conversations.

Also, you gotta have some dessert to go along with it! Yum!!!!

 

 

Animal Behavior (Bryan Hopster)

This one-term science course offers an introduction to the diverse ways animals interact with their environment and each other. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife or just curious about the natural world, this class will give you a deeper understanding of the behaviors that allow animals to thrive!

“Moo! Meow! Chirp chirp! Womp womp! Grraawwwwwwwlllllll – be an animal, not a hanimal”

Pictured above: Matt the bear

10th Grade Seminar – CS & VDL (Cherrise & Val)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

10th Graders will explore the question How am I connected to things greater than myself?

French II (yearlong)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

French 2 is designed for students who have completed French 1. In French 2, students will learn to use the past tense, continue to build vocabulary, and become more proficient in speaking, reading, writing and comprehension skills.

A great deal of emphasis will place placed on the oral use of French in the classroom. Students will be expected  to ask and answer questions in French on a regular basis, using learned vocabulary and correct grammatical  structure.

Additional emphasis will be placed on cultural topics in French – speaking countries, including current events, the arts and the French influence in the United States. Students will identify historical landmarks, major cities, holidays and other cultural aspects of the French – speaking world.

 Note: This class will meet 3 days/week (2 – in class instruction, 1 Learning Lab), must have taken a full year of French previously or special permission from the teacher.

Dungeons & Dragons – Nat

 

(Invite only)

In this class we will go over a weekly dungeons and dragons campaign led by me, Nat. I will expect you to bring a prepared character, any physical dice you will want to use, as well as your enthusiasm every week.
IF I HAVE NOT SPOKEN TO YOU ABOUT BEING A PART OF THIS CLASS, THEN YOU SHOULD NOT STICKER IT.

Outside Work: There will be little to no outside work for this class, I will occasionally give homework though.

MS Literature – Balcony on the Moon: Coming of Age in Palestine (hannah)

Note: This class is open to middle school students only.

In this middle school literature class, we will read Balcony on the Moon: Coming of Age in Palestine by Ibtisam Barakat. This book is part 2 of the author’s memoir, and follows her through her childhood and adolescence in Palestine from 1972-1981 in the aftermath of the Six-Day War.

The story chronicles Ibitsam’s desire to be a writer, showing how she finds inspiration through writing letters to pen pals and from an adult who encourages her to keep at it. Balcony on the Moon depicts daily life in a politically tumultuous region and how to pursue dreams in the face of adversity. 

This class will include weekly reading assignments as well as class discussions, writing, and a culminating creative project.

Indigenous Studies  (Sam)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

For this cultural studies class, we will be reading the book, “The Rediscovery of America: Native Peoples and the unmaking of U.S. History” by Ned Blackhawk. In this book we will draw from historical accounts of Indigenous narratives and the lack of real time visibility in our current examples of American History

We will be using this book as our main text, but there will be supplemental information given thru mini lectures, videos, podcasts and additional academic text.

You will be asked to be active in group conversations, write short responces and the occasional quiz.

Note: This class will meet once a week.

Human Geography

The study of humans and how they react to their environment throughout the world. In each continental examination, we can learn from various areas of life including economic, cultural, political and urban geography. We can draw several ideas and levels of understanding from the past and present changes and how it will effect the future. Historically, we can use information to analyze several areas of impact such as globalization, colonialism and the relationships between various landscapes and numerous global interactions.

Our in class gathering will include mapping, vocabulary, and deep research on ancient and modern cultural groups.

Soccer (hannah)

Play soccer every Wednesday morning at Yesler Terrace! This is fun, connective, non-competitive yet committed soccer for all.

HS Disability Visibility (Amy)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

One in five people in the US lives with either a visible or hidden disability.  

This class, centered on the book Disability Visibility, edited by Alice Wong, will do a deep dive into understanding the perspectives, experiences, challenges, and celebrations of individuals with disabilities by learning about them through their own words.

As we strive to build a world that has empathy, compassion, and understanding at its core, widening our view of the lived experiences of others will be the key to such a realization.

Goals for this class do NOT include pitying others – rather, we will gain a greater understanding of how we can increase true inclusivity while recognizing ways in which our own biases may prevent us from seeing others (and maybe ourselves) as fully whole.

In addition to the text, we will view documentaries and listen to podcasts to further our learning.

Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.

Young Eagles (Scobie)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

Young Eagles

2/15/2013--Everett, WA, USA..A line of Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets are parked nose-to-tail at Paine Field in Everett, Wash. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials say they are temporarily grounding Boeing's 787 Dreamliners until the risk of possible battery fires is addressed. In the meantime Boeing is parking 787s all over Paine Field which sits across a small highway from the buildings where they are being built...©2013 Stuart Isett. All rights reserved.   four of Scobie's happy students after their successful Young Eagles flights.

Have you ever considered becoming a pilot or seeing what it’s like to become one? The class will include guest speakers, aviation history, field trips, and a chance to fly a real airplane.

  • Learn about the basics of aviation and prepare for your first flight!
  • During the term, get an official Young Eagle’s demonstration flight in Scobie’s own back country airplane, or with master pilot Bob Stoney in his restored Cessna Bird Dog.  You’ll get to try out the controls and help with radio work, etc.
  • As an added bonus, once you complete it, the official Young Eagles flight unleashes a whole host of fun and valuable benefits through the EAA, including access to free video ground school for your own pilot’s license.

Important Notes:
If you’re not in high school yet but really want this opportunity, talk to your advisor about how you’ll take a mature approach, and if you can get them to send me a brief recommendation for your participation, that will probably do the trick.

This class requires parent permission and if you want the Young Eagles flight, will require parents to sign a Young Eagles waiver. Scheduling the flight will be weather dependent and you and your family may need to prioritize weekend time, be willing to re-schedule, and participate in transportation efforts to get your Young Eagles flight completed at Paine Field in Everett.

Year Long Geometry (Scobie)

In this year-long PSCS class, we’ll establish and refine basic elements of geometry and geometric definitions. We’ll learn and refine geometric drawing techniques while looking at the practical math and beauty of angles and shapes. We’ll also continue to explore systems of measurement for distance, angle, slope, area, and volume, linear and non-linear equations, graphing,  and visual & algebraic proofs.

The class will finish in the spring with a unique introduction to the core principles of Trigonometry as inspired by an insightful New Zealand math curriculum.

  • Some algebra is required. If you have the equivalent of a high school Alg.1 class, you’ll be fine as long as you’re willing to work to revive your skills. If you have only the bare essentials of algebra, you’ll need to be willing to work hard at some specific sections of the class, but there will also be large parts of the class that don’t require any algebra at all.
  • expect occasional in-class tests, quizzes, and puzzles
  • expect collaboration on some work
  • be able to maintain a quiet, non-social work environment when asked
  • of course there is outside work most weeks; a full credit of HS math requires some work outside of class. How long it takes has a lot to do with your strengths, supports, and commitment to learning efficient work strategies.

The Art and Craft of Storytelling (hannah)

Everyone has a story to tell, but not everyone can tell it with confidence and creativity. In this class, you will learn and practice the skills of storytelling — crafting compelling narratives based on true stories from your life and delivering these stories to a crowd. This class is based on the popular live event and podcast series, The Moth

In this class, we will write personal narratives; practice public speaking; and give/receive feedback on each other’s writing and speaking skills. We will frequently watch Moth videos in class as well as attend Moth events in Seattle! I’m hoping to attend at least 2: one at the beginning of the term and one at the end, with the goal of potentially participating (eek!).

This will be credited as a Language Arts class, and although we will write and probably read, the focus is on storytelling, speaking, sharing aloud.

Dance and Sing (hannah)

In this class, we will gather to dance and sing – dance wildly, sing loudly, follow facilitated motions sometimes, get extremely sweaty, and express ourselves through freedom of movement. We will co-create a shared playlist and gather somewhere in the building (now that King is a library, we’ll figure something else out).

This class is for anyone who loves dancing or finds it a little scary – it is a safe space to practice finding free movement in your body with creative play and without judgment. Open to all. 

Math Foundations (Bryan Hopster)

In this exciting year-long math course, students will have the opportunity to strengthen their foundational skills and build confidence in their math abilities. Designed for those who want to revisit and master key concepts such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and basic geometry. With engaging activities and supportive instruction, students will work at their own pace, ensuring they fully understand each concept. This course is a safe space for everyone, where making mistakes is part of learning and improvement. Whether you feel a bit unsure of your math skills or simply want to solidify your knowledge, this class is the perfect place to grow and shine in mathematics!

*Next year’s math class most likely would be Early MS Math*

Gender Studies (Amy)

Sometimes the world seems like such a binary place…But how did we get here, and how can we push for more expansive understandings of what it means to be human?

In this TWO-TERM class, we will learn about the phenomenon of gender through multiple modalities and class discussions.  You may leave the class with more questions than answers, but you will have a strong base for understanding how the binary came to be, who it serves, and how to work to tear it down.

About the text:

An instant best-seller and now the leading book for the course, Wade and Ferree’s Gender is a sophisticated yet accessible introduction to sociological perspectives on gender. Drawing on memorable examples mined from history, pop culture, and current events, Gender deftly moves between theoretical concepts and applications to everyday life. New discussions of #metoo, toxic masculinity, and gender politics in the Trump era help students participate in today’s conversation about gender. The new gold standard for sociology of gender courses.

*At the end of the first term, class members will discuss whether to make the second-term class once a week or twice a week

Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.

Complicated Dogs (band) (Jaylee and Wolf)

Complicated Dogs are running it back. This is the band for the furries and yappers who want to learn, practice, and perform music. In this band we are all at beginner to intermediate level, therefore the process will be about helping each other and helping ourselves with our respective instruments.

***Make sure to communicate/audition with Wolfgang and Jaylee before signing up. Spots for new members are not guaranteed.

Note: All animals are complicated dogs.

Leadership (hannah)

Student leadership! Calling all students who want to learn about and practice how to be a strong facilitator and collaborator; develop and execute projects on behalf of the school; set goals and give/receive feedback; and find creative solutions to issues facing the school today. 

Leadership will look a little different this term. As Maggie is teaching a class specifically devoted to running events, Leadership will no longer plan things such as the Halloween, other holiday parties, or Creative Cafe. We will still plan and lead Community Engagement Days and days of whimsey. I hope to do more collaborative projects with community partnerships. We can also spend more time developing specific leadership skills, thinking about how to improve systems of the school, and establish other projects as ideas arise. Open to all. 

Early MS Math (Bryan Hopster)

Note: This class is open to middle school students only.

In this year-long class, we’ll be meeting 3 times a week to explore the essential building blocks of middle school mathematics. We’ll explore ratios, operations, percents, expressions, one and two variable equations, coordinate planes, and basic geometry. Students will develop strong problem-solving skills and lay a solid foundation for future math courses. Expect hands-on activities, collaborative work, and plenty of opportunities to apply math to real-world scenarios!

*Next year’s math class most likely would be Intermediate MS Math*

Recess! (hannah)

RECESS IS BACK. In this once-a-week class, we will head to the local community center to utilize their gym + equipment to play some tried and true classic recess games. These games might include: 

Volleyball

Basketball 

Badminton 

Various forms of tag

Four Square 

Frisbee 

Capture the flag 

M u s h r o o m  b a l l 

….and more! 

This class is for anyone who wants to run around, try new things, try old things, sweat, play, negotiate rules, and have fun. Open to all.

Chess Club (hannah)

Play chess! All skill levels are welcome.

High School Sexual Health (Amy)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

In this year-long class, we will dive deep into all things Sexual Health!  As high schoolers, you are right in the thick of understanding more about your body, your wants, your needs, and your view of your futures.

Throughout the year, you will connect what we learn about to YOUR values, building a stronger understanding of what sex and sexuality mean to you.

We will cover healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors and patterns, how to set and communicate boundaries, ways to manage STI and pregnancy risks, and more.  

This class takes an inclusive approach to Sex Ed, centering the experiences of the expansive range of gender identities, sexual orientations, and bodies.  

Learning is student-centered, and curriculum will be developed, in part, based on the interests and wonderings of the students in the class.

2 Dimensional Art (Amy)

   

Come create 2 dimensional art in a laid back atmosphere!  Over the course of the term, we will learn how to make tessellations AND mandala-like drawings that incorporate radial symmetry.  

These types of art forms lend themselves to being meditative and calming.  Be a part of art-making, chilling, music listening, and an overall nice time.  

Middle School Sexual Health (Amy)

Note: This class is open to middle school students only.

In this year-long class, we will cover a wide range of topics that all fall under the beautiful umbrella of Sexual Health.  Join us to learn and talk about relationship skills like communication and consent, self-advocacy skills like knowing and setting boundaries, and body-knowledge related to reproductive systems.  

 

Learning will happen through videos, discussions, activities, reading, and art!

 

This class takes an inclusive approach to Sex Ed, centering the experiences of the expansive range of gender identities, sexual orientations, and bodies.  

 

We will read from the book You Know, Sex by Cory Silverberg.  The book will be acquired for you.

Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.

Shop Life Session 1 (Scobie)

 

 

 

 

 

If you can dedicate two slots to shop life this fall, you’re welcome to take both sessions, or just one. As always, we’ll be learning about tools and how to use them effectively, serving as a useful crew for repairs and improvements around the school, working on the shop itself. In addition to those basics, fall term will include:

-Exploring ‘automata’, a kind of moving sculpture
-Working on the all-compostable bamboo and hemp canoe!
Putting final touches on “Frank” the PSCS student-sized mannequin.

Algebra 1 (Bryan Hopster)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

Algebra 1 is the first high school level math class and is a critical stepping stone in your math education. In this year-long course, we’ll meet 3 times a week to lean more into variables, expressions, equations, functions, and their graphs. You’ll learn to solve linear and quadratic equations, work with inequalities, and explore the connections between algebra and geometry. This class is designed to build a strong algebraic foundation that will support all future math studies.

If you are in a middle school grade and think you should take this class, then please reach out to me.

*Next year’s math class would be Geometry*

Intermediate MS Math (Bryan Hopster)

This year-long course focuses on both 7th and 8th grade math concepts. We will meet 3 times a week to build on prior knowledge while introducing new concepts that are vital for high school level math. Students will explore pre-algebra topics, including integers, rational numbers, linear equations, and inequalities. Geometry concepts such as angles, shapes, and volume will also be explored. This class will emphasize logical thinking, critical analysis, and real-world applications of math. It’s a perfect fit for students ready to take their math skills to the next level.

*Next year’s math class most likely a continuation of this course focusing on only 8th grade material or Algebra 1*

MS Disability Visibility

One in five people in the US lives with either a visible or hidden disability.  

This class, centered on the book Disability Visibility (Adapted for Young Adults), edited by Alice Wong, will dive into understanding the perspectives, experiences, challenges, and celebrations of individuals with disabilities by learning about them through their own words.

As we strive to build a world that has empathy, compassion, and understanding at its core, widening our view of the lived experiences of others will be the key to such a realization.

Goals for this class do NOT include pity or negative self-view – rather we will gain a greater understanding of how we can increase true inclusivity while recognizing ways in which our own biases may prevent us from seeing others (and maybe ourselves) as fully whole.

This class is similar to the high school class, but will meet only once a week.

HS Philosophy (hannah)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

In Philosophy class, we tackle big questions and ideas, such as: who am I? What’s the point of all this? What is the right thing to do? Why are things the way they are? 

Class will include daily discussion, reading, writing, and other projects. Y’ALL ALWAYS WANT TO DEBATE so we’ll do that, too. We will begin where we left off in the spring by discussing contentious prompts concerning ethics, morals, and values. However, you do not need to have taken Philosophy in the spring to join now. Any high schooler welcome. 

Cultural Psychology (Sam)

This class will dive into the cultural aspects of behavior of various ehtnic groups from around the world. In this class, you will examine how the affects of socio-economics, race and class effect groups and how they try to move along with there lives. Other themes included in this class are; culture and development, self and identity, interaction and interpretation, speech and language, personality, cognition, emotion, physical health, mental health and socail behavior.

We will be reading the book, Post Tramatic Slave Syndrome, by Dr Joy DeGruy. Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome (P.T.S.S.) is a theory that explains the etiology of many of the adaptive survival behaviors in African American communities throughout the United States and the Diaspora.

This class will analyze various texts, read and review case stuides and follow up with several historical/scientific research based theories from various culture groups.

 

Weaving (Amy)

Whether you are brand new to weaving, or you already know the basics, this class is for you!  Students will learn and experience each step in the weaving process.  Ultimately, each student will create their own piece of woven fabric – a towel, a scarf, something else?

Students who are brand-new to weaving will learn how to do plain weave as a way of getting the basic skills under their belt.  Students who took weaving last year will learn more complex weaving techniques, how to read a weaving draft, and more about various yarns and their qualities.

This class will be limited in size based on the number of looms we have.  Experienced weavers will work on their own looms, and new weavers will work together on shared looms.  

***PLEASE connect with Amy if you want to be in this class.  She wants to make it work for as many students as possible!

History of Jazz (Sam)

This class will take the time to explore the amazing musical genre of Jazz from its early beginnings to it’s moderized sounds of today. Due to it’s orgins here in America, we will look to realize its cultural and societal evolution. Students will be emmerged into the varried jazz styles and the artists and composers who pioneered each style and the many components of each style of jazz.

There will be many listening sessions, along with lyric & style dissection. Each class session will leave space for each student to make their own conclusion about the many aspects of this great musical genre. Students will improve their current listening experiences and time to discover new paths of music, with the opprotunity to broaden their cultural and musical knowledge.

Note: Headphones and a music account (Spotify) are required!

Mature Themes –  Lyrics in songs can use language not appropriate for all students.

Algebra 2 (Bryan Hopster)

Note: This class is open to high school students only.

This year-long advanced course will take you deeper into the world of algebra. We’ll cover quadratics, polynomials, rational exponents & radical functions, exponential functions & intro to logarithms, rational functions, trigonometry, and statistics. This class is designed to challenge you and refine your analytical skills, preparing you for future studies in calculus and beyond. A strong understanding of Algebra concepts is necessary, and students should be ready for rigorous work both in and out of class.

*Next math class would be Precalculus*

Shop Life (Session 2)

 

 

 

 

 

If you can dedicate two slots to shop life this fall, you’re welcome to take both sessions, or just one. As always, we’ll be learning about tools and how to use them effectively, serving as a useful crew for repairs and improvements around the school, working on the shop itself. In addition to those basics, fall term will include:

-Exploring ‘automata’, a kind of moving sculpture
-Working on the all-compostable bamboo and hemp canoe!
Putting final touches on “Frank” the PSCS student-sized mannequin.