Courses

Courses focus on big questions that encourage students to create new knowledge, practice relevant skills, and take action.

ENGLISH

How do place, culture, and experience influence who you are? How do ideas about justice vary?

Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay is a coming of age story about family, identity and the pursuit of justice. It follows Filipino-American teenager Jay, a high school student who learns his cousin was murdered. Desperate to understand his cousin’s death, Jay travels to the Philippines and uncovers truths about his family and himself. Class will include a lot of small group and whole class discussion, a focus on learning strong argument writing skills, and a creative project making zines focused on identity and community. 

MATH

How does math express itself in nature?

Some believe that mathematics is everywhere. But, what does this mean? Utilizing our understanding of algebraic and geometric concepts, this year BSHS will engage in a rigorous examination of how math shows up in nature. We will solve math based nature problems, make connections between math and nature through an exploration of the natural world, and create nature inspired projects.

SCIENCE

How can science and technology be used to preserve and support equitable access to one of Earth’s greatest gifts: Freshwater?

Freshwater is something we take for granted every day, but it is essential for all life on Earth.  In this class, we will explore the fundamental role that freshwater plays in our ecosystems and the different relationships that humans have had with this essential gift.  Students will conduct water quality tests of local freshwater sources in our community and investigate how science and engineering can be resources in reestablishing and preserving freshwater quality.  As a final product, students will complete an independent project that focuses on a challenge in freshwater access that they find interesting and propose a possible solution based on what they’ve learned.

SOCIAL STUDIES

How can young people be agents of social change in their own communities?

In this project-based social studies class, students will explore the powerful role of youth activism through the lens of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. By studying inspiring stories from the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and the Children’s March of 1963, students will examine the strategies and challenges of creating lasting change. Students will connect these historical examples to a current cause or social issue about which they are passionate. Students will then design their own media campaigns to advocate for their chosen issues. In groups, we will all think critically, collaborate creatively, and practice effective communication skills.  If you are ready to make your voice heard and help shape the future, this is the course for you!